How to Get a Good Paw Imprint

Your pets are part of your family. Taking a pet's paw print will become a way to always remember their love and devotion. Whether you are going to simply keep the imprint as is or paint and decorate the piece, a plaster imprint can be a wonderful paper weight, coffee table decoration or hanging holiday ornament. Some jewelry companies can use the imprint to make miniaturized pins and pendants of the paw in silver or gold.

Things You'll Need

Plaster
Nail clippers
Scissors
Towel
Tray

Instructions

- 1
  Buy a paw imprint product. Avoid generic plaster products. While generic plaster products might work, the products specifically made for taking a pet paw print are likely to be safe if the pet accidentally ingests a small amount.
- 2
  Prepare the pet's paw for taking an imprint. Clean the paw and remove and debris caught in between the paw pads. Clip the pet's nails. Trim any excess hair between the pad and around the paw.
- 3
  Practice taking a paw print. Firmly grasp the pet's leg and try to press and hold the paw onto a wet towel. This will tell you how the animal will react when you are taking the print in plaster. Give the pet a treat after each successful practice round.
- 4
  Prepare the plaster product as indicated on the package. Make sure the pet is nearby while you are preparing the product. There is limited time to take the imprint once the product is ready.
- 5
  Place the plaster mound on a tray or cookie sheet. Because you will be taking the imprint on the floor, you will need to pick up the plaster without disturbing it.
- 6
  Place the tray with the plaster mound on the floor. Firmly press the pet's paw into the plaster. The paw impression should only sink half way into the plaster. Hold the paw in place for 10 seconds (or as instructed by the product information).
- 7
  Pick the tray up from the floor. Allow the plaster to dry before removing the plaster from the tray. Clean the pet's paw.