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[For Seniors] Easy Pressed Flower Making: Introducing Traditional Methods and Hacks
Pressed flowers are a simple yet profound handicraft that lets you preserve and enjoy seasonal plants just as they are.
The charm is that you can easily get started with familiar materials, even without special tools.
The process of choosing colors and shapes while working with your hands can also be a calming moment.
In this article, we introduce ways for older adults to make pressed flowers without strain.
From the traditional method of placing them in a book to almost magical techniques using a microwave or an iron, we’ve got you covered.
Turn your finished pieces into cards or bookmarks, and they make perfect gifts.
Give it a try and enjoy it with ease!
[For Seniors] Easy Pressed Flower Making: Introducing Traditional Methods and Hacks
Pressed flowers made with an ironNEW!
To make pressed flowers, you need to remove the moisture from the blooms.
Let’s use an iron.
Once you have the flowers you want to press, arrange them on a sheet of parchment paper with some space between each one.
When you’re done arranging them, place another sheet of parchment paper on top.
Then iron over it at a medium temperature for 20–30 seconds.
Be sure to iron from the back side as well.
Repeat this process until the flowers are dry.
Occasionally lift the sheet to check whether the flowers still feel damp as you go.
Pressed flowers made with cardboard and rubber bandsNEW!
Here’s an idea for making pressed flowers using cardboard.
Place a sheet of baking paper on top of the cardboard, then open a folded tissue and overlap it halfway.
Arrange flowers on top with some spacing, then layer the remaining half of the tissue and another piece of cardboard.
If using a microwave, set the cardboard sandwich with the flowers on a plate, place two more plates on top, and heat at 500W for 1 minute.
If the flowers are dry and crisp, they’re done.
If not using a microwave, secure the cardboard with rubber bands and let it dry in a warm place for 3–5 days.
Pressed flowers made with a book and paper towelsNEW!
Here’s a very simple and approachable method.
First, gently place the flowers between layers of newspaper and paper towels, then slip them into a book.
Put another book on top as a weight, and the moisture will gradually be drawn out of the flowers.
After leaving it for a while and opening it up, you’ll have gently flattened flowers.
Glue the finished pressed flowers onto a backing with wood glue, and you can enjoy displaying them or turning them into bookmarks—the possibilities open up.
It’s easy to start with things you have on hand, you’ll feel the joy of completion, and it adds a touch of color to everyday life.
Pressed flowers made with a book and drying sheetsNEW!
If you use drying sheets, there are no complicated steps, so even first-timers can try it with confidence.
First, take a drying sheet out of the moisture-proof bag and gently crumple some tissue paper to prepare it.
Place the flowers gently on top, then layer the tissue and drying sheets to thoroughly absorb the flowers’ moisture.
Continue layering in the same way, and simply store the stacked flowers in a storage bag while pressed to achieve a beautiful finish.
You don’t need any special tools, it’s easy to start, and moving your hands slowly can also calm your mind.
Incorporating seasonal flowers adds a little color to your daily life, and you can enjoy it at your own pace without any strain.
Pressed flowers made in a microwaveNEW!
This method is perfect when you want to enjoy pressed flowers without spending much time.
First, line a heatproof dish with microwave-safe paper towels, then arrange the flowers on top.
Place another heatproof dish over them to sandwich the flowers.
Start by microwaving at 600W for 40 seconds, flip the flowers, then 600W for 20 seconds.
After that, continue heating in 20-second intervals to drive off the moisture, and you’ll have soft, delicate pressed flowers in no time.
Flipping the flowers partway through and heating them gradually until dry helps preserve their color and shape.
They’re easy to make and ready to enjoy right away, and the finished pressed flowers are also great for cards, bookmarks, or framing as keepsakes to capture your memories.
In conclusion
Pressed flowers are appealing because you can enjoy them easily with just a few tools. Using seasonal plants and flowers adds a touch of color to everyday life. For older adults, choosing flowers at their own pace and taking time to admire the finished piece can gently soothe the heart. Try incorporating it into daily recreational activities.