DNA Collection Guide
How to Collect
Your DNA Sample
From kit to finished piece, in six simple steps. It takes about thirty seconds at the sink.
Step 01
Receive Your Kit
Your DesigNA DNA collection kit will arrive within 2–3 working days of placing your order. Inside you will find everything you need: a labelled buccal swab in a sealed container, a consent form, an information leaflet, a UK prepaid Royal Mail return envelope, and your order receipt. Please keep your receipt safe, this contains your order reference number.
Step 02
Read and Sign the Consent Form
Before collecting any sample, please read the consent form carefully. The person providing the DNA sample must give their informed consent by signing where indicated. We are unable to process any sample without a valid, signed consent form.
If the sample is being taken from a child under the age of 16, please refer to our FAQ page for guidance on parental consent requirements.
Step 03
Prepare for Sampling
To ensure the highest possible sample quality, please follow these simple preparation steps before collecting your swab:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the swab
- Avoid smoking, eating, or drinking anything other than water for at least one hour before sampling
- Rinse your mouth with clean water immediately before taking the swab
These precautions prevent food residue or contaminants from affecting the DNA extraction process at our ISO-accredited laboratory.
Step 04
Collect Your Swab
Open the swab container by breaking the seal on the lid. Remove the swab carefully — do not touch the cotton tip at any point, as this may introduce contaminating DNA.
Insert the swab into your mouth and press the cotton tip firmly against the inside of your cheek. Rub in a circular motion for 8–10 rotations to collect a sufficient cell sample. Replace the swab securely into its container and press the lid firmly into place.
For babies and young children: it is often easier to gently rub the cotton tip between the lower lip and the gum line rather than inside the cheek.
Step 05
Post Your Sample
Place the sealed swab container and your signed consent form into the prepaid return envelope. Post your sample as soon as possible after collection — ideally the same day — to maintain sample integrity. Buccal swabs are stable at room temperature, but prompt posting ensures the best results.
Keep your order receipt in a safe place. Your order number is required if you need to contact us about your sample or order status.
Step 06
We Handle Everything Else
Once your sample arrives at our facility, we will send a confirmation notification to the ordering party. Your swab will then be passed to our partner laboratory, Complement Genomics Ltd who are a fully UKAS ISO-accredited DNA profiling laboratory. Your unique genetic profile will be generated using professional-grade STR analysis.
Once your profile is confirmed, our craftspeople will begin handcrafting your DesigNA necklace. Your finished piece, along with your personalised certificate of authenticity, will be delivered within 7–14 working days of sample receipt.
Common questions
Can I collect a sample from a child?
Yes, with consent. For anyone under 16, a parent or guardian must give consent on the signed consent form included in your kit. See our consent page for full details.
What if I eat or drink before swabbing?
For the cleanest sample, avoid eating, smoking, or drinking anything but water for at least an hour before swabbing, and rinse your mouth with water just before. This prevents food residue from affecting the analysis.
What if my sample fails?
In the rare case your sample is insufficient for analysis, your first replacement kit is sent free of charge so you can try again. If a second attempt is also insufficient, a further kit is £10, or you can request a full refund or store credit instead.
Can someone elderly or unwell give a sample easily?
Yes. The swab is quick and painless. For anyone who finds the cheek awkward, gently rubbing the cotton tip along the gum line works just as well.