George Boyle
Wedding flowers are costly and sentimental, so it's no surprise that many couples want to preserve their wedding bouquets. There are numerous ways to do this, ranging from simple DIYs to professional services. The simplest DIY method is to press flowers in a book or hang the bouquet upside down to dry out. More complex methods include submerging flowers in epoxy resin or silica gel, which requires some preparation and craft acumen. There are also professional services that dry and press flowers into glass frames, or put them in resin. Basic preservation services such as pressing or simple drying usually cost between $150 and $250, while more ornamental framed or resinized keepsakes are $300 to $500 and more.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preservation methods | Air-drying, pressing, silica gel dip, resin, wax dip, freeze-drying, artist rendition |
| Timing | Certain preservation methods require acting quickly to preserve flowers in the freshest possible state |
| Cost | Basic preservation services cost $150-$250, while more ornamental framed or resinized keepsakes are $300-$500 or more |
| DIY vs. professional | DIY is a good option for those who are craft-savvy and have the time, but outsourcing to a professional ensures better results and is safer for complex methods |
| Display | Preserved flowers can be displayed in a vase, enclosed in a terrarium or shadow box frame, or worn as jewelry |
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What You'll Learn
DIY preservation methods
There are several DIY methods for preserving your wedding flowers, each with its own unique outcome and level of complexity. Here are some detailed instructions for a few of these methods:
Air-drying
Air-drying is one of the simplest ways to preserve your wedding flowers. To do this, start by removing any browning parts, torn petals, and extra leaves from the flowers. Then, tie a piece of string to each stem and hang the flowers upside down in a dark, temperate, and infrequently used area, such as a closet. Leave the flowers to dry for at least two weeks, or longer depending on the temperature. While the colour of the flowers will fade, they will still make a nice display in a vase or hanging on a wall.
Pressing
Pressing flowers is another classic and simple preservation method. Place the flowers between sheets of paper and then press them under a heavy book or use a traditional flower press. Pressed flowers can be reconstructed into a new piece of art or framed as a keepsake. This method is versatile and allows you to include other wedding keepsakes, such as your wedding invitation, in the frame.
Silica Gel Dip
Using silica gel is a quicker way to dry flowers while preserving their form and colour. This method requires placing the flowers in silica gel crystals for two to seven days, depending on their moisture level. While silica gel crystals can be expensive, the results are stunning.
Resin
Preserving flowers in resin requires first drying the flowers using either the air-drying, pressing, or silica gel dip method. Working with resin can be tricky and may require some skills and equipment, so it is important to do your research or consider hiring an expert. Resin preservation creates a durable and protective layer that ensures the flowers remain vibrant and intact, making a stunning piece of art for your home.
Wax Dipping
Wax dipping is a traditional method of preservation that involves dipping flowers in wax to prolong their life. This method requires some skills and equipment, similar to resin preservation.
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Professional preservation services
There are many professional services that can preserve your wedding flowers. These services can be a great way to go if you want to ensure your flowers are preserved in a certain way or if you're not interested in a DIY project.
One option is to have your flowers pressed and framed. This can be done by a professional or as a DIY project, but professionals will be able to ensure your flowers are displayed in the most aesthetically pleasing way. Professionals can also colour correct the flowers to brighten them up after drying. Companies that offer this service include Bloomsake and dbandrea.
Another option is to have your flowers preserved in resin. This method can be used to create a variety of items, such as Dungeons and Dragons dice. Companies that offer this service include Rejoice and Blossom and dbandrea.
If you're looking for something a little different, you could consider commissioning a painting of your bouquet. You can either paint it yourself or outsource the job to a professional wedding painter or artist.
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Pressing flowers
The most common way to press flowers is to use a heavy book. Start by selecting as many flowers as you'd like to press, or even your entire bouquet. Spread the flowers out on clean wax paper, arranging them in a way you are happy with as you won't be able to manipulate them once they're dried and pressed. Place another piece of wax paper on top of the flowers and lay them inside the pages of a heavy book, such as a phone book or textbook. Weigh the book down with something heavy, like a vase or more books, and let the flowers dry for about seven to ten days.
Using a microwave
Another method is to use a microwave, which can be done in one afternoon. Lay your flowers or petals on a paper towel, spacing them out evenly. Once you have the flowers laid out, put the paper towel on a piece of cardboard. You can then place the flowers in a frame or use them in a craft.
Using silica gel
If you have a lot of silica gel packets lying around, you can use them to preserve your flowers.
Using resin
You can also preserve your flowers using epoxy resin liquid. Simply follow the drying flower method above first. Once the flowers are fully dried, find a suitable container and fill it halfway with the epoxy resin liquid. Arrange the flowers in the fluid and fill the container to the top, leaving it to dry. Once complete, you can use the flowers as coasters, a paperweight, bookends, stand-up letters, or Christmas decorations.
Framing
Once your flowers are pressed and dried, you can frame them. Carefully remove the flowers from the book or press, handling them gently with tweezers to avoid damaging the petals. Arrange the flowers on a clean sheet of paper within the frame, experimenting with different layouts until you find your desired arrangement. Secure the flowers in place using acid-free adhesive or glue dots, minimising the amount of adhesive to avoid obscuring the intricate details of the flowers. Place the glass front over the flowers, seal the frame, and hang or place your bouquet in a location where it can be admired. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, excessive heat, or humidity, as these can cause the colours to fade over time.
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Drying flowers
Air-drying
Arrange the flowers by cutting away any tape or ties and hanging the stems one by one, upside down, in a dry, warm and dark place, such as a hallway closet. Ensure there is good air circulation around each stem. Leave the flowers to dry for at least a week or longer if it is cool.
Using silica gel crystals
Place silica gel crystals in an airtight container. Submerge the flower heads in the crystals and leave them to dry. This method helps to preserve the colour of the flowers.
Pressing
Select flowers from your bouquet and arrange them on parchment paper, wax paper or clean coffee filters. Avoid using paper towels as their texture can transfer onto the flowers. Place the arranged flowers inside a heavy book, such as a dictionary, to press them flat. Put another sheet of paper or coffee filter on top of the flowers to prevent any ink from the book transferring onto them. Add additional weights on top of the book, such as a skillet or more books, to help the pressing process. Leave the flowers to dry for about two weeks.
Wax dipping
Melt paraffin wax in a heat-resistant container. Dip each flower individually into the wax, turning carefully to remove any excess. Place the flowers upright in a vase or bucket to dry. This method helps to preserve the colour of the flowers but is not a long-term solution.
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Displaying preserved flowers
Displaying preserved wedding flowers is a great way to keep a special memory of your big day. There are a variety of ways to display preserved flowers, from simple DIYs to professional services.
One option is to press the flowers and display them in a frame. This can be done by selecting flowers from your bouquet and arranging them on parchment paper, wax paper, or clean coffee filters. Place them in the middle of a heavy book, like a dictionary, and put another sheet of paper or coffee filter on top to protect the flowers from ink. Close the book and add additional weights on top, leaving the flowers to dry for about two weeks. You can also pay a professional to press and frame your flowers for you, although this option can be pricey, ranging from $350 to $500.
Another option is to submerge your flowers in epoxy resin molds, which can create fun objects like paperweights, jewelry, or decorative blocks. This method requires some preparation and craft skills, so it may be best to hire a professional to ensure the finished product is to your liking. Resin preservation services can range from $300 to $500 or more, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, you can simply hang your bouquet upside down to let it naturally dry out. You can then display the dried bouquet in a vase or on a shelf. This method is simple and cost-effective, but the flowers may not retain their vibrant colors and will take on a more dried pastel or neutral version of the original.
Preserving your wedding flowers is a wonderful way to cherish the memories of your special day. Whether you choose a DIY method or a professional service, there are a variety of options to display your preserved flowers and enjoy them for years to come.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to preserve your wedding flowers, including air drying, pressing, silica gel dip, resin, wax dip, freeze-drying, and artist renditions.
Hang the bouquet or individual flowers upside down in a safe area away from the sun to preserve their colours. The air-drying method takes about two to three weeks.
Slip the flowers between sheets of paper and then press them between the pages of a heavy book or use a traditional flower press. Pressed flowers can be framed or turned into a new piece of art.
First, dry your flowers using either the air-drying method, pressing, or the silica gel dip. Then, select a silicone or HDPE mould that best displays your flowers. Clean the mould and then measure and mix the casting resin. Pour the first layer of resin into the mould, arrange your flowers, and pour another layer. Repeat this process until you have added all the necessary layers.
Basic preservation services such as pressing or simple drying usually cost between $150 and $250, while more ornamental framed or resinized keepsakes are $300 to $500 and more. Customized specialty items such as large shadow boxes, sublimated 3D displays, or resin blocks can cost anywhere from $700 to $1,000, depending on size and complexity.
