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How to Take a Dog’s Paw Print At Home

An image showing a woman dog owner kneeling down and looking at her golden labrador. She had the dog's paw in one hand and has her other arm around the dog. The dog is looking up at her, lovingly. A wooden table and sofa are visible, in the background.

If you’ve ever tried to take your dog’s paw print using paint or clay, you’ll know it doesn’t always go to plan. Wet paws, paint on the floor, a wriggling dog, and a blurred print can quickly turn what should be a lovely keepsake into a frustrating experience.

Over the years, I’ve helped hundreds of customers capture their dog’s paw prints, whether they’re celebrating a new puppy, marking a special birthday, or creating a lasting memory of a much-loved companion. One thing I’ve learned is that getting a beautiful paw print isn’t just about choosing the right product. It’s about choosing the right time, preparing your dog properly, and making the experience as stress-free as possible.

In this guide, I’ll share the advice I give my own customers on how to take a dog’s paw print at home.

Why Traditional Methods Can Be So Messy

Many pet owners naturally reach for whatever they already have at home. This often means using:

  • Paint
  • Ink pads
  • Air-dry clay
  • Salt dough

While these methods can work, they all come with their own challenges.

Paint can easily end up on your dog’s fur, your flooring and your furniture before you’ve even managed to get a good print. Ink pads often have quite a small printing area, meaning you have to position your dog’s paw very precisely. If your dog moves at the last second, you usually have to start all over again.

A women dog owner is at home with her golden labrador. There is a white sheet they are both on. A round piece of air-drying clay is on the floor. The pet owner is attempting to press her dog's paw into the clay to create an impression but the dog isn't happy and is pulling away. She has clay on her clothes and in her hair.

Air-dry clay can also be surprisingly difficult to work with. It needs rolling to the correct thickness, the paw has to be pressed evenly into the surface, and then the clay needs time to dry without cracking or warping.

Salt-dough, although easy to aquire the ingredients, the consistency has to be spot on, in order to create the right consistency to a print you are happy with.

From my experience, many owners become so focused on getting the perfect print that the whole process becomes stressful for both them and their dog.

Why I Recommend an Inkless Paw Print Kit

After years of helping customers, I genuinely believe an inkless paw print kit is one of the easiest, cleanest and least stressful ways to capture a dog’s paw print.

Unlike a small ink pad, an inkless kit uses a full A4 sheet of specially coated paper. That larger surface area gives you much more room to work with, so you don’t have to be perfectly accurate every time your dog places their paw down.

Another advantage is that a single inkless wipe can often produce several prints. That means you can take multiple attempts and simply choose your favourite afterwards rather than feeling pressured to get it perfect first time.

The print develops within seconds, there’s no paint to wash off afterwards, and the whole process is much quicker for your dog.

A female dog owner is bending down, holding one of her dog's paw in her hand. She is using a, non-toxic, inklesss wipe to wipe the dogs paw pad, in preparation for capturing the print onto paper.

Preparation Makes All the Difference

One of the biggest mistakes I see isn’t actually the method people use—it’s trying to take the paw print at the wrong time.

Your dog is far more likely to cooperate if they’re relaxed and content.

I always recommend:

  • Taking the print after your dog has eaten.
  • Choosing a quiet time when they’re naturally calm.
  • Avoiding taking a print immediately after grooming or bathing.
  • Asking another family member to help, if possible.

Two people make a huge difference. One person can gently reassure and position the dog while the other concentrates on taking the paw print.

Don’t Forget to Trim the Fur and Nails

This is probably one of the most overlooked steps.

I’ve had customers send me prints where the fur around the paw pads completely covered the detail I needed. Others had long nails that prevented the paw pads from making proper contact with the paper.

For the clearest print possible, it’s worth:

  • Trimming the fur around the paw pads.
  • Trimming the nails if they need cutting.
  • Waiting a little while after grooming before taking the print so your dog has had chance to relax again.

These small preparations can make a remarkable difference to the final result.

A golden labrador looking proudly at the camera, sitting beside it's ink paw print on a sheet of paper that is placed next to them.

Real Situations I’ve Helped Customers Solve

Every dog is different, and every owner has their own challenges.

One customer came to me because the only paw print they had was one their dog had accidentally left in wet cement. While it was a wonderful memory, it wasn’t suitable for creating the keepsake they wanted. They had to opt for a keyring instead of a necklace.

Another customer had managed to get a print on paper, but the fur around the paw hadn’t been trimmed and the nails hadn’t been cut. Unfortunately, the paw pads weren’t clearly defined enough to achieve the detailed result they hoped for.

I’ve also helped many customers who were trying to take the print on their own. This is particularly difficult with medium and large breeds. As the dog moves, the paw slides across the paper, creating a smudged print instead of a crisp impression.

Simply having another person there to help often solves the problem immediately.

What If Your Dog Won’t Stay Still?

Some dogs simply aren’t interested in standing where you’d like them to.

Fortunately, there are a couple of techniques I’ve found work particularly well.

Try Mealtime

One of my favourite methods is to place the paper where your dog’s food bowl normally sits.

Lightly tape the corners of the paper so it doesn’t move.

Use the inkless wipe on your dog’s paw, then allow them to begin eating. While they’re happily distracted, gently press the paw onto the paper.

Because they’re focused on their food, many dogs remain much calmer and more cooperative.

A lady dog owner looks lovingly at her dog whilst she takes her dog's paw print on paper that is taped down to a book to keep the paper in place. She is using the paw that is not weight bearing to have more control of capturing the paw print.

Use the Non-Weight-Bearing Paw

Another method is to place the paper on top of a book on the floor.

While your dog is standing naturally, gently lift the paw that isn’t bearing their weight and press it onto the paper.

This gives you much more control over the movement of the paw and often produces a much clearer print.

Again, having someone your dog knows and trusts helping alongside you can make all the difference.

You Know Your Dog Better Than Anyone

One piece of advice I always give is this:

You know your dog better than anyone else.

You know when they’re relaxed, when they’re playful, when they’re hungry and when they’d really rather be left alone.

When considering how to take your dog’s paw print at home, working around your dog’s normal routine increases your chances of capturing the perfect print.

The best results almost always happen when:

  • Your dog has recently eaten.
  • They’re in familiar surroundings.
  • The fur around the paw pads has been trimmed.
  • Their nails have been clipped if needed.
  • Someone they know is helping.
  • The whole experience is calm and unhurried.

Can You Use the Paw Print Later for Keepsake Jewellery?

Absolutely.

One of the biggest advantages of taking a clear inkless paw print is that you’re preserving the unique details of your dog’s paw for years to come.

Many of my customers initially take a paw print simply because they want a lovely keepsake on paper. Months or even years later, they decide they’d like that same print transformed into a personalised silver charm, pendant or memorial keepsake.

Having a high-quality paw print gives you those options in the future, even if you don’t know exactly what you’d like to do with it today.

Text expains that your ink paw print that you have on paper can be used to create a bespoke, piece of paw print jewellery for you to wear and treasure. One image shows an ink paw print on paper with a hand gently holding the paw print over the print. The second image is off two silver, paw print rings, resting on the paw of a dog. The last image is of a dog's paw resting in the palm of its owner's hand. The owner is wearing a silver paw print bead, neacklace.

Final Thoughts

Taking your dog’s paw print doesn’t have to involve paint-covered paws, cracked clay or a lot of frustration.

With the right preparation, a little patience and the right materials, most owners can capture a beautiful print in just a few minutes.

Remember, perfection isn’t always the goal. Every paw print is unique, just like your dog. The tiny details, the slight imperfections and the shape of their paw all become part of a keepsake that you’ll treasure for years to come.

If you’re looking for the easiest way to capture your dog’s paw print at home, my Inkless Paw Print Kit has been designed to make the process as clean, simple and stress-free as possible.

Using these tips will Give you the best chance of achieving a clear print you’ll be proud to keep.

Finally, if you’d like to create a printed keepsake with your dog’s paw print and your handprint, we provide handprint kits to help you achieve this.

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Do Funeral Homes Take Fingerprints of a Deceased Loved One?

As a fingerprint keepsake artist with 12 years experience, I explain what families need to know before it’s too late.

When a loved one passes away, families are faced with countless decisions and emotions.

During this difficult time, many people look for meaningful ways to preserve a connection to the person they have lost. One option that has become increasingly popular is obtaining a loved one’s fingerprints.

Most often these prints are used to create personalised keepsakes, such as jewellery, charms, keyrings, or memorial pieces.

Image of a light wooden coffin with a bouquest lillies on the top. The hand of a woman is resting lovingly on top of the coffin. The lady is wearing black and only her hand arm and upper body is visible. This image is part of a blog article explaining whether funeral homes routinely take the fingerprings of a deceased loved one.

A question I am often asked is:

Is It Standard Practice for Funeral Homes to Collect the Fingerprints of a Deceased Person?

The simple answer is no, funeral homes in the UK do not typically collect fingerprints as standard practice. However, that does not mean obtaining fingerprints is impossible. In most cases, fingerprints can be taken if the family requests them and arrangements are made early enough.

For 12 years, I have worked with many families who wanted to preserve a unique part of a loved one.

Through those experiences, I have found, the challenge is whether families know the option exists before it is too late.

Why Funeral Homes Don’t Routinely Take Fingerprints

Many people assume funeral directors automatically collect fingerprints as part of the funeral process. In reality, this is not usually the case.

There are several reasons for this.

Firstly, the decision to keep a loved one’s fingerprints is a deeply personal one. While some families find great comfort in having fingerprints preserved, others may have no interest in doing so.

Funeral directors understand that every family grieves differently. They are careful not to overwhelm people with additional decisions during an already emotional time.

Secondly, funeral directors have a primary responsibility to care for and prepare the deceased for burial or cremation. Their focus is on providing compassionate support and ensuring that funeral arrangements run smoothly. Collecting fingerprints for memorial keepsakes is not traditionally considered part of their standard role.

Order of service with picture of an elderly man with text showing his full name at the top and the funeral service date and location at the bottom. This is a fictional order of service for a blog article about how to get your deceased family member's fingerprint when their body is resting in the funeral home.

In my experience, funeral directors are incredibly sensitive to the needs and emotions of grieving families.

Many prefer to wait until the family specifically requests it, rather than routinely asking.

That said, I personally believe it would be beneficial if funeral homes mentioned fingerprint preservation as an available option.

Families could then make an informed choice without feeling pressured.

Can Funeral Homes Take Fingerprints If Asked?

In many cases, yes.

If a family requests fingerprints early enough, funeral directors are often willing to help facilitate the process. However, each funeral home will have its own procedures and policies.

The key is to ask as soon as possible.

When speaking with a funeral director, there are several important questions to ask:

  • Is it still possible to take fingerprints?
  • Is the funeral home willing to take the fingerprints on behalf of the family?
  • Do they have fingerprint kits available?
  • If not, can the family order a kit and send it directly to the funeral home?
  • What type of fingerprint impression method do they use?

Some funeral homes may use traditional ink fingerprint methods, while others may be comfortable using silicone mould kits. These silicone kits capture fingerprint detail in three dimensions.

The earlier these conversations happen, the more options are available.

Why Timing Matters

One of the biggest lessons I have learned over the years is that delays can lead to missed opportunities.

Sadly, I have seen situations where families discovered fingerprint keepsakes only days before a funeral. When it’s this late, unfortunately there is simply no time left.

A greiving family, stand around a light wooden coffin with a bouquet of lillies sitting on the top. The family members are mourning the loss of a loved one and have their heads turned down. They were all dressed in black. This picture is part of an article explaining how to get a copy of your deceased loved-one from the funeral home.

One instance, a family member of the deceased, decided too close to the funeral date, that they’d like fingerprints.

Another case, funeral directors had a strict deadline for the fingerprint kit to arrive before preparing the deceased. Because the kit could not be delivered in time, the opportunity was lost.

The funeral directors were willing to help, however, they did not have a kit readily avaialbe. This is simply because such a request was rare.

They attempted to source one locally, but unfortunately there was not enough time before the funeral arrangements had to proceed.

These situations are heartbreaking because many families simply did not know fingerprint preservation was an option.

What Happens If You Don’t Obtain Fingerprints?

Over the years, I have spoken with families who later regretted not preserving their loved one’s fingerprints.

Sometimes they have seen examples of fingerprint jewellery and realised they would have loved to create something similar.

At that point, families often begin searching for alternative ways to obtain fingerprints. They may look through paperwork, photographs, personal belongings, or household items, hoping to find a usable print.

Unfortunately, this is rarely straightforward.

While fingerprints may exist on surfaces around the home, locating, preserving, and successfully lifting them can be extremely difficult. In most cases, obtaining fingerprints directly through the funeral home shortly after death is far simpler and more reliable.

A women wearing black, with her back turned, is shown placing a pink rose ontop of a grey, headstone. This image is part of a blog article, explaining to best to obtain fingerprints of a loved one from the funeral directors

Why Fingerprints Mean So Much to Families

I have spent over 12 years working with fingerprints from those who are alive and those who have passed.

One thing I hear repeatedly is that fingerprints feel different from many other forms of remembrance.

A fingerprint is entirely unique.

No one else in the world shares the same pattern of ridges and lines.

Families tell me they love being able to touch the fingerprint, feeling the detail that belonged to their loved one.

Many describe it as carrying a small part of that person with them wherever they go.

Whether incorporated into a necklace, charm, bracelet, or keyring, the fingerprint becomes something tangible. They can hold onto during difficult moments.

a deceased, female hand being held by a male hand. The male hand is impressing the fingerprint into a silicone, fingerprint putty, mould to take a copy of the fingerprint. This image is part of an article, explainging that a fingeprint kit can be used to take a loved one's fingerprint at a funeral home.

You Don’t Have to Decide Immediately What You’ll Do With the Fingerprints

One misconception is that if you obtain fingerprints, you must immediately decide what keepsake you want.

That is not true.

Many families are simply not ready to make those decisions while they are grieving.

I have had customers come back to me years after obtaining fingerprints.

During the early stages of grief, they knew they wanted to preserve the fingerprints. When they were emotionally ready, they came back to choose a keepsake. This meant they felt more able to think carefully about what they wanted and how they wished to personalise it.

Because they had preserved the fingerprints, the option was still available to them.

Lilac fingerprint mould on a piece of white card. The card sits on a ligth wooden table. The card has text at the top which reads, Patty's Fingerprint 19/03/24. This is part of a blog article about how to get a fingerprint from a family member that has passed away.

Fingerprints Can Benefit Future Family Members Too

Another important consideration is that fingerprints are not just for the person requesting them.

I have worked with families who ordered fingerprint charms, then returned a few years later requesting additional pieces for other relatives.

Once family members saw the keepsake, they realised they would also like something meaningful to remember their loved one by.

Because the original fingerprint mould had been preserved, additional keepsakes could be created without needing to obtain new fingerprints.

This is one reason why I always encourage families to consider obtaining fingerprints. Regardless if they are unsure whether they’ll ever use them.

The decision does not have to be made immediately.

My Advice to Families

If your loved one has recently passed away and you think there is even a small possibility that you may want their fingerprints in the future, my advice is simple:

Ask the funeral director as early as possible.

You do not need to know exactly what you want to create.

Plus, you do not need to order jewellery immediately.

In additon, you do not even need to be certain that you will ever use the fingerprints.

But once the opportunity has passed, it may be impossible to recreate.

By obtaining fingerprints early, you preserve the option for yourself and other family members in the future.

Final Thoughts

No, it is not standard practice for funeral homes in the UK to routinely copy fingerprints. However, many funeral directors are willing to help if a family requests it and sufficient time is available.

From my experience the greatest source of regret is rarely obtaining fingerprints and not using them. Instead, it is discovering the possibility after the opportunity has gone.

For those who value meaningful keepsakes and tangible memories, preserving fingerprints can provide comfort for many years to come.

Even if you never use them, having them available gives you a choice.

And for many families, that choice alone brings peace of mind during an incredibly difficult time.

Finally, if you’d like an alternative to capturing a fingerprint then a Handprint Kit is perfect if you want to capture your loved ones hands, before rigor mortis sets in.

My advice would be to ask your Funeral Directors about the possibility of capturing your loved one’s hand, before placing an order.

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How to capture Adults handprints | Handprint Kit

picture showing an A4 handprint kit with an adult sized hand printed onto it. This is to show 1 handprint kit can capture 1 adult-sized hand

Here are the steps to capture adults handprints using our handprint kit.

Our kit comes with an A4 sheet of coated paper and includes an inkless wipe, safe to use on skin.

How to instructions to create a detailed prints of an adult’s handprint

  1. Ensure the hands are clean and dry
  2. Put the paper on a clean, stable surface, such as a sturdy table
  3. When you are ready (and only when you’re ready) open the inkless wipe
  4. Unfold it completely and wipe the hand you intend to use for the print.
  5. Ensure you wipe the entire palm and the tips of the fingerprints
  6. Keeping your fingers wide, firmly print the handprint on the paper and hold for 5-7 seconds
  7. Lift the handprint up and off the paper, being careful not to smudge the handprint.
  8. The handprint will appear after a few seconds
  9. Wash the hand clean in warm soapy water, rinse and dry.
picture showing an A4 handprint kit with an adult sized hand printed onto it. This is to show 1 handprint kit can capture 1 adult-sized hand

Quick tips to consider when taking an adult sized handprint

  • Taping down the edges of the paper to avoid movement when taking the handprint
  • Getting another adult to help with taking the print
  • The person assisting with taking the print, avoid touching the paper after using the inkless wipe.
  • Having someone else to take the print means they can ensure the palm and all fingers are pressed firmly on the paper.

What can I use the handprint for? Why capture an adult’s handprint?

The handprint can be kept as a precious keepsake.

Frame it and display it in the home (use a copy to frame and display)

The print can be stored safely and later used to create a personalised handprint charm.

handprint kit with ribbon and tag baby shower gift
How can I preserve the handprint print?
  • Keep the original copy away from sunlight. The print can fade over time if exposed sunlight.
  • Store in a suitable container or presentation folder/box.
  • Take photos of the original copy so in the event it is lost/damaged, you still have a copy.

If you have any questions about our adult-sized handprint kits, use the Contact Form to get in touch.

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Can I use a paw print photo for my Charm?

can I use a photo for my paw print charm

This question: Can I use a photo of my pet’s paw print for my charm is a popular customer query.

The answer in short is, ‘Yes’ but there are a few things to consider first.

What type of photo can I use, does it have to be in colour?

Ideally, a coloured photo would be good to use, however a clear black and white photo be just as good.

  • The better/clearer the photo, the better detail will be captured.
  • It should be a facing view of the paw print e.g. the entire paw print should be visible.
  • Ideally, the photo should be high-definition (most modern mobile phones have HD photo features.)
  • Ensure your dog’s fur has been trimmed so that the whole paw pad is visible.
Photo of Paw Print for Paw Print Charm
A good paw print photo with trimmed fur
paw print in sand for paw print charm
Paw Print in sand which is clear and good enough to use
paw print photograph for paw print charm
Clear photo of a paw print

As of 2026, we no longer make paw print keepsakes and charms but we do sell Inkless, Non-toxic, Paw Print Kit which are perfect for capturing the details of your pet’s paw.

Can I use the paw print ink image to create a charm?

Yes, the contrast of the ink paw print is perfect for creating a stamp needed to imprint onto a silver (clay) charm.

As you no longer create paw print charms, where can I go?

A quick Google search, adding your local area should provide you with a list of keepsake artists who will be able to use your existing prints to create bespoke, paw print charm, for you.

Teardrop Paw Print Charm Personalised with Dog's name
Personalised Paw Print Charm Necklace

What are the benefits of sending a paw print photo?

There tends to be a quicker turnaround (lead) time in getting your charm created. However, this is not a guarantee and would depend on who you choose to make the charm.

There’s no worry of them getting lost in the post or having to part with their paw prints as you’re uploading a digital copy.

If you have requested a paw print kit, we have to wait for you to take your prints, the time it takes to complete you charm would be dependent on how quickly you’re able to capture your dog’s paw print.

Personalised Heart Paw Print Necklace
Personalised Paw Print Heart Necklace
When can I expect my charm?

When I made paw print charms it would typically take me 2-3 weeks from the date I received your prints. Again, any lead time would be dependent on the company you decided to go ahead with.

Most keepsake artists are more than willing to talk you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Contact your local artists for further questions.

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Fingerprint Charm Necklace for Deceased

fingerprint heart charm imprinted with fingerprint of a deceased and much loved person

Losing someone we love is tough, no doubt about it. We often look for ways to keep their memory close to our hearts. One beautiful way to do this is by getting a fingerprint charm necklace imprinted with the unique fingerprint of the deceased. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the benefits of having one, how to obtain a fingerprint, and where to order your very own keepsake.

Why Choose a Fingerprint Charm Necklace

When we lose a loved one, it’s natural to want a tangible reminder of them. Fingerprint charm necklaces offer a unique and personal way to remember your special someone.

  • A Personal Connection: Each fingerprint is as unique as the person it belongs to. When you wear a fingerprint charm necklace, you’re carrying a piece of them with you wherever you go.
  • Emotional Comfort: Having that physical connection can provide comfort and solace during difficult times. It’s like of them is right there with you.
  • Customized Keepsake: Fingerprint charm necklaces can be customized with a name or sentimental message to make it even more personal.
Heart fingerprint charm chain. The reverse of the charm is shown to demonstrate that sentimental words can be inscribed on the back of the charm.

How to Obtain a Fingerprint

Getting a fingerprint for your charm necklace is easier than you might think. Here are a few methods you can use:

  • Ink and Paper: This classic method involves gently pressing your loved one’s fingertip onto an ink pad and then onto a piece of paper. Be sure to use a gentle touch to avoid smudging.
  • Fingerprint Jewelry Kit: Many jewelry companies, including us, offer Fingerprint Kits that include all the materials you need to take a clear fingerprint. These kits are designed to be user-friendly and often include instructions. You can order yours here.
  • Funeral Home Services: Some funeral homes offer fingerprinting services as part of their memorial packages. Check with your chosen provider to see if this option is available. If you intend to order a kit from us, we can send it directly to the Funeral Directors, just add their full address details at the checkout. Please add the name of the deceased the notes on checkout.
fingerprint charm and kit showing how the kit can be used to make a fingerprint mould which is then used to create a silver fingerprint charm for someone to cherish and wear.
Purchase A Fingerprint Kit with full instructions

Ordering Your Fingerprint Charm Necklace

Now that you have the fingerprint, it’s time to order your charm necklace. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Do a quick Google search for your nearest Fingerprint Jewellery provider, many of whom will be small, independent businesses, like mine.

2. Read any reviews they have and decide whether they’re a good fit for your needs.

3. Browse through their selection of fingerprint charm necklaces and choose a design that resonates with you. Consider any additional customizations you want.

4.Place your order and provide the Fingerprint: If you already have a copy of the fingerprint, you’ll send it to the jeweller for them to use. Please get in touch first if you’re unsure of the process.

4. Review and Approve: Before your necklace is crafted, make sure you double-check your order and any personalisation you have submitted.

5. Wait for Delivery: Once you’ve given the green light, a unique piece will be created for you. Shipping times may vary, so be patient while you wait for your special necklace to arrive.

Honoring Their Memory, One Touch at a Time

A fingerprint charm necklace of a much loved deceased person isn’t just jewellery; it’s a symbol of love, remembrance, and a connection that transcends time and space. By taking a unique fingerprint and turning it into a beautiful piece of jewellery, you’re creating a lasting tribute to your loved one that you can cherish forever.

So, if you’re looking for a heartfelt way to keep a piece of your dearly departed close to your heart, consider getting a fingerprint charm necklace. It’s a touching and meaningful choice that allows you to carry their memory with you wherever you go.

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Why does jewellery tarnish?

Why does jewellery tarnish and how to prevent it

It’s lovely getting a new piece of shiny jewellery that you can enjoy wearing but what happens when it starts to tarnish and how can you prevent it from happening.

Why does my jewellery tarnish?

There are a number of reasons why jewellery tarnishes.

The main reasons are:

  • Reacting to humidity,
  • Reacting to oils, cream, make-up, perfume and sweat.
  • Reacting to chemicals such as chloride (which is why you shouldn’t wear your jewellery in the pool) can cause it to tarnish.

why does my tarnished jewellery turn black or green?

The sulphur in the air and on our skin (our body produces sulphur to varying degrees) can react with the metal (jewellery) we are wearing, turning it black. If your skin tends to be more acidic and therefore has more sulphur, you may notice that your jewellery tarnishes quickly.

In addition to this, if you live by the sea, the salt in the air may cause the silver to oxidise quickly. This includes the oxidation of other metals such as copper, causing copper to turn green.

Are you taking medication? If you are on a prolonged form of medication, this might also cause a change in your skin’s PH chemistry and thus how your skin reacts to base metals.

Are there any other reasons why my necklaces, earrings and rings tarnish?

All types of jewellery will tarnish eventually, over time due to the reasons listed above. In addition, jewellery will tarnish when not kept dry (this includes it being exposed to humidity, body sweat, cream and oils.) Tarnishing is a natural occurrence when wearing silver, copper or brass.

Why does jewellery tarnish and how to prevent it

How can I prevent my jewellery from tarnishing?

There are a few things you can do to extend the shine of your jewellery and prevent it from tarnishing.

  • Keep your jewellery dry.
  • Put your jewellery on after applying any cream, make-up or perfume.
  • Don’t swim, shower or bathe with your jewellery on
  • When you take off your jewellery, wipe clean your jewellery of any moisture
  • When storing your jewellery, keep it in an air-tight container
  • Use an anti-tarnish swatch and a sealable bag to prevent tarnishing
  • Separate your jewellery by metals.

Don’t throw away those Silica gel sachets you get when you buy an item! Save them and use them to store with your jewellery. The work by drawing away any moisture and thus prolonged the condition of your pieces.

picture of what to use to prevent your jewellery from tarnishing. An anti-tarnish swatch or a silica gel sachet
a picture showing you how to store your silver jewellery to prevent tarnishing by using an anti-tarnish swatch and a sealable bag.

How can I remove any tarnish?

It’s important to use the correct cleaning products for your type of jewellery.

For example, if wearing pure silver (also known as fine silver) or sterling silver, it’s important to use a silver polishing cloth.

A gold jewellery cleaning cloth is recommend to clean gold jewellery.

Use an experience jeweller to clean intricate, delicate, pieces of jewellery.

Using warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush to initially clean the piece can also work.

Always pat dry with a soft cloth, then clean.

Good quality jewellery cleaning cloths are coated with an anti-tarnish solution to prolong the shine.

Clean copper and brass jewellery initally in soapy water. A brass polishing liquid or paste can work wonders with reviving the shine.

Copper pieces oxidise over time and it is more of a preference whether you like the ‘Antique’ look of copper or shiny copper.

Does gold tarnish?

Gold will tarnish over time and lose its lustre.

Soaking it in warm, soapy water should revive its colour.

Using a gold polishing cloth to bring it back to its original shine.

Can I prevent plated jewellery from tarnishing?

Plated jewellery is affected by the same elements in the air and on the skin as 100% base metals.

Keep your plated jewellery, clean, dry and stored properly to continue to enjoy wearing such pieces.

You need to take extra care when cleaning your plated jewellery. It’s plated with a layer of gold or silver. A gentile wipe with a soft cloth should suffice. Also keeping it inside a sealable bag with an anti-tarnish swatch will prolong the look of the piece.

Can I stop my jewellery from tarnishing altogether?

In short, no. As long as your jewellery is exposed to things like moisture, oils, creams, perfume and the pH of your skin, it will have a tendency to tarnish over time.

Are there metals that don’t tarnish?

Yes, steel is an extremely strong metal, hence the reason why we use it for cutlery. It is also a durable metal to make jewellery from and is tarnish resistant.

Aluminium is a soft, lightweight metal commonly used to make hand-stamped pieces. Again, it is tarnish-resistant.

Finally, gold in its purest form, is tarnish resistant. 9ct Gold used for jewellery is mixed with other base metals to strengthen it. These base metals react with substances in the air such as sulfur, causing jewellery to tarnish.

Where can I buy jewellery cleaning cloths/creams and liquids?

You can easily buy silver, brass, copper and gold cleaning cloths online from well-known places such as Amazon and Ebay. Furthermore, liquids and creams can easily be bought from local jewellers as well as online shops.

cleaning your jewellery using the correct polishing cloth according to the type of metal

I have intricate, expensive pieces of jewellery that I’d like to have cleaned, where can I go?

Always seek the advice of the jewellers you obtained your pieces from and find out whether they provide a professional cleaning service.

Precious pieces of jewellery, including those with diamonds and gemstones and heirlooms should always be cleaned by a specialist.

In short, why your jewellery tarnishes is down to how the base metals react with substances in the air and on the skin. Ways to prevent it include keeping your jewellery dry when not in use, storing in an air-tight container and using the correct polishing method to maintain its shine.

Finally, the advice given here is just that, please seek the correct instructions on how to clean your jewellery from the manufacturer you obtained your jewellery from.

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How To Preserve A Memory When Losing A Pet

Losing a beloved pet, whether a cat or dog is one of the hardest things to go through.

Sometimes that loss is sudden, due to ill health or an accident. The thought of no longer seeing them is heartbreaking.

My Own Experience – Losing Miffy

In 2018 I lost my cat, Miffy. It was all very sudden having not seeing him for a few days. That worry started to set in as the New Year was fast approaching and I wanted him home. He’d gone for a few days before and just turned up to get his food in the evening. This time, it just felt different.

I checked online lost pet sites and checked with local vets but no luck. Unfortunately, I had to see with my very own eyes. He was laid out on my high road, he had been knocked down and it’s a sight I’ll never forget.

It hurt so bad to know he was in pain and none of his family was with him. To see that where his body was found, it was clear he was trying to make his way back home. It was a very sad time for us all.

I never got to say goodbye or stroke him one last time and it hit all of us really hard. At home, we still had all his things and it took a long time to let go of his belongings.

Ways of Coping – Keeping A Memory Alive

Over the years, since making keepsake jewellery, I have come to understand the great job Veterinary clinics do.

There are many that will take an imprint of a pet that has lost it’s life. Some Vets will take a paint impression – a paw print captured on paper using paint. Furthermore, some have the means to take a simple clay impression for you to cherish. Others have an Inkless Wipe, Paw Print Kit that’s quick and easy for taking a print and easily framed afterwards.

It’s a case of asking to see if they provide this kind of service. If not, ask if it’s possible for them to do so just so they can preserve a memory for you.

Having an imprint of your pet’s paw is one way of remembering them and coping with the grief.

A cat or dog is more than just a pet, they are a big part of the family. They bring years of happiness and joy to their humans.

Pet Keepsakes To Cherish

It takes many months, if not years to get used to not having your pet around. Learning to cope take’s time and it’s a new adjustment for all the family. Do you love wearing jewellery? Their paw print captured on a charm to wear could be perfect for you.

Putting up photos of them around the house, when you’re mentally ready is a great way of remembering their life.

Other ways you can preserve a memory of your pet.
  1. Have a Pet Portrait completed either digital or drawn by hand.
  2. Their name, date of birth printed and framed.
  3. Have a poem or quote (like the one below) printed and framed with their picture.
  4. Your Dog’s lead and photo put into a deep framed box and displayed.
  5. Capture piece of their fur in a locket or preserved in a resin charm for you to wear.
  6. Capture their Paw Print on paper, frame it to display in the home.

If you’d like to find more ideas for Pet Keepsakes, visit my Pinterest Paw Print Keepsake Board, there are lots of ideas!

I’ve always loved this quote and think it sums up the magnitude of love our pets create in our lives.

If you don’t have the time to capture your pet’s paw print due to them already being at the VETs or facing an imminent end of life, read our article on the best way to capture your pet’s paw print using a photograph.

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Inkless Baby Handprint Kit

inkless baby handprint kit safe way to capture baby's handprint using inkless wipe and paper

Having a baby is such a special time, capturing their handprint using inkless our Inkless Baby Handprint Kit is easy to do.

inkless baby handprint kit with handprint

What does the Baby Handprint kit consist of?

The handprint kit consists of an inkless wipe that is safe to use on babies and adults alike.

It is dry to the touch and so perfect for a mess free way of capturing your baby’s handprint.

Included in the kit is an A4 size white paper, specially made to use with the inkless wipe and full instructions for capturing the perfect print.

Capture your baby’s footprint using the inkless wipe

The kit can be used for handprints, footprints or both! The wipe can be used multiple times in one go, depending on the size of your child’s hand and feet.

As you continue to use the wipe, the print will become more faded nevertheless, you should have some good prints to use and cherish.

After taking your child’s prints, you can simply wipe their hands/feet with a damp cloth or baby wipe.

inkless footprint kit for babies and adults capture their actual footprint using safe inkless wipe and special paper

A kit not just for baby handprints!

This inkless baby handprint kit is also great for using on older children and adults. Therefore, it’s a great gift for anyone seeking to capture the prints of someone they dearly love.

Furthermore, if you have a loved one who has recently passed and you wish to capture their prints, we can send a kit straight to the funeral directors. If you’d like to do this, simply add the address of the funeral directors at the checkout. Alternatively, you can contact us here.

Top tips for capturing your baby or child’s prints

  • Make sure your child is comfortable, for example, they have just had a feed or have just woken from a nap.
  • Ensure you have help especially for babies
  • Make sure you wipe the entire hands, including fingertips. For feet, ensure you wipe the entire foot, including the toes.
  • For handprints, unravel the baby’s fingers, and press firmly on the paper, hold for a few seconds.
  • For footprints, have the paper on a flat surface, holding the baby upright, press the foot firmly on the paper and hold for a few seconds.
  • These are just some of our tips, our full instructions can be read here.
inkless handprint kit to use to capture the actual handprint of a loved one.
Ordering your baby handprint kit

You can order a full print kit, consisting of 1 inkless wipe and 1 paper for £7 including free UK (mainland) Postage from our online shop.

This print kit works as a lovely gift for a new Mum or Mum to be and can brought in a presentation box, with 1 inkless wipe, 1 paper, full instructions and a 10% off voucher to use on their first order.

How can I use the prints?

The prints act as a lasting keepsake and work beautifully framed with a name, date and other special information. Alternatively, you can use the actual handprint/footprint captured and have it turned into a beautiful piece of, pure silver jewellery.

Our handprint/footprint range, uses your precious prints to make a special piece of keepsake jewellery for you to wear. We do not take your prints, we only need a copy to use to make a special stamp to imprint into silver. You can view our entire range by clicking on the link above or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

If you’re on social media, and would like to send us a message please follow us on Facebook or Instagram. We regularly check our messages.

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What made me start my own business

picture of the owner of True Love Keepsakes, Loretta Clarke

My experience of business from early days

From a young age I watched my Dad run his businesses, he was an upholsterer, then a decorator and now runs his own music venue. Some have failed but now he has really made it and has created a small but successful business. I have always had dreams of starting my own. When I graduated in Fashion Design I thought that road would lead to a fruitful career but it bombed before it really got going. I wasn’t cut out for the ‘cut-throat’ world of fashion, to be honest, in the end I realised I didn’t care that great a deal about pleasing designers and working 5, sometimes 6 days a week for a really poor wage which meant I had not choice but than to stay at home. I always had that gut feeling that building my own business was something that I needed to experience in my lifetime.

Going back to school, business dreams lost but not forgotten

After leaving the fashion industry, I soon realised I needed to get my career back on track but take it in a different direction, one that would make me truly happy. I decided to do a two week work placement in a school and absolutely loved it! This is what I wanted to do, I wanted to teach Primary aged children, I wanted a career where I could really make a difference to the lives of others. So I completed my PGCE in 2003 and went into teaching and never looked back. Teaching and being dedicated to your profession means there’s not much room for anything else especially if you have a spouse (and family, but more of that later!) so I put my dreams of having my own business to the back of my mind and only occasionally did it rear it’s unrealistic head!

Having a child and reigniting that business dream

After having my boy in 2011, I was lucky enough to have almost 12 months off with him, returning to work was good at first and I felt the usual pangs of worry but he was only ever a short distance away as my school had a children’s center attached to it. The second year after returning to work was when it really started to hit me, he was getting older and I knew I was missing out on so much, I was working longer hours, the job had become very stressful and even during the holidays I would spend a lot of my time prepping for the new term, I was trying to keep myself from sinking in all aspects of my life and I was failing miserably. I knew something had to change and it was me and what I chose to prioritize. I knew I had the capabilities to be a happier person and thus a happier partner, mother and step-mother. Making the decision to leave full time teaching was easy as I knew I would be gaining so much more in terms of time and happiness, two things you cannot put a price on. Having my son gave me the determination to change my life for the better and so my business dream became a reality.

A change for the better

I decided to take control of my own destiny by stopping full time employment and instead took up supply teaching, it meant a big pay cut and I have had to learn to be consistent and intentional with my time in order to build a successful business and ultimately, a second stream of income. In addition, doing supply teaching has given me the most valuable asset a person can have and that is time; I have time for my son, I have time for my partner, my step-son and wider family and I have time to do something that makes me happy and that is to pursue my dream to start my own business. Creating Keepsakes means I can channel my creativity to produce precious keepsakes for people to cherish. Do what makes you happy, don’t be afraid to re-evaluate the importance you place on certain things in your life, what change would gain you the biggest amount of time for you to do what is truly in your heart? Don’t fear change, change is good, it can bring about a better life, one that you have only dreamed of and never imagined could come true x