The first days, weeks and months with a newborn are such a special time in a parent’s life. Some of the moments can pass by in a blur as you adjust to caring for your tiny, precious new addition. But there are simple ways you can create little reminders that will allow you to look back fondly on those earliest days for years to come. One of the easiest and most treasured keepsakes is a baby handprint or footprint.
Creating an impression of your new little one’s itty bitty hands or feet is a wonderful way to commemorate their arrival and preserve their tiny size for posterity. It only takes a few basic supplies to capture their sweet fingerprints or footprints and make a memento you’re sure to cherish. I’m going to share with you the simple steps of how to get a newborn handprint.
Why May You Want to Get a Newborn Handprint?
1 . To Create a Keepsake to Cherish Forever
Having a newborn is a precious moment that parents want to remember for the rest of their lives. By getting your baby’s handprint, you are creating a tangible reminder of how small and delicate they were in the early days. It is something that you can look back on as your child grows up, and it will always bring a smile to your face.
2. To Capture an Important Milestone
The first few weeks of a newborn’s life are filled with so many milestones – the first time they open their eyes, their first smile, and even their first bath. Getting your baby’s handprint is another milestone that you can capture and add to their memory book. It will serve as a beautiful reminder of how precious your little one was in those early days.
3. To Create Personalized Gifts
Newborn handprints make for wonderful personalized gifts for family members, friends, and even grandparents. You can create prints on various materials such as canvas, paper, or even clay to give as a gift. These gifts are not only sentimental but also unique and one-of-a-kind.
4. To Create Artwork for Your Home
If you are a creative person, you can use your baby’s handprint to create beautiful artwork for your home. You can frame the prints and hang them on the wall, or use them to decorate a special nursery. Not only will this add a personal touch to your home, but it will also be a constant reminder of the special bond between you and your baby.
5. To Involve Siblings or Family Members
Getting your newborn’s handprint can also be a fun activity for siblings or other family members. They can help with the process, and it can serve as a bonding experience for them. It will also make the handprint even more special knowing that it was created with the help of loved ones.
How to Get a Newborn Handprint in 6 Easy Steps
Now that you understand the reasons why you may want to get your baby’s handprint, here is a step-by-step guide on how to do so:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure to gather all the necessary supplies. This includes:
- Non-toxic baby-safe paint (preferably water-based)
- A large piece of paper or canvas
- Baby wipes or damp cloth for cleaning up
- Optional: a frame for displaying the handprint
Step 2: Choose the Right Time
It’s important to pick the right time to capture your baby’s handprint. A good time is when your baby is calm and relaxed, such as after a nap or a feeding. This will make it easier to keep their hands still and get a clear print.
Step 3: Preparing Your Baby
Before getting started, prep your baby by washing and drying their hands thoroughly. Also, make sure they are in a comfortable position and their hands are clean.
Step 4: Applying the Paint
Now it’s time to get creative! Take your non-toxic baby-safe paint and apply a thin layer on your baby’s hand. Be careful not to use too much paint as it can smudge or blur the print. Also, make sure to spread the paint evenly on their hand.
Step 5: Making the Handprint
Gently and carefully press your baby’s hand onto the paper or canvas. Hold it for a few seconds to make sure the print is clear and then slowly lift their hand off. If you’re not happy with the first attempt, don’t worry! You can always try again with a new piece of paper or simply wipe off the paint and start over.
Step 6: Cleaning Up
Once you’ve captured your baby’s handprint, immediately clean their hand with baby wipes or a damp cloth. Also, make sure to wash your own hands thoroughly as well. Now you can let the handprint dry and decide whether to frame it or keep it as a special keepsake.
Using this step-by-step guide, you can easily get your baby’s handprint and create a cherished memory that will last a lifetime. It’s also a great way to bond with your little one and have fun together. So don’t wait any longer, gather your supplies and get started on creating a beautiful handprint of your newborn today!
Additional Tips to Get a Newborn Handprint
1 . Use The Right Ink
Getting a handprint from a newborn requires the right materials. Choose an ink that is safe for infants such as water-based or non-toxic ink. You can find these inks at baby stores or online retailers. Remember to read the label carefully and follow instructions when using them.
2 . Prepare Baby’s Hand
Before you begin, make sure your baby is in a calm and relaxed state. This will make it easier to get a clear handprint without any movement or fussing. You can also try doing this task when your baby is asleep.
3 . Get Someone To Help
It’s always helpful to have an extra pair of hands when handling a newborn. Ask someone to assist you in getting the handprint so that one person can hold the baby’s hand and the other can press it onto the paper or canvas.
4 . Choose The Right Time
Pick a time when your baby is at their happiest. This could be after a feeding or nap, or during playtime. A happy baby will have more relaxed and open palms, making it easier to get a clear handprint.
5 . Be Patient
Getting a perfect handprint from a newborn may take several tries, so be patient and don’t give up. Remember to keep the environment calm and relaxed for your baby. The more comfortable they are, the better their handprint will turn out.
6 . Take Multiple Prints
To make sure you get the best handprint, take multiple prints. This will give you options to choose from and also act as a backup in case one print doesn’t turn out well.
7 . Clean Hands
Make sure your baby’s hands are clean before getting the handprint. This will ensure that there is no dirt or residue on their hands which could affect the quality of the print. Use a damp cloth to gently clean their hands before proceeding.
8 . Use A Flat Surface
When getting the handprint, make sure to use a flat and sturdy surface. This will ensure that you get a clear and even print without any smudges or distortions. Avoid using soft surfaces like beds or cushions as they may cause the ink to bleed.
9 . Preserve The Print
Once you have the perfect handprint, make sure to preserve it by using a sealant or framing it. This will protect the print from fading or smudging over time and make for a beautiful keepsake.
Frequently Asked Question
What Precautions Should I Take Before Getting a Newborn Handprint?
Before getting a newborn handprint, it’s important to take some precautions to ensure both the safety and comfort of your baby. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Make sure your baby is well-fed and well-rested before attempting to get their handprint. A happy and content baby will make the process much easier.
- Choose a warm and comfortable environment for your baby. This will help them relax and prevent any sudden movements that could smudge the handprint.
- Have all necessary supplies ready and within reach, such as non-toxic ink or paint, wipes, and paper or canvas to make the print on.
- If using ink, be sure to test it on yourself or another object first to ensure it is non-toxic and won’t cause any allergic reactions.
- Have someone else assist you in getting the handprint, especially if your baby is very young. This will make it easier to hold their hand steady and capture a clear print.
How Do I Get a Newborn Handprint?
Now that you’ve taken all necessary precautions, here’s how you can get a newborn handprint:
- Spread out the paper or canvas on a flat surface.
- Gently hold your baby’s hand and apply ink or paint to their palm, making sure it is evenly coated but not too thick.
- Carefully place their hand on the paper or canvas, ensuring that all fingers are visible and pressing down gently to capture the print.
- If using ink, immediately wipe their hand clean with a baby wipe or wet cloth.
- Allow the handprint to dry completely before moving or framing it.
How Can I Preserve My Baby’s Handprint?
To preserve your baby’s handprint, you can either frame it or store it in a memory box. Here are some tips for each option:
- Framing: Choose a high-quality frame and mat to showcase the handprint. Avoid using tape or glue directly on the print, as it can cause damage over time. Instead, use acid-free adhesive or photo corners to secure it in place.
- Memory box: If you’d prefer not to display the handprint but still want to keep it safe, store it in a memory box along with other mementos from your baby’s first few months. Make sure the box is made of acid-free materials and keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent any damage.
Are There Other Ways to Capture My Baby’s Handprint?
Yes, there are various ways you can capture your baby’s handprint aside from using ink or paint. Some options include:
- Salt dough handprint: You can make a salt dough mixture, press your baby’s hand into it, and bake it in the oven to create a permanent handprint keepsake.
- Handprint mold kit: There are many kits available that allow you to create a 3D mold of your baby’s handprint using safe materials.
- Baby handprint jewelry: You can also have your baby’s handprint engraved onto a piece of jewelry, such as a necklace or charm bracelet, to wear and cherish forever.
Can I Get a Handprint of My Older Child?
Yes, you can definitely get a handprint of your older child as well. The process is the same as with a newborn, but you may need to use more ink or paint and have them hold their hand still for longer. It’s always a special memento to have handprints from different stages of your child’s life.
Conclusion
Capturing a newborn baby’s handprint is a cherished way of commemorating the birth of your little one. Making sure the ink is well-mixed and the canvas chosen supports an accurate imprint will help to ensure success.
Now you know how to get a newborn handprint! With a bit of patience and some of the tips shared here, you should have no problem creating a beautiful, lasting memory that will be treasured for lifetimes to come. Now, go forth and capture those tiny details – may all your little ones’ handprints be bright reminders of how special each tiny life really is!
