Photo: Nynne Schrøder
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If there’s one thing for certain, it’s that winter is coming and you’re going to need a scarf. And not only that, but a cap, a sweater, and cozy socks, too. While buying these items is always an option, it’s a lot more fun to make your own. The knitting community has exploded in popularity over the past two decades, and with social media, people are sharing their fiber creations as well as the patterns they used to make them. This presents the perfect opportunity for anyone interested in this craft to learn on their own.

Knitting patterns are the best way to hone your skills. Depending on what you create, they utilize techniques that range from basic stitches to the more complicated intarsia to the ultimate test—constructing socks. The conventional knitting wisdom is that if you can produce a toe and heel, you can conquer any design that comes your way.

Although they offer plenty of inspiration, sifting through paid and free knitting patterns can take forever (so many choices!), so we’ve done the perusing for you and selected some of our favorites. These patterns are made by fellow knitters and range in skills and applications. While some are suitable for beginners, others are meant for crafters who are more familiar with techniques. Whatever your skill level is, you're sure to find something that piques your interest.

Scroll down to see all of the patterns and choose your next project today.

Whether you’re a beginner knitter or put hundreds of hours into the craft, you’re sure to find something you love with our selection of knitting patterns below.

Clothing

Bubble Sleeve Cardigan

Bummbul | $7.35

Chunky Sweater Vest

DaisyAndPeace | $5.50

Knitted Beanie 

Miskunn | $4.75

3-in-1 Button Boots

Bekah Knits | $6.99

SUIR Fingerless Gloves

Whistle And Wool | $3.75

Fox Scarf

Nina Führer | $6.47

Knit Turban Headband ⨯ The Roseaux

DeBrosse | $5

V Back Knit Sweater Pattern

Make It Yourself and Get the Glory | $6

Beginner Wrap Pattern

The Easy Design | $3.28

Off Grid Sweater

ROWSknitwear | $7.96

Wolf or Fox Ears Hooded Bonnet

Patterny | $3.50

Passerine Hat

Erica Heusser Designs | $6

Urban Snood

We Are Knitters | Free

Hooded Jacket

PDFKnittingCrochet | $2.35

Heart Sleeve Sweater

TauroKnits | $8

Stylish Bralette

SaraKnitsCo | $6.16

Converse-Inspired Slippers

Reaverse | $8.78

Twirling Top

Paintbox Yarns | Free

Straight Leg Pants

kinokoknits | $4.39

Reynard Socks

Kirsten Kapur | $6

Forest Berry Jacket

FabelVintage | $7.63

Zweig Sweater

Zweig | $8.40

Home Goods & Accessories

Teddy Bear

Knitateddy | $2.54

Mermaid Blanket

Wool Affair | $4.62

Teeny Tiny Bunny

DotpebblesKnits | $1.27

Oodles Basket

Knit & Crochet Ever After | $3.99

Tote bag ⨯ Black and White ⨯ The Maniche Tote

DeBrosse | $5

Kiko the Knitted Monster

Paintbox Yarns | Free

Mallard Duck

knitforvictory | $3.74

Throw Blanket

Miskunn | $4.95

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 30 Knitting Patterns You Can Start Working on Right Away

Photo: Rawpixel/Depositphotos

As summer changes into fall, there’s more time to spend indoors working on crafts. Flower pressing is a wonderful way to work with your hands and create wall art or cards with items from nature, allowing you to have a bit of the great outdoors while inside. Of course, spring and summer instantly conjure up images of freshly cut flowers, but there are still plenty of blossoms to work with through the autumn season.

We’ve compiled a list of five flowers that work particularly well for flower pressing. From clematis to dahlias and daisies, these flowers will brighten up your art project and leave you inspired.

And once you’ve picked out your flowers, you’ll be ready to start pressing. If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry. At My Modern Met Academy, we turned to flower-pressing artist Anna Zakirova to demonstrate how fresh blooms can become art in her class Beyond Bouquets: Turning Pressed Flowers Into One-of-a-Kind Art.

In this hour-long online class, she’ll teach all the necessary skills to press fresh flowers and get you inspired to make your own creations. And, as it’s available on demand, you can watch as many times as you’d like, whenever you want.

So let’s see which flowers are particularly suited to this craft and then get started.

Here are 5 fall flowers that are perfect for flower pressing this autumn.

Photo: svetik-81-81@mail.ru/Depositphotos

Clematis

There is a wide variety of this climbing plant, which is divided into three groups. When they flower depends on which group they fall into, with group three blooming in both summer and fall. Clematis come in many bright, vibrant colors, and with a single layer of petals, they are perfect for pressing.

Photo: EBFoto/Depositphotos

Dahlia

Since most dahlias bloom until the fall frost begins, they make a great option for flower pressing throughout September and October. Available in a rainbow of colors, you’ll find dahlias as an endless source of inspiration.

Photo: pritsadee/Depositphotos

Cosmos

Cosmos will flower until temperatures drop. In fact, the cosmos is actually October’s birth flower. These delicate blooms make a great addition to any composition.

Photo: elenathewise/Depositphotos

Pansies

Pansies are a hardy, versatile plant that can brighten up your garden into the winter, making them a great option for flower pressing in cooler months. Not only that, they’ll keep their shape nicely and are available in many colors.

Photo: a.onufriiciuc@gmail.com/Depositphotos

Gerbera Daisy

With their vivid colors and low-maintenance care, Gerbera daisies are a wonderful option for pressing. It’s easy to find these flowers in autumn colors, so you can even create a composition with rich reds, oranges, and yellows.

Want to learn how to press flowers but aren't sure where to start? Check out My Modern Met Academy's online class, Beyond Bouquets: Turning Pressed Flowers Into One-of-a-Kind Art.

My Modern Met Academy: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | TikTok

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READ: 5 Flowers That Are Perfect for Pressing This Autumn

Photo: Stock Photos from GOFFKEIN.PRO/Shutterstock
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Cozy knits and steaming cups of tea are the perfect fall accessories. Whether you are an experienced crafter or just beginning, knitting your own cold-weather clothes is both possible and fun. Knowing where to start is crucial; but once you have a few basic stitches mastered, you can produce your own scarves, blankets, holiday decorations, and more.

To help you start your knitting or crocheting journey, we've put together a list of knitting and crochet patterns inspired by the fall season.

A festive fall of crafting awaits you! Scroll down for our list of knitting and crochet patterns for all abilities.

Photo: Stock Photos from ARTHUR LINNIK/Shutterstock

Learning the Basics of Knitting and Crochet

If you are new to knitting and crocheting, there are plenty of educational resources on the internet.

Crochet projects are done with a single crochet hook and can be quicker than knitting. Knitting, by contrast, uses two needles. While not hard to learn, knitting is generally the more complicated of the two crafts. You'll want to learn the basic knit stitch as well as casting on. This helpful video explains the knitting basics—even for absolute beginners. The purl stitch, which is another basic knitting technique, can also be learned through video tutorials.

Knitting needles and crochet hooks come in different sizes. This impacts the size of the stitches and how tight (or loose) the weave of your work will be. Bigger needles create a looser knit. Be careful to follow the pattern's requirements.

Although they use different tools, the same yarn considerations must be made for both knitting and crocheting. Yarn comes in strands of different widths. The thickness of the yarn may seem like a little detail, but it can greatly impact stitch count and the size of your final product. When reading a knitting or crocheting pattern, make sure to note the gauge of the yarn needed.

18 Knitting and Crochet Patterns for All Skill Levels

A Festive Pumpkin

Photo: Stock Photos from ANASTASIIA HOLUBIEVA/Shutterstock

Decorate your mantlepiece with adorable knit pumpkins. Choose some orange yarn or the color of your favorite fall gourd. A free knitting pattern is available on Ravelry. And if you are looking for crochet pumpkins, there's a very affordable PDF pattern that will help get you into the Halloween spirit.

Comfy Slippers You Crafted Yourself

Mamachee | $5.50

Slippers are a must for chilly fall days, so make sure you're prepared with this DIY pair. Designed by Mamachee, the intermediate-level pattern calls for an H hook and bulky yarn to bring out the cable design across the top of the foot.

Crocheted Socks

Stitchery & Co. | $6.50

If slippers aren't your thing, try crocheting this pair of socks. The beginner-friendly pattern by The Stitchery & Co. uses basic stitches with the option for color changes so you can customize your look.

A Cute Knit Scarf

Photo: Stock Photos from XUANHUONGHO/Shutterstock

A scarf is a classic beginner knitting project for good reason. Easy, wearable, and cute, there are so many scarf patterns for all abilities. Beginners can try this free pattern of a chunky-knit from Berroco. Another free color-blocked pattern from O Wool is perfect for minimalists.

Charming Acorn Basket

MiniCrochetZoo | $3.58

Add a bit of seasonal charm to your home decor with this crochet acorn basket. Or try your hand at a cute acorn pillow.

A Quick Knit Headband

Photo: Stock Photos from MARXSTUDIO/Shutterstock

No matter your experience level, a knit headband is a quick project. Try out this ribbed design from Ravelry for starters. Or if you are feeling ready to try cable knit, this free pattern is a perfect introduction.

Knitted Mock-Neck With a Cropped Fit

Well Loved Knits | $7.11

Mock-neck shirts and a cropped fit are in. Keep up with the latest trends when you knit this sweater. As a beginner-friendly pattern, it uses the stockinette and rib stitch with some eventual knitting in the round. Once you're done, you'll have something to carry you through the fall and winter and even into next spring.

Colorful Autumn Leaves

goolgool | $5.50

This crochet leaf pattern gives you instructions on how to make four types of autumn leaves. Once you're done, they make a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table

A Cozy Shawl

HandyLittleMe | $7.82

For walks in the autumn woods, knit an elegant shawl. This cool Outlander-inspired pattern is affordable and approachable. To crochet a shawl, check out this “casual cool” wrap.

The Cutest Hat for Kids

Thevelvetacorn | $5.50

As the holiday season approaches, knit some adorable hats for the kids in your life. This Failynn Fox Cowl might be the cutest pattern on the internet. Beginner crochet enthusiasts can try these easy and colorful pom-pom hats from Yarnspirations.

An Ingenious Shoulder “Cozy”

Churchmouse | $6

Sometimes a little extra warmth goes a long way. This clever shoulder cozy pattern can also be worn as a cowl. Another cable-knit pattern gives a more Irish impression. There's also a cute crochet version for kids.

A Chunky-Knit Blanket

Photo: Stock Photos from ALBINA GLISIC/Shutterstock

These chunky knit blankets are not only trendy but quick to craft, thanks to the size of the yarn and needles. Try knitting the blanket using your arms instead of needles for a project you truly cannot put down. Want more instruction? Laura Birek offers an affordable pattern.

A Useful Coffee Cozy

Photo: Stock Photos from PAVELKANT/Shutterstock

Accessorize your hot beverages with these cute cozies. Nestle that Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte into this perfectly-sized pumpkin cozy. For fans of Oktoberfest, crochet these adorable colorful cozies with this easy pattern. (Just remember that knit cozies will not fully protect your fingers from heat.)

Stylish Layering Cardigan 

Make and Do Crew | $5.99

If the thought of crocheting a sweater intimidates you, this Mezzo cardigan pattern has a different way of looking at it. “You’ll begin by crocheting two relaxing hexagons,” the designer writes, “which will magically transform into the sleeves, a back, and sweater fronts.” Curious about how that works? You'll just have to crochet it to find out!

Festive Christmas Tree Ornaments

ResilientKnitter | $5

If the grocery store starts playing carols, it is time to think about trimming your tree. Get a head start by crafting these gorgeous tree ornaments for friends and family. A cute bedazzled tree pattern can also add extra pizzazz to your decorations.

Snuggly Boat-Neck Sweaters

MMadisonMarie | $5

Knitting a sweater is a noble goal and may seem intimidating. However, after mastering some basics, this pattern by Madison Marie provides an easy path to your first sweater; the chunky-knit boat neck design is perfect for layering all fall long. For crocheting, this easy pattern for a textured turtleneck is comfy enough to spend all day in.

Darling Deer Scarf

Nina Führer | $6.60

Originally created for kids but adjusted for adults, this design by Nina Führer might appear impossible. But with the help of her eight-page pattern, you'll be able to craft this charming deer scarf. Prior to tackling this project, you should have some prior knitting experience.

Bubblegum Sweater

AlizaKnits | $6.48

If you find it hard to dress cute in colder weather, then you haven't seen the adorable bubblegum sweater by AlizaKnits. By completing this knitting pattern, you can make your own chunky top with a fun textured finish.

Crochet Indoor Plants

KeeleysCrochet | $3.37

Even if you have trouble with indoor plants, you can still create your own everlasting garden. This crochet pattern by KeeleysCrochet will instruct crafters how to make their own hanging vines from start to finish.

Tulip Sweater Vest

NastjaCrochets | $10.02

Sweater vests are a fall staple. Instead of picking one up at the store, you can learn how to make your own with this pattern by NastjaCrochets. It features a beautiful tulip print.

Online Classes

Crochet Crash Course: Fiesta Fringe Bag at My Modern Met Academy: Have some crafty fun when you fashion this fringy bag. New to crochet? No problem! You'll learn how to create the bag from start to finish.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 20 Fall-Inspired Knitting and Crochet Patterns That Will Keep You Cozy All Season Long

Photo: R.Natalia/Depositphotos

We all have that one place in our home that could use decluttering. It could be a table that’s a landing pad for everything once you walk in the door, or it could be that one chair that absorbs all of the clothes that somehow never make it to your closet. Regardless of whether you have a little or a lot of clutter, you don’t have to let it bring you down. Let these decluttering tips help make it easy to tidy up.

There are different levels of clutter. Some are the everyday messes that you can remove in seemingly no time. But then there is systemic clutter—you have too much of something, for instance. In that case, you’ll want to take a different approach and consider whether or not you need it in your home.

Scroll down for decluttering tips to help motivate you and offer strategies for putting things away.

Learn about the common types of clutter and tips for decluttering your home.

Photo: R.Natallia/Depositphotos

Types of Home Clutter

You might look at clutter and see it as all the same mess, but there is nuance within each pile of stuff. Figuring out where your clutter fits in these categories can help you decide what to do about it. Here are some common types of clutter that might be hanging around your place.

• Clutter without a home. These are objects that don’t have a permanent space in your home, so they always look out of place. There’s often a reason for this—you bought it and don’t need it yet, or it’s something that you don’t intend to keep for very long.
• Abundance clutter. If you like to buy items in bulk, then you’re likely familiar with this type of clutter. Abundance clutter is when you have multiples of one thing. This could be beauty products, food, or anything else you use regularly and intend to use more of.
• Aspirational clutter. Have you ever bought a book thinking that you’ll read… someday? Or the supplies for a craft project you eventually want to make? This is known as aspirational clutter. The problem with it is that, often, our aspirations remain unfulfilled and the items collect dust.
• Sentimental clutter. This is some of the most challenging clutter to get rid of. It’s photos, special knickknacks, and any other item that has sentimental or nostalgic value. Disposing of it can make you feel guilty, so it's easier to hang on to it.

Photo: dalivl@yandex.ru/Depositphotos

Tips for How to Declutter Your Home

The following tips won't apply to every type of clutter that’s in your home but will give you a place to start. Regardless of the type of clutter, it's important to remember that decluttering is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and celebrate the small victories along the way. You’ll enjoy the benefits of a more organized home before you know it.

Photo: SeventyFour/Depositphotos

Start with a small area.

Begin your decluttering by homing in on a space. It could be a specific room, a closet, or even a small corner of your house. By breaking down decluttering into smaller tasks, it’ll be more manageable and give you the momentum for future progress.

Set a timer.

Does the thought of an all-day decluttering fill you with dread? Building on the idea of starting small, allocate a specific amount of time for decluttering. Having a time limit helps you stay focused and prevents burnout. You’ll be amazed at how much you can get done in 10 or 20 minutes.

Adhere to the one-in, one-out rule.

This is helpful for places like your closet. Commit to removing an existing item in your home before you can get something new. (Donating a jacket before you buy a new one, for instance.) This will help ensure that clutter doesn't accumulate over time.

Photo: dalivl@yandex.ru/Depositphotos

Create donation and discard piles.

Assign separate areas or bins for the things you want to donate and the items you intend to throw away. Doing this will encourage action. But, keep in mind that it’s always better to limit what goes in the landfill, so try to keep that pile small.

Clear off the flat surfaces.

Get an easy win when you clear countertops, tables, and desks from clutter. These areas are often clutter magnets, and just a few minutes a day can leave them looking tidy.

Practice the “one-minute rule.”

How long did it take you to clear that counter? A good rule of thumb is that if you can complete a task in a minute or less—such as folding a blanket or putting a dish in the dishwasher—do it immediately. This prevents small tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming.

Photo: AndreyPopov/Depositphotos

Sort things into categories.

When tackling a larger area like a closet or a room, sort items into categories such as clothes, books, electronics, or kitchenware. This method makes decision-making easier and allows you to see how much you have of each type. From there, you can consider what/how you intend to organize them.

Storage solutions are your friend.

Invest in storage containers, baskets, or organizers to help keep items in order. They will not only keep things tidy, but they are another opportunity to decorate your space and imbue it with your personality.

Photo: littleny/Depositphotos

Digitize when possible.

Reduce paper clutter by opting for e-delivery for bank statements and other recurring documents. For the documents that you already have, scan them and store them on a digital device or the cloud. This will reduce your physical storage needs while keeping important information easily accessible.

Celebrate wins.

Everyone loves a before and after. Document your progress before and after you declutter. This will provide a visual representation of your accomplishments.

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READ: 10 Decluttering Tips That Will Help You Tidy Your Home Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Photo: Carissa Weiser

Cultivating a specific artistic style is as unique to you as the way you speak. When building a body of work that people recognize as your own, employing a similar color palette is one way to do it. Doing so will help create a cohesive body of work. If you want to take some of the guesswork out of your hues—and you work with analog media such as paints or colored pencils—try making a color mixing chart.

A color chart is created using all of the hues in your palette. Each color is mixed with one another and that is then recorded in a quadrant alongside all of the other hues. When complete, you’ll have a customized reference tool that will show every mixing combination possible.

Scroll down for a tutorial on how to make your color chart.

How to Make a Color Chart

If you've got an extra sheet of paper, a straight edge, and your palette of choice, you can make a color chart. Here's how.

Step 1: Grab your pigments.

Photo: Sara Barnes / My Modern Met

These can be paints, colored pencils, blendable markers—any medium in which you’d like to create a color chart.

Step 2: Create a quadrant using a pencil and a ruler.

Photo: Sara Barnes / My Modern Met

Here’s where you’ll create the chart that you’ll color. Begin by getting a sheet of paper that's appropriate for your hues. (If you're mixing watercolor, for instance, grab a sheet of watercolor paper.)

Using a straight edge and a pencil, draw the chart on the paper keeping the number of rows and columns the same. You can make it as large as you like, but to not overwhelm yourself, think about starting small. If you begin, for instance, with four colors, you’ll create four rows and four columns for a total of 16 squares. But, if you have more hues and want to go larger, you can do that too; it’s just more squares.

Once you’ve got all of your squares drawn, label each color on its own box on every row and column.

Step 3: Start coloring.

Photo: Sara Barnes / My Modern Met

Here’s where the fun begins; you’ll start recording all of your hues! Fill in each color combination where they meet on the chart. Assume that you’re adding a one-to-one hue ratio. If it’s any different, be sure to note that on your chart.

When complete, the chart will reveal each color combination and is a reference for your future works.

Why Make a Color Chart?

If the idea of making a color chart doesn’t appeal to you, you should know that there are good reasons to do this exercise. Doing it allows you to mix all of your colors, and it will give you vital information on what you’re mixing and how it looks. It will take some of the guesswork out of your hues, which can save you valuable time in the future and even prevent you from mixing the wrong color.

A color chart is not media-specific. You can make one using paints, colored pencils, or blendable markers—whatever medium you use can likely be a color chart. And you don’t have to start with a massive collection of colors. As we’ve shown you, just a few colors can make an illuminating chart.

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READ: How To Create Your Own Color Mixing Chart in Just 3 Easy Steps

Creative Passport
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

You might have heard that keeping a journal is a great way to record your thoughts and understand your emotions. Typical journaling involves only writing—but for those who are more visually inclined, an art journal is a great alternative. And because there are so many ways to express yourself in an art journal, it's a wonderful creative outlet for both beginners and more experienced creatives.

What is an art journal?

An art journal is a visual diary; it combines elements of writing, drawing, painting, collage, and even printmaking to express yourself. This includes your everyday life, as well as your bigger hopes, dreams, and fears. A single page will often fuse words and illustrations to offer a look at what's going on inside your head.

 

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The focus on self-expression is where an art journal differs from a sketchbook. A sketchbook can have elements of art journaling, particularly when it comes to drawing or painting. But a sketchbook doesn't have to include imagery that corresponds to your inner thoughts.

Why keep an art journal?

If you are someone who journals, you already understand the benefits of getting your thoughts on paper. Doing so offers a way to de-stress and to sort through complicated emotions. As a result, you gain self-awareness and feel empowered.

Above all, art journaling is a way to practice self-care. It encourages you to take a little time for yourself—even if it’s just for 15 minutes a day. When you look back at what you’ve written, drawn, or stamped, you can gain valuable insight into the challenges in your life.

The point of creating a visual journal is not to make every page a masterpiece. You’re simply supposed to enjoy the act of creating something without worrying about who is going to see it—or if it even looks good. Remember, it’s just for you!

How to Start an Art Journal

Art journaling is completely customizable depending on your skills and interests. Many people choose to use mixed media and adorn their pages with drawing and painting materials, creating different textures on the page. Others prefer sticking with a single medium that they're comfortable with. The most important thing when beginning your art journal, however, is selecting the right book.

 

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There are many considerations when it comes to picking your journal. Size is one. If you enjoy making large drawings, for instance, then a bigger book might be best. Art journals look great when you fill the page, so whatever size you choose, make sure it complements the way you like to work. Another characteristic to think about is the type of pages that are in the book. Since it’s a good chance you’ll be using mixed media, select a journal whose paper can handle both drawing and painting—and lots of it.

Supplies for Art Journaling

• Watercolor paints or watercolor pencils
• Acrylic paint
• Gouache paint
• Colored pencils
• A variety of pens, from fine-tipped to thick brushes
• White ink
• Glue sticks (for collage)
• Stickers
• Rubber stamps
• Old magazines, newspapers, or other interesting papers
• Dried flowers, leaves, or other natural materials
• Postcards, plane tickets, and other ephemera

Art Journal Ideas

Creating an art journal is all about you, but sometimes you need some help to get started.

• Introduce yourself! Draw or paint a self-portrait.
• Draw some of the items you bought recently.
• Create a map of your favorite place, real or imagined.
• Draw a favorite childhood memory.
• Go for a nature walk and collect flowers or leaves. Write about your walk and why you gathered these items.
• Paste old photos and doodle on top of them using marker.
• Fill a page with geometric shapes.
• Illustrate what’s in your bag.
• Illustrate your daily routine.
• Draw your favorite pet.
• Create a self-portrait.
• Fill a page with doodles.
• Create a collage about your favorite travel experience.
• Use mixed media to illustrate your favorite foods or a recipe.
• Hand letter an inspiring quote or personal mantra.

Looking for more? Pinterest is also full of great art journal prompts.

Online Classes for Art Journaling

Take your art journal techniques further with online art classes.

Introduction to Art Journaling, CreativeLive: If you’re looking for a crash course in art journaling, Andrea Chebeleu will educate you on the basics on composition and design elements.

Art Journal Part 1: Unlock Your Creative Intuition, Skillshare: Bookbinder and mixed media artist Christen McGee will teach you the techniques to start an art journaling practice.

Art Journal Inspiration

Check out the beautiful pages that others have produced through art journaling.

 

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A post shared by Sharon Tan • 美莲 (@ronnycakes)

 

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This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: How to Combine Drawing and Writing Into Deeply Personal Art Journals

Photo: Crafts by Belen

In the past, the humble graduation hat was merely part of the customary and ceremonial “cap and gown” ensemble.  Today, however, it has been transformed into a canvas for crafty graduates looking to show off their amazing crafting skills and go out with a bang. Ceremonies are made all the brighter and more entertaining thanks to the crafty grads' premeditated graduation cap ideas—which include clever, comical, and creative designs.

This collection of quirky caps ranges in style, concept, and inspiration. Many reference pop culture staples spanning well-known films, iconic television shows, and beloved childhood cartoon characters. On the opposite side of the spectrum, some convey political and social undertones with inspirational graduation quotes. Still, a large portion of these caps simply act as “thank you” notes to those who made it all possible: friends, family, and, of course, coffee.

In the last couple of years, with politics seeming to seep into every aspect of life, there has been a surge in political activism shining through graduates’ crafted caps. Students who are immigrants or whose parents have migrated from another country are proudly expressing how their family’s dreams are coming to fruition. Many people migrate to another country in order to lead a better life for their families, and education is one of the many privileges they seek out. As a result, these accessories are more than fancy headgear to them—they’re a symbol of success and a platform to show pride in their accomplishments.

Scroll down to see 65 graduation cap ideas.

We've selected some of the best graduation cap decoration ideas.

Inspiring Graduation Caps

“On to the next chapter.”

Photo: holacrafty

“We must go on and take the adventure that comes to us.”

Photo: Amy Ferguson

“Where life plants you, bloom with grace.” 

Photo: Grad Caps by Breezy

“She was unstoppable. Not because she did not have failures or doubts, but because she continued on despite them.”

Photo: naatscreations

“Mommy did it.”

Photo: baileyshea.jpg

“She came, she saw, she conquered!”

Photo: Tyla Made It!

“I dream it, I work hard, I grind 'til I own it.”

Photo: creativitay_

“I'm a savage, classy, bougie, graduate.”

Photo: Krafted Swell

“I'm standing here today because you helped me fund my way.”

Photo: designsbyyerallin

“My future is booked.”

Photo: craftshleyco

“Oh, the places you'll go.”

Photo: randpajoescandycompany

“Adventure is out there.”

Photo: foreverpetalsbyvee

“You can find me in New York City.”

Photo: knsiemering

“Next stop the academy.”

Photo: allaboutawallflower

“Rose to the occasion.”

Photo: jennifer.maker

“Don't touch my crown.”

Photo: jewels.creationz

“And so the adventure begins.”

Photo: Amber

“Do better better.”

Photo: Lauren Law

Movie and TV Show Themed Graduation Cap Ideas

The Flash: “Some things happen because we make them happen.”

Photo: allaboutawallflower

The Princes Diaries: “Me? A Graduate? Shut up!”

Photo: hofstrau

Star Wars: “Never tell me the odds.”

Photo: melissalovesdisney

The Little Mermaid: “The little graduate.”

Photo: emmaclairree.art

Disney: “No one graduates like Gaston.” 

Photo: busybusymrsb

Lion King: “Hakuna matata.”

Photo: lvoekat

The Wizard of Oz: “You've had the power all along my dear. You just had to learn it for yourself.”

Photo: abeauty_and_abeast_

Harry Potter: “Life opens at the close.”

Photo: bettescustoms

Mean Girls: “Get in loser, we're graduating.”

Photo: k.rosedesigns

“This does put a smile on my face.”

Photo: catzfuhdays

The Office: “Bears. Beats. Bachelors Degree.”

Photo: csuebalumni

Spongebob: “5 years later…”

Photo: kasta.art

Spongebob: “Thousands of tears later…”

Photo: Backs_People_Up

New Teachers

“Teacher in Training” 

Photo: customcouturebyemiah

“Teaching is a work of heart.”

Photo: craftshleyco

Math and Science Graduate Cap Ideas

Biology/Pharmacy: “Knowledge is one hell of a drug.” 

Photo: customcouturebyemiah

Accounting: “I've been accounting down the days.”

Photo: drashbecappin

Dentistry: “Holy molar, I flossin did it.”

Photo: Alexis Young

Biology: “When it comes to global health, there is no ‘them', only ‘us'.”

Photo: PaintItBetter

Psychology: “It's been dope, but I'm psyched to get outta here.”

Photo: studiokiera_

Psychology: “Psyched for grad school.”

Photo: uncappedcreations

Biology: “Medicine owes Black people the level of transparency and care that it renders to others.”

Photo: Bria Bowen

Funny Graduation Cap Ideas

“Ight Imma Graduate.”

Photo: studiokiera_

“My diploma runs on Dunkin'”

Photo: kimscustomcaps

“I don't even go here!”

Photo: vivsrivs

“Bye, Mr. Anderson. I'm graduating…tardy or not.”

Photo: butrflysoul

“Now hotter by one degree.”

Photo: briannedanielle_

“Hire me.”

Photo: letterbyline

“Thanks, pizza. You've stuck with me through thick and thin crust.”

Photo: whatisgoingonrightnow

“Goal digger.”

Photo: bee_creative_event_planning

“Yikes. So what now?”

Photo: simplysaavy

“Can I take a nap now?”

Photo: jayandjes.inc

“Thank u, next.”

Photo: d.i.y.holic

“Because ‘coffee' isn't a major.”

Photo: aww.sam

Immigrant Graduates

“Immigrad.”

Photo: anaextina

“Proud product of immigrants.”

Photo: meticulouscrafts

“My parents crossed the border so I could cross this stage!”

Photo: kcaguilar02

“They migrated so I graduated.”

Photo: LaVozdeAztlan

“I am my ancestors' wildest dreams.”

Photo: __killak

“You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one.”

Photo: drea.oz

Art Graduate Cap Ideas

Design: “Interior Design.”

Photo: popwithlo

Photography: “Licensed to shoot”

Photo: le_le_lines

Masters Graduation Cap Ideas

“I mastered it to change the world one word at a time.”

Photo: Kallli June

“She believed she could, so she mastered it.”

Photo: Ana Ojeda

Graduates with Dogs

“I worked hard so my dog can have a better life.”

Photo: emsgemscreations

“I hope my dog is proud of me.”

Photo: theplannergal_19

“Because Dog Mom isn't a career.”

Photo: theredheadedcamel

Congratulations, class of 2023!

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 65 Creative Graduation Caps Worn by Crafty Grads

If you were a child of the 1980s or 90s, chances are you remember the televisions of the not-so-distant past. They were boxy units contained within a wood frame. Known as tube TVs, they don’t have a place in our homes today—unless you’re using them as a unique decor item. Artist Hanna Marx converted a 1982 television into a “cat apartment” where her feline can hang out in its own space but still be among its humans. The hollowed-out TV is complete with its own artwork and a comfy bed that offers a similar coziness to that of a cardboard box.

Marx is a watercolor painter who specializes in animal portraits. Within the tiny TV space are a handcrafted jungle-inspired backdrop and a framed picture of a bird painting. Accompanying them is a little “fireplace” that emits a warm glow. And that’s just inside the unit. The top of the television has ample space for plants of all sizes, making the repurposed structure something that both the kitty and humans benefit from.

This was a DIY project for Marx, and it’s something you can replicate for yourself. The first step is finding a television to use—try looking at a thrift store or online at Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. But, be careful. This type of television has cathode ray tubes (CRT) which contain toxins. Be sure that you discharge the electricity and remove it with care. Alternatively, you can have someone else handle that part for you.

Once the tubes are removed, you’ll get to start the fun part: decorating the interior of the TV! Get inspiration from Marx and check out how other pet parents have taken on the TV cat bed.

Artist Hanna Marx converted a 1982 television into a “cat apartment” where her feline can hang out in its own space but still be among its humans.

It's decorated with paintings and a tiny fireplace.

Hanna Marx: Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Hanna Marx.

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READ: Woman Transforms a 1980S TV Into a Cozy “Cat Apartment” for Her Feline Friend

Photo: Stock Photos from Mostovyi Sergii Igorevich/Shutterstock
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The start of spring means that Easter is on the horizon, which for many people means one thing—it's time to start decorating eggs. But did you know that in Ukraine, Easter egg decorating is an important art form that dates back centuries? Known as pysanky, these Ukrainian Easter eggs are decorated using the wax-resist (batik) method. Covered in stunning motifs often taken from Slavic folk art, you'll also find these decorated eggs in many parts of eastern Europe.

Creating these precious eggs takes focus and attention to detail, but the results are stunning works of art that are traditionally given as gifts to family members and community leaders. In fact, pysanka is so important to the culture that it's thought that it was even produced in prehistoric Ukraine. Archaeologists have found decorated ceramic eggs to back up this theory and, according to folklore, pysanky can help ward off evil from overtaking the world. Later, this blended with Christian beliefs, though many people still feel that the decorative eggs work to scare off bad spirits from the home.

Photo: Stock Photos from Andriana Syvanych/Shutterstock

So how does one create a pysanka? The word itself is taken from the Ukrainian verb “to write,” which gives a hint into how it's done. After designs are drawn in pencil around the raw egg, it's hollowed out by drilling a small hole in the top and bottom and letting its innards seep out. Melted wax is then applied across the lines with a tool called a kistka, and the egg is dipped in the first dye. Just as in batik, the wax helps seal off the lines so that they remain free of the dye. Wax is continually added, and the egg is continuously dipped in different colors to achieve the desired design. Once dry, the beeswax is melted off with a candle, revealing the colorful pattern. Pysanky are then varnished to preserve them before being displayed on special stands.

For many families, creating pysanky is an important cultural ritual that brings them together each Easter. It's the perfect creative project for all ages, so whether you want to pay homage to your Slavic heritage or simply take your Easter eggs to a new level, why not give it a try? Many community organizations also run workshops on how to decorate Ukrainian Easter eggs or you can try an online pysanky class.

Pysanky Supplies

Photo: Ukrainian Easter Eggs

If you want to get started creating your own pysanky, it doesn’t take much to get started. It’s even possible to find a wide range of pysanky kits that provide all the supplies you’ll need. Here are the essential tools you’ll need to start making your own Ukrainian Easter eggs.

Kistka – This special pen has a receptacle for hot wax, allowing you to draw your designs across the egg. Traditionally made from a stick and a piece of brass around a needle, which is heated by a candle flame and then dipped in wax. These days there are electric kistka that will hold more wax. They’re readily available in craft stores or online. But, if you are extra crafty, you can even make your own kistka. Tips of different widths are also available to produce a variety of lines.

Beeswax – You'll fill your kistka with melted beeswax in order to trace over the lines of your pattern prior to dipping the egg in each color of dye. In this way, the color below the wax is preserved, allowing you to create complex, colorful designs. Once the dying process is complete and the egg is dry, simply melt the wax away with the flame of a candle.

Drop Pull Tool – In some Eastern European countries like Poland, Slovenia, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic, pysanky are made using a different stylus. This method, called drop-pull, uses pinheads dipped into hot wax to apply designs to the egg. This tool can be used both for the wax-resist method and to create embossed eggs.

Photo: Stock Photos from Amelia Martin/Shutterstock

Egg Blower – Traditionally, pysanky are created on raw eggs that have had the interior yolk and white drained. To do this, you’ll need to poke a small hole on the ends and blow out the inside.

Pysanky Stand – After all the hard work in creating your decorative egg, you’ll want to show it off. You’ll find stands that you can set your egg in or others that allow you to hang your pysanky if you decide to add a tassel and loop through the hole.

Ukrainian Easter Egg Dyes – Traditionally, pysanky dyes were created from plants and minerals, making it necessary to soak eggs for several hours in order to achieve a strong color. These days, synthetic dye drastically cuts down on time. You'll want to pick up dye specifically made for pysanky rather than traditional Easter egg dye in order to achieve the vivid colors that these eggs are known for.

Pysanky Sleeve – Like the look of these decorated eggs, but aren't sure about going through the whole process? There are now a whole variety of egg sleeves in traditional patterns that will shrink-wrap a design to your egg in seconds. In Ukraine, these sleeves are called Linyvky, which is derived from the Ukrainian word for lazy.

How to Make a Ukrainian Easter Egg

Photo: Stock Photos from Vasyl Rohan/Shutterstock

Though it may seem intimidating at first, making your own Ukrainian Easter egg isn't as difficult as you'd think. Once you've gathered your supplies, pick up a pencil and start sketching out your design. If you are looking for inspiration and aren't sure how to proceed, you may want to purchase Beginner Pysanky: Ukrainian Easter Eggs. This guide includes step-by-step tutorials, as well as plenty of color photos and illustrations to get you started.

Watch this tutorial to see how easy it is to begin making pysanky

Traditional Pysanky Patterns

Photo: Stock Photos from Igor Podgorny/Shutterstock

There are many different ornamental patterns and colors that one can find on pysanky. Motifs are often taken from other Slavic folk arts and can be found throughout pottery, embroidery, woodwork, and metalwork. These provide important clues to understanding what ancient pysanky must have been decorated with, as the eggs are too fragile to survive.

Different motifs can play on religious iconography—such as a commonly featured triangle symbolizing the Holy Trinity—or symbolize the changing seasons and societal roles. Different villages may have specialized in particular motifs, but some of the most common imagery includes depictions of the sun, birds, a ladder (to symbolize prayers making their way toward heaven), the tree of life, flowers, and geometric designs.

Color Meanings

The color palette used in pysansky eggs is equally important to the design. While in the past, using two colors was more common, over time, people have tried to incorporate more hues into the design, under the belief that a more colorful egg would mean more good luck.

Some colors and color combinations are more popular than others. Red, for instance, symbolizes love, hopes of marriage, and life-giving blood; white is associated with purity, light, and virginity; yellow is associated with the moon and stars as well as the harvest; and black is regarded as a spiritual color related to the afterlife.

Take a look at some modern pysanky to see how common patterns are being interpreted today.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you pronounce the word “pysanky”?

The pronunciation has slight variations depending on whether or not it is said by a native English speaker, Ukrainian speaker, or Polish speaker. PronounceWiki has audio recordings of these variations.

How do you make pysanky eggs?

Pysanky eggs, also called Ukrainian Easter eggs, are made by hollowing out eggs and decorating them using the wax-resist method. This entails placing melted wax on the egg with a traditional tool called a kistka in the places where you don't want the colored dye to seep through. Several layers of dipping and wax are used to create popular designs on the eggs.

Where can you buy Ukrainian Easter eggs?

In addition to specialty shops, there are many online retailers that sell both finished Ukrainian Easter eggs as well as supplies to create your own. These include, Ukrainian Gift Shop, Best Pysanky, the Ukrainian Easter Egg Store.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: Pysanky: The Beautiful Tradition of Ukrainian Easter Eggs and How to Make Your Own

Photo: MarianaMes/Depositphotos
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Once you have a plant or two, it's tempting to want to cultivate an entire indoor jungle. But you don’t need to go back to the plant store to do so. You can propagate your existing plants and multiply what you already have. Plant propagation is an easy DIY project for a beginning plant parent and can reproduce a variety of plants without much trouble.

But first, what is plant propagation? It’s the process of reproducing flora from a single-plant parent. There are multiple ways to do it. Here, we'll go over which approach is the easiest for beginners, the steps to take, and the stations you can set up in your home to make propagation work for you.

Before you know it, you’ll have many plant babies ready to grow into mature flora.

Photo: Nanihta/Depositphotos

Why should you propagate your plants?

Plant propagation is the act of reproducing a plant from a single parent. It’s the best way to get more plants without having to buy additional flora for your home. And by pruning plants in this way, your current plant population will refrain from being too overgrown.

Propagation can take many forms, but the most common—and easiest method—is through cutting. Cutting is precisely what it sounds like: trimming a healthy part of the plant parent’s stem. New roots are developed via either water or planting in the soil. The benefits of cutting are that the steps are simple, and when it’s done properly it poses no threat to the mature plant.

How to Propagate Plants Through Cuttings

There are two ways to propagate a plant through its cuttings: water and soil. Different plants can be grown in water versus soil.

Photo: Serezniy/Depositphotos

Propagating in Water

Plants such as pothos, philodendrons, and monsteras can be propagated in water. Why is this? This dates back to their ancestors that lived in swamps and made it possible for today's plants to develop their roots in water. Although they can get their start there, these plants will eventually need to be placed in soil once their new roots have formed.

How to do it:

1. With a mature plant, use a clean pair of scissors to cut a piece of the plant at one of its root notches, which are the bumps on the vines. You’ll want to cut right below the notch. This is where the roots will sprout from.
2. Place the cutting in a jar or glass that’s filled with water. Opt for something that's clear so you can observe the roots as they grow.
3. Move the cutting to indirect sunlight. Keep an eye on the water and make sure to change it every few days so that it doesn't become cloudy or evaporate too much. It will likely take weeks for a root system to grow.
4. Once the root system is formed, it’s time to pot the plant. Place the rooted cutting into a container with soil and root hormone (optional) for faster and healthier growth.
5. Continue to water it and place it in its preferred location. Now, watch it grow!

Photo: Maridav/Depositphotos

Propagating in Soil

Cacti and succulent plants are best propagated in soil. This makes them even easier to grow because you don’t have to worry about water—just put them in the dirt and move them to a larger pot once they start growing.

How to do it:

1. Remove leaves from the succulent or the paddle from the cacti that you want to propagate.
2. Place the cuttings on a flat surface lined with soil and wait until they have scabbed over. This step is important. You’ve essentially created an open wound on the plant, and it needs one to three days to dry out and scab over. Otherwise, it might not survive when planted in soil.
3. Plant the pup in fresh soil. Water every time you notice the soil is dry, which for a new cutting might be near daily as its roots grow.
4. Watch the plant get bigger and move it to a larger pot when ready.

Water Propagation Stations

Growing a cutting in water is not only easy, but it makes a great decor item. You can propagate a plant in a drinking glass, but there are more stylish options available. Many makers craft propagation stations that feature glass vials in custom-crafted holders. Check out some of those options below.

Bulb Propagation Stand

My Planter World | $14.70+

Plant-Shaped Tube Holder

Leaf and Node | $24.95

3D Printed Planters

Rosebud | $30+

Rattan Propagation Wall Hanging

Dunn Rustic | $25.50+

Circular Station

Olive Turned Legs | $17.59

Four-Tube Plant Propagation Holder

JDM Wood Creations | $24+

Wall Decor With Propagation Tubes

sculptureDIY | $39.96+

Hanging Hexagon Propagation Station

PlantsNsht | $12.75+

Live Edge Cedar Hanging Propagation Station

Roots Sprout and Home | $45+

Monstera Concrete Plant Propagation Station

Kyte Studio | $18

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READ: How to Easily Multiply Your Indoor Jungle by Propagating Your Existing Plants