Hello, I am Bea!

..the owner of Dotty & Fern Lifecasting

I create memories for families to treasure in the form of beautiful hand & feet castings for babies, children & adults.. as well as doggy paws!

Lifecasting has been a passion of mine ever since our first daughter arrived, in the midst of the very first coronavirus lockdown in 2020. Unfortunately, restrictions and social distancing at that scary time meant I was unable to have her hands and feet casted, to have that memory of how tiny those little toes and fingers were!

When my second daughter was born at the beginning of 2023, I decided to give the casting a go myself. The results are very "homemade" but I am pleased to say my skills have improved since then!

More recently, one of my beloved dogs has begun to show her age and has been diagnosed with some health issues. This prompted me to consider having a cast made of her paw, as an everlasting and precious memory. I have been able to make this myself which was very special.

I realised how important making castings could be not only to myself, but to other families too.

As a private Nanny for many years previously with many childcare qualifications under my belt, and a mum to 2 young girls myself; I understand children and absolutely love being around them. As a family, we live on a farm; with our own pets, and I studied Livestock Science & Animal Management at the beginning of my career - making animals of all shapes and sizes another great love of mine.

What better way to combine my two passions of working with children & animals, with my natural creativity and desire to "make" things.. than to train in Lifecasting!

Fast forward a few years, and we have Dotty & Fern Lifecasting. Named after Dotty; my youngest daughter, and Fern; one of our dogs. Symbolising offering both human castings and pet ones!

My home studio is based in our pretty village just outside of Romsey.

Thank you for your interest and support in for my small business. I look forward to creating beautiful moments & bespoke keepsakes together.

Bea xxx

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for creating a cast?

I use an alginate powder (the same that dentists use to take moulds of teeth!) mixed with water to create a mould, that we then place the hand, foot or paw into. It slowly hardens to form a rubbery compound and captures all of those details that we are looking for. It does not hurt at all, and is completely safe for all skin types and all ages. Alginate is seaweed based so also non-allergenic.

How long does it take?

I allow around 30 mins for an appointment for one baby hand and foot casting, and longer for multiple children. My ultimate priority is the comfort of everyone involved, and taking breaks for baby to be fed, winded, or settled is absolutely fine! It usually works well for baby to actually be fed whilst we are taking the casts as they are most relaxed then. Taking the casts does not take long at all - the alginate starts to set in around 1 min 45 seconds. However I will take time to get to know you, demonstrate the process and go through a form afterwards to chat about your framing and paint colour preferences.

How old does my baby need to be?

Babies can be casted from newborn. There is no age limit!

I cast adults and dogs of all ages!

How long will it be until my keepsake is finished?

Please do let me know if the keepsake is required to be completed in time for a specific occasion; ie Christmas, or a birthday. I will do my best to accomodate, however please bare in mind that the actual casts can take 3-4 weeks to completely dry out before they are painted and framed, so do try to book in within plenty of time before the required date.

Can I customise my keepsake?

Yes! The possibilites for displaying your casts are endless. They can be painted in gold, silver, bronze or white, and the frame and mount colour can also be selected by you too. I will provide examples at your appointment. Frames can be with our without photos, or plaques, with text that you choose. Casts can also be displayed on plinths or inside domes if you would prefer.

What if my baby is fussy or my dog is wriggly?

Please do not worry! The alginate mould sets quickly and a little bit of wriggling is to be expected. I recommend bringing milk and a dummy for babies (if they use one) and snacks for toddlers. I have toys in the studio that they can look at. For dogs, their favourite treats helps to persuade them to sit still for a few moments! I have dog treats here too.

Do you do family/sibling castings or other groups?

Yes I do. Family frames make absolutely beautiful keepsakes, and sibling frames are some of my favourites to make! Please get in touch to enquire.

How much does it cost?

Prices vary - please see my price list and feel free to enquire about any ideas you have for castings that are not mentioned.

Can I purchase a gift voucher?

Absolutely. Gift vouchers are a fantastic present, especially for a baby shower, or a wedding! Gift vouchers can be purchased in any amount. Please contact me for more information.

Deposit, cancellation and refund policy

I ask for a £50.00 deposit upon booking to secure your chosen slot. Upon receiving the deposit, I shall confirm your booking and email over more information. The remaining balance is due on the day of your appointment.

I am human and understand that sometimes life happens, and people need to change their appointments. Please try to give at least 48 hours' notice if you are unable to attend. I will move your booking and your deposit for you. For cancellations on the day, or within 24 hours of your appointment, I will ask that the remainder of your booking fee is paid upon rebooking.

For no-shows, I am sorry to say that your deposit is non-refundable.

"Bea was brilliant with our baby and toddler whilst casting their hands & feet. Our little boy smiled the whole way through, and the baby fell asleep!
Our frame is perfect and holds a special place in our hearts. as it reminds us of those fleeting moments of the kids being small."