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A Quick Guide on How to Press Flowers In a Book

With the kids outside for the summer we’ve got handpicked flowers coming indoors just about everyday. We decided to dry and press some. Today I’m sharing what we’ve learned and give you our quick guide on how to press flowers into a book.

 

Here are some of the questions we asked and answered as we learned how to press flowers correctly within the pages of a book. 

how to press flowers in a book-flowers on page

Are pressing flowers the same as drying them?

Yes, pressing flowers is a method of drying flowers. As you place the flowers in a book between two pieces of paper, any remaining moisture is absorbed in the paper while the flower is pressed, dried, and preserved. 

Will pressing flowers in a book ruin the book?

Remember that fresh flowers have moisture in them, so yes it can. However, if you are careful to sandwich the flowers with a protect layer of paper on either side of your flowers, the book will be just fine.  

Furthermore, if your flowers are extra thick or contain lots of moisture, you could put a piece of parchment paper between the book page and the absorbent paper. That way you can be sure no moisture will seep through.

How much weight do I need on the book to press flowers?

It’s not an exact amount, but with that being said, you want it to be heavy enough to really flatten the flowers. (We put a couple more large books on top of the one we put flowers in and it was sufficient.) 

If your book is massive you probably not have to worry about it, but if you think you need a little extra weight, you could put your flower press book at the bottom of a book pile, or place a brick on top.

How long does it take to press flowers in a book?

It depends on the size and density of your flowers to know how long it will take to press flowers in a book, but typically the flowers are dried and pressed within a week or two.  I would check at a week and go from there.

flower bouquet-how to press flowers in a book

What paper should I use for pressing flowers in a book?

This paper layer is there to protect your book and help to absorb the remaining moisture in the flowers. You can use regular printer paper (that’s what I use) or another absorbent paper. Stay away from paper towels or other papers with embossed designs because they can leave imprints on your pedals.

Note: for an extra layer of protection for your book, you could place a piece of parchment paper between the pages and the absorbent paper.

How long do pressed flowers last?

Pressed flowers can last for years! Keep in mind they are delicate and would need to be handled with care but other than that, they retain their beauty for a long time. Also, to prolong their life, keep them out of direct sunlight or humidity, which can cause them to fade or break. 

What are the best flowers to press?

The best flowers to press will be ones with flat heads or ones you can easily lay on their side. You don’t want anything that hold a ton of moisture or is super thick.  (You can use more intricate or layered flowers like roses, but they probably aren’t as well suited for kids or beginners.)

  • Daisies
  • Violets
  • Pansy
  • Chamomile
  • Strawflower
  • Cosmos
  • Baby’s breath
  • Single layer roses
  • Ferns

Note: You can also press herbs in a book! Try: parsley, lavender, yarrow, cilantro, rosemary, mint, or thyme.

how to press flowers in a book different types of flowers

Will pressed flowers get moldy?

When you are pressing flowers you are also drying the flowers. Removing excess moisture and choosing flowers that don’t contain a large amount of moisture to begin with, with keep you from having any issues with mold. 

pressed flowers

What are some things you can do with pressed flowers?

From putting your dried flowers in a frame to using them on top of a cake, there are so many ways you can enjoy your preserved, pressed beauties.  Here are a few ideas:

More Nature Study Resources

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Do you have any other tips on how to press flowers in a book?

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