How To Make - Shrink Art by PixelBrat

Turn your printed images into adorable keepsakes, keychains, or charms with inkjet shrink plastic. This tutorial walks through the entire process from digital file to finished, painted piece.

If you were a child of the 70s, you may remember the magic of shrink plastic—thin, flexible sheets that curled and shrunk into firm, colorful charms when baked. Today, Shrink Art is inkjet printer compatible! You can print photos, cartoons, and logos right from your computer. Let’s go!

🖼️ Step 1: Choose and Prepare Your Image

I started with my logo from PixelBrat.com. Open your image in a graphics editor and lighten it—shrinking darkens colors significantly. Always mirror your image (especially if it contains text) so it prints in reverse.

🖨️ Step 2: Size and Print

Make your image fairly large; the plastic reduces size by roughly 50% in each direction. Remove all paper from your printer and feed shrink sheets one at a time.

Set printer to "Glossy" or "Transparency" mode.
Let prints dry for 30 minutes (dark colors may take longer).
Do not touch the surface until fully dry.

✂️ Step 3: Cut and Punch

Use small, sharp scissors to cut out your designs. Round off sharp edges, as they become very rigid and pointy after baking. Punch any holes now if you’re making charms.

🔥 Step 4: Bake Your Shrink Art

Place the printed side face down on a nonstick tray or parchment paper. Preheat a toaster or conventional oven to 275-300°F (no microwaves!). Bake for 3-5 minutes. The plastic will curl and then flatten. Press with a flat object while warm to ensure it stays level.

🎨 Step 5: Paint and Finish

I like to paint the back (the printed side) with white spray paint to make the image pop. Tape off the front to avoid overspray. Apply multiple light coats and let dry overnight.

🔗 Step 6: Assemble & Enjoy

Once dry, add your accessories—key rings, magnets, or jewelry backs. Each piece is a one-of-a-kind creation made entirely from home!