Make Your Own Custom DIY Dog Tag for Your Pup
If you happen to be an extra crafty dog mom, then I have the perfect DIY dog tag project for you. I got tired of the usual metal tags you get from those machines at the pet store. I like to jazz things up and went looking for a way to make my own dog tags for my dog’s collar. Many tutorials for diy dog tags use epoxy resin and I wanted to use something a little more low-key that included safer ingredients. So, let me introduce the star of this craft project…Liquid Sculpey!
Yes, Liquid Sculpey was used to make these adorable diy pet tags. It can be found at craft stores or online and it’s super easy to use. I just made these tags last week and I have already gotten so many compliments from my dogs wearing them out and about. Here are my best tips and tricks and step by step instructions on how to make your very own diy dog tag too.
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Supplies Needed for your DIY Dog Tag
- Liquid Sculpey (I used Pearl, Gold, Turquoise, and Clear). I definitely wish I had gotten white and pink as well. Sculpey has several different colors to choose from. All personal preference except the color “clear.” You will need this for a later step.
- Dog Tag Mold– I used a pack from Amazon. They had a couple different shapes such as a dog bone or circle tag. The larger dog bone shape was too big for a pet’s collar but it could make a cute key ring/keychain if you wanted to go down that route.
- Key rings with jump ring
- Glitter or dried flowers
- Alphabet Stickers or a Cricut Maker/Machine with Cricut Design Space (if you don’t have a Cricut or want to make the project easier, use scrapbooking stickers like I did from any craft store.
- Toothpicks
- Pliers to close the jump ring
Let’s Make This Adorable DIY Dog Tag
Step 1:
Squeeze your Liquid Sculpey into the dog mold. If you are not familiar with this product, Liquid Sculpey is similar to the consistency of Elmer Glue.
Step 2:
Make sure to fill the mold to the near top but NOT completely. I used my pick to move the Sculpey around to make sure it filled every inch of the mold.
**Important– leave a little room at the top to add the clear Liquid Sculpey during a later step. Mix any colors if desired. I added gold and swirled it around and made a mosaic effect. Make sure to pop any air bubbles with your toothpick as well.
Step 3:
The next step is to add your glitter or dried flowers to the top. Do not mix. Bake your mold in your oven (place on a baking sheet) according to the package directions. My package said to bake at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes.
Step 4:
Make sure the tag is cooled off and pop it out of the mold. It will have a rubber-like texture and feel to it. Now is the time to use your stickers to place your pet’s name. I used a pick to place the stickers onto the tag. My stickers used a thick font so only a short name would properly fit on it. My dog Lacy’s name fit perfectly but for my pup Maverick, I had to shorten it to Mav. If I were to do it again, I would make sure to look for smaller font options. If you have a Cricut, you can size them yourself and make it a perfect fit.
Step 5:
Place the pet id tag back into the mold. Now seal the name with the clear Sculpey. Make sure to put on a THIN layer- as thin as you can get it with still sealing the name. If you make this layer too thick, it will come out cloudy and dull the look of the glitter and pet name. Bake again for another 8-10 minutes.
Step 6:
Finally, be sure to wait until your mold is completely cooled and pop out your finished tag. Add your key ring and jump ring. You may need to use pliers to shut your jump ring.
Additional Step:
If this will be more than just a decorative name tag, add your phone number and other important contact information on the back of the tag. You can use permanent marker on the back since this side won’t be seen.
I had so much fun with this project. It was simple, inexpensive, and super beginner-friendly. I would have made a lot more if I had not run out of stickers. It’s fun to get creative and try different designs, glitter placements, etc. You can also get creative with different font styles too. These would also make a great gift for any crafty dog mom who loves cute trinkets like these! I also love that they are practical too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Liquid Sculpey and How Does it Differ from Traditional Resin?
Liquid Sculpey is a type of polymer clay that comes in liquid form. It’s often used for detailed sculpting, baking, and crafting. Unlike traditional resin, which is a hard, clear substance, Liquid Sculpey remains somewhat flexible even after baking. This makes it a great choice for creating personalized dog tags that are both durable and slightly flexible.
Is this a Suitable Project for Beginners?
Yes, creating a DIY dog tag with Liquid Sculpey can be suitable for beginners. Liquid Sculpey is relatively easy to work with, and the process doesn’t require advanced sculpting skills.
Can I Make Multiple Dog Tags at the Same Time?
Yes, you can definitely make multiple tags at the same time. As long as you have enough molds, you can bake multiple at a time.
Can I use Liquid Sculpey for other Pet-Related Crafts?
Absolutely! Liquid Sculpey can be used to create various pet-related crafts such as keychains, collar charms, treat jar labels, and even custom pet figurines. Its versatility makes it a fun choice for a wide range of projects.
How Do I Keep the Dog Tags Clean?
Clean gently with a damp cloth or baby wipe to remove dirt, and consider sealing it with a clear varnish for extra protection.
You May Also Like:
Want to DIY more adorable dog accessories? Our homemade dog bandana tutorial is another easy to follow project that requires absolutely no sewing.
Seriously, you need to try these dog tags. They are too stinkin’ cute. Take a look at my darling pups with their new tags. I took Maverick to the vet yesterday and had about 3 people asking where I got his tag from. How fun that I got to tell them, I made them! So, gather your supplies and let your crafting and creative side fly!
