Drying flowers in microwave is the best way of preserving the color and shape of most flowers and leaves.
You do not need any fancy tools to do this, only a microwave, which most people have and some paper napkins, paper towels or blotting paper.
Bear in mind, every microwave is different; they have different power strengths, so it’s best to experiment with the same kind of flowers first, if possible, before you press the ones you want to use, to avoid any unwanted disasters.
Before I explain how to microwave pressed flowers, below are just a few of the many flowers and leaves that will dry well
in the microwave. So don't be frightened to experiment with different
flowers, some will work and some will not.
Try using Daisies (white or yellow), Bougainvillea, Phlox, Ivy, Hostas and most Ferns and the ones below.
![]() Dogwood |
![]() Camellia |
![]() Lily of the valley. These are used a lot in wedding bouquets. |
![]() Pansy. The Pansy can be dried as a whole flower with excellent results. Don't forget to dry the stems separately as mentioned above. |
![]() Rose petals and leaves. Dry the petals and leaves separately for best results then gently glue the petals and leaves into a rose onto paper. |
![]() Carnation. These flowers are used a lot in flower arrangements. Great as dried flowers. |
The bigger the flower, the less you press at one time; the smaller the flower, you can press two or three at a time. This will prevent over drying as different flowers have different levels of moisture. This also shortens the time in the microwave and keeps better color and shape.
Cut the stems off the flowers. This is so the flower head lies
flat. Otherwise, when the flower is pressed, it will have a lump and
that will not look nice when you make
your greeting card, gift tag or whatever you decide to make.
You want the flower to be flat.
Always press a few extra flowers (if possible) in case of rips when lifting them off the paper and always use tweezers because these petals are very delicate.
You know when they are ready because the flowers will look nice and flat and the paper towel will be dry.
If the paper towel is still damp place it back in the microwave for a few more seconds.
Keep in mind, if left in too long they will burn, so short bursts in the microwave is best. 1 or 2 seconds at a time or less.
What kind of flowers do you use? What do you make with them? Greeting cards, gift tags or pictures?
I would love to hear your stories, ideas or tips for making dried flowers. Go to my contact me page and share your ideas with me and others.
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A Greeting Card Made from a Pressed Calendula Flower
Greeting Card Made from Pressed Pansies
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This easy to make greeting card is made from a dried Calendula Flower.
Or this card made from three dried Pansies.
How about this gift basket, filled with fragrant potpourri. A perfect thank you gift for a special friend.