Pressing flowers with blotting paper uses absorbent, acid-free sheets to draw out moisture under even pressure, preserving color and shape in 1 to 4 weeks.
Flower pressing is a simple, satisfying craft that turns garden blooms into lasting keepsakes. The key is getting the moisture out without losing the flower’s natural color. Highly absorbent blotting paper does this faster and more reliably than kitchen towels or printer paper, and its acid-free chemistry prevents the browning that ruins pressed flowers over time. Here is the exact process, from picking the right bloom to removing the finished, paper-thin result. If you are shopping for materials, our roundup of the best absorbent paper for pressing flowers can help you pick the right sheets for your project.
Choosing and Preparing Flowers for Pressing
Start with dry flowers picked in the morning after the dew has evaporated. Wet flowers will mold inside the press, ruining the batch. Pick blooms close to full opening, with no blemishes or dark spots. Buds just ready to open tend to hold the most vibrant color.
If you are pressing roses, peel the petals off individually rather than pressing the whole head. Remove stamens from pollen-heavy flowers like lilies; the pollen stains the petals and the blotting paper. For thick flowers, separate the petals to reduce the bulk — the thinner each layer, the faster and more evenly it dries.
Layering the Press for Best Results
The standard layer stack is: cardboard, blotting paper, flowers, blotting paper, cardboard. Repeat the stack for each flower layer. Here is what each piece does:
- Cardboard — creates airflow between layers and prevents moisture from pooling. Use corrugated cardboard for better ventilation.
- Blotting paper — the absorbent layer that pulls moisture and oil from the petals. Cut it to fit your press board or homemade frame. Use 3 to 5 blotting sheets on top and bottom for thicker flowers.
- Flowers — place them flat on the blotting paper with at least 3/4 of an inch between blooms. No overlapping, or moisture will build up and cause sticking or mold.
For a homemade wood press, drill holes about 0.75 inches from each board edge and align them carefully. Stack the layers between the boards, then tighten wing nuts or rubber bands evenly. Start with gentle pressure to let air circulate, then tighten fully after a few days.
Pressing Duration and Common Mistakes
Thin flowers like daisies or violets dry in 1 to 2 weeks. Thicker flowers like roses or zinnias need 2 to 4 weeks. For very thick stems, replace the blotting paper after the first few days and dry for another 1 to 2 weeks. Store the press in a dry, cool spot away from heat or direct sunlight.
The most common failure is molding caused by pressing damp flowers or overcrowding. Always check that each bloom is fully dry before it goes in, and stick to the 3/4-inch spacing rule. If you replace the blotting paper after a few days, you speed drying and prevent the paper from becoming saturated. Kitchen towel tissue paper can leave patterns on petals — blotting paper avoids that completely.
| Paper Type | Absorbency | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Blotting paper (acid-free) | High | Primary layer for best results |
| Watercolor paper | High | Good alternative; similar absorbency |
| Newspaper or printer paper | Low | Cheaper but needs triple the layers |
Removing the Pressed Flowers
Once the flowers feel paper-thin and have no remaining moisture, open the press carefully. Use tweezers or your fingers to lift each bloom; if it has stuck slightly to the blotting paper, press it flat gently as you peel it away. Store finished flowers in a dry, dark book or a sealed box away from humidity.
FAQs
Can I reuse blotting paper for pressing flowers?
Yes — blotting paper is reusable. After use, let it air-dry completely until all absorbed moisture is gone, then it is ready for the next batch.
How do I prevent flowers from turning brown when pressing?
Browning usually comes from using non-acid-free paper or pressing damp blooms. Stick to acid-free blotting paper and ensure every flower is fully dry before it goes into the press.
What is the fastest way to press flowers with blotting paper?
Thin petals dry in about a week. Replace the blotting paper after two days to speed things up. Thicker flowers still need at least two weeks for full drying.
References & Sources
- New York Botanical Garden. “Pressing and Drying Flowers.” Covers flower selection, layering technique, and drying timelines.