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May 11, 2017 6:58 PM   Subscribe

In search of non-toxic, easily removable ink or paint to put handprints (and pawprints) on a Mother's Day card. What kind do I want, and where do I get it? Snowflake-y details inside.

It's my wife's first Mother's Day, and, since the baby is too young to sign a card, I'd like to get their handprint on one-- and, while I'm at it, might as well put my own handprint and the cats' paws on there, too.

However, the card is to be a surprise. So, what ink/paint/marking substance can I obtain which will be nontoxic, easy to deploy, and easy to remove completely from the baby's hand and the cats' paws? Color of substance does not matter. I intend to use white paper.

I have easy access to a Paper Source and a Michael's, and somewhat more annoying access to the amenities of a good-sized city. I have all of Friday to get this done.
posted by Rush-That-Speaks to Shopping (7 answers total)
 
Any craft store should have washable tempera paint, probably in the children's crafts area. Or finger paint. These work great and come off fine with a little soap and water.
posted by Knicke at 7:05 PM on May 11, 2017 [2 favorites]


Best answer: Also, protip: apply paint to the hand with a brush instead of dipping. Less messy and the print will come out clearer.
posted by Knicke at 7:07 PM on May 11, 2017 [1 favorite]


I did this for my son's 1st Father's Day. I used fingerpaint; designed to be safe.
posted by theora55 at 7:19 PM on May 11, 2017


Yes, go for finger paints. I'd suggest light colors like yellow or pink over darker colors like red or blue. You might consider dark colored paper and light paint, rather than the reverse, to make the clean up a little easier.
posted by OrangeDisk at 7:40 PM on May 11, 2017 [1 favorite]


Second using a brush to apply a light coat to the hand. Any paint designed for kids should be fine. You may need to do a couple test prints.

Good luck with kitty
posted by MandaSayGrr at 7:43 PM on May 11, 2017


Best answer: Be careful if you put it on the cat. Check the ingredients, since some things are toxic for cats that aren't toxic for humans - and she will lick it all off.
posted by amtho at 8:48 PM on May 11, 2017 [3 favorites]


Best answer: Strongly, strongly suggest footprint instead of handprint for a baby under one. Handprint is almost definitely going to just be a smeary mess due to wiggly fingers. Whereas footprints can be easily used to make many adorable things such as butterflies and ducklings (google image search for inspiration)
posted by Ausamor at 7:59 AM on May 12, 2017 [1 favorite]


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