Pressed Flowers: A Timeless Art Form

Have you ever stumbled upon an old book or journal that had beautifully pressed flowers tucked away within its pages? Pressed flowers have been a beloved pastime for centuries, preserving nature’s beauty and keeping cherished memories alive. This timeless art form has remained popular, with a resurgence of interest in recent years. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history of pressed flowers, the techniques used to create them, and the various ways they can be used for decorative and sentimental purposes.

The History of Pressed Flowers

Pressed flowers have a long and rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks. It was during the Victorian era, however, that pressed flowers became a popular pastime for women, who would gather and press flowers from their gardens or wildflowers they had collected. These flowers were often used to decorate greeting cards, scrapbooks, and journals, and were also given as sentimental gifts.

The Art of Pressing Flowers

Pressed flowers are created by carefully arranging flowers and foliage between the pages of a heavy book or pressing device and leaving them to dry for several weeks. The flowers are carefully chosen for their beauty and color, and the process requires patience and precision to ensure they are properly preserved. Once dry, the pressed flowers can be arranged and mounted in various ways, such as in a frame, on a card, or in a shadow box.

Best Flowers for Pressing

While most flowers can be pressed, some are better suited for the process than others. Here are some of the best flowers for pressing:

1. Daisies: Daisies are a popular choice for pressing because they flatten easily and maintain their bright color.
2. Pansies: Pansies are another great flower for pressing, as their flat shape and delicate petals make them easy to press and preserve.
3. Roses: Roses are a classic flower that can be pressed for use in a variety of crafts and decorations. They do require a longer pressing time than some other flowers.
4. Ferns: Ferns are an excellent choice for pressing, as their leaves and fronds create intricate patterns and designs when pressed.
5. Bluebells: Bluebells have a delicate, bell-shaped flower that presses well and maintains its shape and color.
6. Forget-Me-Nots: These small, delicate flowers are perfect for pressing and adding to homemade cards or crafts.
7. Cosmos: Cosmos are a beautiful flower with a vibrant color that presses well and maintains their shape and color.
8. Marigolds: Marigolds are a popular choice for pressing because of their bright colors and long-lasting blooms.

It’s important to note that not all flowers will press well, and some may lose their color or shape during the process. It’s best to experiment with different flowers and techniques to find what works best for you. Additionally, make sure to only use flowers that have not been treated with pesticides or other chemicals.

Flowers that Should Not be Pressed

There are many flowers that are poisonous and should not be pressed or handled without proper protection as the toxins can be released during the pressing process. Here are a few common ones:

1. Oleander – The entire plant is toxic, and even small amounts can be lethal if ingested.
2. Foxglove – All parts of the plant are poisonous and can cause heart failure if ingested.
3. Lily of the Valley – The flowers and leaves contain cardiac glycosides, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and irregular heartbeats.
4. Hydrangea – The buds and flowers contain cyanide, which can be toxic if ingested.
5. Daffodil – The bulbs and leaves contain lycorine, which can cause vomiting, stomach pain, and even death if ingested in large amounts.
6. Iris – The rhizomes and leaves contain irisin, which can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested.

These are just a few examples of poisonous flowers, and there are many others. If you’re unsure about whether a flower is safe to handle or not, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid handling it.

The Benefits of Pressed Flowers

Pressed flowers offer a multitude of benefits, both for aesthetic and sentimental purposes. They are a beautiful way to preserve the beauty of nature, to create a momento from a significant or senitmental time in your life and to create a unique piece of art that can be displayed in your home or given as a thoughtful gift. Pressed flowers also offer a therapeutic and relaxing activity that can help reduce stress and anxiety.

How to Press Flowers

Pressing flowers is a simple and fun way to preserve their beauty. Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose the flowers you want to press. It’s best to select flowers that are fully open but not yet wilted.
2. Cut the stems of the flowers to the desired length. It’s best to cut them longer than you need so you can trim them later.
3. Place the flowers between two sheets of absorbent paper, such as blotting paper or newspaper. Arrange the flowers so they are not touching each other.
4. Place the paper with the flowers between the pages of a heavy book. Make sure the book is large enough to hold the flowers without crushing them. You can also use a flower press if you have one.
5. Add more books or weight on top of the book to add more pressure.
6. Leave the flowers to dry and press for at least a week. It may take longer depending on the thickness of the flowers.
7. Once the flowers are completely dry and pressed, carefully remove them from the paper. You can use them for crafts, decoration, or any other purpose you desire.

Microwave Flower Pressing

Microwave flower pressing is a quick and easy method for pressing flowers that doesn’t require the traditional book method. The process involves placing the flowers between two pieces of paper and then microwaving them for a short amount of time.

To use a microwave for flower pressing, you will need a microwave-safe container, such as a glass or ceramic dish, some blotting paper or paper towels, and the flowers you want to press.

Here’s how you can press flowers using a microwave:

1. Place the blotting paper or paper towels in the bottom of the container.
2. Arrange the flowers on top of the paper, making sure they don’t overlap.
3. Place another piece of blotting paper or paper towel on top of the flowers.
4. Cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
5. Microwave the flowers for 30 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the flowers.
6. Check the flowers to see if they are dry and flat. If not, microwave them for another 30 seconds and check again.
7. Once the flowers are flat and dry, remove them from the microwave and allow them to cool completely before handling.

Microwave flower pressing is a great option for those who want to create pressed flowers quickly and easily. However, it’s important to note that this method may not produce the same quality of results as traditional pressing methods. Some flowers may also lose their color when microwaved, so it’s best to test a few flowers before pressing a large batch.

Pressed Flowers in Home Decor

Pressed Flowers in Weddings

Pressed Flowers in Jewelry

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about pressed flowers:

Can you press any type of flower?

While most flowers can be pressed, some are more suitable than others. Flowers with thin petals, such as pansies, violets, and daisies, tend to work well. Flowers with thicker petals, such as roses or peonies, may require additional steps to properly dry and preserve them.

How long does it take to press flowers?

It typically takes several weeks to properly press flowers, depending on the moisture content of the flower and the pressing method used.

How do you preserve pressed flowers?

Pressed flowers should be stored in a dry and cool environment, away from direct sunlight. They can be mounted or framed behind UV-protective glass to prevent fading over time.

Can pressed flowers be used for crafting or DIY projects?

Yes, pressed flowers can be used for various crafting and DIY projects, such as creating homemade cards, bookmarks, or even pressed flower candles. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always stunning.

Can you press flowers without a book?

Yes, there are various pressing devices available, such as flower presses or microwaves, that can be used to press flowers without a book.

Are pressed flowers environmentally friendly?

Yes, pressed flowers are an eco-friendly way to enjoy and preserve the beauty of nature without harming the environment.

Pressed flowers offer a beautiful and sentimental way to preserve the beauty of nature and create unique pieces of art. Whether used in home decor, weddings, or jewelry, pressed flowers offer a timeless and natural touch. With proper preservation and care, pressed flowers can last for years, bringing joy and memories for generations to come. So, the next time you’re out for a walk, take a moment to gather some flowers and try your hand at this lovely art form. Who knows, you might just discover a new passion.