Have you ever picked a flower and just wished you could keep it forever? I know I have! There’s something so magical about flowers—their vibrant colors, that sweet smell, and the little stories they tell about moments in our lives. I’m sitting here, surrounded by wilting petals and fading memories, and I can’t help but think about designing a flower press kit that can preserve those treasures. What if I could create a beautiful way to immortalize a sun-soaked afternoon or a friend’s wedding bouquet? Like, wouldn’t it be wonderful to flip through a book filled with pressed blooms and relive those moments? Last summer, I pressed some daisies from a picnic, and every time I see them, I smile. I want to make that experience even more special and accessible! Who's with me?
Items You’ll Need
- Flower Press
- Parchment Paper
- Cardboard Sheets
- Rubber Bands
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Drying Agent (Silica Gel or Borax)
- Pressing Weight
- Notebook or Journal
- Labeling Tags
- Gloves (Optional)
- Collection Basket
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Materials
I start by gathering all the equipment I need for my flower press kit. I lay out the Flower Press, Parchment Paper, Cardboard Sheets, Rubber Bands, Tweezers, Scissors, my chosen Drying Agent, Pressing Weight, Notebook, Labeling Tags, Gloves, and a Collection Basket. Everything is spread out nicely so I can see what I have.
Step 2: Prepare the Collection Basket
Next, I take my Collection Basket and set it aside for picking flowers. I make sure it’s clean and ready to hold the blooms I’ll find during my outdoor adventure!
Step 3: Go Flower Picking
With my basket in hand, I head out to a local park or garden. I look around and enjoy the beautiful flowers, carefully picking only the freshest blooms. I remind myself to check for any special colors or shapes I want to press.
Step 4: Sort and Clean the Flowers
Once back home, I sort through my collection. I gently remove any leaves or stems that might not press well, and I give the flowers a light rinse. After that, I dry them carefully with a soft cloth.
Step 5: Prepare the Flower Press
I grab my Flower Press and take a sheet of Parchment Paper. I cut it to fit inside the press if needed, then lay it down on the bottom base. I’ll layer my flowers and continue this process for each new flower.
Step 6: Layer the Flowers
Now, I take my chosen flowers and arrange them on the parchment paper. I make sure they are not overlapping too much to ensure a good press. Then, I place another sheet of parchment paper on top before closing the press.
Step 7: Secure with Cardboard and Rubber Bands
I grab a Cardboard Sheet and cut it to size to fit into the flower press. I place that on top, and then I use Rubber Bands to secure everything tightly. This ensures that the flowers will be pressed evenly.
Step 8: Add Pressing Weight
For good measure, I place a Pressing Weight on top of the flower press. This will help apply constant pressure and make sure the flowers dry properly.
Step 9: Take Notes
As I wait for the flowers to press, I open my Notebook or Journal. I jot down the names of the flowers I collected, their location, and any memories from the day. This makes the process feel even more special!
Step 10: Label the Flowers
After a week or so, I check on my pressed flowers. Once they’re fully dried, I carefully remove them using Tweezers. I take the time to create Labeling Tags for each flower, writing down its name, date, and where I found it.
Step 11: Store and Display
Finally, I find a beautiful way to store my pressed flowers, whether in a scrapbook, a shadow box, or just keeping them safe with their tags. I make sure to show them off to friends and family!