How to Make a Pet Photo Ornament with a Heart Keychain Charm

Quick Answer

To create a pet photo ornament with a heart keychain charm, you'll need a favorite photo, a clear ornament, a heart-shaped keychain, and a few basic craft supplies. This DIY project takes about 30 minutes and results in a personalized keepsake that celebrates your pet's unique personality.

Pets are family, and capturing their quirky expressions or cozy moments in a handmade ornament adds a personal touch to any holiday tree or gift. A pet photo ornament with a heart keychain charm is a thoughtful way to keep your furry friend close, whether it's for your own home or as a heartfelt present for another pet lover.

This guide walks you through the simple steps to assemble a one-of-a-kind ornament. You'll also learn how to incorporate a clean-touch ink pad for a pawprint accent, making your keepsake even more special.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, collect a clear glass or plastic ornament, a small photo of your pet (cut to fit), a heart-shaped keychain charm, ribbon or twine, and a hot glue gun. You'll also want a clean-touch ink pad if you plan to add a pawprint—this is a safe, mess-free way to capture your pet's unique print.

Having all materials within reach makes the process smoother. If you're using a wooden pawprints ornament, you can attach it as a charming addition to your photo ornament, giving it a rustic, natural feel.

• Choose a photo that is clear and well-lit for the best visual result.
• Test the fit of the photo inside the ornament before gluing anything.

Prepare the Photo and Charm

Trim your pet's photo to fit inside the ornament. For a classic look, cut it into a circle or oval that matches the ornament's shape. Then, attach the heart keychain charm to the top of the ornament using a small loop of ribbon or wire—this will serve as the hanger and add a sentimental touch.

If you're adding a pawprint, press your pet's paw onto the clean-touch ink pad and then onto a small piece of cardstock. Let it dry completely before inserting it into the ornament. This step ensures your ornament captures your pet's one-of-a-kind print.

• Use a glue gun to secure the ribbon loop to the ornament's cap for extra durability.

Assemble Your Ornament

Carefully insert the photo and the dried pawprint card into the ornament. Use tweezers to position them nicely. Then, add a few drops of glue inside the ornament's cap and screw it back on. Allow the glue to set for at least 10 minutes.

Once assembled, fluff the ribbon and adjust the charm so it hangs straight. Your pet photo ornament is now ready to display or gift.

• Avoid overfilling the ornament—keep it simple to let the photo and pawprint shine.

Step-by-Step: Making Your Pet Photo Ornament

1. Choose your photo and ornament: Pick a clear photo that captures your pet's personality, and select a clear ornament that allows the photo to show through. A 3-inch glass or plastic ornament works well. Check that the photo is not too large—trim it to fit comfortably inside.
2. Add the heart keychain charm: Attach the heart keychain charm to the ornament's cap using a strong ribbon or thin wire. Make sure it's securely fastened before hanging. Give the ribbon a gentle tug to ensure it won't slip off.
3. Capture a pawprint (optional): Use a pet-safe clean-touch ink pad to press your pet's paw onto a small cardstock circle. Allow it to dry completely. Practice on a scrap paper first to get a clean print.
4. Insert photo and pawprint: Roll the photo gently and slide it into the ornament, then add the pawprint card. Use tweezers to position them nicely. Avoid touching the glass with sticky fingers—use tweezers for a smudge-free finish.
5. Seal and display: Add a small amount of glue inside the cap, screw it on, and let it dry. Hang your ornament on the tree or attach it to a gift bag. Let the glue cure fully for at least 10 minutes before handling.

Products That Make This DIY Easier

• clean-touch ink pad: Small to medium sized ink pad accommodates paws up to 2.25” W x 3.5”H; 100% pet safe; ink pad is good for two-time use maximum. This ink pad lets you capture a crisp pawprint without a mess, making it perfect for adding a personal touch to your ornament.
• wooden pawprints ornament: Includes rustic wooden disk, red and black plaid ribbon for easy hanging, a pet safe clean-touch ink pad and a black marker. If you prefer a ready-made option, this ornament already has everything you need to create a pawprint keepsake—just add your pet's print and hang it up.

Creating a pet photo ornament with a heart keychain charm is a simple yet meaningful DIY project. Whether you keep it for yourself or give it as a heartfelt gift, this keepsake will remind you of the joy your pet brings every holiday season.