shrinky dink necklace :: diy

remember shrinky dinks?! when i was a kid, i used to make magnets by drawing on the special paper, then popping into the oven to watch them shrink. i was AMAZED!

i guess not much has changed. well, except now i can PRINT on that magical paper! and instead of magnets, i make little pendents of my photography.

you can make these too! just think how adorable a family photo would be as jewelry. what a perfect gift idea!

the DIY details...

you'll need:

• printable shrinky dink paper
• a digital photo or illustration of choice
• a printer
• an oven
• scissors
• hole punch
• sand paper
• jump rings
• chain & clasp

the steps:

1. open your photo or illustration in a photo editor. i use photoshop.
2. resize your photo to about 3.5 inches. once shrinked, your image will be about 1/3 of it's original size, so adjust accordingly. also make sure your resolution is 300 for optimal output
3. you might as well use multiple photos because you will have lots of extra room on your paper. i was able to fit 6 on one page
4. lighten your photo about 50%. this will make your images appear hazy, but no worries the color will come back after they shrink
5. print & cut out
6. use a hole punch in the upper 2 corners for chain attachment later
7. follow your instructions on baking. i baked mine for about 5 minutes at 275 degrees
8. when your shape shrinks, it may be a little asymmetrical. if this is the case, shape up with a course sand paper. i also like to do this to the corners so that they aren't so sharp.
9. hook on a jump ring and attach the chain. if your necklace won't fit over your head, add a clasp.

pretty fun right?!