Pressing and drying flowers is an ancient art that has been practiced for centuries. It’s not just about preserving the beauty of nature; it also involves creating unique pieces of art that can be enjoyed for years to come. To ensure your pressed flower arrangements last as long as possible, follow these steps:
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Choose Your Flowers: Select fresh, non-scented flowers with petals that won’t wilt quickly. Avoid using any flowers with strong odors or those that tend to dry out easily.
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Prepare Your Workspace: Lay down newspaper or paper towels on a flat surface. This will catch any accidental spills during pressing. Ensure the area is clean and well-lit.
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Select Your Press: Choose between a simple cardboard press or a more advanced metal frame press. A wooden box can also work if you prefer something rustic. Make sure the press is large enough to accommodate all your flowers comfortably.
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Position Your Flowers: Arrange the flowers in the press so they are evenly spaced. Use floral tape or clips to keep them secure. Be careful not to crowd them too much as this can cause damage.
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Apply Pressure: Place weights (such as books or heavy objects) over the flowers to apply even pressure. Leave the flowers in the press for several hours, depending on how thickly you want your arrangement to be. For a thicker piece, leave them longer.
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Dry: Once the flowers have dried completely, remove them from the press. The weight should still hold them in place. If necessary, gently shake off excess water before moving them to a separate container.
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Store Properly: After drying, arrange the flowers in a display case or hang them up in a room where humidity levels are stable. Avoid direct sunlight as this can cause discoloration.
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Enjoy Your Work: Display your pressed flower arrangements wherever you’d like to enjoy their beauty. They make great gifts and can be used to decorate rooms, bookshelves, or coffee tables.
Q&A:
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Can I use perfume or hairspray on my pressed flowers?
- No, never apply perfumes or hairsprays directly onto your pressed flowers. These chemicals can stain the flowers and affect their longevity.
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What happens if my flowers start to mold after pressing?
- Mold is usually caused by poor hygiene practices such as leaving wet flowers exposed to air for extended periods without proper drying. To prevent this, always dry your flowers thoroughly before storing them.
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Is there a difference between pressing fresh flowers and dried flowers?
- Yes, pressing fresh flowers requires higher pressure and typically results in a denser, more compact arrangement. Dried flowers may require less pressure but often produce a looser, more natural-looking design.
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Do I need special tools to press flowers?
- Basic tools include a flat board or piece of plywood, florist’s scissors, floral tape, and clips. More advanced presses might be needed for larger projects, but basic materials are sufficient for most home projects.
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Should I refrigerate my pressed flowers?
- Refrigerating your pressed flowers can help slow down further decomposition, especially if stored near fruits and vegetables which release ethylene gas. However, do not freeze them, as this could harm them.
