Here is all you need to know about how to press flowers for framing.
Is it better to dry flowers or press them?
I think both drying and pressing flowers can be excellent methods for preserving flowers.
Which method you pick is up to your personal preferences as well as the type of flower you are working with.
- Drying flowers is about removing the moisture from the flowers, which can help to preserve their shape and color. There are several methods you can use to dry flowers, such as hanging them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated location, using silica gel or sand to absorb the moisture, or using a microwave or oven on a low setting. Drying flowers can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the method and the type of flower.
- Pressing flowers is about flattening the flowers between sheets of paper or in a flower press, and allowing them to dry in this position. Pressing can help to preserve the flowers’ shape and color and can be a faster method than drying, as the flowers will be fully dried and flattened in a week or less. However, pressing may not be suitable for all types of flowers, as some may lose their shape or color when flattened.
The ideal method for preserving flowers is all about your own preferences as well as the sort of flower you are preserving. Both drying and pressing can be effective methods, and you should try both to see which one works best for you.
What are the easiest flowers to press?
Some flowers are simpler to press than others because when flattened, they retain their shape and color better. Some of the easiest flowers to press include:
- Pressed daisies: Daisies are a classic choice for pressing, as they hold their shape and color well and are relatively easy to press.
- Pressed violets: Violets are another good choice for pressing, as they are small and delicate and hold their color well when flattened.
- Pressed roses: Roses can be more challenging to press than some other flowers, but they hold their shape and color well and can make beautiful pressed flowers.
- Pressed ferns: Ferns are relatively easy to press, as they are flat and hold their shape well when flattened.
- Pressed lavender: Lavender is a popular choice for pressing, as it holds its color and aroma well when dried.
It is important to note that the best flowers for pressing will depend on your personal preference and the type of flower you are working with.
How to Press Flowers for Framing
You will need the following materials to make pressed flowers: fresh flowers or leaves, heavy books or a flower press, white paper or newspaper.
Here is the process to press flowers for framing:
- Gently remove any excess foliage or thorns from the flowers or leaves.
- Place a sheet of white paper or newspaper on a flat surface. Arrange the flowers or leaves on the paper, making sure they are not overlapping.
- Place another sheet of paper or newspaper on top of the flowers or leaves.
- Place the flowers or leaves between the pages of a heavy book, or use a flower press if you have one.
- Close the book or press and weigh it down with additional heavy objects, such as more books or a brick.
- Allow the flowers or leaves to press for at least a week, or until they are fully dried and flattened. If you are in a hurry, you can try speeding up the process by using an iron. To do this, place a sheet of paper over the flowers or leaves and iron on a low-heat setting for a few seconds. Be careful not to apply too much heat or pressure, as this can damage the flowers or leaves.
When the flowers or leaves have dried and pressed completely, carefully remove them from the book or press and arrange them as desired. You can frame them, use them as part of a craft project, or simply enjoy them as a natural decoration.
How long do pressed flowers last?
If properly stored and maintained, pressed flowers can last for many years. The longevity of pressed flowers is determined by a number of factors, including the type of flower, the process used to press them, and how they are stored.
To make sure that your pressed flowers remain as long as possible, handle them carefully and store them in a dry, cold, and dark place. Avoid exposing the flowers to direct sunlight or moisture, since these might cause the blossoms to fade or become damaged.
It is also a good idea to protect the flowers by placing them between sheets of acid-free paper or in a protective cover, such as a frame or display case. This can help to prevent the flowers from becoming damaged or fading over time.
Overall, pressed flowers can last for many years with careful care and handling and can be a beautiful and long-lasting way to preserve nature’s beauty.
How do you know when pressed flowers are done?
Here are the most common indicators that pressed flowers have fully dried and are ready to be removed from the press:
- The pressed flowers are flat and do not bounce back when pressed gently.
- The pressed flowers are crisp and fragile.
- The dried flowers are not producing any moisture.
- The flowers are not changing color.
Overall, the easiest way to tell when pressed flowers are totally dried is to inspect them frequently during the drying process. Allow at least a week for the flowers to press, or longer if necessary, to ensure that they are completely dry.
See also this video about different DIY hacks for pressing flowers for framing.
And here is a really nice tutorial about framing dried flowers.
