Displaying dried flowers in a frame is a simple yet stunning way to preserve nature’s beauty while adding a touch of elegance to your home decor. Whether you’ve recently collected flowers from your garden or received a beautiful bouquet, turning these blossoms into framed art can serve as a lasting memory of a special moment. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to display dried flowers in a frame, offering tips and ideas to help you create your own unique pieces of nature-inspired art.
How To Display Dried Flowers In A Frame
Dried flowers are an excellent way to bring nature indoors while ensuring that the beauty of the flowers is preserved for years to come. Framing dried flowers is not only an artistic project but also an easy way to personalize your space. Whether you choose to showcase a single flower or a full bouquet, framing allows you to create a timeless display that celebrates the beauty of nature. Let’s walk through how you can achieve this stunning look in your home, starting with the essential steps and tools required for the process.
1. Choosing the Right Flowers for Framing
Before you begin, it’s important to select flowers that will dry well and maintain their shape and color. Some flowers dry better than others, and it’s crucial to consider these factors when picking flowers from your garden or a bouquet.
Ideal Flowers for Drying
- Roses: They dry well and maintain their shape and color.
- Lavender: Known for its fragrance and compact shape, lavender is perfect for drying.
- Sunflowers: Their large heads and sturdy stems make them ideal for framing.
- Poppies: These delicate flowers have interesting shapes and vibrant colors.
- Wildflowers: These can add a touch of rustic charm to your framed display.
Flowers to Avoid
Some flowers, like lilies and tulips, can lose their shape and color when dried, making them less suitable for framing. Always test a flower by drying it first to see how it holds up.
2. Preparing the Flowers for Drying
Proper drying is key to preserving the flowers’ beauty. There are different methods to dry flowers, each with its own advantages depending on the type of flower.
Air Drying
The simplest method is air drying. Tie the flowers in small bundles and hang them upside down in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. This method can take up to two weeks, depending on the size and type of flower.
Pressing Flowers
If you prefer a flatter, more uniform look for your dried flowers, pressing is a great option. To press flowers, place them between two sheets of parchment paper and weigh them down with a heavy book. After a few weeks, the flowers will be flat and ready for framing.
Silica Gel Drying
For quicker drying, you can use silica gel. This method is excellent for flowers like roses, which can maintain their color better. Simply bury the flowers in silica gel and leave them for 2-3 days until fully dry.
3. Choosing the Frame and Background
Once your flowers are dried, it’s time to choose the perfect frame. The frame will help highlight the beauty of the flowers while adding a professional touch to your display.
Types of Frames
Shadow Box Frames: These frames are deep and allow you to create a more dimensional look with the flowers. Perfect for larger bouquets or three-dimensional arrangements.
Flat Frames: If you’ve pressed your flowers, a flat frame is ideal. These frames help preserve the flowers’ shape while creating a neat and polished presentation.
Background Options
White Cardstock: A neutral background will help the flowers stand out and draw attention to their intricate details.
Colored Paper: For a more artistic look, you can choose a colored background that complements the flowers’ hues.
Fabric: Burlap, linen, or even velvet can add texture and depth to your display, giving it a more sophisticated feel.
4. Arranging the Flowers in the Frame
Arranging dried flowers can be one of the most creative and enjoyable parts of the process. How you arrange the flowers will greatly impact the overall look of the framed piece.
Symmetry vs. Asymmetry
Consider whether you want your display to be symmetrical, where flowers are arranged evenly throughout the frame, or asymmetrical, where flowers are placed more randomly for a natural, free-flowing look.
Layering Flowers
To add depth to your display, consider layering the flowers. Place larger flowers in the background and smaller ones in front. This technique helps create a sense of dimension and prevents the frame from looking flat.
Special Effects
You can also add some artistic flair by incorporating leaves, seeds, or dried herbs to create a more textured and rich design. Experiment with different placements to see what looks best in your frame.
5. Mounting the Flowers in the Frame
Once you’re satisfied with the arrangement, it’s time to mount the flowers. You’ll need to secure them in place without damaging them, which requires careful handling.
Using Floral Wire
Floral wire can be an effective way to secure flowers, especially if they are larger or have thicker stems. Gently attach the wire to the stems, and then secure them to the backing of the frame.
Double-Sided Tape
For flatter flowers, double-sided tape works well to keep them in place. Apply small pieces of tape to the back of the flowers and gently press them onto the background material.
Hot Glue Gun
For a more permanent solution, you can use a hot glue gun to attach the flowers. However, be sure to use the smallest amount of glue possible to avoid visible marks on the flowers.
6. Sealing the Frame
Once the flowers are securely in place, it’s important to seal the frame to protect your dried flowers from dust, dirt, and damage.
Using Glass
Most frames come with glass or acrylic covers, which will protect the flowers from environmental factors like moisture and dust. Choose a frame with high-quality glass for optimal clarity and protection.
UV Protection
To prevent the flowers from fading over time, consider using UV-protective glass. UV rays can cause colors to fade, so this step is essential for preserving the vibrancy of your dried flowers.
7. Displaying Your Framed Dried Flowers
Now that your dried flowers are beautifully framed, it’s time to display them in your home. Choose a location where the flowers can be admired and won’t be subject to harsh lighting or temperature changes.
Where to Display
Living Room: A framed flower display can add a touch of nature to your living space, especially when placed above a sofa or mantel.
Bedroom: Hang dried flowers above the bed to create a calming and romantic atmosphere.
Entryway: A framed flower arrangement in the entryway can greet visitors with a refreshing touch of natural beauty.
Consider Grouping Multiple Frames
To create a more dynamic look, you can frame several different flowers and group them together in a gallery wall arrangement. This works especially well with flowers of varying colors and shapes, creating a visual contrast.
8. Caring for Framed Dried Flowers
Once your dried flowers are framed, they will need minimal care to maintain their beauty.
Dusting
Lightly dust the glass or acrylic cover every few weeks using a soft microfiber cloth. Be gentle to avoid disturbing the flowers inside the frame.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Although UV-protective glass helps, it’s still best to avoid placing your framed flowers in direct sunlight. Excessive sunlight can cause the flowers to fade over time.
Keep in a Dry Place
Humidity can cause dried flowers to degrade, so it’s important to keep your framed flowers in a dry area. Avoid placing them in bathrooms or other humid spaces.
Conclusion
Framing dried flowers is a simple yet effective way to preserve and display the beauty of nature in your home. By carefully selecting the right flowers, preparing them for drying, and thoughtfully arranging them in a frame, you can create a unique and personal piece of art that will last for years. Whether you’re new to gardening or an experienced enthusiast, this project is a wonderful way to showcase your love of flowers and add a natural touch to any room in your home.
