How To Press Carnations With Ease: 10 Ways To Do It At Home

Carnations’ ruffled petals, delicate fragrance, and wide range of colours make them a favourite for bouquets and meaningful gifts. But what if you could make their beauty last forever?

That’s where learning how to press carnations comes in. Pressing flowers lets you freeze that moment in time — whether it’s a romantic gesture, a wedding memory, or simply a bloom that made your day brighter. And the good news? You don’t need expensive tools or fancy equipment to get started.

Here are 10 easy ways to press carnations at home — so you can treasure them for years to come.

1. Traditional Book Pressing

This is the go-to method for many flower lovers. To do it right, trim the carnation stem close to the base of the flower so it lies flatter. Open a heavy, absorbent book like an old phone book or encyclopedia, and place parchment or blotting paper on the pages before laying the flower down.

Close the book carefully and stack other books or a heavy object on top. Store it in a dry area and leave it undisturbed for about 2–3 weeks. This method is slow but gentle, making it great for sentimental blooms.

2. Iron Pressing

Perfect for those in a hurry, this method uses a household iron to speed up the drying process. Start by placing your carnation between parchment paper or two clean sheets of paper towel. Flatten it slightly by hand, then press a dry (no steam) iron on top in 10-second intervals. Let it cool between presses to avoid burning or browning the petals. It's best suited for thinner blooms or single-petal layers.

3. Microwave Flower Press

Microwave flower presses are affordable and very efficient. If you don’t have one, create a DIY version using two ceramic tiles, rubber bands, and parchment paper. Place your carnation between the paper inside the tiles and secure tightly with bands. Microwave for 20–30 seconds at a time on medium heat. Let cool before checking the progress. This method reduces pressing time drastically and helps preserve colour well.

4. DIY Wooden Flower Press

For craft lovers or those looking to press flowers regularly, building your own press offers precision. You’ll need two flat wooden boards, bolts, wing nuts, and blotting or parchment paper. Drill holes in each corner of the boards, layer the paper and flowers inside, and fasten the boards together. Tighten the nuts to apply even pressure. Let the carnation press for 1–2 weeks. It’s effective, reusable, and great for batch pressing.

5. Hanging Upside Down First

Some carnations are simply too thick or moist to press effectively straight away. Hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated room for 2–5 days to let gravity help them partially flatten and dry. After that, press them using your preferred method. This step reduces moisture and makes pressing more effective with less risk of mould.

6. Using Silica Gel, Then Pressing

Silica gel isn’t just for drying—it can help keep flower colours vibrant. First, bury your carnation fully in a container of silica gel for several days until dry. Then press the bloom between paper in a book or flower press for a few days. You’ll get the best of both worlds: preserved colour and a flattened finish ideal for display.

7. The Cardboard Stack Method

This method mimics a flower press without needing wood or bolts. Cut multiple pieces of cardboard to a similar size. Sandwich your carnation between layers of parchment paper, then layer those between cardboard pieces. Stack books or bricks on top to apply pressure. The cardboard absorbs moisture while providing flat, firm support. Leave for 10–14 days.

8. Between Tiles And Straps

Use two flat tiles, wooden boards, or even baking sheets as pressing surfaces. Place the carnation between blotting paper, insert it between the tiles, and strap the whole thing together tightly with belts, cords, or bungee straps. The flat, rigid surfaces apply consistent pressure, and the blotting paper handles moisture. Wait 1–2 weeks for best results.

9. Using A Flower Pressing Kit

Pre-made flower pressing kits take out the guesswork. They usually include wooden boards, bolts, blotting sheets, and instructions. Just assemble the kit with your carnation inside and tighten it down. Kits are beginner-friendly and give consistent results. Plus, they often come with extra paper and flower layout guides for added ease.

10. Phone Book With Plastic Wrap

An old-school technique, especially good if you want a quick fix. Lay a piece of plastic wrap inside the phone book pages to protect the paper. Place the carnation between two pieces of parchment or wax paper, close the book, and use rubber bands or weights to keep it tightly shut. The wrap keeps moisture from damaging the pages, and the paper layers absorb it gently.

Conclusion About Pressing Carnations

Learning how to press carnations isn't just a lovely craft — it's a way to hold on to the feelings behind the flowers. Whether they mark a special moment or simply brighten your day, pressed carnations can become bookmarks, framed art, or just quiet reminders of something meaningful.

And if you're looking to build your own collection of preserved blooms — or gift someone a lasting memory — check out Singapore Florist, known for the best flower delivery in Singapore. 

Our curated preserved flower bouquets are perfect for any occasion that deserves to be remembered.

Ready to turn petals into keepsakes? Start pressing today and relive the beauty whenever you wish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pressing Carnations

What Is The Best Way To Press A Carnation At Home?

The book method is simple and reliable. Place the carnation between parchment paper in a heavy book and add more weight on top for even pressing.

How Long Does It Take To Press A Carnation?

Most methods take 1 to 3 weeks, depending on thickness and humidity. Quick methods like microwaving can work in minutes but need more care.

Can You Press A Fresh Carnation Or Should It Be Dried First?

You can press fresh carnations, but drying them slightly by hanging upside down first can help reduce moisture and improve results.

Do Pressed Carnations Keep Their Colour?

Some colour is usually retained, especially if the pressing is done quickly. Using silica gel before pressing can help preserve vibrancy.

What Can I Do With Pressed Carnations?

They’re great for decorating cards, bookmarks, scrapbooks, framed art, or even phone cases. Let your creativity take the lead.

Should I Use Blotting Paper Or Regular Paper To Press Carnations?

Blotting paper or parchment paper is best. A regular paper may absorb moisture unevenly or stick to the petals.

Can I Press Carnations With Their Stems?

It’s better to remove most of the stem, as it’s thicker and takes longer to dry. Trim it close to the bloom for a flatter press.