Flower Press Frame: How to Press and Display Flowers
By Australian Geographic | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Guías prácticas
Learn how to press flowers and turn them into framed art with the Australian Geographic Flower Press Frame. Step-by-step tips for a nature craft kids will love.
Quick answer
Pick flowers on a dry morning, press them flat between absorbent paper for a few weeks, then arrange and frame them. The Australian Geographic Flower Press Frame gives you a simple, kid-friendly way to do all three steps.
Why pressing works best with the right flowers and timing
Not every flower presses well. Thin, flat blooms like pansies, daisies, and ferns dry quickly and keep their shape. Thick or fleshy flowers (such as succulents or roses) hold moisture and may turn brown or mouldy. For a first project, stick to flat flowers and leaves.
Pick flowers after the morning dew has dried but before the heat of the day. Damp petals slow drying and increase the risk of mould. If you pick after rain, pat them dry gently with a paper towel.
How to set up the press for even results
The Australian Geographic Flower Press Frame works like a traditional press: you layer flowers between absorbent paper and cardboard, then tighten the frame to apply pressure. The key is to keep layers flat and evenly stacked so the flowers don’t wrinkle.
Use blotting paper or plain newsprint rather than glossy or printed paper, which can transfer ink or stick to petals. If you don’t have blotting paper, plain white paper towels work as a substitute. Check the press after a week and replace damp paper to speed drying and prevent mould.
Step-by-step: press and display your flowers
- Collect and prepare your flowers: Choose flat, dry flowers and leaves. Pick them in the morning after dew has dried. Remove any thick stems or fleshy parts that won’t press flat. Common mistake: picking wet flowers, which can lead to mould. Check that petals are dry before pressing.
- Layer flowers between absorbent paper: Place a sheet of blotting paper or plain paper towel on the base of the press. Arrange flowers face down, leaving space between them. Cover with another sheet of paper, then a piece of cardboard. Repeat for more layers. Common mistake: overlapping flowers, which causes uneven drying and sticking. Keep each flower flat and separate.
- Close and tighten the frame: Put the top frame on and tighten the screws or straps evenly. You want firm pressure, but not so tight that flowers are crushed. Common mistake: uneven tightening, which can warp the frame or leave flowers wrinkled. Tighten opposite corners a little at a time.
- Wait and check for dryness: Leave the press in a dry, warm spot for 2–4 weeks. Check after one week; if the paper feels damp, replace it gently. Flowers are ready when they feel papery and stiff. Common mistake: checking too often and disturbing the flowers before they’re set. Replace damp paper to prevent mould.
- Arrange and frame your pressed flowers: Once dry, carefully lift flowers with tweezers or fingers. Arrange them on a piece of card or directly on the frame’s backing. Use a dab of craft glue on the back of each petal if needed. Then secure the frame. Common mistake: using too much glue, which can seep through and stain. Plan your layout before gluing.
Product facts
- Australian Geographic Flower Press Frame: The Flower Press Frame is designed to flatten and preserve flowers, leaves, and other botanical specimens with ease. This means you can press a variety of garden finds, not just flowers, and the frame makes it simple for kids to help.
Australian Geographic Flower Press Frame
