how to flat dried flower arrangements?
To flatten dried flower arrangements, you can follow these steps:
1. Start by selecting the flowers you want to flatten. Choose ones that are fully dried and have sturdy stems.
2. Gently remove any excess foliage or petals from the flowers, if desired.
3. Place the flowers between two sheets of absorbent paper, such as blotting paper or newspaper. Make sure the flowers are spread out evenly and not overlapping.
4. Place a heavy object, like a book or a stack of books, on top of the paper to apply pressure. This will help flatten the flowers.
5. Leave the flowers pressed for about 1-2 weeks. Check on them periodically to ensure they are drying properly and not developing mold.
6. Once the flowers are completely flattened and dried, carefully remove them from the paper. Handle them gently to avoid any damage.
7. You can now use the flattened flowers for various crafts or display them in frames or shadow boxes.
Remember, the success of flattening dried flower arrangements depends on the type of flowers used and the drying conditions.
1、 Choosing the right flowers for drying
Choosing the right flowers for drying is an essential step in creating beautiful and long-lasting dried flower arrangements. Not all flowers are suitable for drying, as some may lose their color or shape during the drying process. Here are some tips to help you choose the right flowers for drying:
1. Select flowers that are in their prime: Choose flowers that are fully open and at their peak. Avoid using flowers that are already wilting or showing signs of decay, as they will not dry well.
2. Consider the flower's shape and structure: Flowers with sturdy petals and strong stems tend to dry better than delicate or fragile flowers. Roses, lavender, hydrangeas, and sunflowers are popular choices for drying due to their robust nature.
3. Look for flowers with vibrant colors: Flowers that retain their color well after drying are ideal for creating visually appealing arrangements. Marigolds, zinnias, and strawflowers are known for their ability to maintain their vibrant hues.
4. Consider the drying method: Different flowers may require different drying methods. Air drying is the most common method, but some flowers may benefit from using a desiccant or silica gel to preserve their shape and color.
5. Experiment with different flowers: Don't be afraid to try drying different types of flowers to see which ones work best for you. Some lesser-known flowers, such as statice, baby's breath, and yarrow, can also create stunning dried arrangements.
Remember, the latest point of view in dried flower arrangements is to embrace a more natural and organic aesthetic. Many people are opting for wildflowers and native plants, as they add a rustic and whimsical touch to dried arrangements. Additionally, incorporating dried grasses, seed pods, and foliage can add texture and interest to your designs.
Overall, choosing the right flowers for drying involves considering their condition, structure, color retention, and experimenting with different varieties. With a bit of creativity and experimentation, you can create stunning dried flower arrangements that will last for months or even years.
2、 Preparing the flowers for drying
Preparing the flowers for drying is an essential step in creating flat dried flower arrangements. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly prepare the flowers for drying:
1. Choose the right flowers: Select flowers that are in their prime and have not yet fully bloomed. Flowers with sturdy stems and petals that are not too delicate tend to dry better.
2. Harvest at the right time: Cut the flowers early in the morning when they are well-hydrated. This helps to preserve their color and shape during the drying process.
3. Remove excess foliage: Strip the stems of any excess leaves or foliage that may hinder the drying process. This allows the flowers to dry more evenly and prevents the growth of mold or mildew.
4. Group flowers in small bundles: Gather a few stems together and secure them with a rubber band or string. Keep the bundles small to ensure proper airflow and prevent the flowers from rotting.
5. Hang the bundles upside down: Find a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area to hang the flower bundles. Ideally, the location should be away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading. Hanging the flowers upside down allows them to dry in a natural, gravity-assisted manner.
6. Patience is key: Let the flowers hang undisturbed for about two to three weeks, or until they are completely dry. Avoid touching or moving the flowers during this time to prevent damage.
7. Check for dryness: Once the flowers feel crisp and papery to the touch, they are ready to be used in flat dried flower arrangements.
It's worth noting that the latest point of view suggests experimenting with different drying techniques, such as using silica gel or pressing flowers between heavy books, to achieve different effects and preserve the flowers' natural colors. Additionally, some florists recommend using a flower preservative spray before drying to help maintain the flowers' vibrancy.
3、 Pressing the flowers
Pressing the flowers is a popular method to flat dried flower arrangements. It is a simple and effective technique that allows you to preserve the beauty of flowers for various purposes such as crafting, decorating, or creating botanical art. Here's how you can press flowers to achieve flat dried arrangements:
1. Choose fresh flowers: Select flowers that are in their prime, preferably with petals that are not too thick or fleshy. This will ensure better results when pressing.
2. Prepare the flowers: Remove any excess foliage or stems from the flowers. It is best to press flowers immediately after picking them to maintain their freshness.
3. Arrange the flowers: Place the flowers between two sheets of absorbent paper, such as blotting paper or parchment paper. Make sure the flowers are not overlapping to avoid sticking together during the pressing process.
4. Pressing method: Use a flower press, heavy books, or any flat, heavy object to press the flowers. Apply even pressure by stacking books or placing weights on top of the paper. Leave the flowers pressed for about two to four weeks, depending on the thickness of the petals.
5. Check the progress: After a few weeks, carefully open the press and check if the flowers are fully dried and flattened. If they are not completely dry, replace the paper and continue pressing for a few more days.
6. Preserve the pressed flowers: Once the flowers are fully dried, remove them from the press and handle them gently. Store them in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Pressing flowers is a traditional method that has been used for centuries, and it continues to be a popular way to preserve the beauty of flowers. However, it's important to note that pressing can cause some color fading, especially in vibrant flowers. To retain the original colors, you may consider using modern techniques such as microwave pressing or using a flower press specifically designed to preserve colors. These methods can help maintain the vibrancy of the flowers while achieving flat dried arrangements.
4、 Drying the pressed flowers
To flat dried flower arrangements, you will need a few simple materials and a gentle touch. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Gather your dried flowers: Start by collecting your pressed flowers. Ensure that they are completely dry and free from any moisture. This is important to prevent mold or decay during the flattening process.
2. Prepare your materials: You will need a heavy book or a flower press, parchment paper, and a clean, dry surface to work on.
3. Arrange the flowers: Lay a piece of parchment paper on your work surface. Carefully place the dried flowers on the parchment paper, arranging them in the desired pattern or design.
4. Press the flowers: Once arranged, cover the flowers with another piece of parchment paper. Place a heavy book or a flower press on top to apply even pressure. You can also stack multiple books or add additional weight to ensure the flowers are pressed flat.
5. Wait for the flowers to flatten: Leave the flowers pressed for about 1-2 weeks. This will allow enough time for the moisture to be absorbed by the parchment paper and for the flowers to flatten completely.
6. Check the progress: After the designated time, carefully remove the books or flower press. Gently lift the parchment paper to check if the flowers are flat. If they are not completely flat, you can reposition them and press them for a few more days.
7. Preserve the flattened flowers: Once the flowers are flat, you can use them for various crafts or display them in a frame or shadow box. To preserve their color and shape, keep them away from direct sunlight and excessive humidity.
It's worth noting that the latest point of view on drying flowers emphasizes the importance of using a flower press or heavy books instead of microwaving or using silica gel. These traditional methods are considered safer and more effective in preserving the natural beauty of the flowers.