Dried flowers are an incredible medium for a variety of projects and keepsakes. They let us save a memento from a time in our lives that is precious. From displaying flowers in a memory box to making potpourri, creating these tokens are little reminders that can be treasured for a long time. The first step to preserving flowers is drying them correctly. This article will shed some light on how to dry flowers correctly.
My favorite flowers to dry
Although you can dry a variety of flowers some of my favorite flowers to dry include roses, lavender, baby’s breath, strawflowers, statice, and bachelor’s button. When we think of drying flowers, these would be the most traditional types to dry. But do you know that apple tree branches, willows, and other plants can be dried just as easily?
Finding the perfect drying spot
Temperature, humidity, and light are enormous factors when drying flowers. Choose a spot away from sunlight. This space should be well ventilated. Some places that might be an option to you are a closet, attic, or laundry room. You will also need something to hang the flowers from. Curtain rods, hooks, or even a door can serve as a great spot to let flowers dry.
Fresh flowers
Whether you are trying to preserve a bouquet or you want to dry the flowers growing in your garden, the flowers you choose need to be fresh. If you attempt to dry a flower that has started to wilt you will only be met with failure. Begin the process of drying flowers by keeping them out of the sunlight in a vase of water.
Preparing flowers to dry
If you have more than one flower to dry, bundle them into small to medium bouquets. Bunching them together in one large batch will decrease the quality of the dried flowers. Wrap the bundles of flowers with a rubber band. Since flowers shrink while they dry, this will allow for the change without the flowers falling to the floor. Dry off any excess water with a paper towel and trim the stems to no shorter than 6 inches. If you want to use the bundled flowers as decorations, you could add a pretty ribbon to the bundle.
Drying flowers
Hang the prepared bundles upside down. You can attach them securely with a string or ribbon. It will take anywhere from 2-4 weeks to dry the flowers completely. Giving the flowers a quick spray of hairspray will help keep them intact. If you are drying flowers to use for its scent, it is okay to skip the hairspray.
When it comes to drying flowers the possibilities are endless. My hope is that these tips will help you create, preserve, and cherish your dried flowers for years to come. Once your flowers have dried there so many things you can do with them. Please share with us in the comments section: How do you use your dried flowers in your home?
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