The Timeless Art of Pressing Flowers
Pressing flowers is a classic method of preservation. You may have even done it unknowingly as a child or adult—slipping a leaf or a beautiful flower between the pages of a book, only to rediscover it later, perfectly flattened and still retaining some of its colors. That small moment of surprise and joy is something many of us have experienced.
Flower pressing is a wonderful way to capture the delicate beauty of blooms in a flat, decorative form. It has long been used to preserve meaningful bouquets, whether from weddings, funerals, or other special occasions that hold sentimental value.
What I Use:
A specialized flower press
Non-bleached blotting paper
How I Press Flowers:
I prefer using fresh flowers whenever possible. Each bloom is placed carefully between sheets of paper to prevent color transfer and sticking. The flowers are then pressed with even pressure using a flower press, allowing them to dry completely over time.
I follow the slow press method, meaning I check on the flowers every 2-3 days to monitor their progress and ensure they are preserved properly.
Why Press Flowers?
A Unique & Artistic Keepsake – Pressed flowers create timeless, elegant pieces that beautifully preserve sentimental moments.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable – Unlike other preservation methods, pressing requires minimal materials and no harsh chemicals.
Customizable & Creative – With careful layering, flowers can retain a sense of depth, and some even develop richer, deeper hues over time, such as roses and chrysanthemums.
Versatile for Display – Framed pressed flowers make beautiful home décor pieces, as well as thoughtful gifts or scrapbook embellishments.
A Hands-On Approach – Pressing flowers allows for artistic arrangements, where petals can be repositioned to enhance their visual appeal.
Things to Keep in Mind:
Time & Patience – Pressing flowers takes time, usually around 2 to 3 weeks, to ensure they dry completely.
Color Changes – Some flowers deepen in color, while others, particularly white or light-colored blooms, may fade or turn slightly brown over time. A technique called color correction can be used to subtly enhance vibrancy if needed.
Proper Storage Matters – To preserve their beauty for as long as possible, pressed flowers should be kept away from humidity and direct sunlight.
Freshness Is Key – Flowers that have been in water too long can retain excess moisture, making pressing more challenging. However, careful techniques can help maintain their appearance.
Pressing flowers is a slow, thoughtful process, but the results are always worth it. It’s a way to hold onto memories in a delicate and beautiful form, turning fleeting moments into lasting keepsakes.
meeee