How to Make a DIY Pet Portrait Keepsake with Prints and Frames

Quick answer

To make a DIY pet portrait keepsake, capture a clean paw print with a non-toxic ink pad, pair it with a favorite photo, and display both in a frame or ornament. You can create a meaningful, personalized pet keepsake in about 20 minutes using simple supplies you likely already have at home.

A pet portrait keepsake doesn't require artistic talent—just a little planning and a few basic supplies. Whether you want to celebrate a new puppy, honor a long-time companion, or create a heartfelt gift for a fellow pet lover, combining a paw print with a photo creates a personal piece you'll treasure for years.

The key to a great result is a clean, well-pressed paw print and a layout that puts your pet's personality front and center. Below, you'll find a practical, step-by-step process for making your own keepsake, plus tips to avoid common mistakes like smudging or faded prints.

What You'll Need

Gather your supplies before you start. You'll need a non-toxic, pet-safe ink pad (visit your local craft store or order online), plain paper or cardstock, a clean cloth and mild soap for paw cleanup, and a frame that fits your favorite photo. For a more dimensional keepsake, consider using air-drying clay and a shaping ring to preserve your pet's print in a small ornament.

If you're making a paw print ornament, choose a kit that includes the clay, ring, and any tools—this avoids guessing about the right materials and ensures the print stays intact as it dries. For a simpler project, an ink pad and cardstock work beautifully and allow you to digitize the print for later use in a photo book or custom card.

• Choose a quiet time when your pet is relaxed; a treat or a short walk beforehand helps. Avoid forcing the paw down, as this causes smudges.

Preparing Your Pet for the Print

Before pressing your pet's paw into ink or clay, trim any long fur between the toes and make sure the paw is clean and dry. Dirt or moisture can make the print look blotchy. If your pet has very long hair, it might be easier to use a clay kit because you can gently shape the paw without the hair sticking to the ink.

Test the pressure on a scrap piece of paper first. Press the paw firmly but briefly—usually one to two seconds is enough. Lift straight up to avoid smearing. For clay, press slightly and lift without twisting. A clean, even print is more important than perfect toe alignment.

• Have a helper hold your pet steady and offer treats to keep them calm. Watch for signs of stress and pause if your pet becomes anxious.

Making the Paw Print

For an ink print, place the paper on a flat, stable surface. Gently press your pet's paw onto the ink pad, then transfer it to the paper. Use even pressure and lift straight up. For clay, knead the clay until soft, roll it out to about a quarter-inch thickness, wet your pet's paw slightly, and press firmly but gently into the clay.

After making the print, clean your pet's paw right away with a damp cloth and mild pet-safe soap. For clay, use a toothpick to refine the outline if needed before it dries. Let the ink dry completely before handling; let the clay air-dry for the time recommended on the package, usually 24 to 48 hours.

• Keep extra paper or clay on hand in case you need a second attempt—many pets only cooperate for one or two tries.

Designing Your Keepsake Layout

Now it's time to arrange your photo and paw print. In a standard frame, place the photo centered and the paw print beside it or below, leaving enough margin so the composition feels balanced. If you're using a multi-photo frame, you can feature your favorite picture and tuck the paw print into one of the smaller windows.

For a more modern look, scan the paw print and add a caption or your pet's name using a simple photo editor. Print it on high-quality paper to match your photo. You can also use the print as a standalone piece in a small frame, letting the paw print be the star.

• Consider the frame's color and style—a neutral ceramic or wood frame blends with any décor and keeps the focus on the photo and print.

Assembling and Displaying

Once the ink is dry or the clay is fully cured, place your photo and paw print in the frame. Use acid-free matting to protect the photo from yellowing over time. If your frame has a glass front, be sure to clean it before sealing the back.

Choose a spot where the keepsake won't be in direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade both the photo and the ink. A shelf, mantel, or side table works well. If you made a paw print ornament, you can hang it on a wall hook, in a window, or on a holiday tree as a seasonal tribute.

• For a pet memorial, consider including a small tag with your pet's name and dates—it adds a personal touch without cluttering the design.

Other Keepsake Ideas Using Prints

Beyond a framed portrait, you can use the same paw print to create a treat jar label, a personalized mug, or a greeting card. The good dog treat jar by Pearhead, for example, comes with a ceramic container that can hold your pet's favorite snacks. You can attach a printed paw print label or a small photo to the front using a safe adhesive, making it a unique gift for a fellow pet parent.

For a functional everyday piece, a ceramic dog bowl with a paw print design is another way to celebrate your pet. Pair it with a matching treat jar on a kitchen counter for a coordinated look that's both practical and personal.

• If you're gifting the keepsake, include a note explaining the story behind the print—it adds meaning the recipient will appreciate.

Step-by-Step Recap

1. Gather supplies: Collect a pet-safe ink pad or clay kit, paper or cardstock, a frame, and cleaning supplies. Choose a quiet time when your pet is relaxed. Having everything ready prevents mid-project frustration.
2. Prepare your pet: Trim fur between toes and ensure the paw is clean and dry. Do a test press on scrap paper to check pressure. A clean, dry paw yields a crisp print. Avoid pressing too hard or too long.
3. Make the print: Press the paw onto the ink pad or into clay, then transfer to the surface. Clean your pet's paw immediately after. Lift straight up to avoid smudging. For clay, let it dry fully before handling.
4. Design the layout: Arrange your photo and paw print in the frame. Add a caption or name if you like. Use acid-free matting to protect the photo. Balance the composition and keep the frame style cohesive with your décor.
5. Assemble and display: Place the photo and print in the frame, clean the glass, and seal the back. Hang or set it in a spot away from direct sunlight. Regular dusting keeps the keepsake looking new; avoid humidity to prevent warping.

Products to Help You Create Your Keepsake

• pawprints ornament: This kit includes 1 plastic shaping ring, air-drying clay, rolling pin, hole punch, and a red grosgrain ribbon. It's 100% pet safe and requires no mixing, baking, or mess. You can create a permanent paw print ornament without needing special tools or an oven. The included ribbon lets you hang it right away—perfect for a keepsake you can display all year or give as a gift.
• good dog treat jar: This ceramic treat jar is large enough for small or large dog treats and features a modern design that fits with any home or kitchen décor. Once you've made your paw print keepsake, you can add a matching touch to your kitchen. The treat jar gives you a practical way to incorporate your pet's personality into daily life—and it makes a fun gift for a fellow dog lover.

A DIY pet portrait keepsake is a meaningful way to celebrate your pet, whether you're marking a new arrival or honoring a memory. With a few simple supplies and the steps above, you'll create a personalized piece that brings a smile for years to come.