Handprint Keepsake Cards Kids Can Make for Grandparents

By Kelly · Updated 2026-10-17

Handprint cards provide a physical record of a child's growth that grandparents can keep for years. These projects use simple, salt-free paints and heavy cardstock to create a durable memento that captures a specific moment in time.

Essential Supplies for Clear Handprints

• 65 lb or 110 lb white cardstock (thinner paper will curl when wet)
• Washable tempera paint (avoid DIY salt-based doughs for these cards as they can crack)
• 1-inch foam brushes for even paint application
• Baby wipes or a damp washcloth for immediate cleanup
• Fine-tip archival black pen for dating and labeling

The Classic Single Handprint Card

ages 3+ · 15 min · about $1

• 8.5 x 11 inch 65 lb white cardstock
• Washable tempera paint
• Foam brush
• Fine-tip black marker

1. Fold one sheet of cardstock in half widthwise to create a card base.
2. Use the foam brush to apply a thin, even layer of paint to the child's palm and fingers. Do not dip the hand directly into the paint, as this creates a blurry image.
3. Help the child press their hand firmly onto the center of the card front. Press down on each finger individually to ensure full contact.
4. Lift the hand straight up to avoid smearing the paint.
5. Immediately clean the child's hand with a baby wipe or soap and water.
6. Once dry, write the child's name, age, and the current date on the bottom corner.

Handprint Flower Bouquet Card

ages 4-10 · 25 min · about $2

• 8.5 x 11 inch white cardstock
• Assorted colors of washable tempera paint
• Green permanent marker
• 1/4 inch satin ribbon
• School glue

1. Fold the cardstock in half to create the card.
2. Apply paint to the child's hand and press it near the top of the card. Repeat 2-3 times with different colors to create 'flowers', cleaning the hand between colors.
3. Allow the handprints to dry completely for at least one hour.
4. Use the green marker to draw stems starting from the base of each palm down to a central point at the bottom of the card.
5. Tie a small bow with the satin ribbon and glue it over the point where the stems meet.
6. Label the card inside with a message for the grandparent.

Two-Hand 'Heart' Keepsake

ages 5-10 · 20 min · about $1.50

• 12 x 12 inch scrapbook cardstock
• Red or pink washable tempera paint
• Foam brush
• Pencil

1. Lightly trace a large heart shape on the cardstock with a pencil to act as a guide.
2. Paint the child's right hand and press it at an angle so the fingers point toward the bottom-right of the heart.
3. Clean the hand, then paint the left hand and press it so the fingers point toward the bottom-left, overlapping the heels of the palms to form a heart shape with the prints.
4. Let the paint dry flat for two hours to avoid drips.
5. Erase any visible pencil marks once the paint is fully cured.
6. Write a specific memory from the year on the back of the card.

For the best results, use 'salt-free' paint options like standard school tempera. Homemade salt-dough or salt-based paints can absorb moisture from the air over time, causing the cardstock to warp or the print to degrade in storage.