Pressing flowers is a timeless technique that allows you to preserve the beauty of fresh blooms and create lasting keepsakes. Whether you’re making bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed art, pressing flowers is a simple and enjoyable craft that you can easily do at home. This guide will walk you through the process of pressing flowers, from selecting the best blooms to preserving them in a way that captures their natural beauty.
Selecting the Right Flowers for Pressing
The first step in pressing flowers is choosing the right ones. Not all flowers are suitable for pressing; some retain their shape and color better than others. Here are some tips on selecting the best flowers for pressing:
Choose Fresh, Healthy Blooms: Select flowers that are free from blemishes, pests, and diseases. Fresh blooms will retain their color and shape better during the pressing process.
Pick Flowers at the Right Time: The best time to pick flowers for pressing is in the morning after the dew has evaporated but before the sun is too hot. This ensures the flowers are fully hydrated but not too moist.
Select Flat or Single-Layer Flowers: Flat flowers like pansies, violets, daisies, and cosmos press well because they have a single layer of petals. Flowers with multiple layers, such as roses, can be pressed, but they may require special techniques to flatten them effectively.
Consider Flower Size and Thickness: Smaller and thinner flowers tend to press better and dry faster. If you want to press thicker flowers, like peonies or dahlias, you may need to remove some petals or cut the flowers in half.
Preparing Flowers for Pressing
Once you’ve selected your flowers, it’s time to prepare them for pressing. Proper preparation ensures that your pressed flowers will look beautiful and last for years.
Clean Your Flowers: Gently shake off any dirt or insects from the flowers. You can also use a soft brush or cloth to clean them if necessary. Make sure the flowers are dry before you start pressing them.
Trim Excess Foliage: Remove any excess leaves or stems from the flowers. If you want to press leaves, choose small, flat leaves that will press well.
Arrange Flowers on the Pressing Surface: Arrange the flowers on the pressing surface, such as a piece of cardboard or paper. Lay them flat, and make sure they do not overlap. The flowers should be arranged in the way you want them to look when pressed.
See also: How Long to Press Flowers in a Book?
Methods for Pressing Flowers at Home
There are several methods for pressing flowers at home, each with its own benefits and requirements. Here are the most popular techniques:
1. Using a Flower Press
A flower press is a traditional tool used for pressing flowers. It consists of two flat boards held together with bolts and wing nuts, allowing you to press flowers evenly and consistently.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Flower Press: Open the flower press and place a piece of blotting paper or absorbent paper on the bottom board. This paper will help absorb moisture from the flowers.
Arrange the Flowers: Arrange your flowers on the paper, making sure they do not overlap. Cover the flowers with another piece of blotting paper.
Add Layers: If you want to press more flowers, add another layer of blotting paper on top of the first layer, then repeat the process. You can press multiple layers of flowers at once if your press is large enough.
Tighten the Press: Place the top board on the flower press and tighten the bolts and wing nuts until the press is firmly closed. Apply even pressure to ensure the flowers press flat.
Wait and Check: Leave the flowers in the press for about 2 to 4 weeks. Check them periodically to see if they are fully dried and pressed. The drying time will depend on the thickness of the flowers and the humidity of your environment.
2. Using Books
Pressing flowers with books is a simple and accessible method that requires no special equipment. All you need is a heavy book and some absorbent paper.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Book: Choose a large, heavy book that you don’t mind getting a little damp, like an old phone book or a thick encyclopedia.
Arrange the Flowers: Place a piece of absorbent paper, such as parchment or blotting paper, on one of the book’s pages. Arrange the flowers on the paper, ensuring they are flat and do not overlap. Cover the flowers with another piece of paper.
Close the Book: Carefully close the book, making sure the flowers stay in place. You can place more books or a heavy object on top of the book to increase the pressure.
Wait and Check: Leave the flowers in the book for about 2 to 4 weeks. Check them occasionally to ensure they are drying properly. Once the flowers are completely dry and pressed, they are ready to use.
3. Using an Iron
If you need pressed flowers quickly, using an iron is a great option. This method uses heat to speed up the drying process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Flowers: Place the flowers between two pieces of absorbent paper, such as parchment or blotting paper. Make sure the flowers are arranged flat and do not overlap.
Heat the Iron: Set your iron to a low or medium setting without steam. You want to use dry heat to press the flowers.
Press the Flowers: Place the paper with the flowers on an ironing board or a flat, heat-resistant surface. Gently press the iron onto the paper for about 10-15 seconds. Lift the iron and allow the paper to cool for a few seconds, then repeat the process. Be careful not to move the iron back and forth, as this can shift the flowers and cause them to wrinkle.
Check the Flowers: After a few rounds of pressing and cooling, check the flowers to see if they are dry and flat. If not, continue pressing until they are fully dried. This method usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
4. Using a Microwave
The microwave method is another quick way to press flowers, using heat and a flower press or microwave-safe dish to speed up the drying process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Flowers: Place the flowers between two pieces of absorbent paper. You can use a microwave flower press if you have one, or you can place the paper between two microwave-safe plates or tiles.
Microwave in Short Intervals: Place the flower press or plates in the microwave and heat on a low setting for 20-30 seconds. Carefully remove the press or plates and let them cool for a few seconds, then check the flowers. If they are not fully dried, repeat the process.
Check the Flowers: Continue microwaving in short intervals until the flowers are completely dry and flat. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the flowers to burn or discolor.
Tips for Pressing Flowers Successfully
To ensure the best results when pressing flowers, follow these helpful tips:
Use Absorbent Paper: Always use absorbent paper to press flowers. This helps draw out moisture and speeds up the drying process.
Avoid Overlapping Flowers: Make sure flowers are arranged flat and do not overlap. Overlapping flowers can cause them to stick together and press unevenly.
Check Flowers Regularly: When using slower methods like books or a flower press, check your flowers periodically to ensure they are drying properly. This allows you to catch any issues early and adjust the pressing process if needed.
Store Pressed Flowers Properly: Once your flowers are pressed and dry, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can keep them in a book or a sealed container with silica gel packets to prevent moisture damage.
Creative Uses for Pressed Flowers
Pressed flowers can be used in a variety of creative projects. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
Framed Art: Arrange pressed flowers in a decorative pattern and frame them to create a beautiful piece of art. This makes a thoughtful gift or a unique addition to your home decor.
Greeting Cards: Use pressed flowers to decorate handmade greeting cards. Glue the flowers to the card with a clear adhesive and add a personal message.
Bookmarks: Pressed flowers make lovely bookmarks. Laminate them with a strip of cardstock or clear adhesive film to protect them.
Candles: Decorate candles with pressed flowers by adhering them with a thin layer of melted wax. This creates a charming, natural look.
Phone Cases: Customize a clear phone case by arranging pressed flowers between the case and your phone. This creates a unique and personalized accessory.
Conclusion
Pressing flowers is a wonderful way to preserve the beauty of nature and create lasting keepsakes. By selecting the right flowers, preparing them properly, and using one of the many pressing techniques available, you can easily press flowers at home. With a little patience and creativity, you can turn pressed flowers into beautiful works of art and cherished mementos. Enjoy exploring the world of pressed flowers and let your creativity bloom!
