Learn how to create DIY art by pounding flowers to release natural dyes. Get tips for achieving the best results on paper and fabric when flower pounding. You'll also learn how to embellish your flower pounded art to make it look more finished and professional.
For the best results, pick fresh flowers. Place the flowers in a small vase if you do not plan to use them immediately. Flowers with darker pigments and flat faces (like pansies) work well.
Place your paper on a hard surface such as a scrap piece of wood. You may opt to place a few sheets of newspaper in between to prevent damage to the paper.
Place the flowers face down on the paper. You can leave stems on or off depending on your preference. Masking tape can help prevent the flowers from shifting.
Cover the flowers with a paper towel and begin gently pounding them with a hammer. Work in small sections, and repeat the process if the ink does not transfer successfully the first time.
Remove the plant tissue from the paper, and let the artwork dry for 30 minutes. You can add more flower details with a fine-point pen if desired.
Optional: Spray the finished design with an acrylic spray sealer to help protect it and prevent discoloration.
Flower Pounding on Fabric
Note: Use safety gear (mask and gloves) when using alum powder, and work in a well-ventilated area.
Prewash the fabric. Then dissolve 2 teaspoons of alum powder in 1 gallon of warm water in a bucket.
Submerge the fabric in the alum bath for 20-30 minutes. Then wring out the fabric and allow it to dry naturally. Do not rinse.
Iron the fabric before pounding the flowers for a smoother application. Then place parchment paper or another protective surface behind your fabric to prevent the natural dyes from bleeding through.
Place the flowers face down on the fabric surface, cover them with a paper towel, and begin pounding. (See steps 3-5 above.)
After the fabric has dried, you can "heat set" the design. Place parchment paper over the design, then press it with a household iron on the highest heat setting recommended for your fabric (no steam).