To make pressed paper flowers, you'll essentially be creating paper with embedded flower petals using a pulping and screening process. Here’s a breakdown of the steps:
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Prepare the Paper Pulp: Rip paper (scrap paper works well) into small pieces. Saturate the paper pieces with water.
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Blend the Paper: Blend the water-soaked paper in a blender until it forms a pulpy mixture.
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Create a Pulp Bath: Pour the paper pulp into a container large enough to accommodate a mesh tray (used for scooping).
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Add Flower Petals: Gently incorporate your flower petals into the paper pulp mixture, distributing them evenly.
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Scoop and Screen: Use a mesh tray to scoop up a layer of the pulp and petal mixture from the water.
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Press and Dry: Place the scooped pulp between absorbent materials like felt or blotting paper. Press firmly to remove excess water. Allow the paper with flower petals to dry completely. You can use weights to maintain pressure during drying, ensuring a flatter finished product.
