Pressed flower art has long been a cherished method of preserving the beauty of flowers, turning them into lasting pieces of art. Among the various flowers used in this craft, dried Statice stands out due to its unique texture, vibrant colors, and longevity. This article will delve into the intricate process of using dried Statice in pressed flower art, covering everything from the basics of pressing Statice to creative ideas for incorporating it into various art forms.
1. Introduction to Statice
1.1. What is Statice?
Statice (Limonium sinuatum), commonly known as sea lavender, is a flowering plant known for its delicate clusters of papery blooms. Native to the Mediterranean region, Statice is widely appreciated for its vibrant colors, which range from deep purples and blues to bright pinks, yellows, and whites. The flower’s ability to retain its color and shape when dried makes it an ideal candidate for various forms of dried floral art, including pressed flower art.
1.2. Why Use Statice in Pressed Flower Art?
Statice is particularly valued in pressed flower art for several reasons:
- Color Retention: Unlike many other flowers, Statice retains its vivid colors even after drying and pressing, making it a striking addition to any artwork.
- Texture: The papery texture of Statice adds depth and dimension to pressed flower art, creating an interesting contrast with other, more delicate blooms.
- Durability: Statice is a hardy flower that withstands the pressing process well, maintaining its shape and structure over time.
2. Preparing Statice for Pressing
2.1. Harvesting Statice
The first step in using Statice for pressed flower art is to harvest the flowers at the right time. Here are some tips for harvesting Statice:
- Timing: Statice should be harvested when the flowers are fully open and vibrant. This ensures that the flowers are at their most colorful and will remain so after drying and pressing.
- Cutting: Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems, leaving a length of about 6 inches (15 cm) for easier handling.
- Handling: Handle the flowers gently to avoid bruising or damaging the delicate petals.
2.2. Drying Statice
While Statice can be pressed fresh, drying the flowers beforehand can help preserve their color and structure better. Here’s how to dry Statice:
- Air Drying: Tie the Statice stems in small bundles and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated, dry area. This method takes about 1-2 weeks.
- Silica Gel Drying: For quicker results, you can use silica gel. Place the flowers in a container filled with silica gel, ensuring they are completely covered. Leave them for 3-7 days, depending on the flower size.
3. Pressing Statice
3.1. Choosing the Right Pressing Method
Several methods can be used to press Statice, each with its advantages:
- Book Pressing: Place the Statice flowers between the pages of a heavy book. Use parchment or blotting paper to protect the pages. Stack more books on top to add pressure and leave the flowers for 2-4 weeks.
- Flower Press: A flower press, consisting of two wooden boards tightened with screws, provides even pressure and faster results, usually within 1-2 weeks.
- Microwave Pressing: For those in a hurry, microwave pressing is an option. Place the Statice between layers of paper towels and use a microwave flower press. Heat in short bursts of 10-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid scorching.
3.2. Arranging Statice for Pressing
When pressing Statice, the arrangement is key to achieving beautiful results:
- Single Flower Pressing: Press individual Statice blooms to highlight their unique shape and color. This method works well for detailed, intricate designs.
- Cluster Pressing: For a more natural look, press clusters of Statice together. This approach creates a fuller, more textured appearance in the final artwork.
3.3. Ensuring Successful Pressing
To ensure the best results when pressing Statice:
- Dryness: Ensure the flowers are completely dry before pressing to prevent mold and discoloration.
- Pressure: Apply even pressure to avoid uneven pressing and to maintain the flower’s shape.
- Patience: Give the flowers enough time to press fully. Rushing the process can lead to incomplete pressing and less vibrant results.
4. Creating Art with Pressed Statice
Once your Statice flowers are pressed and ready, you can use them in a variety of creative ways:
4.1. Framed Art
One of the most popular uses for pressed Statice is framed art:
- Designing Your Piece: Arrange the pressed Statice on a piece of acid-free paper or fabric. Consider using complementary flowers and foliage to enhance the composition.
- Framing: Choose a frame with UV-protected glass to prevent fading. Ensure the frame is deep enough to accommodate the pressed flowers without squashing them.
4.2. Greeting Cards
Pressed Statice can add a personal touch to greeting cards:
- Cardstock: Use high-quality, thick cardstock as a base.
- Adhesive: Apply a small amount of clear-drying glue to the back of the pressed Statice and gently press it onto the card. Consider using tweezers for precise placement.
- Customization: Add handwritten messages, calligraphy, or other decorative elements to complete the card.
4.3. Bookmarks
Create unique, handmade bookmarks using pressed Statice:
- Laminate: Place the pressed Statice between two sheets of laminating film and run them through a laminator. Trim the edges to create a bookmark.
- Decorative Elements: Add ribbons, tassels, or personalized inscriptions for a special touch.
4.4. Jewelry
Pressed Statice can also be used in resin jewelry, creating one-of-a-kind pieces:
- Setting: Place the pressed Statice in a resin mold or bezel. Pour clear resin over the flowers, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Curing: Allow the resin to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 24-48 hours.
- Finishing: Once cured, remove the piece from the mold, sand any rough edges, and add findings (e.g., chains, hooks) to create earrings, pendants, or brooches.
4.5. Stationery
Incorporate pressed Statice into custom stationery:
- Notebooks: Adorn the covers of handmade or store-bought notebooks with pressed Statice. Use a strong adhesive and seal with a clear varnish or laminating film.
- Letter Paper: Add pressed Statice to the corners of letter paper or envelopes for a charming, personalized touch.
5. Caring for Pressed Statice Art
5.1. Displaying Your Art
Proper display is crucial for preserving the beauty of your pressed Statice art:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep your artwork out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Humidity Control: Store or display your pressed flower art in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture damage.
- Regular Cleaning: Dust your framed pieces gently with a soft brush or cloth to maintain their appearance.
5.2. Storing Pressed Flowers
If you have leftover pressed Statice, store them properly for future use:
- Storage Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the flowers dry and protected from dust.
- Layering: Place the pressed Statice between layers of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Cool, Dark Place: Store the containers in a cool, dark place to prolong the life of the pressed flowers.
6. Creative Ideas and Inspiration
6.1. Seasonal Art Projects
Use pressed Statice to create art that reflects the changing seasons:
- Spring and Summer: Incorporate bright, cheerful colors like pinks and yellows into your designs.
- Autumn: Use deeper tones like purples and blues, possibly pairing with pressed leaves.
- Winter: Opt for white and pale hues, combining with snowflake-shaped cutouts or silver accents.
6.2. Themed Art Collections
Create themed collections of pressed Statice art:
- Botanical Series: Focus on different types of flowers and plants, using Statice as a recurring element.
- Color Stories: Arrange your pressed Statice art by color, creating a gradient or a monochromatic series.
- Inspirational Quotes: Pair your pressed Statice designs with hand-lettered quotes or poems for a meaningful display.
6.3. Art for Gifting
Pressed Statice art makes a thoughtful, personalized gift:
- Weddings: Create custom pieces for bridesmaids, featuring the wedding colors or flowers from the wedding bouquet.
- Birthdays: Design unique, framed art or jewelry pieces that reflect the recipient’s favorite colors or flowers.
- Anniversaries: Use pressed Statice in a piece that commemorates the couple’s special day, possibly incorporating other elements like pressed leaves or ribbons.
7. Conclusion
Dried Statice is a versatile and beautiful flower that lends itself wonderfully to pressed flower art. Whether you’re creating framed art, greeting cards, bookmarks, or even jewelry, Statice offers vibrant colors, interesting textures, and durability that make it an ideal choice for various projects. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully press Statice and use it to create timeless keepsakes that capture the beauty of nature in a lasting form. Whether you’re an experienced crafter or new to pressed flower art, dried Statice provides endless possibilities for creativity and expression.
