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Pressed flowers are a beautiful way to preserve memories, whether from a special bouquet or a meaningful event. By pressing flowers, you can create lasting keepsakes, such as framed art, bookmarks, or greeting cards, that hold sentimental value for years to come. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of pressing flowers and offer creative ideas for using them in keepsakes.
1. Choosing the Right Flowers to Press
Before you begin, selecting the right type of flowers is crucial for a successful pressing. Some flowers press better than others, so keep the following tips in mind:
-
Best Flowers for Pressing: Flowers with naturally flat petals or small blooms tend to press well. These include:
- Pansies
- Daisies
- Violets
- Ferns
- Baby’s breath
- Lavender
- Flowers to Avoid: Flowers with thick, fleshy petals (such as roses or succulents) are more difficult to press and may take longer to dry. If you’d like to press a rose, consider removing the petals and pressing them individually for better results.
2. How to Press Flowers Using a Book
The traditional method of pressing flowers involves using a heavy book. This simple process takes about 1–2 weeks, but it yields stunning results.
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh flowers
- A large, heavy book (like a dictionary)
- Absorbent paper (such as parchment or blotting paper)
- Additional heavy objects (optional)
Steps:
- Prepare the Flowers: Pick fresh flowers when they are dry (preferably in the morning after the dew has evaporated). Trim the stems and remove any excess leaves.
- Arrange the Flowers: Open the book to the middle and place a sheet of absorbent paper on the pages. Lay the flowers flat on the paper, ensuring the petals are spread out and not overlapping.
- Press the Flowers: Place another sheet of paper over the flowers to protect the pages of the book. Close the book carefully and add more weight (like additional books) on top for better pressing.
- Wait for the Flowers to Dry: Leave the flowers in the book for about 1–2 weeks, checking occasionally to ensure they are drying evenly. Once the flowers feel dry and papery, they are ready to use.
3. How to Press Flowers Using an Iron
If you’re short on time, pressing flowers with an iron is a faster alternative. This method can dry flowers in just a few minutes.
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh flowers
- Absorbent paper (like parchment or blotting paper)
- An iron (without steam)
- A flat surface
Steps:
- Prepare the Flowers: Pick and trim fresh flowers as described in the book method.
- Arrange and Press the Flowers: Lay the flowers between two pieces of absorbent paper. Flatten them with a heavy book for about 30 seconds to begin the pressing process.
- Use the Iron: Heat the iron on a low setting (without steam). Gently press the iron on top of the absorbent paper for 10–15 seconds. Lift the iron and let the paper cool slightly before pressing again. Repeat until the flowers are dry and flat.
- Let the Flowers Cool: Once pressed, let the flowers cool completely before handling them to avoid damage.
4. How to Press Flowers Using a Microwave
For an even quicker option, you can press flowers in a microwave using a microwave-safe flower press or DIY alternatives like two ceramic tiles.
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh flowers
- Microwave-safe flower press or two ceramic tiles
- Paper towels or parchment paper
- Rubber bands (if using tiles)
Steps:
- Prepare the Flowers: Trim and arrange the flowers as in previous methods.
- Place Flowers in the Press: Arrange the flowers between two pieces of paper and place them inside the microwave flower press or between the ceramic tiles. Secure the tiles with rubber bands if needed.
- Microwave in Intervals: Place the press in the microwave and heat on low for 30 seconds at a time. Check the flowers after each interval. Repeat until they are dry and flat.
- Allow to Cool: Let the pressed flowers cool before removing them from the press.
5. Creative Ways to Use Pressed Flowers in Keepsakes
Now that your flowers are beautifully pressed, there are endless possibilities for turning them into memorable keepsakes. Here are some fun ideas:
Framed Art
Arrange your pressed flowers in a design or pattern on a piece of cardstock or decorative paper. Once you’re happy with the layout, glue the flowers in place and frame them for a stunning piece of floral artwork.
Bookmarks
Create custom bookmarks by laminating your pressed flowers. Arrange the flowers between two sheets of transparent laminate or place them on a strip of thick paper, then cover with clear adhesive laminate. Trim the edges to create your personalized bookmark.
Greeting Cards
Pressed flowers can be used to create one-of-a-kind greeting cards. Glue small blooms or petals onto blank cards and add a personal message. These make thoughtful birthday, anniversary, or thank-you cards.
Resin Jewelry
For a more advanced project, consider embedding pressed flowers in resin to create unique jewelry pieces, such as pendants or earrings. This technique preserves the flowers in a clear, durable form, allowing you to wear your keepsake.
Candles
Decorate candles with pressed flowers by applying a thin layer of wax to the surface of the candle and gently pressing the flowers onto it. Once arranged, add another layer of wax to secure the flowers in place.
6. Tips for Long-Lasting Pressed Flowers
- Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: Exposure to sunlight can fade the colors of pressed flowers over time, so display them in a cool, shaded area.
- Use Tweezers for Handling: Pressed flowers are delicate, so handle them gently using tweezers to avoid tearing.
- Seal for Longevity: For projects like framed art or bookmarks, consider sealing the flowers with a light coating of clear-drying glue or varnish to preserve them.
Conclusion: Preserve Your Memories with Pressed Flowers
Pressing flowers is a beautiful and creative way to capture the essence of a moment and turn it into a keepsake. Whether you’re preserving flowers from a special event or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, pressing flowers allows you to hold onto those memories for years to come. At Plumeria, we offer stunning bouquets perfect for pressing and creating your own personalized floral keepsakes. Explore our collection today!