10 Simple Steps to Create Perfectly Sized Locket Photos

Smiling woman holding locket
$title$

Creating locket-sized photos is a simple and cost-effective way to personalize your jewelry and keep cherished memories close to your heart. Whether you’re a seasoned scrapbooker or a novice crafter, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your locket photos turn out perfectly.

The first step is to gather your materials: a digital image, a photo printer, photo paper, and a pair of sharp scissors. If you don’t have a photo printer, you can take your digital image to a local photo lab or print shop. Once you have your materials, you’re ready to begin the process of resizing and printing your photo.

Choosing the Right Photo

When selecting a photo for your locket, it’s crucial to consider several key factors to ensure the best possible outcome:

Resolution and Size:

Choose a high-resolution photo (at least 300 dpi) to maintain clarity when resized to a smaller size.
Determine the specific dimensions of the photo required for the locket and crop the image accordingly.

Focal Point and Composition:

Select a photo with a clear focal point and avoid cluttered backgrounds.
Consider the overall composition of the photo, ensuring that important details are visible within the locket’s frame.

Lighting and Contrast:

Choose a photo with sufficient lighting and good contrast to ensure the image is visible and easy to discern.
Avoid photos that are too dark or washed out.

Color and Contrast:

Consider the colors and contrast of the photo and how they will translate to a smaller size.
Adjust the brightness, contrast, and saturation as needed to enhance the image’s visibility.

Quality and Sharpness:

Use a high-quality, sharp photo to avoid grainy or pixelated results.
Enhance the photo using image editing software to improve clarity and sharpness.

Orientation and Aspect Ratio:

Determine the locket’s orientation (portrait or landscape) and select a photo that matches this aspect ratio.
If the photo’s aspect ratio differs, it may need to be cropped or resized to fit within the locket’s frame.

By following these guidelines, you can select the perfect photo that will capture the essence of a special moment and create a cherished keepsake in your locket.

Cropping and Resizing

Once you have chosen your photo, you need to crop it to the correct size for your locket. Most lockets are oval-shaped, so you will need to crop your photo to an oval shape as well. You can do this using a photo editing software program, such as Photoshop or GIMP. Once you have cropped your photo, you will need to resize it to fit the locket. The size of the locket will vary depending on the style, so you will need to measure the locket to determine the correct size for your photo.

Here are the steps for cropping and resizing your photo:

Open your photo in a photo editing software program.
Select the crop tool.
Crop the photo to an oval shape.
Resize the photo to fit the locket.
Save the photo.

Here is a table with the recommended sizes for locket photos:

Locket Size	Photo Size
18mm x 25mm	13mm x 18mm
20mm x 30mm	15mm x 20mm
25mm x 35mm	18mm x 25mm

Using Online Tools

For those who prefer not to use photo editing software, there are several online tools that can be used to resize photos to the correct locket size. These tools are typically free to use and easy to operate.

One popular online tool for resizing photos is the Locket Photo Resizer website. To use this tool, simply upload the photo you want to resize, select the desired locket size, and click the “Resize” button. The website will then generate a new photo file that is the correct size for your locket.

Another option for resizing photos online is the Free Online Photo Editor website. This tool offers a variety of photo editing features, including the ability to resize photos. To use this tool, simply upload the photo you want to resize, select the desired locket size from the “Resize” menu, and click the “Apply” button. The website will then generate a new photo file that is the correct size for your locket.

When using online tools to resize photos, it is important to note that the quality of the resized photo may not be as good as the original photo. This is because online tools typically use lossy compression algorithms to reduce the file size of the resized photo. If you are concerned about the quality of the resized photo, you may want to use photo editing software instead.

The following table summarizes the features of the two online tools discussed above:

Feature	Locket Photo Resizer	Free Online Photo Editor
Supported locket sizes	1-inch, 1.25-inch, 1.5-inch, 1.75-inch, 2-inch	Customizable
Photo editing features	None	Crop, rotate, adjust brightness/contrast/saturation, etc.
File size limit	2MB	5MB
Output file format	JPEG	JPEG, PNG, BMP, GIF
Cost	Free	Free

Printing on Photo Paper

To print locket-size photos on photo paper, you will need a printer that supports photo printing and photo paper specifically designed for your printer.

1. Choose the Right Photo Paper

Select photo paper that is compatible with your printer and produces high-quality prints. Consider the finish (glossy, matte, or semi-gloss), weight (lb), and size (e.g., 4×6 inches).

2. Load the Photo Paper

Follow the instructions for your specific printer to load the photo paper correctly. Ensure that the paper is flat, properly aligned, and facing the correct way.

3. Adjust the Printer Settings

Set your printer to the appropriate settings for photo printing. This typically involves selecting the “Photo” or “High-Quality Photo” mode and choosing the correct paper type.

4. Print the Photos

Select the photos you want to print and send them to your printer. Many printers have built-in photo editing capabilities, allowing you to adjust colors, brightness, and other settings before printing.

Here are some additional tips for printing locket-size photos on photo paper:

Use high-resolution photos (at least 300 dpi) for optimal print quality.
Calibrate your printer regularly to ensure accurate color reproduction.
Test print a few photos before printing the entire batch to check for any issues.
Allow the prints to dry completely before handling them.

Cutting and Mounting

To assemble the locket photos, the following materials are required:

Photo
Scissors
Photo glue
Locket

Cutting the Photo

Use the outline on the locket frame as a guide and cut out the photo slightly smaller than the outline. Ensure the photo is cut precisely to fit within the frame.

Mounting the Photo

Apply a small amount of photo glue to the back of the photo, ensuring not to use excessive glue. Carefully align the photo with the outline on the locket frame and gently press it into place.

Additional Tips:

Use a sharp pair of scissors to prevent tearing the photo.
If the photo is too large, trim it gradually until it fits snugly within the frame.
Allow the glue to dry completely before closing the locket to avoid smudging or damage to the photo.

Creating a DIY Locket

Crafting a personalized locket is a rewarding and meaningful project. Follow these steps to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake:

1. Gather Materials

You’ll need: a locket pendant, photos, clear nail polish, scissors, glue, and jewelry pliers.

2. Prepare the Photos

Crop your photos to fit inside the locket. You may need to resize or print them smaller.

3. Seal the Photos

Apply a thin layer of clear nail polish to the photos. This will protect them from moisture and fading.

4. Cut the Photos

Use sharp scissors to carefully cut the photos to the exact size of the locket.

5. Glue the Photos

Apply a small amount of glue to the back of the photos. Carefully place them inside the locket.

6. Secure the Locket

Use jewelry pliers to gently close and secure the locket. Make sure it’s tight enough that the photos won’t fall out, but not so tight that it damages the locket.

**Tips for Gluing:**

Glue Type	Application
Super glue	For a strong and permanent bond, but can be difficult to clean up.
Jewelry glue	Specifically designed for jewelry making, dries clear and flexible.
Epoxy	Provides a waterproof and heat-resistant bond, but requires mixing and cures slowly.

**Additional Tips:**

Use high-quality photos for best results.
Experiment with different locket shapes and sizes.
Add a personal touch with charms, beads, or other embellishments.

Enhancing with Digital Filters

1. Adjust Brightness and Contrast

Optimally calibrate the image’s brightness and contrast to enhance the visibility of facial features and details.

2. Sharpen the Image

Apply a sharpening filter to enhance the outlines of the face and details, giving the image a crisp and clear appearance.

3. Remove Blemishes

Utilize filters designed to reduce or eliminate skin imperfections, such as blemishes, wrinkles, or scars, ensuring a flawless appearance.

4. Adjust Color Balance

Balance the colors in the image to ensure that the skin tones appear natural and vibrant.

5. Enhance Eyes

Utilize filters that brighten and refine the eyes, accentuating their natural beauty.

6. Add Special Effects

Experiment with artistic filters, such as vintage effects or soft focus, to impart a unique aesthetic to the image.

7. Advanced Retouching Techniques

Seek professional photo editing services to perform advanced retouching techniques, such as isolating the subject, refining facial features, and creating a perfect complexion. This allows for high-quality results that are tailored to specific needs.

Advanced Retouching Technique	Description
Subject Isolation	Separating the subject from the background for precise editing.
Facial Feature Refinement	Improving the shape and symmetry of facial features, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Complexion Correction	Creating a flawless and natural-looking skin tone, eliminating blemishes and other imperfections.

Choosing a Necklace or Chain

The right necklace or chain can complement your locket and enhance its overall look. Consider the following aspects when choosing:

Material: Choose durable materials like silver, gold, or stainless steel that align with the locket’s finish.
Length: Determine the desired length for your necklace, taking into account your neckline and the size of the locket.
Style: Match the necklace’s style to the locket’s design, whether it’s delicate, vintage, or modern.
Clasp Type: Consider the type of clasp, such as lobster claw, toggle, or magnetic, that provides secure and easy closure.
Chain Width: The chain’s width should complement the size and style of the locket. A thicker chain will support larger lockets.
Chain Style: Choose from various chain styles, including snake chain, curb chain, and bead chain, to enhance the locket’s aesthetic.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, choosing the right necklace or chain is a matter of personal preference that reflects your style and complements your locket.
Locket Size: Match the chain’s thickness and length to the size of the locket. A longer chain with a thicker width will accommodate a larger locket, while a shorter chain with a thinner width is ideal for smaller lockets.

Chain Length Comparison Table

Chain Length	Recommended Locket Size
16 inches	Small (up to 1 inch)
18 inches	Medium (1-1.5 inches)
20 inches	Large (over 1.5 inches)

Attaching the Photo

Once you have your photo, it’s time to attach it to the locket. There are a few different ways to do this, depending on the type of locket you have. Here are the steps for attaching the photo:

For lockets with a removable frame:

1. Open the locket and remove the frame.
2. Place the photo inside the frame, making sure it is centered.
3. Replace the frame and close the locket.

For lockets with a non-removable frame:

1. Open the locket.
2. Place the photo inside the locket, making sure it is centered.
3. Use a small amount of clear glue to secure the photo in place.
4. Close the locket.

For lockets with a hinge:

1. Open the locket.
2. Place the photo inside the locket, making sure it is centered.
3. Close the locket.
4. Use a small amount of clear glue to secure the photo in place.

Tips for attaching the photo:

Use a high-quality photo that is clear and sharp.
Make sure the photo is the correct size for the locket.
Use a small amount of clear glue to secure the photo in place.
Be careful not to get any glue on the locket’s frame or glass.

Now that you know how to attach the photo, you can start creating your own personalized lockets. They make great gifts for friends and family, and they’re a beautiful way to keep your loved ones close to your heart.

Locket Type	Method
Removable frame	Place photo in frame
Non-removable frame	Use glue to secure photo
Hinge	Close locket, then glue photo

Sizing and Cutting Photos

Use a ruler or measuring tape to determine the exact size of the locket’s opening. Mark the photo with a pencil or pen according to the measurements. Carefully cut out the photo using sharp scissors or an exacto knife.

Preparing the Locket

Open the locket by gently pulling apart the two halves. Carefully remove any old photos or protective covering.

Inserting the Photo

Place the cut-out photo into the locket, aligning it with the edges of the opening. Gently press down to secure it.

Closing the Locket

Close the locket by pressing the two halves together. Ensure that they click into place securely.

Care and Maintenance

Protect from Moisture

Keep the locket away from water, sweat, and humidity. Exposure to moisture can damage or discolor the photo.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Do not use harsh chemicals, perfumes, or cosmetics near the locket. These substances can react with the locket’s surface or damage the photo.

Store Properly

Store the locket in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight or excessive heat. A jewelry box or a velvet pouch is a good option.

Clean Gently

If the locket becomes dusty or dirty, use a soft cloth to gently wipe it clean. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials.

Check Regularly

Periodically check the locket for any loose parts or damage. Tighten any loose screws or replace broken components as needed.

Table: Locket Maintenance Tips

How To Make Locket Size Photos

Lockets are a beautiful way to keep your loved ones close to your heart. But finding locket-sized photos can be difficult. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your own locket-sized photos:

Find a photo of your loved one.

Use a photo editing program to resize the photo to the size of your locket.

Print the photo on high-quality photo paper.

Cut out the photo and insert it into your locket.