Perhaps it is folded between the pages of a baby book. Perhaps it is a paw print you have kept safely, or a fingerprint that means more to you now than it did when it was first taken.
There is something lovely about finding a way to carry that little detail with you.
At HALI MOTIF, a suitable existing ink print can become tactile impression jewellery. I recreate the detail of your print before handcrafting your chosen piece here on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. It is another way to begin when the print you want to keep is already on paper.
what is ink print impression jewellery?
Ink Print Impressions begin with a clear image of an existing fingerprint, handprint, footprint or paw print. The print is recreated as a tactile impression, then made into jewellery using the same lost-wax technique used for my other impression pieces.
The lines and organic detail become part of the jewellery itself. It is a different finish from a print engraved onto a flat surface, and a beautiful option if you are drawn to something you can feel as well as see.
You can explore the designs in the Ink Print Impression Collection.
do I need an ink print or a wax impression?
The best starting point is the impression you have, or the one you are able to take.
If you can capture a fresh fingerprint or pet impression, the Signature Wax Impression process lets you do that at home with a kit. You return your chosen wax impression to me so I can begin your piece.
If you already have a meaningful ink print, the Ink Print process may let you work from that instead. You send clear images and measurements, so there is no need to take a new wax impression for this pathway.
Neither starting point needs to tell a particular kind of story. A keepsake can be for someone beside you every day, someone who lives far away, or someone you miss.
how do I photograph a print for jewellery?
Before you begin, keep your original print somewhere safe. The photographs need to show the detail clearly and help me understand its size.
- Take one clear main photograph. Use a plain white background and photograph the print directly from above, without a ruler. Avoid taking the image at an angle.
- Take a horizontal measurement photograph. Place a ruler horizontally across the print and photograph it from above.
- Take a vertical measurement photograph. Place the ruler vertically down the print and take another overhead photograph.
The main image needs to be high resolution or very clear. The two ruler photographs are for sizing and do not need to be high resolution.
Once you have placed your Ink Print order, email the images to hello@halimotif.com with your order number in the subject line. You will find the full steps in the Ink Print Impression Instructions.
If your print is faint, smudged or a copy of a copy, please get in touch before ordering. I can help you work out whether there is enough detail to begin. You do not need to make that decision on your own.
a fingerprint bracelet, necklace or ring?
Once you know which print you would like to use, think about how you want to wear it.
A fingerprint bracelet keeps that small connection close to your hand. A pendant might feel right if you like a keepsake resting near your heart. A ring lets you see and touch the impression throughout the day.
If you are drawn to a gold fingerprint necklace, look through the solid gold options within the Ink Print collection. Sterling silver and selected yellow, rose and white gold designs are available, depending on the piece.
Check the individual design for its size, metal and fitting details. The right treasure is the one that feels comfortable and personal to you.
can I use a pet's print?
Yes, a suitable existing paw print can be a starting point too. That little mark might already be on paper, tucked away with photographs and other reminders of your pet.
For paw print jewellery, the process depends on whether you are capturing a new impression or working from an existing print. If you are interested in pet nose print jewellery, please send through what you have or ask about taking a fresh impression so I can guide you.
Our paw print and dog nose print jewellery guide explains those possibilities. The paw or nose that nudges your hand can hold just as much meaning as a fingerprint.
when the print belongs to someone you miss
You may only have one print, and the thought of doing anything with it can feel quite big.
A suitable ink fingerprint may be used to create memorial fingerprint jewellery through the Ink Print process. If you are unsure what you have, or how to begin, you are welcome to contact me first.
There is no need to rush into choosing a piece. Sometimes the first step is simply finding out what may be possible.
leave a little time for the making
The current Ink Print studio lead time is approximately six weeks from when I receive the required images. Please check our studio lead times when ordering, as these can change.
If you are hoping to give your piece for Christmas, get in touch before ordering to check what is possible for your design and impression method. The Christmas wax kit return date does not apply in the same way to an Ink Print order, and a particular delivery date should always be confirmed with the studio.
If you are still choosing the gift itself, our Christmas fingerprint jewellery guide may help.
a few questions you may have
can jewellery be made from a fingerprint on paper?
Yes, a suitable existing ink fingerprint can be recreated through the Ink Print Impression process. Clear images and measurements are needed, and the print must have enough detail to work from.
is ink print jewellery the same as engraving?
HALI MOTIF's Ink Print process recreates the print as a tactile impression before the jewellery is handcrafted using lost-wax techniques. The result carries organic texture, rather than a print engraved onto a flat surface.
can I use a photograph of the ink print?
Yes. Send a clear overhead main photograph without a ruler, plus separate horizontal and vertical ruler photographs for sizing. Follow the full instructions linked above.
can I use an old or faint print?
The detail matters more than how long you have kept it. If the print is faint, smudged or unclear, send an enquiry before ordering so I can assess what may be possible.
can one ink print be used for another piece later?
Ink Print designs are digitally preserved for future use. If you would like another piece made from the same print, contact the studio to discuss the design.
how long does ink print impression jewellery take?
The current studio lead time is approximately six weeks after the required images are received. Check current lead times and discuss any important dates with the studio before ordering.
their print, kept a little closer
Something that has lived on paper can become part of your everyday life. A little detail to rest your thumb against, or a reminder to carry quietly with you.
If you have a print in mind, I would love to help you find a way to keep it close.
