Printing a picture for a locket is a small but precise process. Because lockets are intimate, often sentimental pieces of jewellery, the quality, size, and finish of the photo matter far more than with standard prints. If you would prefer a simpler option, many jewellery stores—such as Locket Company—offer lockets with images professionally sized and fitted for you, ensuring a perfect finish that will last for years.
Step 1: Choose the Right Photo
Start with the highest-quality version of the image available. This could be:
- An original digital photo from a phone or camera
- A scanned version of an old printed photograph
Avoid screenshots or images downloaded from social media, as these are often compressed and lose detail when printed at very small sizes.
Tip: Close-up photos with clear faces and good lighting work best. Busy backgrounds and distant subjects lose clarity when reduced.
Step 2: Understand the Locket Shape and Size
Before printing, you need to know:
- The shape of the locket (oval, heart, round, square)
- The internal photo dimensions, not the external jewellery size
Most lockets require photos between 10–25 mm in height or width. If the locket has two sides, you may want to print two identical or complementary images.
If exact measurements are not provided, measure the photo recess inside the locket using a ruler or calipers.
Step 3: Resize and Crop the Image
Use basic photo-editing software such as:
- Preview (Mac)
- Photos (Windows)
- Canva
- Photoshop (optional)
Crop the image to match the locket’s shape:
- Oval and heart lockets usually work best with a tight portrait crop
- Leave a small margin around the subject to avoid cutting into faces
Resize the image to the exact millimetre dimensions at 300 DPI (dots per inch). This ensures sharpness even at very small sizes.
Step 4: Choose the Right Paper
Standard printer paper is not ideal for lockets. Instead, use:
- Glossy photo paper for vibrant colour and contrast
- Matte photo paper for a softer, vintage look
For heirloom or keepsake lockets, archival-quality photo paper is recommended, as it resists fading over time.
Step 5: Print at Home or Professionally
You have two main options:
Printing at Home
- Use the highest quality print setting
- Disable “fit to page” or auto-scaling
- Print multiple sizes on one page as a test
Professional Printing
- Photo labs can print extremely small, high-resolution images
- Some jewellers and locket specialists offer custom-cut photo printing to match specific locket styles
Step 6: Cut the Photo Precisely
Use sharp tools for clean edges:
- Small scissors for round or oval shapes
- A craft knife for precision trimming
Cut slightly outside the final size first, then trim gradually until it fits snugly. The photo should lie flat without bending.
Step 7: Protect the Photo (Optional but Recommended)
To extend the life of the image:
- Place the photo behind the locket’s protective plastic or glass insert
- Avoid using glue unless the locket is designed for it
- Never laminate the photo, as this adds thickness and can damage the locket
Step 8: Insert the Photo into the Locket
Carefully open the locket and place the photo inside the recess. Ensure:
- The image is correctly oriented
- No dust or fingerprints are trapped inside
Close the locket gently to avoid bending the hinge or frame.
Final Thoughts
Printing a picture for a locket is about precision and care. When done properly, the result is a deeply personal piece of jewellery that preserves a memory in its most intimate form. Whether it’s a loved one, a child, or a meaningful moment, the right photo preparation ensures your locket remains timeless.
If you want guaranteed results, many modern lockets are now designed to work with professionally sized prints, making the process even simpler and more reliable.
