This little book is for pressing flowers and other plant materials. It constricts upon itself using the attached strings, which helps to compress the flowers inside. It also keeps everything inside.

The inspiration came from an abundance of found four-leaf clovers. I happened to have an old book on hand, so I attached some strings and went from there. It's a great item to take camping, or on long walks. I happen to find press-worthy flowers and whatnot everywhere I go, this helps tremendously.

I found this book in particular at a thrift store for only 25 cents. I just love the neat little designs on the front, it was made in 1968, so I assume they are hand painted. If you have an old encyclopedia or other large book that hasn't seen use in years, this is a great use for it.

Step 1: Tools and Materials

You'll need the following:
An old book
An electric drill (or a non-electric, I don't judge.)
Twine
Knife
Marker

Step 2: Drilling Holes

I didn't measure exactly how far from each edge to drill, but about an inch or so should do just fine. Refer to the pictures to see exactly what I did. You'll need to start off by marking places for four holes, two on each edge of the front cover (second picture). Then drill out each hole, I used a 7/64" drill bit, but you should use a size similar to your string.

Step 3: Cutting and Stringing

Now cut two lengths of string, about 7ft a piece. Pull one piece of through the holes one one side, you may have to clean up the hole with your knife a bit. Repeat for the other holes.

Step 4: Knots and Whatnot

Pull both ends of your string until even, repeat for both sides. Then make a tight overhand knot at the beginning of your string (first picture). Also make an overhand knot at the end of the string, then cut the ends even. The closer you cut the ends to the knot, the less fraying will occur. But, some people (like me) like a frayed look. It gives is a little more of an... artistic feel. When you're done with this step your book should look like the fourth picture.

Step 5: How to Press

Open up a page, insert your flower or plant material of choice, then close the book. Wrap the strings around the book several times (third picture), then slide the working end of your string under the wraps we just made (fourth picture). Pull the working end tightly, this makes the strings constrict the book together, pressing the flower flat. Repeat for both sides. And done! I hope you liked the 'ible, and I'm glad to be sharing my love of flower pressing!