Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding flowers are a beautiful memento of a couple's big day, but fresh flowers don't last forever. One way to preserve these special blooms is by drying and framing them. This process involves pressing the flowers to remove moisture, which can take around two to three weeks. Once dried, the flowers can be arranged and secured to a background material, such as paper or fabric, using glue or double-sided tape. The background and flowers are then placed inside a frame, creating a unique and personalised decoration that captures the beauty of nature and preserves precious memories.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Flowers | Roses, lavender, daisies, baby's breath, cosmos, coreopsis, pansies, geraniums, violets, poppies |
| Drying methods | Pressing between heavy books, air-drying, microwave |
| Drying time | 2-3 weeks |
| Frame type | Classic, modern, rustic, shadow box |
| Frame colour | Complementary to flowers and background |
| Background material | Paper, fabric, canvas |
| Background colour | Light, neutral |
| Adhesive | Glue, double-sided tape |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing flowers that retain their colour and shape
Choosing the right flowers is essential to preserving their colour and shape. Flowers with thin petals, such as cosmos, coreopsis, pansies, geraniums, daisies, violets, and poppies, are ideal for pressing as their moisture is absorbed more quickly, reducing the chances of mould formation.
The younger the bloom, the better the colour retention. Flowers should be cut before they are fully open, preferably in the morning after the dew has evaporated. The 'Limelight' hydrangea, for instance, should be left to mature on shrubs and then stood upright in an empty vase to dry. Similarly, the ''Big Blue' sea holly should be cut before the buds are completely open and dried upside down in a dark, dry spot.
Roses, a popular choice for their romantic symbolism, should be dried using roses that have just begun to open. Hang them upside down in a dark, dry, and well-ventilated area, such as a closet or attic, to retain their shape and colour.
Flash-drying is another effective method to preserve colour. Flowers are placed in the trunk of a car parked in the sun for 24 hours. This technique works well for hydrangeas and other large flowers.
To summarise, select flowers with thin petals, cut them before they are fully open, and use drying methods such as pressing or flash-drying to preserve their colour and shape effectively.
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Drying flowers using the press or air-drying method
Drying flowers using the press method:
The press method is an effective way to dry flowers for crafts, artwork, or stationery. To press flowers, you will need to use heavy objects to squeeze the moisture out of them. You can use a book, a wooden press, or a microwave to press flowers.
If using a book, line it with newspaper or parchment paper and place the flowers inside as flat as possible. Close the book and place a heavy object on top to apply pressure. Store the book in a warm, dry place and check on your flowers daily. It will take about two to four weeks for the flowers to dry completely.
If using a wooden press, you will need two pieces of plywood or MDF, bolts, wingnuts, cardboard, and blotting or parchment paper. Drill a hole in each corner of the boards, about one inch from the edge, and line up the holes on both pieces of wood. Cut the cardboard to fit inside the wood, and lay a piece of blotting or parchment paper on top. Arrange your flowers on the paper and place another piece of paper and cardboard on top. Insert the bolts and tighten the wingnuts until secure. This method will also take about two to four weeks.
If using a microwave, you will need a microwave flower press, which includes a special microwave-safe container and felt pieces. Place the flowers inside the container, cover them with the felt, and microwave for about 25 seconds or according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Drying flowers using the air-drying method:
The air-drying method is the most traditional way to dry flowers. To air-dry flowers, you will need to bind a series of small bouquets and hang them upside down in a warm, dry place. You can use a hanger or hook, or simply tie the flowers to a stick with twine, keeping the bundles at least six inches apart. The flowers are fully dried when the petals are crisp, which usually takes about two to four weeks.
You can also air-dry flowers by placing them in a vase with about 1.5-2 inches of water and leaving them. As the water evaporates, the flowers will naturally dry out. This method is particularly suitable for hydrangeas.
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Selecting a frame that complements the flowers
Frame Size
Consider the size of your flowers when choosing the frame. If you have a large flower arrangement, opt for a larger frame that can accommodate all the flowers without looking cramped. Similarly, for a smaller collection of flowers, a smaller frame will provide a more intimate and delicate display.
Frame Style
Frames come in various styles, including classic, modern, and rustic. Choose a style that reflects your taste and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. A classic frame offers a minimalist look, while a rustic wooden frame provides a warm and natural feel. If you prefer a more contemporary vibe, select a modern and sleek frame to showcase your flowers.
Frame Color
Select a frame color that complements the flowers. Consider the hues in your flower arrangement and choose a frame color that enhances their beauty. For example, a white frame can make the colors of the flowers pop, while a black frame can provide a elegant and sophisticated backdrop. You may also choose a frame color that matches a particular shade in the flowers, creating a cohesive and harmonious effect.
Background Material
The background material serves as the canvas for your flower arrangement. It should highlight the flowers without overpowering them. Light, neutral colors typically work best, as they make the flowers stand out. You can choose from plain or textured paper, fabric, or even canvas to create the desired effect. Experiment with different textures and colors to find the perfect combination for your flowers.
Protection and Preservation
Lastly, consider using acid-free materials for your background to prevent discoloration over time. This will help ensure that your flower display remains vibrant and beautiful for years to come. Also, consider using a picture frame with glass or a shadow box to protect your flowers from dust and damage, allowing you to cherish your wedding memories for a lifetime.
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Arranging flowers on a background that highlights them
When arranging dried wedding flowers, it is essential to be gentle to avoid losing petals. Here are some tips for arranging flowers on a background that highlights them:
Choose a suitable background
Select a background that complements the flowers' colours. Harmonious colours can enhance the overall aesthetic and make the arrangement more visually appealing. Avoid overly busy or distracting floral patterns and opt for a subtle background that highlights the flowers without overwhelming the viewer.
Decide on a colour scheme
Before arranging the flowers, decide on a colour scheme. Monochromatic schemes, which showcase different hues of the same colour, can be striking. Alternatively, try complementary colours that will pop against each other. When picking flowers, be open-minded and select flowers of different growth patterns, shapes, and sizes.
Prepare the flowers
Before arranging, prepare the flowers to make them last longer. Remove extra leaves and damaged petals from the stems. Cut off any unwanted buds on the same stem as a full flower. Then, make a fresh diagonal cut at the bottom of the stems and put them in a vase or bucket of water with cut flower food.
Arrange the flowers
When arranging the flowers, start with greenery as a base. Eucalyptus, ivy, and fern fronds are good options to create an inverted triangular shape. This guarantees both a horizontal and vertical presence in the arrangement. Add the largest blooms or those with unusual colours or textures as focal flowers. Place these in odd numbers for a more natural look, avoiding placing them straight out on the sides to prevent a droopy appearance. Fill in the arrangement with smaller flowers and textural elements, creating clusters of three or five to mimic nature.
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Attaching flowers to the background using glue or tape
Once your flowers are dried, it's time to arrange them in your chosen frame. Be as gentle as possible to avoid losing petals. If you're happy with your arrangement, it's time to attach the flowers to the background using glue or tape.
There are several types of glue that can be used to attach flowers to a background. PPA glue is thin and spreadable, making it ideal for reconstructing petals. Lineco Neutral pH glue is another good option, as it is also spreadable and can be used to glue most flowers down. For heavier flowers, a thicker glue like Golden Heavy Gel may be necessary. If you're working with delicate dried poppy pods or king proteas, a hot glue gun can be used. Spray glue is an option for grasses or feathers, but it can be unforgiving, making it difficult to adjust your arrangement once the glue has been applied.
When gluing flowers, it's important to work quickly as glue tends to dry out fast. Apply small amounts of glue at a time, and add more as needed. You can also try reconstituting old glue by adding a bit of new glue to it. To attach flowers securely, apply glue to both the stem tip of the flower and the surface where it will sit. Position the flower and hold it in place for a few seconds until the glue becomes tacky. Then, wait a few minutes for the glue to completely dry before placing your arrangement in a cooler.
If you prefer to use tape, double-sided tape can be used to hold flowers in place. This method may be more delicate than using glue, so proceed with caution to avoid damaging your flowers.
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Frequently asked questions
It takes around two to three weeks for flowers to thoroughly dry.
Flowers with thin petals, such as cosmos, coreopsis, pansies, geraniums, daisies, violets, and poppies, are easier to press as the moisture is absorbed more rapidly.
Consider the size of your flowers when choosing the frame. Also, think about the style you want to go for, whether it be classic, modern, or rustic. Select a frame colour that complements the flowers.
You can use plain or textured paper, fabric, or canvas. Light, neutral colours typically work best as they make the flowers stand out.
Use a small amount of glue or double-sided tape to secure each flower. Be gentle to avoid damaging the flowers.
