Guide to the Best Flowers for Dry Pressing
Dry pressing flowers is a timeless craft that preserves their beauty for art, decor, or keepsakes. Choosing the right flowers is key to achieving vibrant, long-lasting results. This guide covers the best flowers for dry pressing, their characteristics, and tips for success.
Why Choose Certain Flowers for Dry Pressing?
Flowers ideal for dry pressing typically have thin petals, low moisture content, and structures that flatten well without losing color or shape. Flowers with thick, fleshy petals or high water content (like succulents) are less suitable as they may mold or lose vibrancy.
Best Flowers for Dry Pressing
1. Pansies
Why They Work: Pansies have thin, flat petals that press easily and retain vivid colors like purple, yellow, and white.
Tips: Harvest in the morning when petals are dry. Press gently to avoid creasing delicate petals.
Best Uses: Bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed art.
2. Cosmos
Why They Work: Their single-layered petals and delicate structure make them perfect for pressing. Colors like pink, white, and magenta stay vibrant.
Tips: Choose smaller blooms for easier pressing. Remove excess foliage to focus on the flower head.
Best Uses: Resin jewelry, scrapbooking.
3. Daisies
Why They Work: Simple, flat petals and sturdy centers hold shape well. White and yellow hues remain bright after drying.
Tips: Press young blooms to avoid browning. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Best Uses: Wall art, candle decorations.
4. Lavender
Why They Work: Small, thin buds retain their purple hue and fragrance. Their linear shape presses neatly.
Tips: Harvest before full bloom for best color retention. Press in small bundles for texture.
Best Uses: Sachets, mixed media crafts.
5. Delphiniums
Why They Work: Their small, flat florets and rich blues or pinks press well and maintain color.
Tips: Separate individual florets for easier pressing. Avoid overcrowding in the press.
Best Uses: Botanical collages, framed displays.
6. Ferns (Bonus Foliage)
Why They Work: While not a flower, fern leaves are excellent for pressing due to their flat, lacy structure and rich green color.
Tips: Press immediately after picking to preserve color. Pair with flowers for contrast.
Best Uses: Backgrounds in pressed flower art.
Tips for Successful Dry Pressing
Harvest at the Right Time: Pick flowers on a dry day, ideally in the morning after dew has evaporated, to minimize moisture.
Use a Flower Press or Heavy Books: Place flowers between absorbent paper (parchment or blotting paper) and press evenly. Change paper every few days to prevent mold.
Timing: Most flowers take 2–4 weeks to dry fully. Check periodically to ensure no moisture remains.
Storage: Store pressed flowers in a dry, dark place to maintain color and prevent fading.
Avoid These: Thick flowers like roses or peonies, as they retain too much moisture and may mold.
Experiment with different flowers to find what works best for your projects. Thin, flat blooms with vibrant colors are your best bet for stunning results. Happy pressing!
