Let me start by saying this kit is *adorable* when it works – but oh boy, does it test your patience. I used it to capture my 3-month-old's footprints, and the results were equal parts heartwarming and chaotic.

The pros: The alginate molding material truly captures incredible detail (even tiny toe wrinkles!) if you manage to get baby's cooperation. I loved that the powder changes color when ready – super helpful for first-timers. The finished casts have a professional look with the included sealing finish.

Now the reality check: This is basically an Olympic sport with a wiggly baby. My first attempt ended in a lumpy disaster because the mixture hardened while I was wrestling with my little Houdini. Pro tip: Do this during DEEP naps (I learned this after failing twice). Warm water actually worked better for us despite instructions saying otherwise – kept baby calm and sped up the process.

The kit claims to make 2 keepsakes, but honestly you'll want the 5-cast version. Between trial runs and inevitable mishaps, two barely cuts it. Also beware – that plastic mixing bowl feels flimsy (some reviewers reported leaks).

Final verdict? When successful, these casts become priceless treasures that photos can't match. But go in prepared for a learning curve, have backup materials, and maybe a glass of wine handy. Worth it? Absolutely – if you've got the persistence of a saint.