How to Put a Photo in a Locket: Measure, Cut and Fit

Putting a photograph inside a small locket requires patience, but it is manageable when you have several print sizes to test. This guide explains how to choose, trim and fit a photograph without damaging the locket.

What you will need

• Your open locket
• A sheet of small printed photographs
• Small sharp scissors
• A piece of thin paper for making a template
• A blunt cocktail stick or similar non-scratching tool
• Clean, dry hands and good lighting

Step 1: Choose the photograph

Select a clear image with the important subject near the centre. Portraits with some space around the face are easier to fit than tightly cropped photographs.

Step 2: Identify the usable space

Open the locket and look for the recessed area or retaining rim where the photograph will sit. Measure that space rather than the outside dimensions of the locket.

If the shape is difficult to measure, press a thin piece of paper gently over the recess to create a template. Do not use a sharp object that could scratch the jewellery.

Step 3: Select the closest printed size

Featherlings locket photo sheets contain 32 prints in 16 graduated sizes. Choose a print that is slightly larger than the recess so it can be trimmed gradually.

Step 4: Trim a little at a time

Cut around the photograph, keeping outside the final edge at first. Test the fit, remove a tiny amount and repeat. Cutting too much in one go is the most common mistake.

Step 5: Fit and position the photograph

When the photograph fits inside the recess, use a clean fingertip or blunt cocktail stick to ease the edges beneath the retaining rim. Make sure the image is straight before pressing it fully into place.

Only use adhesive if the locket design requires it. Choose an acid-free product suitable for photographs and apply the smallest possible amount.

Step 6: Protect the finished locket

Close the locket gently and check that the photograph is not obstructing the hinge or clasp. Printed photographs are water-resistant rather than waterproof, so remove the locket before showering or swimming.

Which shape should I order?

• Heart-shaped photos for heart lockets
• Oval photos for traditional oval lockets
• Round photos for circular lockets

For full product details, read about our locket photo printing service.