Floral Preservation Techniques: Pressing and Drying Flowers to Last Forever

By Albert - On Oct 31, 2023

Flowers are a beautiful and thoughtful gift, but they can be fragile and short-lived. Fortunately, a few simple techniques can be used to preserve flowers so they can be enjoyed for years. Two of the most popular methods are pressing and drying flowers.

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This article will discuss the basics of pressing and drying flowers and some tips for getting the best results. We will also provide some ideas for using preserved flowers in your home and decor.

What is pressing flowers?

Pressing flowers is a simple process that involves placing the flowers between two absorbent surfaces and applying pressure to flatten them. This process removes the moisture from the flowers, which preserves their shape and colour.

How to press flowers

To press flowers, you will need:

Flowers
Absorbent paper, such as blotting paper, coffee filters, or tissue paper
A heavy book or other object to apply pressure

Instructions:

Select flowers that are in bloom and have not yet started to wilt.
Remove any leaves or thorns from the stems.
Place the flowers between two sheets of absorbent paper face down.
Close the book or place the heavy object on top of the flowers.
Place the book or object in a warm, dry place.
Check the flowers every few days to make sure they are drying properly.
Once the flowers are completely dry, remove them from the book or object.

Tips for pressing flowers

Choose flowers that are in good condition.
Remove any leaves or thorns from the stems.
Place the flowers face down between two sheets of absorbent paper.
Use a heavy book or other object to apply pressure.
Place the book or object in a warm, dry place.
Check the flowers every few days to make sure they are drying properly.

What is drying flowers?

Drying flowers is a process of removing the moisture from the flowers, which preserves their shape and colour. There are several ways to dry flowers, including air drying, silica gel drying, and microwave drying.

Air drying flowers

Air drying is the simplest and most common way to dry flowers. Simply hang them upside down to air-dry flowers in a warm, dry place. Be sure to space the flowers out so they do not touch each other. Air drying can take several weeks, depending on the type of flowers.

Silica gel drying

Silica gel is a desiccant, which means that it absorbs moisture. This makes it ideal for drying flowers. To dry flowers with silica gel:

Place a layer of silica gel in the bottom of a container.
Place the flowers on the silica gel, then cover them with another layer.
Seal the container and place it in a warm, dry place.

Silica gel drying can take a few days or up to a week, depending on the type of flowers.

Microwave drying

Microwave drying is the fastest way to dry flowers but also the riskiest. If you are not careful, microwave drying can cause the flowers to burn or discolour. To microwave dry flowers:

Place them on a microwave-safe plate.
Microwave the flowers on high for 30 seconds, checking them frequently.
Once the flowers are dry, remove them from the microwave.

Tips for drying flowers

Choose flowers that are in good condition.
Remove any leaves or thorns from the stems.
Air dry flowers in a warm, dry place.
Space the flowers out so that they do not touch each other.
Use silica gel to dry flowers quickly.
Microwave dry flowers with caution.

Using preserved flowers

Preserved flowers can be used in various ways in your home and decor. Here are a few ideas:

Create a pressed flower collage or frame.
Use dried flowers to make wreaths, garlands, and centrepieces.
Add dried flowers to soaps, candles, and other bath products.
Use dried flowers to make potpourri and sachets.
Use dried flowers to decorate cards, invitations, and other paper crafts.

Conclusion

Pressing and drying flowers are two simple and effective ways to preserve flowers so they can be enjoyed for years. With some care and attention, you can create beautiful and unique art and decor using preserved flowers.