A placenta print is a beautiful and artistic way to commemorate the birth of your child by preserving the memory of the organ that played a vital role in their growth and development. This unique keepsake allows you to transform the placenta into a work of art that can be cherished for years to come. Whether you choose a blood print or a color print, the process is simple and can be done regardless of where you give birth.
To create a placenta print, you'll need a few essential supplies, including the placenta itself, paper, color (optional), water, towels, and gloves. It's crucial to use acid-free materials for both the paper and the coloring, ensuring the longevity of your prints. The ink or color you use can be either blood from the placenta or a safe, acid-free ink or food dye, depending on whether you plan to encapsulate the placenta.
The first step is to prepare the placenta. If it's been refrigerated, allow it to thaw before starting. Lay it out on your workspace, ideally on a disposable cutting board lined with wax paper. You can position the placenta and the umbilical cord in various ways to create different designs, such as a spiral, heart, or tree-like shape.
For a blood print, you won't need to add color, as the natural blood will create the print. Carefully lower the paper onto the placenta and press gently to ensure a clear impression. If you prefer a color print, clean the placenta with water and dry it before applying the chosen ink or color using a paintbrush or ink pad. Be creative with your colors, and remember that primary colors can blend beautifully when mixed.
Once the placenta is painted, carefully place the acid-free paper on top and press down gently, rubbing the placenta to transfer the color. Slowly lift the paper to reveal your print. You can create multiple prints until you're satisfied with the design.
The finished placenta print can serve as a stunning piece of art for your baby's nursery or as a private keepsake. Some parents even opt to frame it and display it in their living room. If you're not encapsulating the placenta, you can dispose of it through your healthcare provider or consider using it to fertilize a plant in your garden.
Placenta prints have gained popularity in recent years, with some encapsulation specialists offering this service as an add-on to their clients. The cost for a placenta print can range from $60 to $120, depending on whether it's an additional service to encapsulation or a standalone option., a placenta print is a unique and meaningful way to honor the incredible organ that supported your baby's life during pregnancy. By following a few simple steps and using the right materials, you can create a lasting memory that celebrates the bond between you and your child. Whether you choose a traditional tree-like image or a more abstract design, your placenta print will undoubtedly become a treasured part of your family's story.
