Flowers have a way of brightening up our lives. They are beautiful, fragrant, and come in different colours and shapes. They are often used to express feelings of love, joy, and hope. Whether it is from a wedding bouquet, a funeral arrangement, or a flower picked from a garden, flowers hold a special place in our hearts.
However, flowers don’t last forever. They wilt and wither, and may eventually have to be thrown away. But what if there was a way to preserve them? In this blog, we discuss seven creative methods of flower preservation that will help you keep your special moments alive.
Creative Methods of Flower Preservation
Freeze Drying Flowers
Freeze drying is a method that involves removing moisture from the flowers while they are frozen. The process involves placing the flowers in a vacuum chamber and lowering the air pressure. This causes the ice in the flowers to sublimate, turning directly from a solid to a gas, without passing through a liquid stage. The result is a perfectly preserved flower that looks fresh and natural.
Freeze drying is an excellent method of flower preservation because it maintains the colour, shape, and texture of the flowers. The preserved flowers can be used for a variety of purposes, including floral arrangements, home decor, and special occasions. The process is also eco-friendly because it does not involve the use of chemicals or preservatives.
It is important to note that freeze-dried flowers are delicate and should be handled with care. They should be kept away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. With proper care, freeze-dried flowers can last for many years.
Flower Pressing
Flower pressing is a traditional method of preserving flowers, as it has been used for centuries. The process involves flattening the flowers between two sheets of absorbent paper or cloth and then applying pressure to them. The pressure causes the moisture in the flowers to be absorbed by the paper or cloth, leaving behind a flattened flower.
This method is a simple and inexpensive method that can be done at home. The preserved flowers can be used for a variety of purposes, including scrapbooking, card making, and home decor. They can also be framed and hung on the wall.
To get the best results with flower pressing, it is important to use fresh flowers that are in good condition. Flowers that are too old or wilted may not press well. It is also important to use a flower press that applies even pressure to the flowers. With proper care, pressed flowers can last for many years.
Flower Resin Keepsakes
Flower resin keepsakes are a unique and beautiful way to preserve flowers forever. The process involves embedding the flowers in resin, which hardens to create a clear, durable, and glossy finish. The result is a stunning keepsake that looks like the flowers are suspended in time.
Flower resin keepsakes can be used for a variety of purposes, including jewellery, paperweights, and home decor. They can also be personalised with a special message or date.
To create a flower resin keepsake, you will need to select the flowers you want to preserve and dry them thoroughly. Then, you will need to mix the resin according to the instructions and pour it into a mould. Once the resin has been set, you can add the dried flowers and any other embellishments you want.
It is important to follow the instructions carefully when working with resin, as it can be toxic if not handled properly. With proper care, flower resin keepsakes can last for many years.
Drying Flowers in Silica
Drying flowers in silica is a method that involves using silica gel to remove the moisture from the flowers. Silica gel is a desiccant that absorbs moisture, making it perfect for drying flowers.
To dry flowers in this gel, you will need to select the flowers you want to preserve and trim the stems. Then, you will need to place the flowers in a container and cover them with silica gel. The flowers should be completely covered with the gel.
After several weeks, the flowers will be completely dry and ready to use. Dried flowers can be used for a variety of purposes, including floral arrangements and home decor. They can also be sprayed with preservation sprays to help preserve their colour. Silica gel should be handled with care, as it can be harmful if ingested. With proper care, dried flowers can last for many years.
Air Drying Flowers
Air drying is a simple and traditional method of flower preservation that involves hanging the flowers upside down in a dry and dark place. The process allows the moisture in the flowers to evaporate slowly, leaving behind a dried flower.
Air drying is an excellent method because it is easy and inexpensive. The preserved flowers can be used for a variety of purposes, including floral arrangements, wreaths, and home decor.
To air-dry flowers, you will need to select the flowers you want to preserve and trim the stems. Then, you will need to tie the stems together with a rubber band and hang them upside down in a dry and dark place. After a few weeks, the flowers will be completely dry and ready to use.
Hanging the flowers in a well-ventilated area to prevent mould from growing is important. With proper care, air-dried flowers can last for many years.
Framing Your Flowers
Framing your flowers is another creative and beautiful way to preserve them. The process involves placing the flowers in a frame and hanging it on the wall. Framed flowers can be used for a variety of purposes, including home decor and special occasions.
To frame your flowers, you will need to select the flowers you want to preserve and dry them thoroughly. Then, you will need to place them in a frame and secure them with glue or tape. You can also add a special message or date to the frame.
Framed flowers should be kept away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. With proper care, framed flowers can last for many years.
Microwave Press Flowers
Microwave pressing is a quick and easy method that involves using a microwave to dry the flowers. This method is quick and easy, and the preserved flowers can be used for a variety of purposes, including card-making, scrapbooking, and home decor.
To microwave-press flowers, you will need to select the flowers you want to preserve and trim the stems. Then, you will need to place them between two sheets of paper and microwave them for a short period. After a few seconds, the flowers will be completely dry and ready to use. It is important to monitor the flowers closely when using the microwave, as they can burn easily.
Flower Preservation with Sals Forever Flowers
At Sals Forever Flowers, we specialise in preserving your wedding bouquet or funeral arrangements. We preserve them in resin to create timeless keepsakes which will last a lifetime. They can be made in the form of ornaments, paperweights, jewellery and much more. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us and browse our range of products as well.