How to Take Baby Handprints, Footprints & Pet Paw Prints

Capturing prints is a beautiful way to preserve precious memories and create jewelry that tells your story. Whether it’s your baby’s tiny hands or your pet’s adorable paw, here’s how you can get clear, lasting prints for your custom Chapters of Joy keepsake.

How to Take Baby Handprints & Footprints

There are two safe and simple ways to capture your baby’s prints:

Option A – Using Baby-Safe Paint 

This method gives you colorful, vibrant prints (perfect for memory books or framed keepsakes), though it can get a little messy with wiggly little ones.

Materials Needed:

• Non-toxic, baby-safe paint
• White paper or cardstock
• A firm surface or clipboard
• Water and a soft cloth for cleanup

Steps:

1. Secure the paper or card on a firm surface.
2. Gently open your baby’s fingers. (Tip: a light tickle on the palm can help relax their grip if they clench.)
3. Brush a thin, even layer of paint on your baby’s hand or foot.
4. Press gently onto the paper to capture the print.
5. Immediately wash your baby’s hands/feet with water and a cloth.

Option B – Using an Inkless Print Kit 

This method is mess-free and quick, making it especially great for newborns. These kits are non-toxic and safe for sensitive skin.

Materials Needed:

• Inkless hand & footprint kit (includes a pad + special cards)

Steps:

1. Remove the ink pad from the kit.
2. Press your baby’s hand or foot gently on the non-ink side of the pad.
3. Press onto the card provided.
4. Allow the print to air dry for about 10 minutes.

How to Take Pet Paw Prints

Your pet is family too — capturing their paw print is a wonderful way to celebrate that bond. You can choose between paint or an inkless kit:

Option A – Using Pet-Safe Paint 

Perfect for colorful paw prints (though pets may squirm, so be ready with a cloth!).

Materials Needed:

• Non-toxic, pet-safe paint
• White paper or cardstock
• A firm surface or clipboard
• Water and a cloth for cleanup

Steps:

1. Secure the paper on a clipboard or flat surface.
2. Clean your pet’s paw to remove any dirt.
3. Apply a thin layer of paint to their paw.
4. Press gently onto the paper.
5. Wash their paw immediately after.

Option B – Using an Inkless Paw Print Kit ✨

Quick, clean, and no mess — great for pets who don’t like fuss.

Materials Needed:

• Inkless paw print kit (pad + special cards)

Steps:

1. Take the ink pad from the kit.
2. Place your pet’s paw gently on the non-ink side.
3. Press onto the card or paper.
4. Allow the print to air dry for about 10 minutes.

Tips for the Best Print Photos

Whether it’s your baby’s hand, foot, or your pet’s paw:

• Use natural light (avoid harsh shadows or glare).
• Take the photo close-up and in focus.
• Make sure the hand/paw is clean and dry.
• Photograph straight from above for accuracy.

Once your prints are ready, simply upload a clear photo on our order page or email it to info@chaptersofjoy.com — and we’ll take care of the rest.