Pressing flowers is a timeless way to preserve their beauty and create stunning framed artwork that can be enjoyed for years to come. Whether you have a garden full of vibrant blooms or simply love the idea of bringing a touch of nature indoors, pressing flowers for framing is a wonderful way to showcase their delicate beauty. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to successfully press flowers for framing, as well as provide tips on how to ensure your pressed flowers last for years.
Materials Needed:
- Flowers to press
- Newspaper or paper towels
- Heavy books or a flower press
- Parchment paper
- Picture frame
- Glue or tape
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Selecting Flowers:
When choosing flowers to press for framing, select blooms that are fresh and free of any blemishes. Tightly closed flowers or those with flat petals work best for pressing. Popular choices for pressing include pansies, daisies, rose petals, and ferns.
2. Preparation:
- Harvest the flowers: Pick flowers in the morning when they are at their freshest.
- Remove excess moisture: Gently pat the flowers dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
3. Pressing:
- Traditional Method: Place the flowers between layers of newspaper or paper towels, making sure they are not overlapping. Place the prepared flowers inside a heavy book or flower press, making sure to leave plenty of weight on top.
- Microwave Method: For those looking for a quicker alternative, you can microwave flowers in between parchment paper for a few seconds to dry them out before pressing.
4. Drying:
Leave the flowers pressed for 1-2 weeks to ensure they are completely dried out. Check periodically to make sure they are drying properly and replace the paper towels if necessary.
5. Framing:
- Arrange flowers: Once the flowers are fully dried, arrange them on a piece of cardstock or matte board in the design you desire.
- Securing flowers: Use glue or tape to secure the flowers in place on the board.
- Matting: Place the cardstock with the pressed flowers inside a picture frame, adding a mat if desired for a finished look.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once your pressed flowers are framed, hang them in a location that receives indirect sunlight to prevent fading. Avoid hanging them in areas with high humidity or extreme temperature changes to ensure they last for years to come.
7. Maintenance:
To keep your pressed flowers looking their best, avoid touching them directly and dust them gently with a soft brush or cloth as needed. If you notice any signs of discoloration or mold, gently remove the affected areas with a clean, dry paintbrush.
Tips for Success:
- Experiment with different flowers: Try pressing a variety of flowers to create unique and beautiful designs.
- Use a flower press: Investing in a flower press can make the pressing process more efficient and consistent.
- Practice patience: Allow the flowers to dry completely before framing to ensure they retain their vibrant colors.
- Protect from direct sunlight: Display your framed pressed flowers in a location that receives indirect sunlight to prevent fading.
- Consider using a UV-protective glass: If displaying in a brightly lit area, consider using UV-protective glass to shield the flowers from harmful rays.
With these simple steps and tips, you can easily press flowers for framing and create beautiful works of art that capture the delicate beauty of nature. Whether you are a seasoned crafter or looking for a new hobby, pressing flowers for framing is a rewarding and creative activity that anyone can enjoy.
