Flower Pressing

On 10 May 2026, Charleston is hosting a workshop dedicated to the art of Flower Pressing. For those of us living around Brighton, Charleston is a familiar spot, and it serves as the backdrop for this session focused on preserving the seasonal flowers that usually only last a few weeks. The workshop is designed to help people capture that specific, temporary beauty of the garden by learning the techniques needed to dry and press plants properly. It’s a quiet, methodical way to engage with the local flora, moving away from the usual pace of things to focus on the details of individual stems and petals.

The session typically follows a structured format seen in similar workshops across the UK. You’ll likely be spending about three hours—often between 12:00 and 15:00—learning the ropes. Participants usually get to work with handcrafted wooden presses and receive a guide to help navigate the process of floral preservation. While some intensive versions of this craft, like those held at the Netherwood Estate, can run for a full day from 9:45 to 17:00, the Charleston event focuses on the core skills of creating floral art. It’s a hands-on experience where the goal is to leave with the knowledge and the physical tools to continue pressing flowers at home.

Regarding the practical side, these types of workshops are an investment. Looking at similar events organised by Jam Jar Edit in locations like Hampshire, Cornwall, and Oxfordshire, prices generally sit between €146 and €204. There are even more specialised versions that can reach £325, reflecting the cost of the artisanal materials and the expertise involved. Because of the price point and the level of detail, it’s really geared towards adults and anyone with a genuine interest in botany or creative manual work. It’s a chance to sit down with others who appreciate the same aesthetic and learn a traditional skill that has been seeing a bit of a resurgence lately.

Having this event at Charleston on a Sunday in May fits well with the timing of the spring blooms. It’s a straightforward way to spend an afternoon if you’ve been looking to do something creative that doesn't involve a screen. Since the materials like the press are usually included, you aren't just paying for the three hours of instruction but also for the equipment to keep the hobby going. It’s a niche activity, but for those who enjoy the intersection of art and nature, it provides a very specific, practical set of skills in a setting that’s already well-known for its artistic history.