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How to Press Dried Flowers & Keep the Color

Many people choose to dry flowers after they have been displayed in their home for a few weeks, but you'll get better results if you press fresh flowers. Also, new methods of pressing have been developed in recent years which use the microwave to speed up the pressing process and help to preserve the color of the flowers.

Things You'll Need

Book
4 sheets of paper
Flower
Microwave

Instructions

- 1
  Pick a fresh flower and make sure there is no moisture on it. You can use a paper towel to wipe off any excess moisture.
- 2
  Place two sheets of paper into the center of a large book. These sheets will be used to protect the pages of the book from the flower.
- 3
  Place the flower on the sheets of paper then place two more sheets of paper over the flower.
- 4
  Close the book with the flower in it and place it into the microwave.
- 5
  Set the microwave to a medium setting then set the timer for 30 seconds. Start the microwave.
- 6
  Once it has finished, remove the book from the microwave and open it to allow steam to escape, then wait until the flower has cooled.
- 7
  Repeat steps four through six.
- 8
  Close the book and place it under several heavy objects (bricks or other books). Wait 24 to 72 hours or until the flower has been adequately pressed.

Other Collecting