Those who have young children know that a keepsake frame or ornament is a great way to remember the days that go by too fast. With the right tools, you can make a DIY clay impression frame in a few simple steps.
The easiest way to complete your project is to pick up a DIY picture frame kit with oven-bake clay.
Steps to Making a Keepsake Frame
You can make a DIY frame with one of our kits in under an hour. First, remove all the supplies from the packaging. Our oven-bake clay materials stay soft before curing, so you can redo handprint or footprint impressions as many times as you need to. When you’re ready to get started, follow these steps.
1. Prepare the Clay
Sculpey® keepsake frame bundles come with mix-free clay. Knead the clay in the palms of your hands until it feels smooth, then form it into a ball. Place the ball of clay onto a smooth surface and roll it outward to fit the size of the frame. You can use the included cutting template.
2. Press Hands or Feet Into the Clay
Once the clay is soft and ready, wash your child’s hands or feet. Dry them completely before pressing them into the clay and holding them there for a few seconds. You can use an engraving tool to write your child’s name and the year on the surface of the clay.
3. Bake the Clay to Harden It
Review the instructions that come with your keepsake frame kit to determine the appropriate baking temperature and time. For the best results, we recommend using an oven thermometer to get an accurate reading.
Allow the clay to cool after removing it from the oven. If your keepsake kit comes with a frame, use the adhesives provided to stick the clay to its backing. Position the impression inside the frame, and your project is done!
Explore Other Keepsake Craft Ideas
Sculpey® is your source for polymer clays, crafting supplies and tools. Browse our full list of keepsake products to get some inspiration — and be sure to check out our other craft ideas for your next project. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our products or guides!
