FAQ

How to take a Hand/foot/pawprint

This kit contains one inkless wipe and 2 sheets of reactive printing paper. The inkless wipe is designed to take 2-3 child or animal sized prints. They are non-toxic and developed in the US for use in hospitals. 

Taking the imprint:

• Do not open your wipe until you are ready to use it as it will dry quickly once opened.
• A baby print is easier to take if your child is sleeping or distracted.
• A Paw print is easier to take at feeding time. Just leave the reactive paper down on the ground in front of their feeding bowl and once you have rubbed the wipe over the paw, they will stand on the paper while feeding.
• Make sure the hand/foot/paw is clean.
• Open the wipe and unfold it trying to touch it as little as possible. The wipe will feel quite dry to the touch, this is normal.
• Rub the wipe all over the hand/foot/paw.
• Press the hand/foot/paw firmly down on the paper included in the kit ensuring complete coverage. You will get a clearer print if you put something solid and flat such as a book behind the paper. Gently hold down for 10 seconds pressing all toes or fingers onto the paper. Make sure you don’t touch the paper too as you may have ink on your fingers and this will also print on the paper.
• Note: The paper is coated on one side only. The uncoated side says “DO NOT PRINT”. Do not use this side.
• Once printed the image will appear almost immediately but will take a few seconds to fully set.
• Wash hand/foot/paw after use.

How to take a fingerprint

1. Ensure hands are clean and dry. 
2. Choose the finger that has the clearest and deepest swirls.
3. Boil the kettle and have 2 small containers ready.
4. Fill one of the containers with cold water and the other with the boiling water.
5. Put the fingerprint moulding putty into the container with the boiling water and wait 2 minutes for it to soften.
6. Remove it with a spoon and place it on a flat hard surface. Wait about 15 seconds for it to cool a bit. Wet the finger and then press the finger pad into the putty approx. a half to three quarters way through while it is still on the flat surface. Do not pinch the putty to take a print. Remove your finger carefully ensuring the print is indented and not raised. Once you have done this, put it into the cold water to set the print and the putty.
7. If you have not taken the print correctly don’t worry as you can just pop it back into freshly boiled water and wait another 2 minutes for it to soften, then roll it into a ball ensuring there are no lines or cracks. Put it back into boiling water again for a further 2 minutes and retake the finger print as before.
8. This process may be repeated until you are happy with the quality of your print. 
9. Once set and dry, place it back in the small plastic bag and return it to us in the envelope provided.

The quality of your finished piece depends on the quality of your print. Please contact me if you have any questions or problems taking a print

How long do I have to return my prints?

Take as long as you want to return them. The prints won't spoil so long as you leave them in a dry place. Charm Bee will be able to use them any time in the future.

Can I order multiple pieces with the one print?

Yes. The one print may be used over and over again.

Can I buy extra kits if needed?

Yes. There is an extra charge for each extra kit. Please see the shop page to purchase extra kits.

I already have prints can you use them?

Yes. If the prints are of a suitable quality there is no problem using them to make a charm or pendant. Please don't hesitate to get in touch.

I need an urgent kit for memorial jewellery can you help?

Yes of course.  Please contact me directly to discuss immediate print taking. 

Do you return the prints upon jewellery completion?

Your loved ones original Hand/Foot/Paw prints are returned to you with your finished piece of jewellery, however, fingerprint putty is recycled so will not be returned.

Can I change my mind after completing my order?

3 days after order has been placed Charm Bee cannot accept cancellations. If work has not commenced you may change your mind. Postage and packaging are non-refundable.

Will you let me know when you receive my prints?

Yes I will send you an email as confirmation of receipt of your prints

 Up to what age can I take hand and footprints?

I can work with most hand and foot prints depending on the size of the jewellery piece required. The larger the hand/foot, the more definition is lost when reducing it to fit it onto a pendant or charm. Please contact me to discuss your requirements.

Up to what age can I take a fingerprint?

I can work with most fingerprints provided you have followed the fingerprint taking instructions and the print is clear. Most children under the age of 7 don't have very deep clear swirls in their finger pads and  taking a reverse print to make a charm or pendant can be quite difficult.