Two Essentials for Plant Pressing

Embarking on the journey of plant pressing, a rewarding hobby that allows you to preserve and display the beauty of nature, requires just two essential tools. These tools are not only fundamental but also remarkably simple, making plant pressing an accessible activity for enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds.

Before we delve into the two crucial components needed to create a plant press, let's briefly explore the art of plant pressing. This technique, also known as herbarium pressing, involves flattening and drying plants between sheets of paper or cardstock, secured within a press. The result is a lasting record of the plant's form, color, and texture, perfect for scientific study, artistic inspiration, or personal collection.

Pressing Boards

The first indispensable element in creating a plant press is a set of pressing boards. These are typically made of wood, such as plywood or Masonite, and come in pairs. One board serves as the base, while the other acts as the top, sandwiching the plants and paper in between.

Pressing boards can be purchased pre-made or crafted at home with basic materials. For a DIY approach, ensure the boards are flat, smooth, and of uniform thickness to apply even pressure across the entire plant specimen. The size of the boards is flexible, but larger dimensions allow for pressing multiple plants simultaneously or accommodating oversized specimens.

Board Material and Construction

When selecting or constructing pressing boards, consider the material's ability to withstand the weight and moisture involved in the pressing process. Plywood and Masonite are popular choices due to their durability, flatness, and resistance to warping. Opt for boards with a smooth surface to prevent any texture from transferring onto the pressed plants.

To create a set of pressing boards, you'll need the following materials: a sheet of plywood or Masonite, screws or bolts with washers, and optionally, rubber bands or springs for added pressure. Cut the sheet into two equal-sized pieces, drill holes along the edges, and secure them together using screws or bolts. This allows the boards to be opened and closed like a book, accommodating the plants and paper in between.

Pressing Board Alternatives

While traditional wooden pressing boards are the gold standard, alternative materials and methods can be employed when resources are limited or for specific applications. For instance, a large, flat book or a stack of heavy objects can be used to press small plants in a pinch. However, these methods may not provide the same level of even pressure or durability as dedicated pressing boards.

For those interested in a more portable or lightweight solution, consider investing in a purpose-built plant press designed for travel or fieldwork. These presses often feature foldable or collapsible frames, making them easier to transport than traditional wooden boards. While they may not offer the same capacity or longevity as a set of wooden pressing boards, they are an excellent option for those who prioritize convenience and portability.

Blotting Paper or Newsprint

The second essential component in creating a plant press is a suitable material to place between the plants and the pressing boards. This layer serves two critical purposes: absorbing excess moisture from the plants and providing a non-stick surface to prevent the plants from adhering to the boards.

Blotting paper or newsprint are the most commonly used materials for this purpose. Both options are inexpensive, readily available, and well-suited to the task at hand. Let's explore each option in more detail and discuss their advantages and potential drawbacks.

Blotting Paper

Blotting paper is a thin, absorbent paper designed to soak up excess moisture from surfaces. Its primary function in plant pressing is to wick away water from the plants, preventing mold growth and promoting even drying. Blotting paper is typically available in rolls or sheets, making it easy to cut to size and place between the plants and pressing boards.

One of the key advantages of using blotting paper is its ability to absorb a significant amount of moisture without disintegrating. This allows it to effectively manage the water content of the plants throughout the pressing process, ensuring a consistent and even drying experience. Additionally, blotting paper's thin profile helps minimize the overall thickness of the press, enabling you to stack more plants or use smaller pressing boards.

Newsprint

Newsprint is a type of paper commonly used in newspaper printing. It is characterized by its low cost, high absorbency, and relatively thin profile. Like blotting paper, newsprint serves as a barrier between the plants and the pressing boards, absorbing excess moisture and preventing sticking.

Newsprint is an attractive option for plant pressers due to its wide availability and low cost. Many hobbyists and professionals alike swear by its effectiveness in preserving plant specimens with minimal effort. However, it is essential to note that newsprint may contain certain chemicals or inks that could potentially transfer onto the pressed plants, especially if they are not properly dried or stored. To mitigate this risk, opt for uncoated, acid-free newsprint, which is less likely to cause discoloration or damage to the pressed specimens.

Alternative Materials

While blotting paper and newsprint are the most popular choices for plant pressing, other materials can be employed in a pinch or for specific applications. For example, some plant pressers use coffee filters, paper towels, or even facial tissues to absorb moisture and prevent sticking. However, these alternatives may not offer the same level of absorbency, durability, or non-stick properties as dedicated blotting paper or newsprint.

In some cases, plant pressers may opt to use a combination of materials to achieve the desired results. For instance, they might place a layer of blotting paper between the plants and the pressing boards to absorb moisture, followed by a sheet of newsprint to provide an additional barrier and prevent sticking. This approach can help maximize the benefits of each material while minimizing their respective drawbacks.

In the world of plant pressing, the combination of pressing boards and blotting paper or newsprint forms the foundation of a rewarding and engaging hobby. By mastering these two essential tools, you'll be well on your way to creating a stunning and lasting record of the natural world. So, gather your materials, explore the great outdoors, and let the art of plant pressing inspire you to appreciate the beauty of nature in a whole new light.