how do you press flowers

To press flowers, the main goal is to remove moisture while flattening them. Here are common effective methods:

Using Heavy Books (Book Press Method)

1. Place fresh flowers flat on a sheet of absorbent paper such as parchment or blotting paper.
2. Cover with another sheet of paper.
3. Close the flowers inside a heavy book.
4. Add more heavy books or weights on top for pressure.
5. Leave in a warm, dry place for 2-4 weeks to dry completely.
6. Optionally, replace the paper every few days for best results to avoid browning or mold

Using a Wooden Flower Press

1. Prepare two wooden boards (e.g., plywood), drilling holes near each corner.
2. Layer cardboard, blotting paper, and flowers between the boards.
3. Stack multiple layers if needed, always sandwiching flowers between paper and cardboard.
4. Secure with bolts and wing nuts through the holes.
5. Tighten evenly to apply pressure.
6. Leave the press in a warm, dry place for 2-4 weeks until flowers are fully dried

Microwave Pressing (Quick Method)

1. Place flowers inside a microwave flower press or between absorbent papers.
2. Microwave in short bursts (e.g., 25 seconds initially, then 10-second intervals), releasing moisture between bursts.
3. Carefully remove flowers when dry.
4. This method is faster but requires careful monitoring to avoid burning

Ironing Method

1. Place flowers between two sheets of parchment or absorbent paper.
2. Use a dry iron on medium heat (no steam).
3. Press the iron on the paper in 15-30 second intervals.
4. Let flowers cool and repeat if necessary until dry

Tips:

• Use flowers with naturally flat blooms for easier pressing (e.g., violets, daisies).
• Avoid textured or embossed paper that can imprint on flowers.
• Handle dried flowers gently with tweezers to avoid damage.
• Label pressed flowers with date and type for tracking drying time

These methods allow you to create beautiful pressed flowers for crafts, art, or keepsakes. The book or wooden press methods are most common for best results, with drying times of 2-4 weeks depending on flower thickness