Framed Pressed Flowers

Framed pressed flowers are a popular and timeless way to preserve and display the beauty of nature. Here’s a general guide to creating your own framed pressed flowers:

Materials Needed:

1. Flowers or Leaves: Choose blooms and foliage that press well, such as daisies, violets, ferns, or eucalyptus.
2. Heavy Books or a Flower Press: For pressing the flowers.
3. Blotting Paper or Parchment Paper: To place between the flowers and books.
4. Picture Frame: Glass-fronted frames are best for showing off your work.
5. Tweezers: To handle delicate pressed flowers.
6. Glue or Acid-Free Tape: To secure the flowers in place.

Steps to Create Framed Pressed Flowers:

Pressing the Flowers:

1. Select Flowers: Choose fresh flowers and leaves. Flat-faced flowers tend to press more easily.
2. Prepare the Flowers: Shake off any dirt and trim the stems to the desired length.
3. Arrange in Press: Sandwich each flower between layers of blotting paper or parchment paper to absorb moisture. Place these layers between the pages of a heavy book or in a flower press.
4. Press: Close the book or tighten the press. Add weight on top of the book if necessary.
5. Wait: Allow the flowers to press for about 3-4 weeks. The flowers should be dry and papery when done.

Framing the Flowers:

1. Prepare Frame: Open your picture frame and remove the backing and any stock photo or matting.
2. Arrange Flowers: Decide on the layout for your flowers. Use tweezers to handle them gently.
3. Attach Flowers: Use small dots of glue or pieces of acid-free tape to secure the flowers to the backing board or a piece of cardstock cut to fit the frame.
4. Reassemble Frame: Carefully place the backing board with your flowers back into the frame and close it up.

Tips for Success:

• Flower Selection: Thicker flowers may not press as well; consider removing some petals or dissecting thick blooms into layers.
• Press Gradually: Start with gentle pressure and gradually increase it to avoid the flowers shifting or crumpling.
• Keep it Dry: Ensure the flowers are completely dry before framing to prevent mold.
• Display: Keep your framed flowers out of direct sunlight to prevent them from fading.

Creative Ideas:

• Backgrounds: Experiment with different colored paper or fabric backgrounds.
• Mixed Media: Consider combining pressed flowers with calligraphy, watercolors, or quotes.
• Seasonal Themes: Create frames representing the different seasons or special events, such as weddings or birthdays.

Framed pressed flowers make beautiful, personalized gifts and bring a touch of the outdoors inside. Enjoy the art of preserving these natural treasures!