The act of pressing flowers brings together creativity, scientific study, and mindfulness.

By learning the process of collecting, drying, and artfully arranging plant materials, we can foster a well-rounded appreciation for the beauty and intricacies of the plant world while deepening our connection to local nature. Pressed flowers also make for special gifts; across cultures, people have arranged "bouquets" to commemorate occasions like weddings, graduations, funerals, and birthdays, using flowers to express gratitude for loved ones. 

So, from creative explorations to thoughtful gestures, join us for this two-part class to learn how to collect and preserve plant materials and craft one-of-a-kind, sustainable art! 

Sunday, September 14, 1-3pm 

Our first session will focus on the tools and techniques for proper harvest and drying. You will receive your own 9-1/2" x 11-1/4" flower press to keep after the class, which will be used to preserve specimens collected from the wild and cultivated fields of the Horn Farm Center.

Sunday, October 26, 1-3pm 

In our second session, we will collage our preserved specimens from the first session into botanical art on paper, covering additional tools and techniques, media, and design considerations for making beautiful, lasting flower arrangements to share with family and friends. 

Whether you’re a creative spirit with a love for nature or are interested in learning how to preserve plants for botanical study, nature journaling, or gift-making, join us for a fun and flowery time! You’ll depart with a memorable “portrait of place,” along with all the tools to continue pressing and arranging at home.

The art form of using pressed flowers draws from Japanese Oshibana, practiced as early as the 16th century to promote patience, concentration, and creative expression. Learn more about the history and cultural contexts of flower art here.

It’s important to note that pressed flower art is distinct from other forms of botanical craft like rubbings and dyeing. This class will not cover these techniques, focusing solely on using whole plant parts for creating art. 

All artwork shown was created by the instructor, Leah Robb

Program Notes:

Register by Monday, September 1st: With materials and preparation, we cannot accomodate sign-ups after this date. 

Two Session Commitment: Before registering, make sure you are available to attend both sessions of this program. Classes are taking place from 1PM to 3PM on Sundays, September 14th and October 26th. 

Environment: The first session of this class will take place primarily outdoors. Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly.

Arrival: Parking takes place in the field above the farmhouse. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so we can begin each class on time.

Audience: This class is designed for adult learning and may not be suitable for children under 12. Children must be registered separately in order to receive a flower pressing toolkit. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a registering parent or guardian.

Cost: This program includes a teaching fee and a flower pressing kit fee. The standard teaching fee for two 2-hour sessions is $50 with sliding scale pricing offered to support accessibility. The kit fee is $45 per person. Students will receive their own kit to use during the class and have the option to take home their items for keeping after the class concludes. Each kit includes the following: 

• Flower press (9-1/2" x 11-1/4" wood blocks, fasteners)
• Art-making supplies (two frames, Lokta art paper, tweezers, mini scissors, glue bottle, brushes, and chipboard) 

The kit cost also accounts for labor, as flower presses will be built in-house. 

Cancellation: All programs are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email in the days preceding the program for any changes or cancellations. You can review our current Cancellation and Refund Policy here. 

About the Instructor: Leah Robb

Leah Robb is a native plant enthusiast, avid extreme gardener, and passionate about restorative ecological stewarding. She serves as the Plant Sale Chair for Lancaster Native Plant Alliance. Leah earned her Habitat Steward certification in 2018 through Lancaster Conservancy and the National Wildlife Federation and in 2024 earned her Habitat Advocate certification through Lancaster Conservancy. Leah and her husband live in Lititz where they are restoring their half acre of suburbia to a healthy native ecosystem which they affectionately call The Robb Wilds.

To see Leah's botanical artwork, check out her Instagram: @the.robb.wilds

All artwork displayed on this page was created by Leah using plants harvested from local landscapes.