Start your pawprint portrait
1 Dog or cat?
2 Your pet’s photo
A clear, well-lit photo where you can see their face. Phone photos are perfect.
3 Your pet’s paw print
Required. A clear photo of a print you made at home. Not sure how? Open the guide below.
How to get your pet’s paw print
Washable paint
Uses non-toxic washable kids’ paint, the kind most homes already have.
- 1. Brush on the paint
Brush a thin, even coat of non-toxic washable kids’ paint on the bottom of the paw and toes.
- 2. Press firmly
Press the paw firmly onto plain white paper.
- 3. Lift straight up
Lift the paw straight up so the print doesn’t smudge. Do a few and pick the best one.
- 4. Wipe the paw
Wipe the paw clean with a damp cloth right away.
The flour print
Flour (or cornstarch) and a dark baking sheet or plate. No paint on the paw, so it’s great for cats.
- 1. Spread the flour
Spread a thin, even layer of flour or cornstarch on a dark baking sheet or plate.
- 2. Gently press
While your pet is relaxed or sleepy, gently press their paw into the flour.
- 3. Lift straight up
Lift the paw straight up so the impression stays crisp.
- 4. Photograph it
Photograph the impression from directly above in good light, then wipe the paw with a damp cloth.
Safety first: use only non-toxic, pet-safe products, keep sessions short and calm, and don’t let your pet lick the paint or flour. Wipe the paw clean right after.
Tips for a great paw print photo
- Good light. Daylight near a window, no flash, no shadow from your phone.
- Flat and straight on. Lay the paper or sheet flat and shoot from directly above.
- Whole print visible. All toes and the whole paw in frame, with a little space around it.
Cats: try while your cat is relaxed or sleepy, like after a meal or a nap. One gentle press is enough.
Smudges are fine. A slightly imperfect print gives the portrait its character.
4 Size & finish
16×20 canvas — $95 with free shipping