What to know
- The flowers that adorn your ceremony and reception play a significant role in creating a beautiful and romantic ambiance.
- Use a rolling pin or a heavy book to gently press the flowers flat.
- Frame your pressed flowers in a shadowbox or a floating frame to create a beautiful wall art piece.
Your wedding day is a special occasion filled with love, joy, and unforgettable moments. The flowers that adorn your ceremony and reception play a significant role in creating a beautiful and romantic ambiance. But what happens to these beautiful blooms after the celebration ends? Instead of letting them wilt away, you can preserve their beauty and sentimentality by pressing them. Pressed wedding flowers are a timeless keepsake that can be cherished for years to come, reminding you of your special day every time you look at them. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art of pressing wedding flowers, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure you successfully capture the essence of your wedding blooms.
Choosing the Right Flowers
Not all flowers are suitable for pressing. Some flowers, such as roses, lilies, and peonies, press beautifully, while others, like daffodils and tulips, tend to crumble or lose their color. When selecting flowers for pressing, consider their size, shape, and texture. Choose flowers that are relatively flat and have a sturdy structure. Avoid flowers with thick petals or delicate blossoms, as they may break or tear during the pressing process.
Preparing Your Flowers
Before you begin pressing your flowers, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Harvest the flowers at the right time: The best time to harvest flowers for pressing is when they are fully open but not yet starting to wilt. Cut the flowers with sharp, clean shears, leaving a stem of about 1-2 inches.
2. Remove excess moisture: Gently shake the flowers to remove any excess water or dew. You can also pat them dry with a soft cloth or paper towel.
3. Flatten the flowers: If the flowers have thick petals, you may need to flatten them slightly before pressing. Use a rolling pin or a heavy book to gently press the flowers flat.
Choosing the Right Pressing Method
There are two main methods for pressing flowers: the traditional method and the microwave method.
Traditional Method:
1. Gather your materials: You will need a heavy book, two pieces of cardboard, and parchment paper or wax paper.
2. Arrange the flowers: Place the flowers between two pieces of parchment paper or wax paper. Make sure the flowers are not overlapping and are evenly spaced.
3. Insert the flowers into the book: Place the parchment paper or wax paper with the flowers inside the book. Close the book and place a heavy object on top to weigh it down.
4. Wait patiently: Allow the flowers to press for at least two weeks. Check on them periodically to ensure they are drying properly.
Microwave Method:
1. Gather your materials: You will need a microwave-safe container, a paper towel, and a heavy book.
2. Prepare the flowers: Place the flowers between two pieces of paper towel. Microwave the flowers on high for 30 seconds. Check the flowers and continue microwaving in 10-second intervals until they are dry and flat.
3. Press the flowers: Place the flowers between two pieces of cardboard and weigh them down with a heavy book. Allow the flowers to press for at least 24 hours.
Preserving Your Pressed Flowers
Once your flowers are pressed, you can preserve them in various ways:
1. Framing: Frame your pressed flowers in a shadowbox or a floating frame to create a beautiful wall art piece.
2. Scrapbooking: Use your pressed flowers to decorate your scrapbook pages, cards, and other paper crafts.
3. Potpourri: Add your pressed flowers to a potpourri mix to create a fragrant and decorative addition to your home.
4. Jewelry: Encase your pressed flowers in resin to create unique and sentimental jewelry pieces.
Tips for Successful Pressing
1. Use fresh flowers: Fresh flowers press better than wilted or dried flowers.
2. Press the flowers as soon as possible: The sooner you press the flowers, the better the results will be.
3. Change the parchment paper or wax paper regularly: If the paper becomes damp, replace it with a fresh sheet to prevent mold growth.
4. Be patient: Pressing flowers takes time. Don’t rush the process, or you may end up with damaged flowers.
Recommendations: A Lasting Memory
Pressed wedding flowers are a beautiful and meaningful way to preserve the memories of your special day. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create stunning pressed flowers that will last a lifetime. Display them in your home, gift them to loved ones, or incorporate them into your future craft projects. Let these pressed flowers serve as a lasting reminder of the love and joy you experienced on your wedding day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long will pressed wedding flowers last?
With proper care and storage, pressed wedding flowers can last for many years. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or moisture, as this can cause them to fade or deteriorate.
2. Can I press flowers from my bridal bouquet?
Yes, you can press flowers from your bridal bouquet. Choose flowers that are in good condition and follow the steps outlined in this guide to preserve them.
3. What are some creative ways to use pressed wedding flowers?
You can use pressed wedding flowers in various creative ways, such as framing them, incorporating them into scrapbooks, creating potpourri mixes, or encasing them in resin jewelry.
