212x12-inch pieces of plywood or MDF(or store-bought wooden flower press)
Cardboard(2 pieces cut to fit plywood/MDF)
Parchment paper or blotting paper
4bolts and wingnuts(if making DIY press)
Microwave Flower Press Method
Microfleur Flower Press
Tweezers(optional)
Ironing Method
Standard iron
Parchment paper or absorbent paper
Instructions
Book Press Method
Arrange flowers on parchment paper, and place another sheet of paper on top.
Close book and set a heavy object on top to apply pressure.
Wait 2-4 weeks for flowers to dry completely.
DIY Wooden Press Method
Drill four holes in the corners of the plywood/MDF, or use a store-bought wooden press.
Arrange flowers between two sheets of parchment paper and then two pieces of cardboard.
Sandwich the pressed flowers between the two pieces of wood/MDF. Then, tighten the bolts and nuts through the holes in each corner.
Wait 2-4 weeks for the flowers to dry completely.
Microwave Flower Press Method
Place flowers on the inner lining of the microwave flower press, and cover with the remaining lining and felt pieces.
Microwave the flowers for an initial "burst" of about 25 seconds or per the manufacturer's instructions.
Open the press to release moisture before continuing to microwave in 10-second intervals. Release moisture in between bursts to prevent scorching and burning.
Gently peel flowers away from the fabric lining once flowers are completely dry.
Ironing Method
Place flowers between two sheets of parchment paper or other absorbent paper.
Turn off any steam settings, and iron the flowers on low heat in 15-30 second intervals.
Let the flowers cool before continuing to press.
Notes
Each method has trade-offs between the time required and the quality of the finished pressed flowers. The best method for preserving flowers and keeping texture and color is either the book press or DIY wooden press, followed closely by the microwave method. Given the convenience and quality, microwaving is my preferred method of pressing flowers for craft projects, resin jewelry, and pressed flower art.