10 Tips for Framing and Displaying Pressed Flowers

Pressed flowers are a beautiful way to preserve nature's fleeting beauty, and framing them is an elegant way to turn them into timeless pieces of art. Whether you're a hobbyist, an artist, or someone simply seeking to add a touch of nature to your living space, creating a pressed flower display can transform your home into a serene and inviting space. This article will provide you with ten tips on how to frame and display pressed flowers in ways that highlight their natural beauty while ensuring their longevity.

Choose the Right Flowers

The first step in creating a pressed flower display is selecting the right flowers. Not all flowers press well, so it's essential to pick those that are sturdy enough to withstand the pressing process. Some flowers naturally dry and press better than others. Here are some options that work well for pressing:

• Small, flat flowers: These, such as pansies, daisies, and violets, press well and maintain their shape.
• Delicate, thin-petaled flowers: Flowers like lavender, forget-me-nots, and chrysanthemums make great candidates because they retain their color and structure.
• Leaves and ferns: These can be pressed alongside flowers to create more texture in your display.

Avoid flowers with thick petals, as they may not flatten well and may retain moisture that could lead to mold during the pressing process.

Press Your Flowers Properly

Pressing flowers is the key to creating a quality display. If done incorrectly, flowers can lose their color or degrade over time. There are a few methods to press flowers, and your choice will depend on your desired outcome:

Traditional Pressing Method:

• Place flowers between two sheets of parchment paper or blotting paper.
• Lay the paper with the flowers in a heavy book, such as a large dictionary or phone book.
• Leave the flowers pressed for about two weeks, ensuring the paper is changed regularly to absorb moisture.

Using a Flower Press:

• Flower presses are specifically designed for pressing flowers and often consist of two wooden boards with screws that allow you to tighten the press.
• This method is faster than the book method, often taking just a few days for the flowers to become fully pressed.

Whichever method you choose, be patient and give the flowers enough time to fully dry and flatten. If pressed too early, flowers can end up wilting or crumbling.

Protect the Flowers with Tissue Paper

Once the flowers are placed in your chosen press, it's helpful to place a layer of tissue paper between them. This extra layer protects delicate petals from damage and prevents the ink or color from other materials from bleeding onto the flowers. Tissue paper also aids in absorbing the moisture released during the pressing process, preventing mold and mildew.

Tip:

Use acid-free tissue paper to avoid any discoloration over time.

Choose a Frame that Complements the Flowers

When it comes to framing pressed flowers, the frame itself plays a crucial role in showcasing the beauty of the flowers. It's essential to choose a frame that doesn't overpower the delicate nature of the pressed flowers. Here are some tips to consider:

• Choose simple, light-colored frames: White, pale wood, or silver frames tend to complement pressed flowers well, allowing the colors to stand out.
• Consider the matting: Use a neutral-colored mat to provide a visual break between the flowers and the glass, making the flowers pop.
• Frame depth: A frame with a deeper profile allows you to create a layered effect and prevents the flowers from being crushed.

Remember that the goal is to make the pressed flowers the focal point of the piece, so avoid using ornate or overly colorful frames that might distract from them.

Use UV-Protective Glass

Pressed flowers can fade over time due to exposure to sunlight. To prevent this from happening, it's a good idea to use UV-protective glass in your frame. UV-filtering glass blocks harmful rays that can cause colors to fade, ensuring your pressed flower display lasts for years to come. You can find UV-protective glass at most framing stores.

Tip:

If you're unable to get UV-protective glass, consider displaying your framed pressed flowers in a location that doesn't receive direct sunlight.

Consider Background Colors and Textures

The background of your pressed flower display is just as important as the flowers themselves. Choosing the right background can enhance the beauty of the flowers and create a harmonious visual effect. Here are some suggestions:

• Neutral-colored backgrounds: Soft, neutral colors like white, beige, or gray tend to highlight the colors and textures of the flowers without taking away attention from them.
• Textured backgrounds: You can also experiment with textured backgrounds such as fabric, linen, or handmade paper to add depth and interest to your display.
• Contrasting colors: If you're working with flowers that are light in color, try using a darker background to create contrast and make the flowers stand out.

The background should complement the pressed flowers but not overwhelm them. Keep the focus on the flowers, using the background to provide support.

Arrange the Flowers Creatively

Arranging the flowers before framing them is an important step that can elevate the entire display. You can get creative with your arrangement, experimenting with symmetry, asymmetry, or a scattered look, depending on your personal preference. Here are some ideas:

• Symmetrical designs: Arrange flowers in a balanced, mirrored pattern for a traditional, formal look.
• Asymmetrical designs: For a more modern, organic feel, consider an off-center design or a cluster of flowers placed randomly across the frame.
• Layering: If you have multiple flowers or leaves, consider layering them to create depth. This technique can give your display a more dynamic look.

Ensure the flowers are securely attached to the background using a non-invasive method, such as archival glue or double-sided tape, to prevent them from shifting over time.

Experiment with Mixed Media

While pressed flowers can stand alone as a beautiful form of art, don't be afraid to mix them with other media to create a unique, personalized piece. Adding elements such as:

• Watercolor backgrounds: Paint a soft watercolor background to enhance the colors of your pressed flowers.
• Calligraphy or Quotes: Incorporating hand-lettered quotes or short phrases can add a personal touch to your display.
• Dried herbs or small branches: Experiment with adding dried leaves, twigs, or herbs to give your pressed flower art more texture and dimension.

Combining flowers with other materials can transform a simple piece into a truly unique work of art.

Display Your Pressed Flowers Strategically

Once your pressed flowers are framed, it's time to think about where to place them in your home. Pressed flower art can be displayed in various settings, each adding a different feel to the space:

• Living room: A framed pressed flower display can be a stunning addition to a gallery wall or placed above the mantelpiece.
• Bedroom: Place framed pressed flowers near your bedside or above the bed for a calming, nature-inspired atmosphere.
• Office: A small, framed pressed flower piece on your desk can add a touch of tranquility to your workspace.
• Hallway: Pressed flowers make beautiful, eye-catching pieces for any hallway or entryway, creating a welcoming first impression.

Consider the color scheme and overall aesthetic of the room to ensure your pressed flowers complement the space.

Care and Maintenance of Pressed Flowers

To ensure your pressed flowers last as long as possible, it's essential to take proper care of them. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Regular dusting: Dust your framed pressed flowers gently using a soft cloth or a microfiber duster. Be careful not to damage the flowers.
• Avoid direct sunlight: As mentioned earlier, sunlight can cause the flowers to fade over time. Place your artwork in a spot where it won't be exposed to harsh sunlight.
• Humidity control: Excess humidity can cause flowers to warp or mold. Keep your framed pressed flowers in a dry area to prevent any moisture damage.
• Occasional cleaning: If your frame gets dusty or dirty, clean the glass carefully with a non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid getting the flowers themselves wet.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your pressed flower display remains vibrant and beautiful for many years.

Framing and displaying pressed flowers is a wonderful way to preserve the beauty of nature and bring it into your home. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or an intricate arrangement, these ten tips will guide you in creating a stunning, timeless display. Remember, the key is to enjoy the process of selecting, pressing, and framing flowers, and to let your creativity shine through in each piece you create.

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