Biophilic designing

Biophilic design is an approach to design that emphasizes the connection between humans and nature. This design philosophy is based on the idea that human beings have an innate tendency to seek out and connect with nature, and that incorporating elements of nature into our built environment can have positive impacts on our health, well-being, and overall quality of life.

In practice, biophilic design incorporates elements of nature into our buildings, homes, and workspaces through features such as green walls, indoor plants, natural light, views of nature, and other similar elements. Studies have shown that biophilic design can help to reduce stress, improve mood, enhance cognitive function, and promote physical health, among other benefits. As such, it is becoming increasingly popular in a wide range of applications, from residential homes and commercial spaces to healthcare facilities and schools.

Pressed flower frames can be considered biophilic as they bring elements of nature into our built environment. By displaying pressed flowers in frames, you can bring the beauty and diversity of the natural world into your home or office. This can have positive impacts on your well-being, such as reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting a sense of peace and tranquility.

Additionally, the process of pressing flowers itself can be a form of mindfulness and meditation, promoting a connection with nature and helping to reduce stress and anxiety. So, incorporating pressed flower frames into your decor can be a great way to incorporate biophilic design into your space and promote a sense of well-being.

 

Evergreen heathers

Heathers are a group of evergreen and deciduous shrubs that belong to the Ericaceae family. They are native to Europe, Asia, and North America, and are known for their delicate, bell-shaped flowers and evergreen foliage.

There are many different species of heathers, each with its own unique characteristics, such as different flower colors, growth habits, and foliage textures. Some of the most popular species include Scottish heather, Spanish heather, and bell heather.

Heathers are popular ornamental plants and are often grown in gardens, parks, and natural landscapes. They are low-maintenance plants and are well-suited to a variety of growing conditions, including well-draining soils, partial shade, and acidic soils.

In addition to their ornamental value, heathers also play an important role in the ecosystem, providing food and habitat for wildlife, such as bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. They are also important components of moorland and heathland habitats, helping to stabilize the soil and provide important ecosystem services.

Pressed and dried heathers make for stunning and unique decor pieces, preserving the delicate beauty of these plants in a timeless way. Using heathers in your decor brings a touch of nature into your home, and the dried blooms can last for many years, making them a long-lasting addition to any space.

Pressed and dried heathers can be used in a variety of ways, such as in picture frames, shadow boxes, or on their own as a decorative accent. They can also be combined with other pressed and dried flowers to create a beautiful and intricate floral display.

Whether displayed in a prominent place or tucked away in a quiet corner, pressed and dried heathers are a versatile and attractive decor element. They are a great way to bring the beauty of nature into your home, and make for wonderful gifts for anyone who loves flowers and plants.

 

Quick drying for already pressed flowers and plants 

Sometimes, when the weather is bad and rainy, there is a lot of moisture in the air, then traditional drying methods may not be enough to get rid of the moisture in the plants.If you don't act in time, they may start getting moldy and they will be of no use.

  Ironing   

If you have used sheets of paper, tissue or kitchen towels to separate the plants in your book, you can easily (but gently) pull them out. Prepare an ironing board or a free place on the table. Set the iron to the lowest heat. Like if you were ironing silk. No steam and no extra water. We don't want any more water in our flowers. Press the iron on the paper with the flowers inside. Hold for 5 seconds. Try to have a look inside. Make several attempts for a few seconds. You have to decide for yourself whether to dry completely or just warm up a little. Different plants react differently. Sometimes everything sticks to the paper. You have to throw it away. Sometimes an iron that is too hot burns the plants. Happens too. Try, test and draw conclusions.

 

Micowave   

If the flowers and plants were dried without a sheet of paper towels - you can try the microwave method. If the book fits in the microwave. Remember - pay attention to the materials used in the construction of the book - whether there are metal parts, multiple varnished pages or a laminated cover. Use short bursts to reheat for no more than 1 minute. If you can, shorter. Check the effects every time, you don't have to dry them to a crisp right away - just warm the book.

 

Pet heating pad

Like I wrote above - the key is to warm the book. The method that works for me in winter is the pet heating mat. It is such a flat mat with flat heaters inside. This is a great invention for our pets - it does not overheat, maintains the temperature, some models have a timer. I put books on the mat and it's ready - sometimes I check the condition of the plants, turn the books over, check that the covers are not overheating.

DIY Pressing and drying flowers

Pressing and drying flowers is a simple and effective way to preserve their beauty and color for use in decor, art, and other projects. Here is a basic guide to pressing and drying flowers:

1. Choose the flowers: Select flowers that are fully open and at their peak of freshness. Avoid flowers that are overripe, wilted, or have any signs of mold or disease.

2. Preparing the flowers: Remove any leaves or stems that may interfere with the pressing process. You can also cut the stems to a suitable length for your project.

3. Picking the pressing method: There are several methods for pressing flowers, including using a flower press, placing them between the pages of a heavy book, or using a microwave.

4. Drying the flowers: Once pressed, the flowers will need to be dried completely. This can take several days to several weeks, depending on the drying method used and the humidity levels in the air.

5. Storing the dried flowers: Once fully dry, store the pressed flowers in an airtight container, away from direct light and moisture, to preserve their color and prevent mold or decay.

By following these simple steps, you can successfully press and dry flowers to use in a variety of projects and decorative arrangements.

More tips! 

The process of flattening and drying flowers and plants depends on the species. It takes at least 3 weeks to dry flowers and plants under optimal conditions. It's always better to leave the plants for longer - you can then see if the color has changed. The thin petals will dry faster without intervention. Thicker leaves, stems and flower buds may require supervision and action. If after 2 - 4 days the plant is still moist, take it out of the book and apply additional drying. How? You will find it here.