Graduation season is here, which means it’s time to find a gift that says “you crushed it”
loudly, proudly, and maybe wrapped in a plush blanket. Whether they’re moving into a new place, starting their first job, or just ready to upgrade from dorm life, we’ve pulled together a few graduation gift ideas that are artful, useful, and a little more inspired than a last-minute gift card.

These are the celebratory gifts that turn “congrats!” into something they’ll use and love every day.

For the grad who just wants to nap

They survived finals, group projects, and an ungodly amount of cold brew. Now they just want to be horizontal.

Hawkins Knit Blanket

 

This Hawkins Knit Throw Blanket is a nap wrapped in color design. It's bold, cozy, and makes an excellent gift for anyone who's spent the last four years in a twin XL bed. Think gallery-worthy textile meets emotional support system.

Margo Throw Pillow Cover

Give their couch (or floor mattress, no judgment) a soft, fun boost with the Margo Throw Pillow Cover. It pairs perfectly with the Hawkins and adds that touch of “I live here now.”

For the grad who’s finally ditching dorm furniture

No more pizza box nightstands - this space is getting a glow-up.

Moretti Throw Blanket

The Moretti Throw Blanket adds a cozy layer that looks like a painting and feels like home. The color palette? Chef’s kiss. The vibe? Big “I’ve moved on from lava lamps” energy.

Blanket Hanger Clips – Walnut Set

Let them turn their favorite blanket into instant wall art with these Blanket Hanger Clips. Because sometimes, the ideal gift is both functional and fun.

For the grad who needs to chill

They’ve been running on caffeine and stress dreams. Time to chill.

 

Freaky Deaky Puzzle

 

The Freaky Deaky Puzzle perfect practical gift for a newly-minted adult who needs a screen break. Weird in the best way. Challenging in a fun way. Exactly what their serotonin needs.

 

Tapered Candles – Summer Set

 

Add a little color and calm to their space with these colourful Tapered Candles. This set comes in a dreamy array of colors and makes any random Tuesday night feel like a main character moment.

 

What makes a graduation gift actually good?

Here’s our take: the best gifts are useful, personal, and a little unexpected.

A thoughtful graduation gift doesn’t have to be custom-engraved or wildly expensive. It just needs to feel like you picked it for them. Something soft. Something bold. Something beautiful. Something that says, “I know you’ve been through it and you deserve something nice.”

Whether it’s a personalized gift, a plush blanket, or a design-forward accent in a variety of colors, the point is that it’s not generic. It’s theirs.

 

Not sure what to choose?

No shame in playing it safe. A Slowdown gift card still gives them a way to pick out something they’ll actually use and it doesn’t scream “I forgot until yesterday.”

Bonus points if you pair it with a handwritten note or, honestly, a meme that sums up their last semester.

Graduation gifts, Slowdown-style

If you’re looking for graduation gift ideas that feel more considered and less cliché, we’ve got you. Every Slowdown piece is a little art, a little utility, and a lot of vibe. Designed in collaboration with artists around the world, our pieces are perfect for college grads who want their space to feel like, well, theirs.

 

Quick Picks for Every Type of Grad

Each one is a memorable gift that says, “Welcome to this weird, exciting, cozy new chapter.”

 

Ready to shop?

Start with the gifts that are bold, useful, and never boring. Whether you're shopping for a college graduate who's still figuring it all out or one who’s already color-coding their new space, we’ve got you covered.

Browse all graduation gifts

FAQs 

1. What are some graduation gift ideas that aren't just gift cards or cash?
If you're trying to avoid the usual suspects, go for a thoughtful graduation gift that feels personal. A plush blanket or colorful home accessory is useful, beautiful, and actually memorable.

2. What’s a practical gift that still feels special for a college graduate?
Think cozy throws, artist-designed puzzles, or sculptural candles. A practical gift doesn’t mean boring, it just means they’ll actually use it.

3. I want to give a personalized gift, but I don’t want to do the whole monogram thing. Ideas?
A personalized gift doesn’t have to be engraved. Just choose something that feels like them—bold patterns, specific color design, or a piece that fits their new space or vibe.

4. What’s a good gift for grads moving into their first apartment?
Look for home upgrades with personality - think throws in a variety of colors, puzzle art, or anything that makes their space feel less dorm, more adult-but-fun.

5. What’s the best way to make a gift card feel more thoughtful?
Pair your gift card with a short note about why you picked Slowdown, or recommend your favorite piece from the shop. It's an excellent gift with just the right touch of “I didn’t just wing this.”