Arts and crafts are creative, fun ways to relax, with many people enjoying flower pressing to unwind. But flower pressing is only one of many hobbies contributing to the global value of art and craft material sales. Join us as we describe several ways to press various types of flowers and wild plants that only require a few resources.
Table of Contents
Global overview of the arts and crafts materials market
What to know about flower pressing
Flower pressing methods
Creative pressed flower art ideas
Ordering flower pressing materials online
Global overview of the arts and crafts materials market
The value of arts and crafts sales was USD 20.96 billion in 2022. Experts further project that this figure will reach USD 30.89 billion by 2032 if the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.17% remains stable. Besides hobbyists, preschool teachers are using arts and crafts like flower pressing and many others to stimulate children’s development.
What to know about flower pressing
Before discussing the different flower pressing methods, you should know how to prepare your flowers and what paper to use.
Preparing your flowers
After collecting your favorite flowers and grass, spread them evenly on some absorbent paper, to remove excess moisture. Preferably, place them where there is a good flow of air to help maintain their freshness and color.
Types of paper
You can use several kinds of paper, like wax paper, acid-free parchment paper, and flat cardboard. You can also use printer paper for absorbing moisture when pressing your flowers. If you use soft paper towels, make sure they have a smooth surface; otherwise, the design can damage the flowers during the drying process.
Flower pressing methods
You won’t need any special equipment for this hobby, but it will be helpful to have scissors and twine for air drying methods. Similarly, flower pressing methods need few resources, which vary depending on the method.
Flat flower pressing techniques
If the flowers that you picked have a single layer of petals, then you can use the following methods (1–5). If not, then use techniques 6 or 7.
1. Wooden flower press
You can buy a wooden flower press or make one for your new hobby. Both products use layers of wood to press your flowers until they dry out. For this technique, spread the flowers out on the blotting paper and cover them with another piece. Lie this sandwich on the first wooden shelf in the press, and tighten the next one on top of it. Change the absorbent paper every few days (3 or 4) and continue doing so for about three weeks until your wild plants are dry.
2. Book pressing
The book method is simple and easy, requiring a similar technique to the one described above. Spread your flowers on a piece of parchment paper, top it off with another piece, and surround this sandwich with newspapers. Place this down on a flat surface and use heavy books with bricks on top if necessary. Change the wax paper regularly and remove the plants with tweezers when dry to avoid damage.
You can also use this method to dry flowers between blotting paper and place these within the pages of a heavy book. You can then place additional weight on the book, but this method is only suitable if you don’t mind risking damage to the pages.
3. The dry iron method
If you want to dry flowers quickly, use a dry iron to desiccate them. Again, place your garden flowers between printer paper or something similar as suggested. Put these layers on the ironing board and use low heat to get rid of the moisture. Place the dry iron on one section for 15 seconds, allow it to cool, and repeat until your flowers are dry. When they are, you know your project is a success.
4. Microwave flower presses
Instructions for flower pressing may differ between store-bought microwave flower presses, so read each one. Typically, you will line the tiles with cardboard and parchment paper. Then, you will place your flowers between these sections.
Put this sandwich into the microwave and heat it for 30 to 60 seconds on a low setting. Remove the tile carefully to avoid burning yourself, and allow it to cool before repeating the cycle. You can rotate several projects in the same way.
5. Handmade microwave flower press
Instead of a store-bought press, you can use tiles and rubber bands to air-dry your flowers. Use the same technique above, but place your flowers between the tiles, securing them with the rubber bands before microwaving them.
Whole flower drying methods
6. Air drying
This method is best suited for thicker flowers that are too big for flat drying. Examples of these blooms include hydrangeas and others with multiple petals and significant water content. Simply tie each flower stalk with twine and hang it in a cool, dry place.
7. Fresh cat litter
This method is also suitable for drying whole flowers like roses that don’t do well with pressing methods. Place a thin layer of fresh cat litter in a wide-bottomed container and cover them with more litter. Move them around every few days for the best results. Your flowers should be dry within about two weeks.
Creative pressed flower art ideas
You can use your pressed flowers in several creative ways:
- Create a card, add some words, and keep it to remind you of a special day, or include it as a complement to a gift
- Make other stationery items like personalized bookmarks
- Frame a flower display between sheets of glass on a background of acid-free paper and use it as wall art
- Decorate photo frames with press flowers
- Go a step further by making resin jewelry
- Use dried flowers in coasters or candles as a great way to preserve your collection
- Make décor displays of whole flowers and place them in baskets or vases in the home
Ordering flower pressing materials online
Decide what you need for your customers, and order anything from readymade wooden and microwave flower presses to paper, scissors, tweezers, and twine. For ambitious hobbyists, round off this order with photo frames, resin, and candles. All these products are available at Alibaba.com, conveniently ensuring a hassle-free seller shopping experience.
