Take a small amount of the clay and roll it out to about a 1/16th to 1/8th inch thickness.
Use a cookie cutter or similar to obtain the shape that you want (heart, oval, star etc).
Put that shape aside and press the rest of the impression material into the plate.
Do the impression of the child or pet and then gently press the shape into its place. It should only be slightly raised. (Remember that anything raised will end up recessed and vice versa.)
A small cameo or frame can be added instead (see picture on box front). Simply place it face down into the desired location in the clay and press it down slightly prior to casting the impression.
Brush any dirt off of the paw before starting, then impress the paw about 1/4" or 1cm into the impression material. Lightly press on the toes if you want the claws to show.
Don't worry about a little hair or dirt getting into the impression as it will brush off easily after the stone powder is set.
There is nothing harmful to your pet in this product. Don't worry if they try to lick it.
Most pets will be easier to handle if you do the impression while they are eating.