Every artist expresses themselves in a different way. Some work with paint. Others work with music. Still others work with flowers, and these individuals call themselves florists. The bouquets and flower arrangements that florists create are true works of art. They are designed to express emotions and evoke certain feelings. You can order a bouquet for a graduation, an anniversary, or even a birthday, and that bouquet will be made uniquely for your needs. If you would like to learn more about florists and their art, then we invite you to read the articles on this blog, and also to strike up a conversation with your florist the next time you see them.
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Preserving Memories: Techniques For Drying And Preserving Bouquets
Sherri Carpenter
If you're like most people, there's something about receiving a bouquet of flowers that touches your heart in a way that few other things can — and you probably wish you could make the bouquet last forever. After all, bouquets often mark important milestones in life, from weddings and anniversaries to graduation ceremonies, so it's only natural to want to have as many long-lasting mementos of these occasions as possible. Preserving these bouquets allows you to keep a tangible reminder of those special moments. By drying and preserving your flowers, you can extend their beauty and sentimental value. Here's what you need to know about techniques for drying and preserving bouquets:
Air-Drying: The Traditional Method
Air-drying is one of the simplest methods to preserve your bouquet. Start by removing any excess foliage from the stems, then group the flowers together and tie them with a string or rubber band. Hang the bouquet upside down in a dry, dark area with good ventilation. This helps the flowers retain their color and prevents mold. It could take two to three weeks for the flowers to dry completely.
Pressing: For Flattened Floral Keepsakes
If you're interested in creating a flat keepsake, such as for framing, pressing flowers is the way to go. Begin by carefully disassembling your bouquet. Place each flower or leaf between two sheets of parchment paper, then put them inside a heavy book. Stack additional books or weights on top and leave them for two to three weeks. This method works well with flowers that have a single layer of petals like pansies or daisies.
Silica Gel: For Shape and Color Retention
For flowers that have a lot of petals or a unique shape you want to preserve, like roses or peonies, consider using silica gel. Fill a container with an inch layer of silica gel, place your flowers face up, and gently cover them with more gel. Let it sit for a week or until the flowers have completely dried.
Using Your Preserved Flowers
Once your flowers are dried and preserved, there are countless ways to enjoy them. You can display the air-dried bouquet in a vase or shadow box, create artwork with pressed flowers, or even use silica-dried flowers in dried arrangements.
Handling with Care
Remember, dried flowers are delicate and should be handled with care. Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and avoid humid areas that could reintroduce moisture.
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