Guide to the Best Flowers for Dry Pressing
Dry pressing flowers is a beautiful way to preserve the delicate features and colors of blooms, allowing you to use them in crafts, decorations, and artwork. However, not all flowers are ideal for pressing due to factors like thickness, moisture content, and overall structure. Here's a florist guide to the best flowers for dry pressing, including tips on preparation and pressing techniques.
1. Best Flowers for Dry Pressing
1.1. Violets
Why They're Great: Violets are thin, flat flowers that retain their color well during pressing. The petals have a delicate texture, which makes them perfect for pressing in a flower press or between paper.
Tips: Press violets as soon as they're picked, as they can wilt quickly.
1.2. Daisies
Why They're Great: Daisies have a simple structure with large, flat petals that dry well. Their symmetrical form looks great in pressed arrangements.
Tips: To prevent curling, place them with the petals facing flat on the press.
1.3. Pansies
Why They're Great: Pansies come in vibrant colors and have flat, broad petals, making them an excellent choice for pressing. They hold their shape and color nicely.
Tips: Pansies are best pressed when freshly picked and relatively young.
1.4. Marigolds
Why They're Great: Marigolds are hearty, and their petals are large and flat. They also retain their bright colors well during pressing.
Tips: Use the smaller varieties for easier pressing, and make sure to pick them when they’re in full bloom.
1.5. Lavender
Why They're Great: Lavender has a unique structure that looks stunning when pressed, and it holds both its form and fragrance. The small flowers and fine texture dry well.
Tips: Pick lavender before it’s fully bloomed to ensure the flowers stay intact.
1.6. Dandelions
Why They're Great: Dandelions are widely available and can be pressed easily. Their simple form and bright yellow color make them an excellent choice for natural artwork.
Tips: Press them when they’re fully open to capture their bright, sunny appearance.
1.7. Roses
Why They're Great: Roses, especially smaller varieties or petals, make for beautiful pressed flowers due to their layered petals and vivid colors. They are perfect for creating intricate pressed designs.
Tips: Remove the thorns and press the petals individually to prevent them from curling.
1.8. Sunflowers (Small Varieties)
Why They're Great: Small sunflowers are perfect for pressing. The large, round shape of the flower creates a striking pressed piece.
Tips: Use only smaller sunflowers, as larger ones may not fit properly in a press.
1.9. Impatiens
Why They're Great: These flowers have soft, velvety petals and are thin enough to dry well. They come in various colors and hold up well during the pressing process.
Tips: Pick the flowers when they are young and fresh for the best results.
1.10. Petunias
Why They're Great: Petunias have a simple yet elegant shape and vibrant colors that make them an excellent option for pressing.
Tips: Make sure to press them soon after picking to maintain their color.
2. Flowers to Avoid for Pressing
Not all flowers are ideal for pressing. Flowers with thick, waxy, or fleshy petals tend to not press well. Here are a few flowers to avoid:
Peonies (thick, large petals may not press well)
Lilies (thick structure and moisture content)
Tulips (they tend to curl and lose their shape)
Chrysanthemums (due to their dense structure)
3. Preparation Tips
Pick Fresh Flowers: Always pick flowers early in the morning when they are fully open but not yet wilted. Fresh flowers work best because they retain their color and shape.
Remove Excess Moisture: Gently pat flowers with a tissue or towel to remove excess moisture before pressing.
Cut Stems Short: Trim flower stems to make them easier to fit into your press. Removing stems also reduces the risk of the flowers becoming too thick to press properly.
4. Pressing Techniques
4.1. Traditional Flower Pressing
Lay flowers flat: Place flowers between two pieces of absorbent paper (like blotting paper or parchment paper).
Arrange in a press: Use a flower press, or place the flowers between the pages of a heavy book.
Apply pressure: If using a book, place additional weight on top to ensure the flowers are pressed evenly. Leave them for about 2-3 weeks for optimal results.
4.2. Microwave Flower Pressing
For faster results, you can use a microwave flower press:
Place flowers between paper towels.
Microwave in short intervals (30-60 seconds): Check the flowers every 30 seconds to ensure they are drying without burning or scorching.
Let cool: Once dry, remove from the press and let cool to avoid bending.
5. Storage and Use of Pressed Flowers
Store Pressed Flowers: Keep pressed flowers in a dry, cool place. Store them between sheets of wax paper or in an airtight container to prevent them from getting damaged.
Use in Crafts: Pressed flowers can be used in scrapbooking, making bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed artwork.
Dry pressing flowers is a fun and rewarding way to preserve their natural beauty. By selecting the right flowers and using proper pressing techniques, you can create beautiful, lasting designs for many purposes. Violets, daisies, pansies, and marigolds are among the best flowers for pressing, but with a little experimentation, you'll find your favorites for preserving and creating stunning pressed flower art.
