How To Press Already Dried Flowers

How to Press Dried Flowers: A Guide to Preserve Nature's Beauty

Want to preserve the beauty of your favorite dried flowers? Pressing them is a fantastic way to create stunning keepsakes and incorporate them into various crafts. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your flowers maintain their vibrant colors and shapes for years to come.

Choosing the Right Flowers for Pressing

Not all flowers are created equal when it comes to pressing. Success depends on choosing flowers with:

• Thin petals: Flowers with thin, delicate petals tend to press more easily and retain their shape better than those with thick, fleshy petals. Think pansies, violets, or forget-me-nots.
• Good condition: Choose flowers that are free from blemishes, wilting, or pests. The goal is to capture their beauty at its peak.
• Appropriate moisture level: Ideally, you want flowers that are already slightly dried. Completely desiccated flowers might be too brittle to press effectively. Flowers that are still too damp will mold.

Essential Materials for Pressing Flowers

Before you begin, gather these essential supplies:

• Heavy books: These will provide the necessary pressure to flatten the flowers. Old encyclopedias or dictionaries work well. Avoid using books you cherish!
• Absorbent paper: Newspaper, blotting paper, or even paper towels are excellent choices. These will absorb excess moisture from the flowers. Avoid using glossy or coated paper, as these may not absorb moisture properly.
• Flower press (optional): While not strictly necessary, a flower press offers more even pressure and a more professional finish.
• Tweezers: These will help you carefully arrange delicate flowers without damaging them.

The Step-by-Step Pressing Process

1. Prepare your flowers: Gently remove any excess leaves or stems that might interfere with pressing.

2. Layering: Place a sheet of absorbent paper on a flat surface. Arrange your flowers on the paper, ensuring they don't overlap. Add another sheet of absorbent paper on top of the flowers.

3. Building the press: Place several layers of absorbent paper and flowers between the pages of your heavy book(s). Add more layers if you have more flowers. Ensure even weight distribution for optimal results.

4. Apply pressure: Place a heavy object on top of the book. The more weight, the better the pressing. Allow the flowers to press for 2-4 weeks, checking periodically to replace damp paper.

5. Check for dryness: After the pressing period, carefully remove the flowers. They should be completely dry and flat. If they are still damp, continue pressing for another week or two.

Preserving Your Pressed Flowers

Once your flowers are thoroughly dry and pressed, here are a few ways to preserve their beauty:

• Protective sleeves: Store your pressed flowers in acid-free archival sleeves or plastic bags to protect them from moisture and dust.
• Displaying: Frame your pressed flowers to create beautiful wall art or incorporate them into other craft projects like greeting cards, resin art, or bookmarks.

Tips for Success:

• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of flowers and pressing techniques.
• Patience: Pressing flowers takes time and patience. Don't rush the process.
• Observation: Regularly check your flowers for any signs of mold or pests.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can successfully press your dried flowers and create beautiful, long-lasting keepsakes. Enjoy the process of preserving nature’s artistry!