1. Choose an appropriate color of magnetic fingerprint powder that will allow for best contrast against the color of the item. 

2. Place the magnetic wand, with the magnet engaged, into the container of magnetic fingerprint powder. 

3. Lightly apply the magnetic powder onto the item in a circular motion, ensuring only the powder touches the surface and not the wand. 

4. After the ridge detail reaches point of sufficient clarity, release excess powder back into the container by withdrawing the control rod and disengaging the magnet. 

5. Re-engage the magnet, and pass the wand over the developed ridge detail and surrounding area to remove remaining excess powder. 

6. Capture ridge detail using 1:1 photography and/or recover ridge detail using lifting supplies.