Two of the most frequently asked questions I receive about my artwork is “how did you learn to press flowers?” and “which flowers are easiest for pressing?” I first began incorporating nature into my art while I was completing my undergrad at Springfield College. As an Art Therapy major, I took several courses on eco-therapy and the application of art and nature as an inter-disciplinary approach. Throughout these classes, I discovered ways to collect found objects and use them as stimulus for mobiles, sculptures, collages, etc.

Over the years, I have learned which flowers cooperate best for traditional pressing methods, and which ones to avoid. With summer solstice a few weeks away, I thought this would be the perfect time to put together a beginners guide to flower pressing.

# 1 . Note that all flowers do not press equally

If this is your first time pressing, stick with thin flowers, as they are the easiest to press. The best blooms for beginners are those with a single layer of petals. Below is a list of botanicals that I have the most success with pressing:

Daisies
Violas
Baby’s Breath
Larkspur
Forget-Me-Not
Hydrangeas
Alyssum
Queen Annes Lace
Anemones
Delphinium

Leaves, herbs and grasses are great options, as well! I love pressing different variations of ferns, and pairing them brighter flowers for contrast.

Arrangements and flowers I tend to avoid are those that are only one type of color. For example, all white flowers have the highest chance of browning. Certain flowers such as, calla lilies, mums, tulips, and white orchids will not press well.

#2. Only press dry flowers

This is extremely important. Wet flowers will typically mold when it comes time to open your book/flower press. Avoid picking flowers early in the morning that still have dew on them, as you will run the risk of the flowers deteriorating.

#3 Press your flowers right away

When it comes to preserving, I should mention that the fresher the flowers, the better! If the blooms are fresh, there will be less chance for browning and a higher chance of color retention. Do not wait until the flowers get droopy. I like to take a hardcover book with me when collecting flowers. Bringing an elastic or ribbon helps to secure the pages and keep the flowers in place.

#4 Use parchment paper or blotting paper

You will need a barrier to separate the flowers and absorb their moisture while they press. For the best results, I recommend using parchment paper or acid free tissue paper.

#5 If you do not own a press, use old books

Heavy dictionaries, enclyopedias, large textbooks with thick paper all are great options. When using books, be sure to distribute an even amount of weight on top. I like to stack my books with several weights on top to ensure no moisture gets in. Whatever method you decide to use, be sure to store your press in a dry environment. Dampness or humidity will cause your flowers to get moldy.

#6 Don’t open your press too soon!

Different flowers take varying times to press properly. My rule of thumb is to wait at least three weeks before opening my flower press. If you expose your flowers too early you run the risk of disrupting your arrangement, as the flowers are extremely fragile when pressing.

A Beginners Guide to Pressing Flowers