How to Make Your Own Class Reunion Name Tag

Class reunions are basically time travel with appetizers. One minute you’re saying “OMG, is that you?”
and the next you’re doing mental math like a contestant on a game show: Wait… you were in Mrs. Carter’s
class… or was it Mr. Nguyen’s… and why do I suddenly remember a locker combination?

A great class reunion name tag is the cheat code that makes the whole event smoother. It jogs memories,
starts conversations, and prevents the awkward “Heyyyy… buddy!” greeting you reserve for people whose names you
absolutely know… just not right now. The best part? You can make your own DIY reunion name badge
that looks professional, prints cleanly, and doesn’t fall off halfway through the first group photo.

Step 1: Decide What Your Name Tag Needs to Do

Before you touch a template, decide your goal. At a reunion, your name tag isn’t just identificationit’s
a memory-jogger and conversation starter. That means it should be readable from a few feet away, sturdy enough
to survive hugs and buffet lines, and clear enough that nobody has to squint like they’re reading tiny terms
and conditions.

What to include on a class reunion name tag

• Big first name (the headline of your face)
• Last name (or current last name)
• Maiden name / former last name (optional, but hugely helpfulhandle with respect)
• Graduation year (especially if multiple classes are invited)
• School name or mascot (optional, but fun)
• City/state (“I moved to Austin!” is instant small talk)
• Conversation spark (one short line: “Band • ’09,” “Lives for pickleball,” “Still hates algebra”)

Keep it short. The best reunion name tags avoid turning into a full autobiography. If you want extra details,
use the back of the badge or a small QR code (more on that later).

Step 2: Pick the Name Tag Style (Because Physics Happens)

Your design can be gorgeous, but if the tag won’t stay on, it becomes a tiny paper tumbleweed. Choose a format
based on your venue, your budget, and how fancy you want to get.

Option A: Peel-and-stick label name tags (fastest)

These are the classic “Hello, my name is…” labels or printable name badge labels. Great for casual reunions,
low budgets, or organizers who need to assemble everything in one evening while whispering, “We can do this.”

Option B: Insert badges + holders (most “event-ready”)

This is the conference-style look: you print inserts (often 4" x 3" is a common size), slide them into plastic
holders, and attach with a clip, pin, or lanyard. This option looks polished and is easier to keep readable
(bigger surface = bigger text = fewer squints).

Option C: Laminated cardstock tags (best durability)

Print on cardstock, cut, laminate, and punch a hole for a clip or lanyard. This is great for outdoor reunions,
pool parties, or any event where moisture and snack grease might try to ruin your day.

Option D: Magnetic badges (best for protecting clothes)

Magnets can prevent pinholes and reduce fabric damagepopular for dressy venues. Just remember: magnets and
pacemakers/medical devices can be a concern for some people, so provide alternatives like clips.

Step 3: Gather Supplies (Choose Your Budget Level)

Budget setup (works great)

• Printable name tag labels or plain label sheets
• Standard printer
• Scissors (or paper trimmer if you’re feeling fancy)
• Permanent marker (for last-minute fixes)

Mid-range setup (looks professional)

• Badge holders (clip, pin, or lanyard)
• Cardstock (heavier paper looks nicer and holds up better)
• Paper trimmer (clean edges change everything)
• Hole punch (if using lanyards)

Deluxe setup (the “wow” version)

• Laminator + pouches (or local print finishing like lamination)
• Corner rounder (optional but very satisfying)
• Cutting machine (optional for shaped tags or photo accents)

Step 4: Use a Template So Your Printer Doesn’t Freelance

If you’re making printable name tags, templates are your best friend. They keep spacing correct and help your
text land inside the badge area instead of drifting into the margins like it’s exploring new territory.

Template route #1: Avery Design & Print (easy and popular)

If you’re using Avery-compatible sheets, you can design online using the product number on the package and
customize each badge. This is great for batch-making reunion name tags and keeping alignment consistent.

Template route #2: Microsoft Word labels (built-in and flexible)

Word can create label/name tag layouts and supports selecting label vendors and product numbers. It can also
generate a sheet where each label is differentperfect for a reunion list. If you don’t see your exact product,
you can set up a custom label size.

Template route #3: Design software + print/cut workflow

If you want photo badges, custom shapes, or perfect cut lines, a craft cutter workflow can helpespecially
if you’re already in that ecosystem. The key is: design for Print Then Cut so the cut follows your printed edge.

Step 5: Design Like a Human Will Read It (Because They Will)

Reunion name tags succeed or fail on readability. The best-looking badge in the world is useless if it requires
a magnifying glass and a signed permission slip.

Readability rules that actually work

• Make the first name the biggest element (seriouslythis is the whole point).
• Use a simple font (clean sans serif or a readable serif; skip swirly scripts).
• High contrast (dark text on a light background is safest).
• Leave breathing room (white space makes text easier to scan).
• Avoid ALL CAPS for long lines (it’s harder to read quickly).

Simple layout examples

Example 1 (classic):
JESSICA
Martinez (Nguyen)
Class of 2011 • Denver, CO

Example 2 (conversation starter):
MARCUS
Reed
Class of 2005 • “Still plays guitar”

Example 3 (multi-class reunion):
TIFFANY
Brooks
’99 • Student Council

Step 6: Print It Cleanly (Cardstock Settings Matter)

Printing is where good intentions go to either “Wow, that looks great!” or or “Why is my text suddenly fuzzy?”
For a crisp, professional look, use the right paper and match your printer settings to itespecially if you’re
printing on cardstock or heavy paper.

Paper tips

• Cardstock makes badges feel intentional and keeps inserts from curling.
• Matte paper reduces glare under bright venue lights.
• Test print one page before running 80 names (future you will say thank you).

Printer setting tips (the difference between “nice” and “yikes”)

• Select the correct paper type (often “Cardstock,” “Heavy,” or “Extra Heavy”).
• If your printer doesn’t list “cardstock,” try the closest “heavy paper” option.
• Use a higher quality mode if you’re printing photos or logos (just expect slower printing).
• Let ink dry fully before stacking or inserting into holders.

Step 7: Cut and Assemble Without Losing Your Mind

Cutting and assembly can be smoothor it can become an arts-and-crafts obstacle course. The secret is to set up
a mini “assembly line” so you’re not switching tools every 10 seconds.

If you’re using peel-and-stick labels

1. Print the sheet.
2. Let it dry for a minute or two (especially inkjet).
3. Peel carefully and stick to clothing at chest level.
4. Optional: place the label on a cardstock backing first for extra stiffness.

If you’re using badge holders with inserts

1. Print inserts on cardstock.
2. Cut using a paper trimmer for straight edges.
3. Slide the insert into the holder (front-facing, not upside downyes, it happens).
4. Attach clip, pin, or lanyard.
5. Stage badges alphabetically on a table for easy check-in.

If you’re laminating

1. Print and cut the name tags.
2. Laminate in pouches (leave a small border so it seals).
3. Trim and round corners (optional but less “ouch” if it bumps someone).
4. Punch hole and attach a lanyard, clip, or badge reel.

Step 8: Make It Reunion-Smart (Not Just Event-Generic)

A reunion is different from a conference. People aren’t trying to remember your job titlethey’re trying to
remember if you were in marching band, the school play, or “that one friend who always had gum.”

Add small details that help memory

• Old last name (optional): especially helpful for classmates who changed names.
• Clubs/teams: “Basketball,” “Yearbook,” “Drama,” “Robotics.”
• Then & now: a tiny yearbook photo thumbnail can be hilarious and genuinely helpful.
• Color coding: different colors for different graduating years or groups.
• Nicknames: include it if people knew you that way (“AJ,” “Bee,” “Coach’s Favorite”).

Optional: Add a QR code (only if it fits your crowd)

A QR code can link to a reunion page, a shared photo album, or a contact card. Keep it small and put it in a corner.
The name should still be the star of the show.

Step 9: Batch-Making Tips for Organizers (Save Time, Avoid Chaos)

If you’re making 30+ reunion name tags, your biggest enemy isn’t designit’s last-minute changes. Someone will
text you, “I’m bringing my spouse, can you add them?” and another person will say, “Actually, I go by my middle
name now.” Totally normal. Plan for it.

Organizer workflow that keeps things sane

• Build a spreadsheet with columns: First Name, Last Name, Former Name, Class Year, City, Fun Line.
• Do one test print and one test assembly before the big run.
• Print in batches (A–H, I–P, Q–Z) so you can reprint only one batch if needed.
• Keep blank badges and markers at check-in for surprise guests or corrections.
• Sort completed badges alphabetically on a table (your check-in line will move twice as fast).

Step 10: Troubleshooting Common Name Tag Problems

“My print is smudging.”

Give the ink time to dry, use a heavier paper setting, and avoid stacking fresh prints. Laminating or inserting
into holders too quickly can smear inkjet prints.

“My template doesn’t align.”

Confirm you’re printing at 100% (not “fit to page”), run a single test sheet, and double-check you selected the
correct product number or label size.

“My badge curls.”

Use cardstock, add a backing card, or use a holder. Thin paper tends to curlespecially in humid venues or outdoors.

“Labels won’t stick.”

Some fabrics and textured materials fight adhesive. For those cases, offer badge holders with clips or lanyards.

Final Thoughts: A Name Tag Is a Tiny Reunion Superpower

Making your own class reunion name tag isn’t just a craft projectit’s a practical upgrade that makes your event
warmer, easier, and way less awkward. Keep the first name big, the design simple, the print crisp, and the build
sturdy. You’ll spend less time guessing and more time laughing, catching up, and saying, “Oh my gosh, now I remember!”

Experiences: What Reunion Name Tags Actually Change (and the Funny Things That Happen)

The first thing you notice at a reunion is how quickly people’s brains try to time-travel. Someone walks in and your
brain goes, “I recognize the smile… and the vibe… but the name file is buffering.” That’s where a good reunion name tag
feels like a lifesaver. When the first name is big and clear, people greet each other like confident adults instead of
like actors improvising in a scene where everyone forgot the script. Suddenly you hear real names again“Kim!” “Derek!”
“Alicia!”and the room gets friendlier, faster.

Another thing that happens: name tags become mini conversation magnets. If you add “Class of 2008 • Yearbook” or “Band •
Trombone Survivor,” people don’t just say hithey have an opening line. It’s like giving everyone a tiny, polite excuse
to start talking. And if you include a city, you’ll get instant geography bonding: “No way, you’re in Seattle too?” Or
the classic: “You moved to Florida? Are you okay? Blink twice if you need help.” (All jokes. Mostly.)

Reunion name tags also reveal something hilarious: people react emotionally to their own names. Some folks love their full
formal name in bold letters. Others feel like they’re wearing a name tag that belongs to a substitute teacher. That’s why
it helps to use the name people actually go by now. And if you’re including former last names, it’s worth handling gently
not everyone wants their past on display. A thoughtful approach (like letting people opt in on a form) keeps the vibe
respectful and prevents any “Wait, why does my badge say THAT?” moments at the snack table.

Then there’s the wardrobe factor. Adhesive labels can be a mixed bag: they work great on smooth fabrics, but on textured
sweaters they sometimes peel like a tired sticker on a water bottle. Badge holders feel more dependable, especially for
longer events, and they avoid the “my name tag migrated to my elbow” situation. If you provide clips and a few lanyards,
people can choose what feels comfortable. And yessomeone will attach theirs upside down at least once. It’s basically a
reunion tradition, like remembering a funny cafeteria story halfway through the night.

The best experience improvement, though, is simple: name tags reduce the fear of getting it wrong. Many people want to say
hello but hesitate because they’re worried they’ll call someone by the wrong name. A clear class reunion name badge
removes that barrier. You can see the reliefpeople relax, laugh, and reconnect without the anxiety of “What if I mess up?”
So even if your name tags aren’t printed on luxury cardstock blessed by professional designers, the effort still pays off.
The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is connection. And if your badge design also includes a tiny mascot or school color stripe?
Congratulations: you’ve created a wearable memory that helps everyone feel like they’re back in the same story againjust
with better snacks and (hopefully) better life choices.