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, May 31st, 1-3:30pm 

Our first session will focus on the tools and techniques for proper harvest and drying. You will receive your own 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.

Sunday, July 12, 1-3:30pm 

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:

Registration Deadlines:

• Thursday, April 31st (11:59pm): If you would like to reserve a high-quality premium flower press to use in the course, you must register by this date. All students who register after this date will automatically receive our basic flower press option. See below for details about flower press options. 
• Sunday, May 17th (11:59pm): Deadline for all registrations. 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 3:30PM on Sundays, May 31st and July 12th. 

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 supply kit fee, teaching fee, and a flower press fee. Students keep their press and supplies after the program. 

• Teaching Fee | $35-$65 sliding scale
• Supply Kit Fee | $35
  • Includes all take-home art-making materials except the flower press. Materials include: Lokta art paper, display frames, brushes, art glue, tweezers, mini scissors, chipboard, and paper.
• Flower press fee | $15-$75
  • When registering, you'll select a flower press that you will keep after the course. The basic option is a simple, temporary press made in-house by Horn Farm staff, using cinch straps and reclaimed wood if possible. While functional, these presses are rustic, imperfect, and prioritize affordability. Students interested in a more permanent investment can select a premium option, the Wildwood Press crafted by US-based flower artist and small-business owner Hope Steinle.
  • Choosing your press:
    • Basic flower press ($15): for students who are exploring or prefer to minimize class costs.
    • Premium flower press ($85): for students who are commited to continued flower pressing and want to prioritize quality, longevity, and aesthetics in their press. Visit hopesteinle.com for details about the Wildwood Press. If you select this option when registering, this press will be ordered on your behalf. 

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.