The Art of Pressed Flowers and Leaves

Book excerpt: A ground-breaking book on the art of pressed flowers and leaf works from leading flower artist, Jennie Ashmore. Our love for flowers and leaves has never been more pronounced and in this book, we teach you how to make the most of the rediscovered pressed flower art, from choice of flowers (including roses, oak leaves and seaweed), the various ways of pressing them, designing with pressed flowers and leaves, achieving symmetry, the use of colour, and combining pressed flowers with watercolour and gouache, painted background, and gold and silver paper. The highly experienced author gives a range of insider tips from using the ribs of leaves to create pattern and movement, pressing both sides of a leaf, and capturing the seasons in one piece of work. She also provides templates to help you get started. A plant directory at the back of the book allows you to see what various plants look like when pressed. A stunningly beautiful book that opens up a traditional art to a very contemporary expression for all crafters and nature lovers.