How to Make a DIY Flower-Pressed Wooden Bookmark

Creating a DIY flower-pressed wooden bookmark is a fun and creative way to personalize your reading accessories while incorporating nature into your crafts. This project is simple, requiring only a few materials and steps to achieve a stunning, natural look. Handmade wooden bookmarks make excellent gifts or personal keepsakes that can be treasured for years.

Materials Needed:

• Thin wooden veneer sheets or pre-cut wooden bookmark blanks

• Dried pressed flowers and leaves

• Mod Podge (matte or gloss) or clear-drying wood glue

• Sandpaper (fine grit)

• Small paintbrush or foam brush

• Wax paper or parchment paper

• Heavy book or flower press

• Scissors or a craft knife

• Hole punch (optional)

• Ribbon or twine (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Select and Press Flowers

If you haven’t already pressed flowers, gather small, flat flowers or leaves from your garden or local area. Choose delicate flowers like daisies, violets, or ferns that will adhere well to the wooden surface.

Press them between parchment paper inside a heavy book for about a week, or use a flower press for quicker results. Ensure the flowers are completely dry before using them in your bookmark design to prevent discoloration or mold growth.

2. Prepare the Wooden Bookmark

If you’re using a raw wooden veneer, cut it to your desired bookmark size (typically around 6 inches long and 2 inches wide). Sand the edges and surface with fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth finish. Wipe away dust with a dry cloth.

If you’re using a pre-cut wooden bookmark blank, check for rough edges and sand them down if necessary.

3. Arrange the Pressed Flowers

Lay out your pressed flowers on the wooden bookmark before gluing. Experiment with different arrangements until you find a design you love. You can create a simple pattern or layer flowers for a more artistic effect.

4. Adhere the Flowers to the Wood

Using a small paintbrush or foam brush, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge or clear wood glue to the surface of the wooden bookmark. Carefully place your pressed flowers onto the glued surface, pressing them down gently with tweezers or your fingers.

Once the flowers are positioned, apply another thin layer of Mod Podge over them to seal and protect them. Be sure to use gentle strokes to avoid damaging the delicate flowers. Let the first coat dry completely before adding additional layers for extra protection.

5. Let It Dry Completely

Allow the bookmark to dry for several hours or overnight. Place wax paper over the bookmark and press it under a heavy book to ensure the flowers stay flat and adhered properly.

6. Smooth and Finish

Once dry, check the bookmark for any rough edges. If needed, lightly sand the edges again to smooth out any glue residue or uneven surfaces.

For extra durability, consider sealing the entire bookmark with a clear polyurethane or acrylic spray to protect it from moisture and wear.

7. Add a Personal Touch (Optional)

If desired, punch a hole at the top of the bookmark using a hole punch or a small drill. Thread a piece of ribbon, twine, or leather cord through the hole to add a decorative touch. You can also personalize the bookmark further by wood-burning initials, quotes, or simple designs.

Care Tips for Your DIY Flower-Pressed Wooden Bookmark

• Store in a dry place to prevent moisture damage.

• Avoid excessive bending to keep the pressed flowers intact.

• If the surface gets dirty, gently wipe it with a dry or slightly damp cloth.

This DIY project is a great way to blend nature with craftsmanship, creating a one-of-a-kind bookmark that brings a touch of beauty to your reading experience.