5 Ways to Press Flowers
Flowers hold a special place in our hearts, often symbolizing love, friendship, and life’s most significant moments. As delicate as they may be, it is possible to preserve their beauty through the art of pressing flowers. Here are five methods for pressing and preserving your favorite blooms.
1. Book Pressing
One of the most traditional and accessible ways to press flowers is by using a heavy book. Follow these simple steps:
– Select fresh, dry flowers that are free of moisture.
– Place the flower between two sheets of parchment or wax paper.
– Lay the protected flower within the pages of a heavy book, ensuring that it sits flat.
– Stack additional books or weights on top to apply constant pressure.
– Check on the flower after 2-4 weeks to see if it’s fully dried and flat.
2. Microwave Pressing
If you’re looking for a quicker method, try microwave pressing:
– Choose fresh, dry flowers and place them between two sheets of microwave-safe paper towels or blotting paper.
– Set the wrapped flower inside a microwavable container with a flat bottom. If necessary, use a heavy microwavable object to gently press down on top of the flower.
– Microwave at 50% power for 30 seconds at a time, checking the progress after each interval until fully dried. (Usually 1-3 minutes depending on the flower)
– Remove from microwave and let cool completely before handling.
3. Iron Pressing
Another speedy alternative is using an iron:
– Similar to book pressing, select fresh flowers and place them between sheets of parchment or wax paper.
– Preheat your iron on low or medium heat without using steam.
– Gently press down on the protected flower with your iron for 10 to 15 seconds without moving back-and-forth as you would when ironing clothes.
– Lift iron and allow the flower to cool for a few seconds before repeating the process until fully dried.
4. Flower Press Tool
Investing in a dedicated flower press can make the process easier and more efficient:
– Arrange your fresh flowers between layers of blotting paper or cardstock, depending on the flower press instructions.
– Assemble the flower press according to manufacturer guidelines, tightening screws or straps as needed to apply pressure evenly.
– Store your flower press tool in a dry area and wait 2-4 weeks before checking for best results.
5. DIY Flower Press
Lastly, you can create a homemade flower press with just a few basic supplies:
– Cut two pieces of plywood or thick cardboard to create the outer pressing surfaces.
– Layer your fresh flowers between sheets of blotting or absorbent paper.
– Sandwich the paper layers (with flowers inside) between your plywood or cardboard pieces.
– Bind together using heavy-duty rubber bands, clamps, or even simple screws and wing nuts to apply consistent pressure.
– Check on your flowers after 2-4 weeks.
Each pressing method has its own advantages, so choose the one that suits you and your flowers best. No matter how you decide to press and preserve your blooms, the result will be lovely keepsakes that capture nature’s beauty and special moments in time.