How to Preserve Flowers from a Funeral: A Journey Through Memory and Time

Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience, and the flowers from a funeral often serve as a tangible reminder of the love and support shared during such a difficult time. Preserving these flowers can be a meaningful way to keep their memory alive. In this article, we will explore various methods to preserve funeral flowers, each with its own unique charm and significance.

1. Air Drying: The Classic Approach

Air drying is one of the oldest and most straightforward methods of preserving flowers. This technique involves hanging the flowers upside down in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated area. The process can take several weeks, but the result is a beautifully preserved bouquet that retains much of its original shape and color.

Steps:

• Gather the flowers into small bunches.
• Tie the stems together with a string or rubber band.
• Hang the bunches upside down in a dark, dry place.
• Allow the flowers to dry completely, which can take 2-4 weeks.

Pros:

• Simple and cost-effective.
• Retains the natural shape of the flowers.

Cons:

• Colors may fade over time.
• Fragile flowers may lose petals during the process.

2. Pressing Flowers: A Timeless Keepsake

Pressing flowers is another traditional method that has been used for centuries to preserve their beauty. This technique involves flattening the flowers between sheets of absorbent paper and applying pressure. Pressed flowers can be used in various crafts, such as framed artwork, bookmarks, or even jewelry.

Steps:

• Place the flowers between two sheets of absorbent paper (e.g., blotting paper or parchment paper).
• Stack heavy books or use a flower press to apply even pressure.
• Leave the flowers pressed for 2-4 weeks, checking periodically to ensure they are drying properly.

Pros:

• Creates flat, delicate keepsakes.
• Ideal for creating framed art or other decorative items.

Cons:

• Flowers may lose their three-dimensional shape.
• Some flowers may not press well due to their thickness or moisture content.

3. Silica Gel: Preserving Color and Detail

Silica gel is a desiccant that absorbs moisture, making it an excellent choice for preserving flowers with vibrant colors and intricate details. This method involves burying the flowers in silica gel crystals, which draw out the moisture while maintaining the flower’s shape and color.

Steps:

• Fill a container with a layer of silica gel.
• Place the flowers on top of the gel, ensuring they are not touching each other.
• Gently cover the flowers with more silica gel, making sure they are completely submerged.
• Seal the container and leave it for 1-2 weeks.
• Carefully remove the flowers and brush off any excess gel.

Pros:

• Preserves the flower’s color and detail.
• Suitable for a wide variety of flower types.

Cons:

• Silica gel can be expensive.
• Requires careful handling to avoid damaging the flowers.

4. Resin Casting: A Modern Twist

Resin casting is a contemporary method that involves encasing flowers in a clear resin. This technique not only preserves the flowers but also creates a durable, long-lasting keepsake that can be displayed in various forms, such as paperweights, coasters, or jewelry.

Steps:

• Prepare the flowers by drying them slightly (air drying or using silica gel).
• Mix the resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Pour a thin layer of resin into a mold and place the flowers on top.
• Slowly add more resin, ensuring the flowers are fully submerged.
• Allow the resin to cure for the recommended time (usually 24-48 hours).

Pros:

• Creates a durable, long-lasting keepsake.
• Can be customized into various shapes and forms.

Cons:

• Requires some skill and practice.
• Resin can be messy and may emit fumes during the curing process.

5. Freeze Drying: The Professional Touch

Freeze drying is a professional method that involves freezing the flowers and then removing the moisture through sublimation. This technique preserves the flowers’ natural appearance, including their color, shape, and texture. While it is possible to freeze dry flowers at home with specialized equipment, it is often best left to professionals.

Steps:

• Place the flowers in a freeze-drying machine.
• Freeze the flowers to a very low temperature.
• Gradually remove the moisture through sublimation.
• Once the process is complete, the flowers are ready to be displayed.

Pros:

• Preserves the flowers’ natural appearance.
• Long-lasting and durable.

Cons:

• Expensive and requires specialized equipment.
• Best done by professionals.

6. Wax Dipping: A Unique Preservation Method

Wax dipping is a lesser-known method that involves coating the flowers in melted wax. This technique not only preserves the flowers but also gives them a unique, glossy finish. Wax-dipped flowers can be used in various decorative arrangements or kept as standalone keepsakes.

Steps:

• Melt paraffin wax or beeswax in a double boiler.
• Dip the flowers into the melted wax, ensuring they are fully coated.
• Allow the wax to cool and harden.
• Repeat the process if necessary to achieve the desired thickness.

Pros:

• Creates a unique, glossy finish.
• Simple and cost-effective.

Cons:

• May alter the flower’s natural texture.
• Wax can become brittle over time.

7. Creating a Memory Shadow Box

A memory shadow box is a creative way to preserve funeral flowers along with other mementos, such as photos, letters, or small keepsakes. This method allows you to create a personalized display that honors the memory of your loved one.

Steps:

• Choose a shadow box frame that suits your style.
• Arrange the preserved flowers, photos, and other mementos inside the box.
• Secure the items in place using glue or pins.
• Close the shadow box and display it in a meaningful location.

Pros:

• Combines multiple mementos into one display.
• Highly customizable and personal.

Cons:

• Requires some crafting skills.
• May take time to assemble.

8. Making Potpourri: A Fragrant Remembrance

Potpourri is a mixture of dried flowers, herbs, and spices that can be used to create a fragrant reminder of your loved one. This method involves drying the flowers and combining them with other aromatic ingredients to create a lasting scent.

Steps:

• Dry the flowers using one of the methods mentioned above.
• Combine the dried flowers with herbs, spices, and essential oils.
• Store the potpourri in a sealed container to preserve the fragrance.
• Display the potpourri in a decorative bowl or sachet.

Pros:

• Creates a fragrant reminder of your loved one.
• Can be used in various decorative ways.

Cons:

• Fragrance may fade over time.
• Requires additional ingredients.

9. Creating a Flower Journal

A flower journal is a creative way to document the flowers from a funeral, along with your thoughts and memories. This method involves pressing the flowers and writing about their significance, creating a personalized keepsake that can be cherished for years to come.

Steps:

• Press the flowers using the pressing method described earlier.
• Write about the flowers, including their type, color, and any special meaning they hold.
• Include photos, letters, or other mementos in the journal.
• Bind the pages together to create a lasting keepsake.

Pros:

• Combines flowers with personal reflections.
• Creates a unique and meaningful keepsake.

Cons:

• Requires time and effort to assemble.
• May not preserve the flowers’ physical appearance as well as other methods.

10. Using a Flower Preservation Service

For those who prefer a professional touch, flower preservation services offer a range of options to preserve funeral flowers. These services can create custom keepsakes, such as framed arrangements, jewelry, or even glass ornaments, using advanced preservation techniques.

Steps:

• Research and choose a reputable flower preservation service.
• Send the flowers to the service, following their instructions.
• Select the type of keepsake you would like to create.
• Wait for the finished product to be delivered.

Pros:

• Professional results with high-quality preservation.
• Wide range of customization options.

Cons:

• Can be expensive.
• Requires sending the flowers away, which may not be ideal for everyone.

Related Q&A

Q: How long do preserved flowers last? A: The longevity of preserved flowers depends on the method used and the conditions in which they are stored. Air-dried and pressed flowers can last for several years if kept in a dry, dark place. Resin-cast and freeze-dried flowers can last even longer, often for decades.

Q: Can all types of flowers be preserved? A: While most flowers can be preserved, some are better suited to certain methods than others. For example, delicate flowers like roses and lilies are ideal for air drying or silica gel preservation, while thicker flowers like sunflowers may be better suited to pressing or resin casting.

Q: Is it possible to preserve the scent of the flowers? A: Preserving the scent of flowers is more challenging than preserving their appearance. Some methods, like making potpourri, can help retain a faint fragrance, but most preservation techniques focus on maintaining the visual aspects of the flowers.

Q: Can I preserve flowers that have already started to wilt? A: It is best to preserve flowers as soon as possible after the funeral, as wilted or decaying flowers may not preserve well. However, if the flowers are only slightly wilted, you may still be able to preserve them using methods like silica gel or freeze drying.

Q: Are there any eco-friendly preservation methods? A: Yes, methods like air drying and pressing are eco-friendly, as they do not require any chemicals or specialized equipment. Additionally, using natural materials like beeswax for wax dipping or creating a memory shadow box with recycled materials can also be environmentally friendly options.

Preserving flowers from a funeral is a deeply personal and meaningful way to honor the memory of a loved one. Whether you choose a traditional method like air drying or a modern technique like resin casting, the result is a lasting tribute that can bring comfort and solace for years to come.