How to: Collect Hair for Your Keepsake or Memorial Pendant

You want your keepsake to be the best representation of your loved one. While I always do my best to honor their natural hair texture, a few tips when collection and packing the hair can yield much better results.

What You'll Need

• Small, clean scissors (or an electric shaver for short hair)
• A small envelope or folded piece of paper. (I provide this with your shipping kit.)
  

How Much Hair Is Needed?

Most piece of jewelry I create require a small pinch of hair- similar to the width of a yarn strand for longer hair, or a bit more (like the width of a pencil) for shorter hair. I can work with less hair, when necessary, but the hair may be less visible in your jewelry. Some pieces require very little hair. When in doubt, send a little extra- I always return whatever isn't used in your jewelry. 

Collecting the Hair

1. Dry, clean hair is the best. I understand sometimes this is not possible and will do my best to remove debris from any hair. Never package wet or damp hair, always wait for the hair to dry.
2. Taking your cutting from the nape of the neck or behind the ear works well for most people. For pets many people prefer trimming from behind the ear or a tuft from the chest. Some people use the fur trimmed from their pets during an IV catheter placement at the vet- this works too! In the end, most people choose to collect hair or fur from the areas that best represent their loved one... curls, highlights, different colors... this is what will show in your keepsake jewelry.
3. Keep the hair aligned! Hold the lock of hair firmly between your fingers while trimming and after. Keeping the hair facing the same direction makes it much easier to place in your jewelry.
4. Place the hair in the small envelope provided. (If you are collection your hair before you receive the provided shipping kit, feel free to use your own envelope, try to avoid plastic as it can create static.)
5. Store in a cool, dry place until you're ready to mail. 

Sending the Hair

Once you have your hair sample ready, pack it in the larger provided envelope and drop it in your outgoing mail. 

Ready to Begin?

Browse through keepsake and memorial jewelry crafted with your loved one's hair or fur.