There’s something magical about pressing flowers. Whether it’s preserving memories from a beautiful day outside or giving new life to petals you just couldn’t throw away, pressed flowers bring a sense of nostalgia and beauty to everything they touch. And what better way to display them than by making a bookmark that’s as meaningful as it is functional?
Today, I’m going to walk you through how to make a pressed flower bookmark—a project that’s fun, easy, and perfect for kids and adults alike. Plus, these bookmarks make lovely gifts that feel personal and thoughtful.
Why I Love Pressed Flower Bookmarks
I’ll admit it—I’m a bit of a bookworm. And while I could use a plain scrap of paper to mark my page, it feels special to have a bookmark that’s its own little piece of art. Every time I see the delicate flowers pressed neatly inside, I’m reminded of simple joys, like sunny afternoon walks or backyard adventures with my kids.
What You’ll Need
Gather these materials to get started:
Fresh or pre-pressed flowers and leaves (flat blooms like pansies, daisies, and ferns work best)
Wax paper or parchment paper
Heavy books or a flower press
Cardstock or sturdy paper (cut into bookmark-size strips)
Clear contact paper or laminating sheets
Scissors
Glue
Hole punch (optional)
Ribbon or twine (optional for extra flair)
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Pressed Flower Bookmark
Step 1: Press Your Flowers
If you haven’t pressed your flowers yet, don’t worry—it’s simple!
Arrange your flowers and leaves between two pieces of wax paper.
Place them inside a heavy book and stack more books on top for extra weight.
Let them press for 1-2 weeks until completely dry and flat.
(Pro tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can use a microwave press to speed things up!)
Step 2: Design Your Bookmark
Take your strip of cardstock or sturdy paper and lay out your flowers and leaves. Play around with different arrangements until you’re happy with the design.
You can create patterns or scatter the flowers randomly for a whimsical look.
Leave some space at the top if you plan to add a hole punch and ribbon later.
Step 3: Attach the Flowers
Dab a small amount of glue onto the back of each flower or leaf and gently press it onto the cardstock. Be careful—pressed flowers are delicate and can crumble if handled too roughly!
Step 4: Seal the Bookmark
Once your flowers are secured, it’s time to seal everything in place:
Cut a piece of clear contact paper or laminating sheet slightly larger than your bookmark.
Carefully place the contact paper over the top and smooth it out to avoid bubbles.
Trim any excess edges for a clean finish.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
If you’re feeling fancy, punch a hole at the top of your bookmark and tie a ribbon or twine for an extra touch of charm.
Why You’ll Love This Craft
Memorable and Meaningful: Each flower tells a story. Maybe it’s from a family hike or your own garden—every petal holds a memory.
Budget-Friendly: Chances are, you already have most of the materials at home!
Gifting Gold: Handmade bookmarks make thoughtful gifts for teachers, friends, or anyone who loves books. Pair one with a good novel, and you’ve got the perfect present.
FAQs About Pressed Flower Bookmarks
1. Can I use flowers from my bouquet?Absolutely! Pressed flower bookmarks are a lovely way to preserve flowers from special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries.
2. How long will my pressed flower bookmark last?When sealed properly, your bookmark can last for years. Keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight to prevent fading.
3. Can I add other decorations?Yes! You can add metallic accents, washi tape, or even handwritten quotes to personalize your bookmark.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to make a pressed flower bookmark, it’s time to get creative! Whether you’re making one for yourself or as a gift, this simple DIY is sure to brighten any reader’s day. So grab some flowers, press away, and let your creativity bloom!
Let me know in the comments—what flowers will you use for your bookmark? I’d love to hear your ideas!
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