On March 12, ICON previewed a Pixifun Key Ring program. The kit includes a self-executing installation CD and all materials required for creating six key rings. Systems requirements are Windows 95 or higher.

The program initially prompts you to select a template mode (portrait or landscape) and, if desired, a background. A variety of backgrounds and some clip art are available within the program but other sources can be utilized.. Next a photo (or object) on your computer is imported. Varieties of tools are provided for cropping, resizing, adding text, and making other alterations to your photo. The completed product is printed on precut, self-adhesive blocks that are perforated in the center for easy folding. The most challenging part of the key ring project is getting the printed layout to precisely fit the template. Practice sheets and templates are included in the kit. Placing the finished photo in the key ring and snapping the cover on completes the project. The program is fun, relatively easy to use and appropriate for children of all ages. But, the kit is not cost effective for making a large quantity of key rings.

Pixifun offers other kits for creating a variety of projects such as labels, Photo ID badges and stickers and magnets. Any picture you can put on your computer can be used for a Pixifun project. It’s a fun way to display family photos, advertise a business or make unique labels and invitations. The average cost for kits, which can be ordered online at www.pixifun.com/pixifun, is $12.99 for a kit and $9.99 for refills. They are also sold at Staples and other retail stores.

None of the other Pixifun kits was previewed but some of those projects could likely be duplicated using other programs you may already have on your computer.