How to Put a Picture in a Locket

Co-authored by Cory Schifter

Last Updated: March 30, 2024 Fact Checked

Transferring a photo to a locket can be a little tricky, as the shape of the photo needs to match the locket hole. However, there are some smart solutions that are simple to implement, such as making a tracing paper template, photocopying the locket or transferring the locket shape by ink. Choose the method that works best for the type of locket you have, and soon you'll be pasting your photo in place with ease.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Using Paper

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Lay it flat with the open side facing you.
2
Place a piece of tracing paper or regular paper over the photo recess. The inside of the locket should have a slight recess meant to hold the photo in place. Lay a piece of tracing paper over the locket so you can see the recessed part through the paper.
- If you don't have tracing paper, you can use tissue paper or any thin paper you can see through.
- Some lockets have a recess on both sides, so it can hold two photos, while others just have it on one side.
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Lightly trace around the circular or ovular area where the photo will sit. Try not to crease the paper, since this will affect the size and shape of your tracing.
Now you have a template the exact size your photo will need to be to fit neatly into the locket.
Position it so that the face or image you want to store in your locket is contained within the borders of the template. Use a pencil to lightly trace around the template onto the photo.
Use a scissors or a craft knife to neatly cut the photo to the exact size of your template.
Place a dab of glue on the back of the photo. Gently insert it into the locket. Press it lightly to ensure it stays in place.^{[1]
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Once dried, the locket is ready to wear.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Copying the Locket

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1
Take the locket with you to a copy center. If you work in a place that has a copy machine, you're in luck. Otherwise take it to a store where you can make a copy using a machine.
- This method is best used for a locket that lies flat when it is open. If your locket's hinge won't allow it to lie flat, you won't be able to make a good copy.
- If you have a scanner and printer at home, that will work just as well.
Make sure it is lying flat on the surface. The inside of the locket should be facing down.
3
Make a copy. Be sure the copy machine settings are such that the copy is true to size (100 percent), rather than coming out smaller or larger than the actual locket.
- If you're using a scanner, scan the locket, open the image file on your computer, then print out the image. Make sure your scanner and printer settings allow you to print an image of the locket that's true to size (100 percent).
You should be able to see a faint outline of the photo recess inside the locket. Use a scissors or craft knife to carefully cut it out. You'll use this template to cut your photo down to the right size.
Position it so that the face or image you want to store in your locket is contained within the borders of the template. Use a pencil to lightly trace around the template onto the photo.
Use a scissors or a craft knife to neatly cut the photo to the exact size of your template.
Place a dab of glue on the back of the photo. Gently insert it into the locket. Press it lightly to ensure it stays in place.^{[2]
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Once dried, the locket is ready to wear.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Using Ink or Paint

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1
Obtain either an ink pad or simple craft paint. A water soluble, washable ink or paint is best, since you'll be stamping your locket directly into it. If using craft paint, to spread it very thinly on a paper plate.
- Don't use this method if your locket is very valuable. Since you'll be getting ink or paint directly on the locket, there's a possibility that it could get damaged.
- You may want to test the ink or paint in an inconspicuous spot, like the inside of the locket. Put a dab in the center of the locket and see if it easily wipes off with a damp cloth. If not, use another method.
This is the side of the locket with a slightly raised border.
Try not to get too much ink or paint on the locket; you only need enough to create a print of the photo recess.
Place it carefully on the paper and lightly press down. When you lift the locket, an imprint of the inside edge should be on the paper. If this is not the case, repeat using more ink or paint.
It is best to do this quickly, before the substance dries. Use a paper towel dipped in warm water to wipe it away, then dry it with a towel.
Position it so that the face or image you want to store in your locket is contained within the borders of the template. Use a pencil to lightly trace around the template onto the photo.
Use a scissors or a craft knife to neatly cut the photo to the exact size of your template.
Place a dab of glue on the back of the photo. Gently insert it into the locket. Press it lightly to ensure it stays in place.
Once dried, the locket is ready to wear.

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Cory Schifter
Jeweler & Certified Jewelry Appraiser
Cory Schifter is a Jeweler, Certified Jewelry Appraiser, and the Owner of Casale Jewelers in Dongan Hills, Staten Island, New York. Casale Jewelers is known for its selection of fine jewelry, designer brands, engagement rings, certified diamonds, custom-made jewelry, and watches. Cory has over 10 years in the jewelry industry and is a certified jewelry appraiser. Cory was featured on NY1 News “Got it Made in New York” for Casale Jewelers’ custom design business and Casale Jewelers was recognized by American Express and Facebook in 2012 as one of the top five small businesses in the nation.

Cory Schifter

Jeweler & Certified Jewelry Appraiser

Expert Answer

Applications like Photoshop can help you shrink down the picture to the size of your locket. From there, you can cut it out.

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Is there any way I can keep the photo in there without gluing it?

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Most lockets have bits on the side that help the picture from falling out, but if that doesn't work, use a tiny amount of glue tack.

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My locket has a space for two photos, but it's heart-shaped, which makes it harder to make the photo exact. How can I make sure the photo fits the locket edges precisely?

Ryleigh Hempe

Community Answer

You could take a scrap piece of paper and trace around the frames, then use that as your guide.

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Tips

If want to permanently encase your photo in the locket, look for a sealer at a craft store that you can lightly paint over the photo.^{[3]
X
Research source} This will protect it from water or other damage. Make sure it's acid free so that it lasts a long time without damaging your picture.

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The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

If your picture is the right size, you won't have to use glue!
Don't use glue if you're going to change the photo.
Use a very small amount of glue.

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Warnings

Do not use any type of permanent ink or paint to stamp your locket. You need to be able to wash it off when you are finished. Cheap craft paints from the dollar store are good for this, just make sure the paint or ink is washable - kids paints are nearly always washable.

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