Graduation season is here, and what better way to celebrate your grad than with a creative gift that’s both personal and practical — a DIY money necklace! This simple craft is a fun way to surprise your graduate with cash in a festive and wearable form. Whether you’re celebrating a high school or college grad, this easy project adds a handmade touch to any graduation outfit or party.
I started making money leis for my neices and nephews and when my neice was due to graduate- I did not have time to do a full necklace like THIS ONE!
So I ended up coming up with this less time consuming version! Instead of folding 40-50 dollar bill flowers, I only had to fold 9! Hope you enjoy it!
What You’ll Need
- Crisp dollar bills (you can use $1s, $5s, $10s — or mix them!)
- Ribbon or string (school colors work great!)
- Tape (I use scotch magic-it comes off dollar bills easily)
- Beads, paper flowers, or mini tassels for decoration
- Scissors
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Fold the Bills
Start by folding each bill accordion-style (back and forth like a fan). Once folded, pinch the middles together. This gives the bills a flower-like shape.
Step 2: Secure and Shape
Spread out the ends of each bill “flower” to make them look full. You can tape or glue two folded bills together to create a rounder flower shape if you want extra volume.
(I go in greater step by step on how to fold these dollar bills here.)
Step 3: Braid yarn
I didn’t want to use a bulky ribbon so I instead grabbed some black yarn to match the graduate’s school colors and braided 3 strands together. I made it long enought to fit comfortably around the graduate’s neck.
Step 4: String It Together
Start threading the money flowers onto the ribbon, spacing them evenly. You can alternate with beads or decorations for a colorful look. I tied ribbon bows in between each flower.
Step 5: Tie It Off
Once all the money flowers are in place, tie the ends of the ribbon together. You can also tie a bow to make it easy to slip on and off.
Presentation Tip
Surprise your grad by placing the necklace on them during the ceremony or at their party! It’s a picture-perfect moment and a memorable keepsake they’ll love (and can cash in later!).
💡 Crafting Tip
If you want to make it extra special, write small notes of encouragement or memories on paper and fold them into the necklace between the money flowers.
🌟 Why This Gift Is Perfect
A money necklace is more than just a clever way to give cash — it’s a celebration of achievement, creativity, and love. It’s a handmade touch that says, “We’re proud of you,” in the most fun and festive way!
Save for later
Too busy to get crafting today? No problem! Pin this post to remind yourself about this project later! Sharing my projects helps me reach more people, allowing me to continue sharing free content!
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