Preserve Your Wedding Bouquet In A Shadow Box

Preserving wedding flowers in a shadow box is a beautiful way to honour your special day. Whether you're looking to create a rustic or modern display, a shadow box is a perfect way to showcase your bouquet and protect it from damage and fading. You can choose from a variety of shadow box sizes and colours, and even add customisation options like engraving or fabric swatches. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of making your own wedding bouquet shadow box, from selecting the right frame to arranging and securing your flowers. We'll also offer tips on flower preservation methods, so you can ensure your bouquet stays vibrant for years to come.

Choosing a shadow box

When choosing a shadow box to display your wedding bouquet, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide whether you want to build or buy one. Building your own shadow box can be a fun DIY project, allowing you to create a unique, personalised display for your flowers. However, for a more polished and professional look, especially when displaying sentimental items such as wedding bouquets, purchasing a high-quality shadow box may be a better option.

Shadow boxes are available in various styles, from traditional to modern designs. Traditional shadow boxes are typically constructed from square or rectangular wooden frames and can be displayed as standalone fixtures or arranged in a series. Modern shadow boxes often feature MDF bases with acrylic vitrines, making them ideal for use in galleries or museums. If you're looking for a more contemporary option, consider an acrylic shadow box with a linen canvas or an illuminated design.

Another important consideration is the size of the shadow box. If you plan to display a large bouquet or want to include other memorabilia, opt for a larger shadow box. Additionally, consider the depth of the box, as this will affect how three-dimensional your display can be. Some shadow boxes are designed specifically for flower preservation and may include features such as sealing to ensure your flowers are protected from environmental damage.

Finally, think about the glass type for your shadow box. Traditional shadow boxes use glass, while modern designs may use acrylic or clear vitrines. You can also choose between reflective and non-reflective glass, depending on whether you want to avoid glare or create a unique visual effect.

When selecting a shadow box for your wedding bouquet, consider your personal style, the size and type of bouquet, and the level of protection you want to provide for your flowers. By taking the time to choose the right shadow box, you can create a beautiful and elegant display that showcases your precious wedding memories.

Drying flowers

Once your flowers are dried, you'll want to hang them upside down in a well-ventilated space for a few days to a week. This ensures that any remaining moisture evaporates. You can tie them onto a cabinet knob or clip them onto pants hangers. It's important to hang them in an area with plenty of airflow to prevent mould from forming.

After your flowers are completely dry, you can begin assembling your shadow box.

Gluing flowers

Choosing the Right Glue:

Select a suitable adhesive for your flowers. You can use a glue gun with hot glue sticks, or opt for adhesives like Lineco Neutral pH Adhesive, Golden Acryl Med Heavy Gel Matte, Perfect Paper Adhesive Matte, or even clear caulk.

Preparing the Flowers:

Before gluing, ensure your flowers are thoroughly dried. Wipe off any excess water from the stems and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated area for several days until they are completely dry.

Gluing Process:

• Start by laying out your flowers on the desired background to determine the arrangement. This will help you visualize the final design and make any necessary adjustments.
• Once you're happy with the arrangement, take each flower and apply a small amount of glue to the back using a toothpick or a small paintbrush. Try to use as little glue as possible, placing small dots of glue on various parts of the flower to secure it.
• Quickly turn the flower over and place it onto your desired background, such as fabric, paper, or a card. Be careful not to move or adjust the flower once it's placed to avoid smudging the glue.
• Repeat this process for each flower, working in layers if you have multiple layers of flowers in your arrangement.
• Allow sufficient time for the glue to dry completely before proceeding further.

Additional Tips:

• If you're using hot glue, consider investing in a detail-tipped hot glue gun to prevent large blobs of glue from forming under the delicate flower arrangements.
• Practice on a few simple designs first to get a feel for the gluing process before attempting your final bouquet arrangement.
• If you're concerned about petals curling upwards, apply glue to most parts of the petals, especially if your shadow box will have a raised glass front that sits directly on top of the flowers.

By following these steps, you'll be able to successfully glue your wedding bouquet flowers and create a beautiful and memorable shadow box display.

Arranging flowers

Choosing and Preparing Flowers:

Start by selecting the flowers you want to include in your shadow box. You can use dried flowers or fresh flowers that will be dried and sealed before placement. If you're using dried flowers, ensure they are completely dry to prevent mould or discolouration. Spend time deciding on the arrangement, considering the types of flowers, their colours, and how they will complement each other.

Preparing the Shadow Box:

Open the shadow box by removing the back panel. Decide on the layout of your flowers and choose any decorative materials to complement the arrangement. You might want to decorate the back of the box with fabric or patterned paper to create a natural backdrop, such as green fabric to resemble grass.

Fixing the Flowers:

You have several options for securing the flowers in place. One popular method is using a hot glue gun, which creates a strong and invisible bond. Be careful, as hot glue can burn your fingers. Alternatively, you can use double-sided tape or pins. Pins will be visible, but they can be incorporated into the design if chosen carefully.

Adding Decorations:

Consider adding extra decorations to enhance the design. This could include glitter, sequins, or other objects that add a personal touch or a bit of shine.

Finalising the Display:

Once you're happy with the arrangement, carefully put the back panel on and fasten it securely. Stand back and admire your handiwork, making any final adjustments to ensure the shadow box is level.

Creating a wedding bouquet shadow box is a wonderful way to preserve your special flowers and display them as a unique piece of art. By following these steps and adding your personal touches, you'll have a cherished keepsake to enjoy for years to come.

Maintaining the shadow box

Maintaining your shadow box is important to ensure that your wedding bouquet stays in good condition and can be enjoyed for years to come. Here are some tips to help you preserve your shadow box:

Keep it away from direct sunlight:

Place your shadow box in an area that is not exposed to direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause the flowers to fade and discolour over time. It is best to keep it in a room with indirect natural light or artificial lighting.

Control temperature and humidity:

Extreme temperatures and humidity levels can damage your flowers. Keep your shadow box in a room with a consistent, moderate temperature and low humidity. Avoid placing it near heat sources such as radiators or air conditioning units.

Handle with care:

When handling your shadow box, always use clean gloves or wash your hands beforehand to avoid transferring oils or dirt onto the flowers. Be gentle when moving or transporting the box to prevent any damage to the flowers or the frame.

Regular cleaning:

Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe away any dust or debris that may accumulate on the glass or frame of the shadow box. Do this regularly to prevent a build-up of dust that could discolour your flowers.

Avoid water exposure:

Water can cause the flowers to rot or grow mould, so keep your shadow box away from areas with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms or kitchens. If your flowers do get wet, gently pat them dry with a soft cloth and ensure they are fully dried before placing them back in the shadow box.

Pest control:

Insects and pests can damage your flowers, so it is important to take preventative measures. You can use pest-repellent products specifically designed for use with dried flowers. These products are typically sprayed onto the flowers before they are placed in the shadow box.

Frequently asked questions