What comes in the kit?
The Microfleur comes complete, ready to use and includes a comprehensive User Guide. The cotton fabric in the center of the press will require washing or replacing as it stains and the felt should last
for several hundred cycles.
How long does it take?
This will vary on the type of flower you are pressing and the power of your microwave. A simple flower such as a pansy, in a 750Watt oven could take up to 1 minute. While a whole gerbera could take up to 5 or 6 minutes in short bursts.
How will I know it is dry?
Touch is the best way. The flower should feel papery, be reasonably stiff and resist drooping. If it feels damp or wet continue pressing. After you have had a bit of practice you will be able to tell quite easily if more pressing is required.
How long will the color last?
Using a Microfleur will help to retain the color in your flowers. This also varies depending on the type of flower or leaf being processed, how fresh the specimen is, and where it is stored. Generally the stronger colors, such as the yellow jonquill, a red rose, dark larkspur, etc. keep their color for years, where the paler shades and older blooms tend to fade after a few months and may even discolor slightly in the press. Sunlight and fluorescent lights are the main culprits, so store your masterpieces carefully. What do I use to glue the flowers down with?
We use a good quality PVA glue or folk art sealer.
How do I store them until I need them?
We store ours in a snap lock plastic bag with pieces of blotting paper a bit smaller than the bag.
These are then placed in a shoe box or plastic container. The blotting paper helps to keep the flowers flat. They need to be completely dry before sealing the bag as they may rot if there is any moisture left in them. |
