Join us for this exciting new workshop where we will explore the art of flower pressing, drying, and decorative uses as well as botanical growing tips. This class is perfect for both new and experienced crafters, gardeners, decorators, and everyone in between.
The use of recyclable and compostable materials when crafting has ecological benefits for reducing plastic waste and carbon emissions, especially when materials are collected locally and sustainably to help preserve wildlife habitat. We’ll connect with nature while learning a fun new skill!
Learn the basics of flower pressing to preserve treasured botanicals from your garden. Methods of flower pressing will be shared where you will learn which flowers are easy to press and which are not, and how to prepare them for pressing. Example uses of pressed flowers will be displayed, and resources for additional tips on pressing botanicals will be shared. Interested in making your own press? See an example along with a list of materials for an easy DIY project that will get you hooked on botanical pressing in no time!
After we talk about pressing, we will dive into discussing how dried flowers, leaves, seedpods and more can be useful in arrangements and crafts of all kinds. We’ll also discuss how to grow the best native and pollinator-friendly flowers for preservation, wildlife-friendly tips for sustainable harvesting, and eco-friendly methods that will help botanicals last for years. We’ll explore how these materials can be used in everything from spring displays to holiday wreaths.
Note; we will not be crafting during this class. Expect to take home resources to help put your new knowledge into practice.
Presenters:
UNH Extension Advanced Master Gardener Doris Buco
UNH Extension Master Gardener Patti Elwell
Doris and Patti are NH Audubon Massabesic Center garden volunteers and contribute their designs and dried flowers to the annual holiday wreath program. Their wealth of experience, down to earth kindness, and dedication to NH Audubon’s mission are sure to make this class an exceptionally fun and informative event.
Logistics:
This lecture-style presentation will take place indoors, in the main conference room at the Massabesic Center.
Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building, and for optional outdoor exploration of the gardens. We encourage participants to enjoy the gardens after the program concludes. The garden trail is a short distance walk over flat-packed gravel. Muddy conditions may be present, especially if you choose to walk into the grassy areas surrounding some garden spaces. An email will be sent out the day before the program with weather expectations and other details. This program will take place rain or shine.
This program is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Cost:
$10 for NH Audubon members
$15 for non-members (Join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.)
Registration is required by August 20. If you miss the registration deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications.
Limit 25 attendees.
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Refund Policy:
All ticket sales are final. All ticket fees support NH Audubon’s mission.