DIY Salt Dough Paw Print Ornaments

Creating a DIY salt dough paw print ornament is a fun and meaningful way to include your furry friend in holiday celebrations. With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can make personalized salt dough ornaments that will become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

Why Make Salt Dough Paw Print Ornaments?

Our pets are beloved members of the family, and including them in traditions like decorating the Christmas tree adds a special touch to the holiday season. I made a custom paw print ornament for our dog Daisy, and it’s one of my favorite decorations. It’s easy, affordable, and safe to make with kids and pets alike.

These salt dough ornaments are versatile—you can create paw prints, handprints, or even unique shapes with cookie cutters. Add paint or glitter to make them extra special! The kids love these macaron salt dough ornaments.

Salt Dough Recipe for Paw Print Ornaments

This simple recipe uses just three ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of salt
• 3/4 cup of warm water

Homemade Paw Print Ornament Instructions:

This section will share how to make paw print ornaments. For a printable paw print dough recipe with instructions sharing how to make a DIY paw print ornament, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step 1: Mix Ingredients

Combine the ingredients in a mixing bowl and knead until a smooth, pliable dough forms.

Step 2: Roll Out dough

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick—thicker dough creates a better impression.

Step 3: Add Paw Print

Place a portion of the dough on a solid surface like a coaster or cutting board. Gently press your pet’s paw into the dough to make the salt dough ornament impression.

Use cookie cutters or a knife to shape the dough around the paw print.

Give your pet these 4 ingredient dog treats to distract them.

Step 4: Bake Salt Dough Ornaments

Transfer the shaped paw print ornaments onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Use a straw to poke a hole at the top of each ornament for hanging.

Step 5: Bake Salt Dough Paw Print Ornament

Bake at 300°F for one hour or until hardened.

Step 6: Decorate Salt dough Paw Prints

Once cool, decorate with acrylic paint and seal with polyurethane to preserve the homemade ornament for years.

Decorating Tips for Salt Dough Ornaments

Decorating your salt dough paw print ornament is where the fun begins! Here are a few ideas:

• Personalized Colors: Match the ornament’s colors to your pet’s features. For example, Daisy’s ornament features pink and white tones to match her fur.
• Glitter & Sparkle: Add some sparkle with glitter or metallic acrylic paints.
• Buffalo Check Design: Use stencils or freehand your favorite patterns like buffalo check to complement your holiday theme.
• Year-Round Decor: Choose neutral colors to hang your paw print ornaments all year long.

Why Salt Dough Is Perfect for Paw Print Keepsakes

Salt dough is safe, affordable, and versatile. Unlike other craft materials, it’s non-toxic, making it an excellent option for projects involving kids and pets.

You can also use this recipe to create:

• Handprints or footprints of your child.
• Custom ornaments with cookie-cutter shapes like stars or snowflakes.
• Decorative pieces to display around your home.

Creative Gift Ideas with Salt Dough

A DIY salt dough paw print ornament makes a thoughtful gift for the pet lover in your life. You can surprise them with a completed paw print ornament or create a DIY kit with:

• Pre-measured ingredients.
• Paints, brushes, and instructions.
• Ribbons or twine for hanging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this recipe for other pets like cats or rabbits?

Yes! This recipe works well for any pet. A rabbit or cat paw print ornament will likely require less dough. Simply adjust the size of the dough to fit their paw.

How can I make sure the paw print comes out clearly?

This paw print DIY is pretty simple to do if you have a willing participant, if not, you may struggle to get your salt dough dog print DIY to your liking without some help. Press firmly but gently, ensuring the dough is rolled thick enough (at least 1/2 inch) to capture the print’s details.

Try distracting your dog with these homemade chewy treats for dogs.

How do I store salt dough ornaments?

Seal them with polyurethane and store them in a cool, dry place to prevent cracking or moisture damage.

Who will enjoy this Christmas craft?

Everyone! This simple salt dough recipe for dog paw print is safe, affordable, and quick to prepare. This project is not just about learning how to make dog paw ornament—it’s a wonderful bonding activity with your pet. Plus, it’s versatile! If you’ve ever wondered how to make a dog with dough, this same salt dough can be used for crafting fun figurines.

Creating a paw print DIY ornament is the perfect way to commemorate your furry friend, making a thoughtful gift or keepsake for years to come. Whether you’re crafting an easy dog print project for yourself or as a gift, this guide will help you create something truly special.

Share your creations on Instagram and tag #thirtysomethingsupermom so I can see your masterpieces! Don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter for more DIY ideas.

Happy crafting!