Pressed flowers: How to preserve your blooms

When it comes to pressing flowers, picking the right ones can make all the difference. Some flowers are just perfect for this craft, while others might not turn out as well. 

Best flowers for beginners

• Daisies: These cheerful flowers are easy to press and look great in any project.
• Pansies: With their vibrant colours and flat shape, pansies are a favourite for pressing.
• Lavender: Not only does it smell amazing, but it also presses beautifully and keeps its colour.

Seasonal blooms to consider

• Spring: Look for tulips and violets; they’re fresh and full of life!
• Summer: Sunflowers and zinnias are bright and bold, perfect for summer projects.
• Autumn: Think about using marigolds and chrysanthemums for warm, rich colours.

Avoiding flowers that don't press well

• Thick petals: Flowers like peonies can be tricky because their petals are too thick.
• Fleshy blooms: Avoid flowers like dahlias, as they tend to rot instead of drying out.
• Highly fragrant flowers: Some, like gardenias, can lose their scent and colour when pressed.

Remember, the key to successful flower pressing is to experiment! Don’t be afraid to try different flowers and see what works best for you.

Gathering your materials

When it comes to pressing flowers, having the right materials is key to getting the best results. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Essential tools for flower pressing

• Heavy books: These are perfect for pressing flowers flat. Just make sure they’re not too precious, as they might get a bit messy.
• Parchment paper: This helps protect your flowers and keeps them from sticking to the pages of your books.
• Tweezers: Handy for placing delicate blooms without squishing them.

Where to find pressing supplies

• Craft stores: They usually have everything you need, from paper to tools.
• Online shops: A quick search can lead you to many options, often with great deals.
• Local florists: Sometimes they have extra supplies or can give you tips on what works best.

DIY pressing kits

Creating your own flower pressing kit can be fun and easy! Here’s a simple way to do it:

1. Grab a few sheets of cardboard.
2. Cut them to the size you want.
3. Stack them with parchment paper in between each layer.
4. Use heavy weights on top to press your flowers.

Step-by-step guide to pressing flowers

Preparing your blooms

First things first, you need to get your flowers ready for pressing. Here’s how:

1. Choose fresh flowers: Pick blooms that are just starting to open. They should be dry and free from any dirt or bugs.
2. Trim the stems: Cut the stems to about 2-3 inches long. This makes them easier to handle.
3. Remove excess leaves: Strip off any leaves that might get in the way. You want just the petals to shine through!

Pressing techniques for vibrant results

Now that your flowers are prepped, it’s time to press them. Here are a few techniques:

• Using a flower press: Place your blooms between two pieces of absorbent paper and sandwich them in a flower press. Tighten the screws to apply pressure.
• Heavy books method: If you don’t have a press, use a heavy book. Lay your flowers flat between the pages and stack more books on top for extra weight.
• Microwave pressing: For a quick method, place flowers between two pieces of paper towel and microwave them for 30 seconds. Check and repeat if needed, but be careful not to burn them!

Drying and storing your pressed flowers

Once your flowers are pressed, it’s important to store them properly:

1. Let them dry completely: Leave your pressed flowers in a cool, dry place for a few weeks to ensure they’re fully dried out.
2. Store in a flat, dry place: Keep them in a flat box or between sheets of parchment paper to prevent them from bending.
3. Avoid sunlight: Store your pressed flowers away from direct sunlight to keep their colours vibrant.

Pressing flowers is a fun and creative way to preserve nature’s beauty. With a little patience and the right techniques, you can create stunning keepsakes!

Creative ways to use pressed flowers

Decorating your home with pressed blooms

Pressed flowers can add a lovely touch to your home. Here are some fun ideas:

• Framed Art: Create beautiful wall art by framing your pressed flowers. Choose a nice frame and arrange the flowers in a way that looks good to you.
• Table Decor: Use pressed flowers as centrepieces for your dining table. Place them in a small vase or scatter them around for a natural look.
• Bookmarks: Make unique bookmarks by glueing pressed flowers onto sturdy paper. They’ll not only keep your place but also look pretty!

Crafting personalised gifts

Pressed flowers make for thoughtful gifts. Here’s how you can use them:

1. Greeting Cards: Add pressed flowers to homemade cards for birthdays or special occasions. It shows you care!
2. Gift Wrap: Decorate plain gift wrap with pressed flowers for a special touch. It’s a simple way to make your gifts stand out.
3. Photo Albums: Include pressed flowers in your photo albums. They can add a personal touch to your memories.

Making pressed flower art

Get creative with your pressed flowers! Here are some ideas:

• Collages: Combine different flowers to create a stunning collage. You can use a canvas or a scrapbook.
• Magnets: Make fridge magnets by sticking pressed flowers onto magnetic sheets. They’ll brighten up your kitchen!
• Coasters: Create coasters by placing pressed flowers between glass or resin. They’ll protect your surfaces and look great too.

Pressed flowers are not just for pressing; they can be transformed into beautiful pieces of art and gifts that show your creativity and thoughtfulness.

Starting flower pressing as a hobby

Finding inspiration for your projects

Getting started with flower pressing can be super fun! Here are some ways to spark your creativity:

• Nature walks: Take a stroll in your local park or garden. Look for flowers that catch your eye.
• Social media: Check out platforms like Instagram or Pinterest for beautiful pressed flower ideas.
• Books and magazines: Find books on flower pressing or craft magazines that showcase projects.

Joining flower pressing communities

Connecting with others who love flower pressing can make your hobby even more enjoyable. Here’s how to find your tribe:

• Online forums: Join websites or forums dedicated to flower pressing.
• Local workshops: Look for classes in your area where you can learn and meet fellow enthusiasts.
• Social media groups: Search for Facebook groups or Instagram hashtags related to flower pressing.

Documenting your flower pressing journey

Keeping track of your flower pressing adventures can be really rewarding. Here are some ideas:

• Create a journal: Write down your experiences, what flowers you pressed, and any tips you learned.
• Take photos: Snap pictures of your pressed flowers and the process to see how you improve over time.
• Share your work: Post your creations on social media to inspire others and get feedback.

Troubleshooting common flower pressing issues

When you're getting into flower pressing, things don’t always go as planned. Here are some common problems you might face and how to fix them:

Dealing with mould and moisture

• Keep it dry: Make sure your flowers are completely dry before pressing them. Any moisture can lead to mould.
• Use silica gel: This can help absorb moisture and keep your flowers fresh.
• Store properly: Keep your pressed flowers in a cool, dry place to prevent any dampness.

Preventing colour fading

• Choose the right flowers: Some flowers hold their colour better than others. Try using vibrant blooms like marigolds or zinnias.
• Limit sunlight: Keep your pressed flowers out of direct sunlight to avoid fading.
• Seal them: Consider using a spray sealant to protect the colours.

Fixing flattened petals

• Re-press them: If your petals are too flat, you can try pressing them again with fresh paper.
• Use a heavier weight: Sometimes, adding a bit more weight can help keep the petals in shape.
• Be gentle: When handling your pressed flowers, be careful not to squish them further.

Caring for your pressed flower collection

Taking care of your pressed flowers is super important if you want them to last and look great. Here are some handy tips to keep your blooms in tip-top shape:

Displaying your pressed flowers safely

• Choose the right spot: Find a place that’s not too sunny. Direct sunlight can fade the colours of your flowers.
• Use glass frames: If you want to show off your flowers, glass frames can protect them from dust and damage.
• Avoid damp areas: Keep your flowers away from bathrooms or kitchens where moisture can cause mould.

Cleaning and maintaining your collection

• Dust gently: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dust. Be careful not to press too hard!
• Check for damage: Regularly look for any signs of wear or tear. If you spot any, fix them right away.
• Store properly: If you’re not displaying them, keep your pressed flowers in a dry, cool place, like a drawer or a box.

Protecting your blooms from sunlight

• Use UV-protective glass: If you’re framing your flowers, opt for glass that blocks UV rays to help keep the colours vibrant.
• Rotate your displays: Change the position of your pressed flowers every now and then to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Consider a shadow box: These can be a stylish way to display your flowers while keeping them safe from light.

Starting a new hobby like flower pressing is all about having fun and expressing yourself. Don’t worry about making everything perfect and enjoy the process.