While most parents take lots of pictures of their new baby or write down milestones in a baby book, some are finding new ways to preserve memories of their babies.
One new trend that parents are embracing is preserving the baby’s umbilical cord and turning it into art.
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While many are trying this new trend, for some it is simply too weird. Take a look and decide for yourself.
Umbilical cord keepsakes have been gaining popularity the last few years.
While many parents have held on to the baby’s umbilical stump in the past, now they are preserving the rest of the cord for unique art and keepsakes.
Postpartum doulas or other artisans who specialize in cord keepsakes can work with the parents to make this one-of-a-kind art.
The cord needs to dry out to be preserved, so some websites recommend using your oven or a food dehydrator to accomplish this.
Once the cord is dry, it should last for years to come.
Many parents will place it in a frame or shadowbox but you can also hang it up as a suncatcher.
Some parents are even getting “placenta prints” to go along with their umbilical cord art.
These prints are made by pressing the placenta on paper and allowing the design to dry.
Many people opt to shape the umbilical cords into a heart or spell out “Love”.
These seem to be the most popular designs, but a swirl pattern is also quite common.
There are lots of different ways to display the dried cord when it’s ready.
This one was mounted onto some wood for a bit of a rustic feel. Just remember that by leaving the cord exposed, it can gather dust over time.
For this display, the cords were covered in glitter and then placed in a shadow box.
I haven’t come across too many designs like this, but everyone has their own ideas for how to make this art unique.
This isn’t the first trend that has shown us how to preserve umbilical cords.
Umbilical cord jewelry is another popular trend that allows moms to preserve their babies’ umbilical cords into a fashion accessory.
There are a ton of options when it comes to umbilical cord jewelry.
From rings and necklaces to bracelets, you can pretty much get any design you want.
So what do you think of these trends? Are they cool or just plain weird?
Last Updated on April 11, 2019 by Emily McWilliams
