How to Press a Bridal Bouquet
The bridal bouquet is one of the most important accessories for every bride on her big day. It is a symbol of beauty and love, and a representation of her style and personality. For many brides, the bouquet is a keepsake to be cherished for years to come. To make sure the bridal bouquet lasts for years, the best way to preserve it is to press the flowers. The process of pressing flowers is quite simple and can be done with materials found in the home.
Gather the Necessary Materials
To press a bridal bouquet, you will need: a large, heavy book, such as a dictionary or encyclopedia; several sheets of plain white paper; several sheets of absorbent paper, such as blotting paper, unprinted newsprint, or paper towels; and a few large, flat objects such as bricks, to weigh the book down. You may also want to use a few rubber bands to hold the materials together.
Prepare the Flowers
Once you have gathered the necessary materials, begin by gently removing the flowers from the bouquet. Carefully remove any leaves or thorns that may have been attached to the stems. Place the flowers on a paper towel and blot them with a second paper towel to remove any excess moisture. It is important to remove as much moisture as possible, as wet flowers will not press well.
Assemble the Press
Lay out two sheets of plain white paper on a flat surface and arrange the flowers on top of them. Place additional sheets of white paper on top of the flowers. Place two or three sheets of the absorbent paper on top of the white paper. Place the remaining flowers on top of the absorbent paper. Place two more sheets of absorbent paper on top of the flowers and cover with two additional sheets of white paper. Place the large book on top of the paper and use the bricks or other heavy objects to weigh it down.
Leave the Flowers to Dry
Leave the press undisturbed for at least two weeks, preferably four. Check on the press every few days to ensure that the papers are still flat and the flowers are not shifting. When the flowers have dried completely, gently remove them from the press. Place the flowers between two sheets of plain white paper and store them in a cool, dry place. They should last for many years.
Preserve the Memories
Preserving a bridal bouquet is a great way to keep the memories of your special day alive. Even years later, the pressed flowers can be displayed in a frame or used to create a special keepsake. With a little bit of care and patience, you can enjoy your bridal bouquet for years to come.
