DLTK's Crafts for Kids
Crafting with Nature: Creating Sturdy Pressed Flower Greeting Cards

Pressed flower greeting cards are a beautiful and heartfelt way to send messages to loved ones while incorporating the beauty of nature. However, one common challenge when working with pressed flowers is ensuring that they remain intact and secure on the card. In this blog post, we will explore techniques and tips for making sturdy pressed flower greeting cards that will stand the test of time. From selecting the right materials to adhering the flowers securely, let's dive into the world of crafting with nature and create stunning pressed flower greeting cards that will leave a lasting impression.

Materials

• Cardstock: Choose a heavyweight cardstock or thick paper as the base for your greeting cards. The sturdier the material, the better it will hold the pressed flowers and withstand handling.
• Adhesive: Select a strong and reliable adhesive that will adhere the pressed flowers to the cardstock effectively. Clear-drying liquid glues or double-sided adhesive sheets are recommended for their durability and transparency.
  
  Mod Podge works well as a clear drying liquid glue.
• Flowers and Leaves for Pressing: Ensure that the natural materials you choose are dry, flat, and in good condition. Flowers with sturdy petals that hold their shape well, such as marigolds, pansies, and daisies, work best for greeting cards.
  
  10 Plants for Kids to Grow for Pressing

Adhering Pressed Flowers

• Planning the Design: Before adhering the flowers, plan the layout of your greeting card. Consider the composition, colors, and placement of the pressed flowers to create an aesthetically pleasing design.
• Test Placement: Experiment with the placement of the pressed flowers on a separate piece of cardstock or scrap paper before applying them to the final card. This will help you determine the desired arrangement without damaging the card.
• Adhesive Application: Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the back of each pressed flower using a small brush or a toothpick. Take care not to use too much adhesive, as it may seep through the petals or cause them to darken.
• Pressing the Flowers: Gently place the pressed flowers onto the desired location on the cardstock, pressing them lightly to ensure they adhere well. Use tweezers or the tip of a toothpick to position the flowers accurately.
• Additional Adhesive: If needed, apply a small amount of adhesive to any delicate or protruding parts of the pressed flowers, such as stems or intricate petals, to secure them further.
• Overlapping Flowers: To create dimension and visual interest, you can overlap pressed flowers on your greeting card. Apply adhesive to the bottom layer of flowers first, press the second layer on top, and secure them together.
• Transparent Covering: To protect the pressed flowers and enhance their longevity, consider covering them with a transparent adhesive sheet or laminating pouch. This will provide added durability and prevent the flowers from getting damaged or dislodged.

Finishing Touches and Tips

• Card Embellishments: Enhance the beauty of your pressed flower greeting cards by incorporating additional embellishments, such as ribbons, lace, or decorative paper cutouts. These elements can further secure the pressed flowers and add a touch of elegance to your design.
• Proper Drying Time: Allow the adhesive to dry completely before handling the greeting card or inserting it into an envelope. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time.
• Envelope Selection: Choose envelopes that are slightly larger than your greeting cards to avoid crushing the pressed flowers. Ensure that the envelopes provide adequate protection and are made of sturdy material to maintain the integrity of the pressed flowers during mailing or gifting.
  • Handling and Storage: When handling your pressed flower greeting cards, do so with care to avoid damaging the delicate flowers. Store the cards in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or discoloration.
  • Personalized Messages: Use a fine-tip permanent marker or a calligraphy pen to write personalized messages inside the cards. This adds a heartfelt touch and completes the thoughtful gesture.
  • Experiment with Designs: Don't be afraid to experiment with different layouts, color combinations, and flower arrangements. Each pressed flower greeting card can be a unique piece of art, showcasing your creativity and individuality.
  • Seal the Envelope: To provide extra protection during transit, consider sealing the envelope with a sticker or adhesive tape to prevent the card from shifting or getting damaged.
  • Gift Presentation: If you are presenting the pressed flower greeting card as a gift, consider placing it in a decorative box or wrapping it in tissue paper. This adds an element of surprise and elevates the overall presentation.
  • Customization for Occasions: Tailor your pressed flower greeting cards to specific occasions by incorporating elements like themed stickers, printed sentiments, or cutouts. This personalization enhances the sentiment behind the card and makes it more meaningful.
  • Continuous Learning and Exploration: Pressing flowers and creating greeting cards is a creative journey that allows for continuous learning and exploration. Encourage children to experiment with different flowers, colors, and techniques to expand their artistic abilities.

Mod Podge

Painting over pressed flowers with Mod Podge can be an effective way to preserve and protect them on greeting cards. Mod Podge is a popular adhesive, sealant, and finisher that dries clear, creating a protective layer over the pressed flowers. Here's how you can use Mod Podge with pressed flowers on greeting cards:

1. Once you have arranged the pressed flowers on the cardstock and adhered them using an adhesive, allow them to dry completely.
2. Prepare a small amount of Mod Podge in a separate container or use it directly from the bottle.
3. Using a soft-bristle brush or foam brush, gently apply a thin layer of Mod Podge over the entire surface of the pressed flowers and surrounding area. Take care not to apply too much pressure or disturb the flowers.
4. Ensure that the Mod Podge covers the edges of the pressed flowers and reaches the edges of the cardstock to provide a complete seal.
5. Allow the Mod Podge to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. It usually takes about 15-20 minutes for each layer to dry, but drying times may vary depending on humidity levels.
6. Apply additional layers of Mod Podge as desired, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Adding multiple layers will provide added protection and durability to the pressed flowers.
7. Once the final layer of Mod Podge has dried, the pressed flowers should be sealed and protected. The Mod Podge will create a transparent and glossy finish, enhancing the beauty of the flowers and preserving them for a longer time.

It's important to note that while Mod Podge can provide protection, it may slightly darken the appearance of the pressed flowers. Therefore, it's recommended to test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the pressed flowers or on a test piece before applying it to the entire card.

Using Mod Podge to seal pressed flowers on greeting cards adds an extra layer of durability and longevity to your creations, allowing you to enjoy and share them for years to come.

Conclusion

Crafting sturdy pressed flower greeting cards is a rewarding and fulfilling activity that combines the beauty of nature with artistic expression. By selecting the right materials, properly adhering the pressed flowers, and adding thoughtful finishing touches, you can create stunning greeting cards that will be cherished by recipients. Remember to handle the cards with care, store them properly, and personalize each one with heartfelt messages. Through the art of pressed flower greeting cards, you can share the wonders of nature and make a lasting impression on those you love. So, gather your materials, let your creativity blossom, and enjoy the joy of creating beautiful and sturdy pressed flower greeting cards.

Happy crafting!
Leanne

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