Microwave flower and herb press

A flower press for the microwave, which dries and flattens flowers and herbs in one to two minutes, where a traditional press or a dictionary takes three weeks. The principle: two hexagonal terracotta plates, two felts between which you lay the plants, and silicone bands that hold it all tight.

The terracotta absorbs the moisture the microwave draws out of the petals; the felt keeps the colours without sticking. The whole thing measures 17.1 x 19.4 cm and 3.3 cm thick. It is a model by Esschert Design, a Dutch brand.

Lay the flowers flat on the felt, without overlapping, close it up and heat in short bursts, checking between each. Thin flowers dry faster than fleshy ones. Let it cool before opening.