Make a Great Impression

Making a paw impression is easy, fun, and stress-free for you and your pet. Follow these steps carefully to get a clear impression that will be perfect for your Pet-Paw keepsake.

Once we receive your impression, we carefully cast it in bronze. Learn more about the process on the How Pet-Paws are Made page.

Materials Needed

• Play-doh (homemade or store-bought, any color)
• A container with a lid (sandwich containers work well for large dogs, smaller containers for small pets)
• A mini rolling pin (4" wooden dowel) or your thumbs for smoothing
• Treats for your pet

Ready made impression kits are available to order from our Pet-Paw Catalog

Step 1: Prepare the Play-doh

If your Play-doh is hard, microwave it for 25 seconds and knead it well. Pack the Play-doh firmly into the container so it sticks to the bottom and edges. The surface should be flat, smooth, and level.

• Thickness: about 1" to prevent the paw from touching the bottom
• Ensure level surface to avoid distortion

Step 2: Take the Paw Impression

Dogs: Wipe paws clean. Have one person hold the dog's paw while another gently presses the container into the paw. For large dogs, have them lay down for easier impressions. Include claws for a natural look. Paws should be about 3/8" deep. Reward with treats.

Cats: Two people recommended. Hold the cat carefully and gently press the container into the paw. Paws should be about 1/4" deep. Use treats to keep your pet calm.

Step 3: Check the Impression

Make sure your impression is centered, with at least a 1/2" margin from the edges. All toe pads and the main pad should be visible. Dog impressions should include claw marks.

A good impression is important:

• Not too deep, not too shallow
• The surface should be smooth, level and flat
• All four paw pads and claws should be visible
• What you see in the impression is what you get in the metal

If you need a retake, remove the Play-doh, knead or soften it, and try again. Two impressions are better than one. Keep one as a back-up.

Unsure about your impression? Text, email, or submit a photo for feedback.
Phone: 509-553-3842 | Email: tracy@starsunmoon.com
Submit a Photo

Step 4: Send Your Impression

Seal the container with its lid and label it with your name, pet's name, address, and phone number. Store in the fridge or freezer until ready to ship. Pack securely with padding in a box without touching the paw impression surface. Send your impression to:

Important Tips for Great Results

• Impressions that are too deep distort the paw pads
• Keep at least 1/2" margin around the paw
• Play-doh must be level and smooth
• Be patient with your pet; use treats if needed

Printable Paw Impression Guide

📄 Download the Printable Paw Impression Guide (PDF)

Homemade Play-doh Recipe

• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp oil
• 1/4 cup salt

Mix all ingredients and COOK in a pot on the stove. Stir over medium heat until smooth. The dough will get very lumpy as it "cooks" just keep stirring and it will eventually turn into one big ball of Play-doh. Remove from pan, let cool, and knead until blended smooth - make sure there are no lumps. Place in plastic bag or airtight container when cooled. Keep in refrigerator. Will last for a long time.

Impression Returns

Original impressions are usually returned with your finished Pet-Paw. Please note that Play-Doh impressions are often permanently altered during the wax pattern stage and cannot be returned. If you would like your impression returned anyway, just let us know.

Questions?

If you need help, don’t hesitate to call, email, or use our contact form:
Phone: 509-553-3842 | Email: tracy@starsunmoon.com
Contact Form

Ready to begin your order?