This simple and effective method is perfect for collecting a clear fingerprint to use for personalized products, such as engraved jewelry. Follow these steps to ensure accurate results:

Materials Needed

• A pencil
• A piece of white paper
• Clear adhesive tape (e.g., Scotch tape)
• Scissors (optional, for cutting the tape)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Paper

   • Take a piece of white paper and place it on a flat, stable surface.

2. Create a Graphite Patch

   • Use the pencil to heavily shade a small area on the paper (about 1-2 inches wide).
   • Ensure the shaded area is dark and dense enough to transfer graphite to your finger.

3. Press Your Finger on the Graphite

   • Rub the pad of your chosen finger (e.g., thumb or index finger) on the shaded area.
   • Apply gentle pressure and move your finger back and forth to coat it evenly with graphite.

4. Transfer the Fingerprint onto Tape

   • Take a piece of clear adhesive tape and carefully press it onto your graphite-covered fingertip.
   • Gently but firmly press the tape to capture all the ridge details.

5. Lift the Tape Carefully

   • Slowly peel the tape off your finger, ensuring the fingerprint remains intact on the adhesive side.

6. Place the Tape on Paper

   • Stick the tape onto a clean area of the white paper. This will make the fingerprint visible and ready to scan or photograph.

7. Review and Adjust (if needed)

   • Examine the fingerprint. If it’s too faint or smudged, repeat the process with a fresh piece of tape.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure your finger is clean and dry before starting.
• Avoid over-applying graphite to prevent smudging.
• Use high-quality clear tape for the best fingerprint transfer.