A Beginner’s Guide to Pressing Flowers at Home

There’s something magical about holding a flower pressed in time—its soft colors and delicate textures capturing nature’s fleeting beauty forever. Whether you’re preserving blooms from a special occasion or just want to enjoy a relaxing craft, pressing flowers is a rewarding and accessible art anyone can learn.

If you’re curious about how to get started, don’t worry—we’ll walk through some simple tips and tricks to help you create your own pressed flower treasures, right at home.

Why Press Flowers?

Pressing flowers is more than just a craft; it’s a way to connect with nature, slow down, and honor those special moments. Whether it’s a gift from a loved one, a blossom from a memorable walk, or a flower from an important celebration, pressing transforms these delicate beauties into lasting keepsakes—greeting cards, bookmarks, wall art, or even journal decorations.

How to Start Pressing Flowers

1. Choose the Right Flowers

Not all flowers are created equal for pressing. Look for blooms that are sturdy, small, and have a flat shape—like daisies, pansies, roses, or lavender. Avoid very thick or woody flowers—they don’t press as well.

2. Timing is Everything

Press your flowers soon after they’re cut, ideally within 24 hours, to preserve the best colors and textures.

3. Prepare Your Press

You can buy a dedicated flower press or make one at home with two pieces of cardboard and some heavy books. I recommend a real wooden flower press if you plan to press often—it’s a small investment that makes a big difference.

4. The Pressing Process

• Place your flowers between two sheets of parchment paper or blotting paper inside your press.

• If you don’t have a press, weight down your layered flowers with heavy books, ensuring they stay flat.

• Leave them in for about 2–4 weeks, checking periodically. Flowers are ready when they feel dry and brittle.

  
  

5. Handle with Care

Once pressed, gently handle your flowers with tweezers or clean hands. Use them to create beautiful art, greeting cards, or decor — and enjoy the process of turning natural beauty into timeless keepsakes.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh, colorful flowers for vibrant results.

• Change the blotting paper if it becomes damp.

• Experiment with different flowers and arrangements.

  
  

Ready to begin?

Pressing flowers is a relaxing craft that connects you to nature’s quiet beauty. It’s a perfect way to preserve your memories, brighten your space, and maybe even start a new creative hobby.

Happy pressing!