Collection Nature Toys, Childrens Gardening Sets and nature themed craft kits. The brilliant Usborne Mini range is great for getting children outside and learning about the natural world at the same time. Younger children can help in the garden with Bigjigs Toys Gardening Belt or our collection of Flower Press Kits can inspire future botanists with the beauty of nature and allow them to store the treasures they find.
Pressing flowers is a lovely way to preserve their beauty and create lasting keepsakes or keep for children's artwork. Top tips for pressing flowers successfully:
1. Choose the Right Flowers:
Select flowers that are not too thick and have low moisture content. Flowers like pansies, daisies, and violas are great choices. Ensure they are dry and free from dew or rain.
2. Prepare the Flowers:
Pick the flowers in the morning after any dew has evaporated. Remove any unwanted leaves and trim the stems to a manageable length.
3. Arrange the Flowers:
Place the flowers between two sheets of parchment paper. You can also use plain white paper, but it might absorb less moisture. Arrange the flowers flat, ensuring none are overlapping.
4. Press the Flowers:
Place the flowers between the layers of the press and tighten the screws or straps to apply pressure.
5. Leave Them to Dry:
Let the flowers sit for 1-2 weeks. Check periodically to ensure they are drying evenly and not molding. Change the blotting paper if it becomes damp.
6. Check the Flowers:
After the drying period, carefully open the book or press to check the flowers. They should be flat and dry to the touch. If they are not fully dried, leave them for a few more days.
7. Store or Use the Flowers:
Once pressed, you can use the flowers in various crafts like making cards, bookmarks, or framed artwork. Store unused pressed flowers in an airtight container to keep them dry and protected.
