Discover personalized graduation gift ideas you can machine embroider, from monogrammed pillowcases and bags to luggage tags, dorm décor, and practical gifts for college-bound graduates.

The diploma is in hand, the parties are over, and now it is time to prepare for the next big step—moving into a dorm or apartment. What will they need? Most colleges are very good at connecting with incoming students and helping out with lists. But what about some personalized gifts beyond the needed items?

Find the DBJJ team’s favorite supplies in the Designs by JuJu Amazon store, and find our favorite stabilizers, batting, and threads at DesignsbyJuJu+ to make all your ideas shine!

Here are some blog posts with ideas to get you started:

Let’s Explore Those Ideas

Think about using the school colors or the grad’s favorite colors. Add a monogram to a robe or fleece throw. The possibilities are endless and Designs by JuJu has a lot of fun fonts and monograms to choose from!

Monogramming a laundry bag or towel set? Check out this blog post for a bunch of ideas:  Creative Monogram Ideas. 

Don’t forget pillowcases! They can be made in school colors with a monogram or name on the cuff, or just a pretty floral design. 

Search in the DBJJ blog and you’ll find loads of pouch posts. This one has a number of ideas for you: ITH Bags & Pouches.

Most schools only allow clear bags into stadiums. Make a clear pouch for game day or a concert with the school colors: DIY Clear Stadium Bag.

A gal cannot have enough zipped bags—the largest for cosmetics and the smallest to tuck in a backpack with their school ID and/or laundry card. These are perfect: Quilted ITH Zippered Bags-1.

And for guys there is the Striped Boxy Zippered Bag. It may be small, but it will hold the essentials!

Luggage tags are a quick way to add a little sparkle to a backpack or bag, and they make a great “tuck in” gift. School colors would add some extra fun! I am partial to these:

Or add a monogram or personal message to a ready-made canvas bag! Although I made this bag for preschool graduation, the idea works for older grads too! Pick up a larger tote and add a design to make it a grocery bag. I like the Farmers Market Word Art sets.

From papers and books to pencils and other supplies, students of every age need something to carry it all in. Here are a few back to school ideas.

What about a fun wall hanging for the dorm/apartment wall as a reminder to your special grad? This ITH Serenity Prayer is perfect.

Maybe they’d love a big pennant in the school colors or letters? These pennant shapes are just what you need!

Graduation Banner Made With In The Hoop Big Set of Pennant and Bunting Shapes Set 1
and Double Varsity Satin Stitch Applique Embroidery Font

The list of ideas is endless! Your grad might have a special request, so be sure to ask. And most of all, have fun making something special that can be used for the next school season!

Be sure to share your projects in the Designs by JuJu Embroidery Blessings Facebook Group, or use the hashtag #designsbyjuju anywhere on social media. We all love to see what you create!

Sandie Larsen

Sandie Larsen

Hi! I am Sandie, and so thrilled to be here! I enjoy sewing, quilting, bag making, pattern testing, reading, gardening in containers and traveling with my husband. A good friend introduced me to machine embroidery, and I have been hooked! I love creating for my family and friends.