What to Buy for Graduation: Thoughtful Gifts That Stand Out
Graduation season is more than just caps and gowns. It’s a celebration of hard work, late nights, personal growth, and fresh beginnings. Whether it’s high school, college, or a professional program, the right graduation gift can honor their journey and inspire what comes next.
Here’s everything you need to know to choose the perfect gift, plus a few handcrafted favorites that grads of all types will love.
For the Grad Who Spent Late Nights Studying:
Our Ramen Bowl Clock brings a smile to any wall and a nod to those all-nighter meals. It’s quirky, nostalgic, and uniquely fun.
Should You Give a Gift on Graduation?
Yes. While not mandatory, a graduation gift is a thoughtful way to show your support and pride. Whether it’s a keepsake, something practical, or just a token gesture, your gift says, “I see you, and I’m proud of all you’ve accomplished.” After all, they've just spent years working toward an important goal. What a better thing to celebrate than crossing that finish line?
Graduation gifts can be given by friends, family, coworkers, and mentors alike. It’s the thought that counts, not the price tag.
For the Grad Who Loves to Celebrate:
A hand-etched glass with a bold design (like a skull surrounded by wings) is perfect for raising a toast to new adventures.
This design is inspired by the paintings in the Chapel of Bones ossuary in Portugal, a great gift for a graduating traveler.
Lowball Glass - Death Skull by Bread and Badger
How Much Should You Spend on a Graduation Gift?
There’s no one-size-fits-all number, but here’s a general guide you can start with:
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Friends/Classmates: $10–$30
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Extended Family or Family Friends: $25–$75
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Parents/Grandparents: $75–$200+
Keep in mind, something personal, meaningful, or handmade often has more impact than something expensive. A small but thoughtful gift can mean the world—especially when it shows you really know the grad.
Think of things that they focused their academic career on, their hobbies, outside interests, or even some fun aspect of their personality. When you pick a gift that shows you see them, they'll love it.
For the Grad Who’s Finally Free to Create:
A hand-bound journal is perfect for sketching, journaling, or mapping out that next big idea. We have these in a variety of colors, found here.
Shown above:
Journal - Blue Mixed Paper Notebook (Large or Small) by Original Brooks
What Are Good Graduation Gifts for Friends?
Looking for something a little different than the usual gift card or bouquet? Here are a couple of fun and functional graduation gift ideas for friends, roommates, and classmates:
For the Grad Who Can’t Wait to Travel or Camp:
The “I’d Rather Be Camping” magnet set is great for those already planning summer getaways. A cheerful reminder of nature and freedom!
Shown above:
Magnets - Set of 5 - Camping Magnets by SnowMade
For the Grad Who’s Hosting a BBQ:
The San Juan Island Sea Salt Burger & Steak Blend is ideal for the foodie or grill master in your life who is ready to celebrate with fire.
Shown above:
Single Jar - 4.5oz - Burger and Steak Seasoning Blend by San Juan Island Sea Salt
Where to Buy Graduation Gifts
Not sure where to start shopping? Think about your grad’s personality and passions:
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Sports stores for athletic gear or team merchandise
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Outdoors stores for hiking, camping, or travel tools
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Jewelers for keepsake accessories or custom pieces
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Stationery shops for planners, pens, or journals
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Home goods for decor or practical items for their next home
And of course, handmade gift shops like The Handmade Showroom offer truly one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else. We curate handcrafted goods including jewelry, stationary, and home goods from over 260 independent U.S. artists—perfect for grads who appreciate quality, creativity, and something that reflects who they are.
📍 Visit us in downtown Seattle or shop online at thehandmadeshowroom.com to find graduation gifts as original as the grads themselves.