Carnations, with their rich layers and vibrant colours, make beautiful keepsakes when preserved through pressing. However, their thicker petals and dense structure can make pressing more challenging than other flowers.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through four methods to press carnations successfully. Whether you’re a seasoned flower presser or just starting out, you’ll find the right method to suit your needs.
1. Traditional Book Pressing
The traditional book pressing method is one of the most accessible ways to press flowers, using everyday items found in most homes. However, since carnations are bulkier, this method requires a bit of preparation.
What You’ll Need For Book Pressing:
- A heavy book (such as an encyclopaedia)
- Parchment or wax paper
- Scissors (optional)
Book Pressing Steps:
- Preparation: Start by removing the stem and trimming some of the bulk from the carnation. You can either press the flower whole (though it may not flatten completely) or carefully separate the petals to press them individually.
- Protect the Pages: Place your carnation between two sheets of parchment or wax paper to protect the book from moisture and pigments.
- Insert in the Book: Open the book to the middle page and place the flower between the paper sheets. Make sure the flower is well-positioned and not folded awkwardly.
- Add Weight: Close the book carefully and stack more heavy books or objects on top to add pressure.
- Wait and Check: Leave the flower undisturbed for at least two to three weeks. Periodically check the carnation to ensure it’s drying well. Once it’s completely dried, it will be flat and ready to use.
2. Flower Press Method
A flower press is specifically designed for pressing flowers, making it one of the best carnation methods. It offers more controlled pressure than book pressing, ensuring even results.
What You’ll Need For Flower Pressing:
- A flower press
- Absorbent paper (such as blotting paper)
- Scissors
Flowering Pressing Steps:
- Prepare the Carnation: Remove excess bulk by trimming the stem and, if necessary, separating the petals. You can also lightly flatten the flower with your hand before placing it in the press.
- Set Up the Press: Place absorbent paper on the bottom layer of the press. Then, place your carnation on top, ensuring the petals are spread out and do not overlap too much.
- Layer and Press: Add another sheet of absorbent paper over the flower. Close the press and tighten the screws or straps to apply pressure.
- Wait for Drying: If necessary, check the press every few days, tightening it slightly. Depending on the thickness of the petals, the carnation typically takes two to four weeks to dry thoroughly.
- Final Result: Once dry, your carnation will be evenly flattened, making it ideal for framing or crafts.
3. Microwave Pressing
For those who don’t have the patience to wait weeks, microwave pressing is a fast alternative. With carnations, this method requires careful monitoring to avoid over-drying or burning the petals.
What You’ll Need For Microwave Pressing:
- A microwave-safe press or two ceramic tiles and rubber bands
- Parchment or wax paper
- Microwave
Microwave Pressing Steps:
- Prepare the Carnation: As with other methods, trimming the carnation or pressing the petals individually will give you better results. Whole carnations may not press as evenly.
- Set Up the Press: If using ceramic tiles, place the carnation between two sheets of parchment or wax paper. Sandwich the flower between the tiles and secure the edges with rubber bands. If you have a microwave-safe press, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup.
- Microwave in Bursts: Heat the flower in the microwave for 15-30 second intervals on low or medium heat. After each burst, check the flower’s progress. You’ll need to repeat this several times until the flower is fully dry.
- Allow to Cool: Once dried, let the press cool down before removing the carnation. Be careful, as too much heat can lead to browning or scorching.
- Result: The microwave method can yield quick results, but the carnation may lose some of its vibrancy if it is overheated.
4. Iron Pressing
Iron pressing is another quick method for drying carnations, although it may not be the best for maintaining vibrant colours. This method is ideal if you don’t have a flower press or time for traditional drying.
What You’ll Need For Iron Pressing:
- An iron
- Parchment or wax paper
- A hard surface
Iron Pressing Steps:
- Prepare the Flower: As with the other methods, trim the carnation and, if necessary, separate the petals for more even pressing.
- Set up: Place the flower between two sheets of parchment or wax paper and lay it flat on a hard surface, such as an ironing board.
- Iron on Low Heat: Set your iron to low heat without steam. Press the iron gently on top of the parchment paper for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to move the iron, as this can distort the flower.
- Repeat and Check: Lift the iron and check the carnation. If needed, repeat the pressing process, allowing the flower to cool between presses.
- Final Result: Once dry, your carnation should be flattened, though the colours may not be as vibrant as with other methods.
Which Method Is Best For Carnations?
Each method has its pros and cons, but the flower press method generally offers the best results for carnations due to its ability to apply even pressure and allow gradual drying.
If time is of the essence, the microwave pressing method provides a faster alternative, but you’ll need to be cautious with the heat settings.
The book pressing method is an excellent place to start for beginners or those without specialised equipment, though it may not flatten the carnation fully. Iron pressing is a viable option for quick results but can affect the flower’s colour and texture.
Conclusion About The Different Methods For Pressing Carnations
Whether you opt for the slow and steady traditional methods or the quicker microwave and iron options, you’ll be able to create stunning pressed carnations that last for years. Experiment with these methods to find the one that works best for you, and enjoy the delicate artistry of flower pressing!
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Methods For Pressing Carnations
How Often Should I Check On The Flower While Pressing It?
If you’re using the traditional book or flower press method, check the carnation after about one week to see how it’s progressing. For microwave or iron pressing, checking the flower every few seconds after heating is important to ensure it doesn’t burn or over-dry.
Can I Use A Regular Iron For Pressing Carnations?
Yes, you can use a regular iron, but make sure it is set to low heat without steam. Place the carnation between two sheets of parchment or wax paper and press gently for 10-15 seconds. Be mindful that this method can sometimes dull the flower’s colour.
Why Do My Carnations Turn Brown While Pressing?
Carnations can turn brown due to excess moisture that doesn’t dry properly, mainly when using methods that don’t apply consistent pressure (like the book method).
Is It Better To Press Carnations Whole Or In Parts?
For carnations with thicker, layered petals, it’s often better to press them in parts—such as separating the petals—especially if you want them to dry evenly and faster. Pressing the flower whole may lead to uneven flattening or retain moisture, which can cause browning.
