There’s something truly special about preserving a perfect bloom. Learning how to make a flower press is a wonderful way to save those garden memories. It’s a simple, satisfying project that turns fleeting beauty into lasting art. Best of all, you can create one with items you probably already have at home.
This guide will walk you through the easiest methods. You’ll be pressing garden roses, delicate ferns, or autumn leaves in no time. It’s a perfect craft for gardeners of all ages and skill levels.
How to Make a Flower Press
The classic wooden press is the most effective and durable option. It applies even, sustained pressure, which is key for perfect preservation. This design is timeless for a good reason—it works beautifully.
You can customize the size to fit your needs. A smaller press is great for petite flowers, while a larger one handles big blooms or multiple projects at once.
Gathering Your Materials
First, let’s collect everything you’ll need. Don’t worry about buying speciality wood; basic hardware store supplies are perfect. Here’s your shopping and scavenging list:
* Two pieces of wood: These are your top and bottom boards. Plywood or sanded pine works well. A good starter size is 8 inches by 8 inches.
* Four bolts and wingnuts: These are the heart of the press. They create the pressure. Choose bolts that are long enough to go through your stacked materials—about 3 to 4 inches is usually sufficient.
* Four washers: These help the wingnuts sit evenly and protect the wood.
* Cardboard and absorbent paper: You’ll cut cardboard pieces to the size of your wood. These act as ventilation layers. For paper, use plain newsprint, parchment paper, or coffee filters. Avoid paper with ink that can bleed.
* Tools: You’ll need a drill with a bit slightly larger than your bolts, a saw (if your wood isn’t pre-cut), sandpaper, and a ruler.
Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions
Now, let’s put it all together. Follow these steps for a press that will last for years.
1. Cut and Sand the Wood. If your wood isn’t already the right size, cut your two boards to your desired dimensions. Then, thoroughly sand all the edges and surfaces. This prevents splinters and ensures smooth operation.
2. Mark and Drill the Holes. This is the most important step for alignment. Place your two boards together, ensuring the edges are flush. In each corner, about 3/4 inch from the edge, mark a spot for your bolt. Drill straight through both boards at each mark using your drill bit. This guarantees the holes will line up perfectly.
3. Prepare the Insides. Cut your cardboard and paper sheets to be slightly smaller than your wooden boards. You’ll need many of these for future pressing sessions, so cut a big stack. A good starting set is 10 pieces of cardboard and 20 pieces of paper.
4. Assemble Your Press. Slide the four bolts through the holes in one wooden board (this will be the bottom). Place a washer on each bolt. Then, begin building your pressing sandwich: add a piece of cardboard, then two sheets of paper, your flowers, two more sheets of paper, and another cardboard. You can repeat these layers. Finish with the top board.
5. Apply Pressure. Screw the wingnuts onto the bolts and tighten them down evenly. Go in a criss-cross pattern, like tightening a car tire, to apply pressure uniformly. Your press is now ready to work!
Choosing and Preparing Flowers
Not all flowers press equally well. The best candidates are relatively flat and not too juicy. Timing is also crucial for the best color.
Pick flowers in the late morning, after the dew has dried but before the midday sun wilts them. Avoid any blooms with visible moisture or damage.
Here are some excellent choices for beginners:
* Pansies and violets
* Larkspur and delphinium florets
* Ferns and small leaves
* Queen Anne’s Lace
* Single-petal roses or rose petals
* Buttercups and daisies
Before pressing, gently blot the stems with a paper towel if they seem damp. Arrange the flowers face-down on your pressing paper, carefully spreading out petals and leaves. Remember, they will press exactly as you lay them.
Avoiding Common Pressing Mistakes
A few simple tips will save you from disappointment. First, never press flowers that are wet or dewy—they will mold. Second, don’t overstuff your press; too many layers reduces pressure and air flow.
Also, make sure your flowers are not touching eachother on the paper. They will stick together as they dry. Finally, be patient! Rushing the drying process leads to brittle, discolored results.
The Quick & Easy Book Press Method
Don’t have tools or time for a wooden press? A heavy book is a perfect alternative. This method is ideal for trying pressing without any investment.
Grab a large, heavy book—an old phone directory or encyclopedia is perfect. Open it to the middle and line the pages with parchment or blotting paper. Place your flowers inside, then close the book.
You’ll need to add weight on top. Stack more books or a flat, heavy object. Check after a week and replace the damp paper with fresh sheets to speed up drying. This method is simple, but it does take a bit longer.
Drying Time and Unpacking Your Treasures
How long does it take? Most flowers need 2 to 4 weeks to dry completely in a press. Thicker blooms, like zinnias, may need longer. The environment matters too; a warm, dry room helps.
You’ll know they’re ready when they feel papery and stiff. To check, you can carefully loosen the wingnuts and peek at a corner of a flower. If it still feels cool or limp, tighten the press and wait another week.
When unpacking, work slowly. Use tweezers to lift the delicate, dried flowers from the paper. They are very fragile now. Store them flat in a box with tissue paper until you’re ready to use them.
Creative Uses for Your Pressed Flowers
Your beautiful pressed flowers deserve to be displayed! They add a personal, natural touch to so many projects. Here are some popular ideas to get you started.
* Decoupage: Adhere them to trays, boxes, or furniture with Mod Podge.
* Framed Art: Create a botanical arrangement under glass for a classic look.
* Greeting Cards: Glue a small flower onto a handmade card for a special touch.
* Resin Jewelry: Embed tiny flowers into pendants, earrings, or keychains.
* Bookmarks: Laminate them between clear contact paper for a durable bookmark.
The possibilities are really endless. Let your garden inspire your crafts all year round.
FAQ: Your Pressing Questions Answered
How long do pressed flowers last?
Kept away from direct sunlight and moisture, pressed flowers can last for decades. UV light is the main cause of fading, so display them thoughtfully.
Why did my flowers turn brown?
Some flowers naturally brown (like certain pinks). Browning is often caused by high moisture content or insufficient drying time. Picking at peak bloom and changing blotting paper helps.
Can I press succulents or thick flowers?
It’s very challenging. Their high water content usually leads to mold. You can try slicing them in half lengthwise (with a sharp knife) to press the interior.
What’s the best paper for pressing flowers?
Absorbent, untextured paper is key. Newsprint, blotting paper, or even plain paper towels work well. Avoid waxed or coated papers.
How do I make a flower press for kids?
Simplify the project! Use cardboard squares instead of wood, and secure the layers with strong rubber bands. It’s a great way to introduce them to the craft.
Learning how to make a flower press opens up a new way to connect with your garden. It encourages you to look closely, appreciate small details, and create something lasting. The simple act of pressing helps you slow down and celebrate each season’s unique gifts. So gather some blooms from your garden and give it a try—you might just find a new favorite hobby.