Discover how to preserve flowers using resin, glycerin, and more. Learn DIY methods and find professional services near you for wedding or funeral flowers.
Hi, I’m Ashley Scott, and with over 10 years of gardening experience, I’ve learned the art of keeping flowers beautiful long after they’re picked. There’s something special about preserving flowers—whether it’s a bouquet from your wedding, a gift from a loved one, or blooms from your backyard. It’s like capturing a moment in time. In this guide, I’ll walk you through various ways to preserve flowers, from simple techniques you can try at home to more advanced methods like preserving flowers in resin. I’ll also share tips on how to find preserved flowers near me if you’d rather leave it to the pros.
Whether you’re new to this or looking to perfect your skills, I’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions and personal stories to make it fun. Let’s dive into the world of flower preservation!
Why Preserve Flowers?
Before we get into the how-to, let’s talk about why you’d want to preserve flowers. For me, it’s all about holding onto memories. I still have a pressed rose from my first garden, and it brings me back to that sunny afternoon every time I see it. Maybe you have a wedding bouquet you want to keep forever or funeral flowers to honor someone special. Beyond sentiment, preserved flowers make gorgeous decor, gifts, or even crafts. Whatever your reason, there’s a method for you.
Different Methods to Preserve Flowers
There are so many ways to preserve flowers, and each has its own charm. Here’s a quick rundown of the most popular techniques I’ll cover:
- Drying: Think air drying, silica gel, or even a microwave zap.
- Chemical Preservation: Using glycerin or resin to lock in color and shape.
- Pressing: Perfect for flat keepsakes like frames or bookmarks.
- Creative Ideas: Like preserving flowers in a jar or framing them for display.
Let’s break these down so you can find the best way to preserve fresh flowers or dried ones.
Drying Flowers: Simple and Timeless
Drying is one of the easiest ways to preserve flowers at home. It’s how I started years ago, and it’s still a go-to for its simplicity. Here are three methods to try:
Air Drying
This is the classic method—no fancy tools needed. It works best for sturdy flowers like roses or lavender.
- Strip off extra leaves from the stems.
- Tie the flowers into small bunches with string.
- Hang them upside down in a dry, dark spot (like a closet).
- Wait 2-4 weeks until they’re crisp.
Pros: Super easy and free.
Cons: Colors might fade a bit, and petals can shrink.
Using Silica Gel
If you want to preserve flowers forever with better color and shape, silica gel is a game-changer. I used it for some peonies once, and they looked almost fresh-picked!
- Grab a container and pour in a layer of silica gel (find it at craft stores).
- Lay your flowers on top—don’t let them overlap.
- Cover them gently with more gel.
- Seal it up and wait 3-7 days.
- Brush off the gel carefully.
Pros: Keeps the flower’s look intact.
Cons: Costs more than air drying.
Check out this silica gel guide from Penn State Extension for more details.
Microwave Drying
Short on time? You can preserve dried flowers in the microwave, though it’s a bit tricky.
- Place flowers in a microwave-safe dish with silica gel.
- Zap on low power for 1-3 minutes—check often!
- Let them cool before handling.
Pros: Quick results.
Cons: Easy to overdo it and ruin the flowers.
Chemical Preservation: Vibrant and Long-Lasting
For flowers that stay soft and colorful, chemical methods are the way to go. These take a little more effort but are worth it.
Preserving Flowers with Glycerin
Glycerin keeps flowers flexible—great for arrangements. I tried this with some hydrangeas, and they stayed plump for months.
- Mix 1 part glycerin (from pharmacies) with 2 parts hot water.
- Trim stems at an angle and dunk them in the mix.
- Leave them for 2-3 weeks, topping off the solution if it gets low.
- Remove when the petals feel leathery.
Pros: Beautiful, supple results.
Cons: Takes time and might tweak the color slightly.
Preserving Flowers in Resin
Want to preserve flowers in resin for a stunning keepsake? This is my favorite for turning blooms into jewelry or paperweights. I made a necklace with a daisy from my garden, and it’s still a conversation starter.
- Dry your flowers first (air or silica gel works).
- Mix resin following the package instructions—wear gloves!
- Pour a thin layer into a mold, add the flower, and cover with more resin.
- Let it harden for 24-48 hours.
Pros: Creates durable, clear pieces.
Cons: Needs practice and materials like molds and resin.
For a step-by-step, see this resin tutorial from The Spruce Crafts.
Pressing Flowers: Flat and Fabulous
Pressing is perfect if you want to preserve flowers in a frame or book. It’s how my grandma taught me to save blooms as a kid.
How to Preserve Flowers in a Book
- Pick flat flowers like pansies or violets.
- Sandwich them between parchment paper.
- Tuck them into a heavy book and stack more weight on top.
- Wait 2-4 weeks.
Pros: No cost, just patience.
Cons: Flowers lose their 3D shape.
Using a Flower Press
A press is faster and more precise—I got one after ruining a few books!
- Layer flowers between blotting paper in the press.
- Tighten it up and leave for 1-2 weeks.
Pros: Cleaner results.
Cons: You’ll need to buy a press.
Creative Ways to Preserve Flowers
Looking for something unique? These methods add a fun twist.
Preserving Flowers in a Jar
This makes a cool display—I’ve got a jar of dried lavender on my shelf right now.
- Dry your flowers first.
- Pop them into a clean jar.
- Fill with mineral oil or a glycerin mix for a preserved look.
Pros: Eye-catching decor.
Cons: Not all flowers hold up well.
How to Preserve Flowers in a Frame
Framing pressed flowers is so rewarding. I framed some wildflowers from a hike once, and it’s still hanging in my living room.
- Arrange pressed flowers on acid-free paper.
- Use a tiny dot of glue to hold them if needed.
- Frame under glass to protect them.
Pros: Makes a thoughtful gift.
Cons: Takes some design flair.
Preserving Flowers with Hairspray—Does It Work?
I’ve heard people ask, “How to preserve flowers with hairspray?” I’ve tried it, and honestly, it’s not a real fix. It might slow shedding, but it won’t stop decay. Stick to the other methods for lasting results.
Preserving Flowers for Special Occasions
Flowers from big moments deserve extra care.
Preserve Wedding Flowers
Your wedding preserve flowers can live on as a memento. Dry the whole bouquet, press a few blooms, or encase a rose in resin—I did this with mine, and it’s a treasure.
Learn more in our guide on preserving wedding flowers.
Preserve Funeral Flowers
For funeral flowers, preservation can be a comfort. I pressed some lilies from a service once, and they’re a quiet reminder of love.
Where to Find Preserved Flowers or Services
Not into DIY? Search “preserve flowers near me” on Google Maps to find local florists or artisans. Many offer preserving flowers in resin near me or framing services. Online, check out places like Etsy for preserved flowers wholesale or custom pieces.
Tips for Long-Lasting Preserved Flowers
- Keep them out of sunlight to stop fading.
- Avoid damp spots—moisture is the enemy.
- Dust gently with a soft brush.
- For resin, wipe with a damp cloth, no harsh stuff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I preserve flowers at home?
A: The easiest way is air drying—hang them upside down in a dry spot for 2-4 weeks.
Q: What’s the best way to preserve flowers?
A: It depends! For color and shape, try silica gel or resin. For simplicity, go with air drying.
Q: How to preserve flowers in resin?
A: Dry them first, then embed in resin using a mold. Let it cure for 24-48 hours.
Q: How long do preserved flowers last?
A: Months to years—resin can keep them forever with proper care.
Conclusion
Preserving flowers is a beautiful way to keep memories alive. Whether you’re drying, pressing, or preserving flowers in a jar, there’s a method for everyone. I hope you’re inspired to try it yourself—or find a pro to do it for you. For more gardening ideas, visit USA Garden Hub. Happy preserving!