We loved the instructions in this article by Rachel Beyer.  A flower press will give you the ability to preserve the texture and colors or flowers for display, or use them in new projects or artworks now that they will be flattened. 

This activity requires a bit of woodworking and so you would need to work alongside a parent (lower school) and with a parent's awareness and close proximity (middle school). We also know that not everyone has access to these tools at home; so when we return back together at school, we'll be offering a workshop for anyone who wants to come make your own flower press at that time.  

You will need: 

• 2 pieces of wood of equal size (this website example uses 2- 8" x 10"pieces)

• 4 bolts

• 4 washers

• 4 wing nuts

• Cardboard (or thin wood)

• Watercolor/scrapbooking paper (or white paper)

• If desired, paint or other decorations for the outside of your press

Tools: 

• Saw - if your pieces are not equal size, or have wood cut to size when purchased

• Drill with drill bit to match your bolts

• Sandpaper

Remember, in the innovation lab a saw is a RED DOT tool, a drill is a YELLOW DOT tool, and sandpaper is a GREEN DOT tool. 

Gather your materials and follow the directions from the Garden Therapy site to create your press!