How to Make Plaster Handprints of Your Child

Decorated Plaster Handprint

One of the best ways to commemorate a child's youth is to make a plaster print of their hands. It is not as difficult as you may think to create these adorable keepsakes. Here are a few ways to accomplish this project, as well as some tips to get the best results.

Things You'll Need

• Large plastic bowl
• Large plastic spoon
• Aluminum pie plates
• Plaster of paris mix
• Disposable gloves
• Paper clip
• Permanent marker
• Ribbon or String

Instructions

1. 

   The first thing you want to find for you and your child is some older clothing. This project is pretty messy, but a lot of fun.

2. 

   Mix the plaster of paris with the recommended amount of water. Plaster of paris can be found at any craft store and will often include molds just for this project.

3. 

   If you don't want to use a plastic spoon to mix the plaster of paris, use a paint stirrer. These can easily be tossed in trash afterwards.

4. 

   Be sure the mixture isn't creamy. You need a thick, stiff mixture or the plaster of paris will not set up correctly. You may need to use your hands to get it completely mixed well. Wear disposable gloves to prevent any burning from the plaster of paris mixture. Many people also find a painter's mask will prevent inhaling the dust from the plaster mix.

5. 

   Pour the mixture into a flat, shallow container, such as an aluminum pie pan. Quickly put your child's hand into the wet plaster mixture. Try to have him be still. This can often be the most difficult part of the process. However, if he moves, you can remove and wash his hands. Squish the plaster back together and try again. Each time your child has his hands in the plaster, immediately wash them to prevent any burning to the skin.

6. 

   Next, push an unfolded paper clip into the plaster. You can use just about anything, however, to make the hole that will be used to hang your creation.

7. Let the hand print dry. It will usually take a day to dry completely.

8. 

   Remove the mold from the container. Take a marker and write the date and how old your child is on the back. It is amazing to look back years later and see how small his hands once were. Run a ribbon or a piece of yarn through the hole and tie.

Tips & Warnings

• These imprints can be painted with a latex based paint; however, many people like the raw look of the plaster.

• Consider framing the imprint. There are many heavy duty frames available at craft stores that are specifically designed to hold the weight of the plaster imprint.

• You can also frame the imprint along with a picture of your child and a lock of his hair.

• Many parents will make an imprint each year to showcase how fast a child grows and changes.

• This craft can also be done using your child's footprint.

• Some people will put both a hand and foot print in the same mold. Be sure the mold is big enough that one print doesn't force the plaster over into the other print.