Creating A Wedding Fingerprint Tree: A Unique Guestbook Idea

A wedding fingerprint tree is a creative alternative to a traditional guest book. It involves an illustration of a tree with space for each wedding guest to add their fingerprint, resembling leaves on the tree. Guests can also write their names next to their fingerprints. The final artwork is a beautiful, personal memento for the newlyweds to display in their home.

Fingerprint trees can be purchased or made using DIY kits, with options available on Etsy and Amazon. DIY kits typically include a tree illustration, ink pads, pens, and baby wipes for guests to clean their hands.

This unique guest book idea creates a talking point at weddings and results in a special keepsake for the couple to treasure forever.

Choosing a design: tree, balloons, bicycle, etc

When it comes to choosing a design for your wedding fingerprint tree, there are several options to consider. The traditional design is, of course, a tree with fingerprints acting as the leaves. However, you are by no means limited to this option.

One alternative design is to incorporate balloons into the artwork. Guests' fingerprints become the balloons, which can be imagined as 'tied' onto a bicycle, being held by the bride and groom, or carrying a house through the air.

If you would prefer to avoid the mess of ink, you can instead have your guests write their names or messages on the leaves or balloons. This option may require slightly larger spaces for each guest to sign, depending on how much space you anticipate each guest will need.

Other creative options include having print spaces in the form of flying birds, hearts, or stars in the sky. By the end of the wedding, your artwork will be covered in fingerprints, handwritten names, or notes, creating a unique memento of your special day.

The beauty of choosing a personalised design for your alternative guestbook is that you can let your imagination run wild and select a concept that aligns with your wedding theme or your interests as a couple.

Framing: shop-bought or handmade

Once your fingerprint tree is complete, you'll want to frame it to hang in your home. You can either buy a frame or make one yourself.

If you're going the shop-bought route, you can find frames at IKEA, like the RIBBA frame, or on Etsy. You can also get frames from professional printers. When selecting a frame, consider the size of your fingerprint tree, the colour, and whether you want to include a mount. If you're worried about your guests smudging the mount with ink, you might want to get a cheaper frame that you can replace later. You can also choose to keep the frame after the wedding and replace the artwork with a photo from your special day.

If you're handy and want to make a frame yourself, you can build one from scratch or upcycle an old frame. Consider the type of wood or material you want to use, the colour, and whether you want to include a mount or glass/plastic covering. You can also decorate the frame to match your wedding theme or the colours in the fingerprint tree artwork.

Whether you buy or make your frame, it's a good idea to remove the glass or plastic covering while your guests are adding their fingerprints to prevent smudges. You can also leave the frame behind and display the fingerprint tree on an easel or tabletop. Once everyone has added their fingerprints, you can put the glass back in the frame to protect the artwork until you're ready to hang it.

Printing: A3 or A4, paper or canvas

Printing your fingerprint tree on either A3 or A4 paper is a great option if you're looking for a cost-effective and convenient way to create your wedding fingerprint tree. It allows you to easily download a template, customise it with your details, and print it at home or through a professional printing service.

If you choose to go with an A3 print, consider that it will give you plenty of room for a large number of guests to add their fingerprints and signatures. This size is perfect if you're expecting a big crowd and want to ensure everyone has enough space to leave their mark.

On the other hand, if you're planning a smaller, more intimate wedding, an A4 print might be more suitable. It will still provide sufficient space for your guests' fingerprints while also allowing for a more compact and delicate design.

When it comes to the type of paper, you can opt for a standard printing paper, which is easily accessible and affordable. However, if you want your fingerprint tree to have a more premium feel and increased durability, consider using a thicker paper stock or even a canvas material.

Printing on canvas elevates the overall look and feel of your fingerprint tree. It adds a sense of texture and artistry to the piece, making it a truly special keepsake. Canvas is also known for its durability, ensuring that your wedding fingerprint tree can withstand the test of time and be displayed for years to come.

Whether you choose A3 or A4, paper or canvas, the most important thing is to ensure that your design is clear and easy for your guests to understand. You can add your own creative touches, such as incorporating your wedding colours or adding decorative elements that reflect your theme.

Ink pads: fast-drying, archival inks in one or two colours

When selecting ink pads for your wedding fingerprint tree, it's important to choose fast-drying, archival inks to ensure that the fingerprints dry quickly and don't smudge. You can find these types of ink pads online or at most craft stores.

For a cohesive look, choose one or two colours that coordinate with your wedding palette. This will create a stylish and elegant fingerprint tree that matches your wedding theme. Alternatively, you can opt for multiple shades to craft a vibrant and colourful piece of artwork.

If you want to add a unique touch, consider purchasing ink pads in the shape of leaves or other designs that complement the tree theme. These shaped ink pads will make the fingerprinting process more enjoyable for your guests and add a creative element to the overall presentation.

When selecting ink pads, it's also important to consider the number of guests you expect to participate. Ensure you have enough ink to accommodate all fingerprints, and perhaps purchase a few extra ink pads to avoid running out during the event.

Extras: baby wipes, bin, pens, practice paper

Baby wipes are essential for your wedding fingerprint tree. The ink used for fingerprints can be difficult to remove with just water and soap, so providing baby wipes will ensure your guests can easily clean their hands after leaving their mark. It also prevents guests from having to trek to the bathroom to clean up, which may deter them from participating. Place a bin next to the baby wipes so guests have somewhere to dispose of their wipes.

You will also need a few good-quality fine-nibbed black pens. You want to ensure that guests only use black ink to sign their names next to their fingerprints. This will maintain a cohesive look if you plan on displaying your fingerprint tree after the wedding.

If you are creating your own fingerprint tree, you may want to practise writing your names and the wedding date on a separate piece of paper before finalising the design. This will allow you to perfect the layout, choose the best colours and decide on font sizes.

Frequently asked questions