The art of preserving flowers in frames has been cherished for centuries. It allows us to capture the fleeting beauty of blooms and create lasting, decorative pieces of art. Whether you’re looking to preserve a bouquet from a special occasion or wish to immortalize the vibrant colors of your garden, this article will guide you through the process of preserving flowers in frames, ensuring your creations stand the test of time.
Materials Needed
Before we dive into the preservation process, it’s essential to gather the necessary materials. You will need:
Flowers: Select fresh flowers with vibrant colors and minimal imperfections. The type of flower you choose will greatly influence the final result, so choose wisely.
Frames: Pick frames that complement your home’s decor and the style you wish to achieve. Shadow boxes, deep frames, or traditional frames with glass can all be suitable options.
Acid-free paper or matting: Use acid-free paper or matting to create a barrier between the flowers and the frame’s glass. This prevents yellowing and deterioration over time.
Silica gel or pressing materials: Depending on your chosen preservation method, you’ll need silica gel, a flower press, or heavy books to flatten the flowers.
Tweezers or small tongs: These tools will help you handle delicate flowers without damaging them.
Adhesive: To secure the flowers in place, you’ll need an adhesive like glue dots or double-sided tape.
Scissors or pruning shears: Trim the stems of the flowers as needed.
Preservation Methods
There are several methods for preserving flowers in frames, each with its own unique results. Here, we’ll discuss two popular techniques: air-drying and pressing.
Air-Drying:
Air-drying is a straightforward method suitable for robust flowers like roses, hydrangeas, and lavender. Here’s how to do it:
- a. Trim the stems of your flowers to the desired length, leaving a few inches for handling.
- b. Bundle the flowers together with twine or a rubber band, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- c. Hang the flowers upside down in a dark, dry, and well-ventilated space. The darkness helps retain the flowers’ color, while the dryness prevents mold growth.
- d. Allow the flowers to air-dry for about two to three weeks or until they feel crisp to the touch.
- e. Once dried, carefully remove the flowers from their bundles and trim any excess stem.
Pressing:
Pressing flowers is a delicate method suitable for fragile blooms like daisies, pansies, and violets. Here’s how to do it:
- a. Place the flowers between sheets of blotting paper or tissue paper, leaving enough space between each flower.
- b. Carefully arrange the flowers to ensure they maintain their desired shape.
- c. Place the layered flowers between the pages of a heavy book or a flower press.
- d. Add additional weight on top, such as more books or a heavy object.
- e. Leave the flowers pressed for two to four weeks, checking periodically to ensure they are drying properly.
Choosing the Right Frame
Once your flowers are dried or pressed, it’s time to select the perfect frame for your botanical masterpiece. Consider the following tips when choosing a frame:
Frame Size: Ensure the frame is large enough to accommodate your dried or pressed flowers without crowding them. A spacious frame allows the flowers to shine.
Frame Style: Select a frame that complements your interior decor. Modern, rustic, vintage, or ornate frames can all enhance the visual appeal of your preserved flowers.
Frame Depth: If you’re working with three-dimensional dried flowers or additional decorative elements, choose a deep frame or a shadow box to create depth and visual interest.
Frame Material: Wooden frames, metal frames, or acrylic frames are all viable options. Choose a material that suits your personal taste and the style of your preserved flowers.
Glass or Acrylic: If using a traditional frame with glass, ensure it has UV-protective glass or acrylic to prevent fading and damage from sunlight.
Matting: Consider using acid-free matting to create a professional, finished look and provide space between the flowers and the glass.
Arranging and Framing Your Flowers
Once you’ve selected the perfect frame, it’s time to arrange and frame your preserved flowers:
Arrange the Flowers: Lay out your dried or pressed flowers on a clean, flat surface. Experiment with different layouts until you find the arrangement that pleases you most.
Secure the Flowers: Use tweezers or small tongs to carefully position and secure the flowers in place with adhesive, glue dots, or double-sided tape on the acid-free matting or backing board.
Assemble the Frame: Place the matting or backing board with the arranged flowers into the frame. Ensure everything fits snugly and is well-centered.
Seal the Frame: If using a traditional frame with glass, seal the frame to keep out dust and moisture. Be sure to clean the glass thoroughly before sealing.
Maintenance and Display
To ensure your framed flowers remain beautiful for years to come, follow these maintenance and display tips:
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Display your framed flowers away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and deterioration of the colors.
Dust Regularly: Use a soft, dry paintbrush or a can of compressed air to gently remove dust from the frame and flowers.
Avoid Humidity: Keep the frame in a cool, dry environment to prevent mold or discoloration.
Handle with Care: When moving or cleaning the frame, handle it with care to avoid damaging the delicate flowers.
Conclusion
Preserving flowers in frames is a timeless art that allows us to capture the beauty of nature and create stunning decorative pieces. By selecting the right preservation method, frame, and materials, you can ensure your botanical creations stand the test of time. With proper care and display, your framed flowers will continue to grace your home with their beauty and charm for years to come.