Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Watch the video instructions.
Please take a moment to watch the video a couple of times before opening your kit. The moulding compound begins to harden as soon as it’s mixed, so it’s important that you're prepared before you get started. Don’t worry—it’s a simple process, and watching it through first will help everything go nice and smoothly.

2. Get ready.
Make sure your hands (and the fingers to be printed) are clean and dry, and that you have everything to hand. The moulding compound starts to set quickly once mixed, so it’s best to be prepared before you begin.

3. Mix the two putties together.
Take one white ball and one blue ball of putty and mix them together until the colour is completely even, with no streaks. Remember that there is enough putty to make two fingerprints and we’ll be making one at a time.

Top tip:
It’s a bit like kneading playdough—just keep squishing and folding until it’s smooth.

4. Roll the mixed putty into a ball.
Once the colours are fully combined into an even blue colour, roll the putty into a smooth ball and place it on one of the playing cards. Make sure there are no marks or cracks in the putty.

5. Take the fingerprint.
Press the finger firmly and evenly into the centre of the ball, about halfway in and gently lift the finger upwards to remove. You can use any finger, but the index finger tends to be the easiest and gives a lovely clear result.

If you’re not happy with the print or if the putty stuck to the finger when you pulled it away, you can reroll for about 10 seconds and do it again. You have to be quick though in case it starts to harden (if the putty keeps sticking to the finger, put a tiny amount of an oil such as olive oil onto the finger first).

As the finger needs to be flat for the best impression and little ones often instinctively curl their fingers, it’s worth having a little practice with them on a flat surface first. Ask them to keep their finger still and straight while you press it down. If your small person is a bit wriggly or is under the age of two, you might find it easier to take the print while they’re sleeping—less movement, and a bit less stressful all round!

6. Let it set.
Leave the mould undisturbed on the card for about 15 minutes while it firms up. To test if it’s set, push your fingernail into the side of the mould (away from the fingerprint) and if it doesn’t leave a mark, it’s set.

You’re looking for a nice clean fingerprint with defined lines and no distortion.

Repeat the process with the other set of moulding putty.

That’s it all done!

What next?

If you're happy with your moulds, fill in the sticker with your information, stick it on the white bag and pop your moulds
inside. Put the box into the stamped addressed bag provided and post it back to me. Please don’t forget to return the plastic pots to I can reuse them.

If you're not sure about your impressions or need help, just get in touch. I’m always happy to chat and guide you through it.

Please return the moulds at least a full week before your class just in case there are an issues.

Once it’s in the post, I’d be grateful if you could send me a quick email to let me know—it helps me keep everything on track.

Once your mould is returned, I’ll use it to create a reverse version of your fingerprint. You’ll then use that mould during your class to press your fingerprint into the silver clay.

If you have any questions, please get in touch and I'll be happy to help.

See you soon in class!

Maggie x