(Pocket) Mini Plant Press (To Go)

Everyone who spends a lot of time outdoors in nature - whether big or small - should always have something with them to be able to take leaves, blossoms or even whole plants with them.

It would be best to be able to press them right on site. But you don't always have a suitable book with you.

The solution: this small plant press that fits on any keychain (size A9) and is therefore always ready for use.

Printing and Assembly of the Plant Press

The plant press consists of two identical sides, which are made up of three different parts: a press plate, cross braces, and longitudinal braces.

The press plate evenly distributes the pressing pressure. It gives the press stability and allows evaporating water to escape during pressing, thus preventing mold.

The cross and longitudinal braces not only look nice but also stiffen the press plate.

The pressing pressure is generated by simple rubber bands, which allows it to be variably adjusted.

All parts of the plant press are printed individually, so no support structures or post-processing are needed. After printing, all parts can be assembled directly.

First, the longer longitudinal braces are inserted onto the press plate. Then the shorter cross braces are inserted with some force. These should fit snugly so that the plant press does not fall apart, but also does not bend. If the cross braces are too loose, they must be glued with a little adhesive.

The assembly of the plant press can also be done excellently together with children.

Variants and Sizes of the Plant Press

The plant press can be printed in three sizes: A9, A8, and A7 (corresponds to DIN standard for paper)

For the keychain, I recommend the smallest size. But the others also fit well in any bag to be carried everywhere.

All variants are already in the finished print profile. 3 print plates (labeled) must be printed for each to build a complete plant press.

The plant presses do not have a standard hanging hole for a key ring. However, this can optionally be attached by replacing a cross brace. The additional cross brace is located on the third print plate.

Function of the Plant Press and Additionally Required Parts

In addition to the rubber bands, paper or thin cardboard pieces are also needed. The plants should not be placed directly on the press plates. A piece of paper should surround the plant both above and below. In this way, several plants can also be pressed one above the other in a single press.

Plant Pressing Made Easy

1. Separate the plant piece into an appropriate size and prepare the press.
2. Place paper on the bottom press plate.
3. Carefully press the plant onto the paper with your fingers. Take plenty of time for this. Also make sure not to crush the plant.
4. Place another paper on the plant.
5. Place the top press plate.
6. Press the two press plates together with several rubber bands.
7. Wait. Thin blossoms and leaves dry faster than thick, juicy plant parts. Usually, it takes 1-3 weeks until the plants are completely dried and the water is removed.
8. Occasionally, the plant should be checked for mold and the paper replaced.
9. Now you just need a small herbarium for storage. But you can also make great nature stickers with some adhesive tape.