The Delicate Nature of Dried Plant Material: A pressed plant is like tissue paper when it is dried and is often attached to the paper at one or more points. It can be easily removed, however, by bending & folding the paper around the flower to loosen the bond. If this does not work, try slipping a flat razor blade under the portion that may be attached. Handle the plant very gently with dry hands - no hand creams, please! If it is difficult to pick up the dried plant, try using two toothpicks to lift and hold the plant. Do not use tweezers even though they seem like the right choice. They will break the plant or cause holes in the brittle material.
The dried plant is ready to use as soon as it is removed from the press! If it will not be used right away, layer the plant material between clean sheets of paper and store in a dry place. Do not use plastic wrap or seal in an airtight package since the plant will not be able to stay dry. There is always the risk of re-hydrating the pressed plant, which would result in a limp, non-usable item.
Uses for Dried Flowers, Ferns, Leaves, and Grasses - The Petal 'n Fern Gallery features plants that have been pressed and then used to create botanical art. The most popular and easiest use of dried plant matter, however, is for the creation of a pressed floral or fern bookmark or placemat. Both of these items can be easily covered with laminate to preserve the design and the plant. Other craft ideas include: notecards, gift bags, memory boxes, garden journals, ornaments, candles, and lamp crafts. There is a long list of crafts using dried flowers and other plant materials, but the best ideas are the ones that you create on your own. After you have completed your craft, protect the plant matter from breaking off with a light spray of plant fixative available at most craft stores. Hair spray may also be used if it is a light, shine-free brand. Avoid spray build-up since it may cause a sticky finish, which will attract dust.
Aging Gracefully - Since the items pressed are real plants, they do need some protection from sun and humidity. If kept in a cool, dry place, the pressed plants will last a very long time. If pressed plants are in direct light or trapped in a humid room, then the colors will soften with age. Bright blues will mellow to a softer shade of blue or light violet and bright pinks will soften to a blush. Ferns are more resilient, but they also will mellow and fade if kissed by the sun on a daily basis.
If you have specific questions about the drying process, pressing methods, or types of plants to press, e-mail: pauline@petalnfernimpressions.com