Flower Drying Made Simple
by Villette Mastase
http://www.flowerki.com
Just as there is more than one flower that makes a good
choice for drying, there is more than one way to dry a
flower. The three most popular ways to dry a flower are;
1) Silica Gel 2) Use a dehydrator and 3) Use Glycerin. Some
people may also attempt to dry a flower by simply hanging
it and air-drying. This method is much less reliable as
there are so many variables like temperature and moisture.
Depending on your purpose, there are three main methods of
flower drying to choose from. The application of silica gel
(or proper alternate), drying by use of a dehydrator, or
the absorption of glycerin are the most efficient ways for
turning that blossom into a craft.
Silica, which is actually a form of sand, can be
substituted by clean sand, borax or cornmeal. This method
calls for a dry container with a tight fitting lid. Take
the container and line the bottom with a thin layer of the
gel. Then, place the flower in the container while adding
more gel around the bloom in order to avoid crushing it.
Once it is secure, sprinkle some gel over top. Next, cover
with the lid and allow it to sit for about a week or until
completely dry. Once finished, use a small paintbrush to
remove remaining silica.
Using a dehydrator is your best bet if you are making
potpourri. This is the speediest method as well as the
most efficient for preserving fragrance. Remember, the more
heat, the quicker your flower will dry.
If your project calls for the flower to remain pliable once
dried, glycerin should be used. In order to do this, place
the stems of the plant in glycerin and allow it to be
absorbed. Keep in mind that glycerin may turn you leaves
and flower to another color. Try a sample flower first if
keeping the color is important to you.
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