Thames & Kosmos - Spy Labs Fingerprinting Kit

Dust, Lift, and Identify Fingerprints — Just Like a Real Detective

The Thames & Kosmos Spy Labs Fingerprinting Kit gives budding detectives everything they need to find, recover, and analyse real fingerprints. Using the same core techniques as forensic investigators — dusting surfaces with powder, lifting prints with clear stickers, and comparing patterns to identify suspects — kids get a genuine hands-on introduction to forensic science. Packed into a durable metal tin, it’s a kit that feels serious because it is.

What’s in the Box

• Black fingerprint dusting powder (100% safe, non-toxic)
• Dusting brush
• Clear lifting stickers to collect and preserve prints
• Fingerprint analysis cards and suspect identification tools
• Step-by-step instruction guide
• Packed in a durable metal tin

Why Kids (and Parents) Love It

• Real forensic technique: This isn’t a pretend detective kit — the dusting and lifting method is the actual process used in forensic investigation. Kids learn something genuinely true about how crime scenes work.
• Immediately engaging: Dust any smooth surface in the house and real fingerprints appear. The feedback is instant and the results are genuinely impressive — especially when kids start identifying whose prints are whose.
• Safe materials: The black powder is 100% safe and non-toxic, so kids can use it independently without concern.
• Durable metal tin: The kit comes packaged in a proper metal tin — not a cardboard box. It stores neatly, travels well, and feels like a real investigator’s kit.
• Great for solo or group play: Works brilliantly as a solo investigation activity or as a group game — set up a crime scene, collect prints, and identify the culprit.

Good to Know Before You Buy

• The black powder will mark surfaces if not handled carefully — best used on smooth, wipeable surfaces.
• Adult supervision recommended for younger children during first use.
• No batteries or charging required — entirely non-powered.
• A strong gift choice for kids interested in science, mysteries, or detective stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is the Fingerprinting Kit best suited for?

Best suited for children aged 8 years and up. The dusting technique requires a steady hand and some patience, and the analysis component involves comparing print patterns — both well within reach for most primary school-aged kids. Older children and teens will get even more out of the forensic science angle.

Is the powder safe?

Yes — the black fingerprint dusting powder is 100% safe and non-toxic. It is designed specifically for use by children. That said, it will mark light-coloured fabrics and porous surfaces, so it’s best used on smooth, non-porous surfaces like glass, plastic, or sealed wood.

What surfaces does it work on?

The dusting powder works best on smooth, non-porous surfaces — glass, plastic, polished wood, metal, and similar materials. Textured or porous surfaces (like paper or unfinished wood) won’t give clear results.

Can the prints be kept after lifting?

Yes — the included clear lifting stickers allow kids to collect and preserve lifted prints on cards for comparison and analysis. Prints can be kept as part of an ongoing investigation or case file.

What skills does it build?

The Fingerprinting Kit supports scientific observation (examining and comparing print patterns), fine motor control (careful dusting and lifting), logical reasoning (identifying suspects from evidence), and an understanding of forensic science as a real-world discipline.

Who makes the Spy Labs Fingerprinting Kit?

Designed by Thames & Kosmos, a leading educational toy company with over 30 years of experience creating science, STEM, and creative kits for children. Thames & Kosmos products are trusted by parents, teachers, and gift-givers worldwide for their quality, clarity, and genuine educational value.

Product Details

• Brand: Thames & Kosmos
• Recommended age: 8 years+
• Packaging: Durable metal tin
• Powder: 100% safe, non-toxic black fingerprint powder
• Batteries: Not required