Preserving Memories: A Guide to Funeral Flower Preservation
May 30, 2024
Funeral flowers are not just beautiful gestures; they carry sentimental value and memories that we want to cherish forever. While fresh flowers eventually wilt, there are various techniques for preserving funeral flowers to keep those memories alive for years to come. In this blog post, we explore different preservation methods to help you honor and remember your loved ones in a special way.
The Significance of Funeral Flowers
Funeral flowers have been a symbol of love, respect, and remembrance for centuries. The practice of using flowers in funerals dates back to ancient times when they were believed to offer comfort to the bereaved and guide the souls of the departed to the afterlife. Today, funeral flowers continue to serve as a meaningful tribute to the deceased and a source of solace for the living.
Drying Techniques
One common method of preserving funeral flowers is drying them. Drying can be done using various techniques such as air-drying, silica gel drying, or pressing. Air-drying involves hanging the flowers upside down in a dry, dark place until they lose moisture and retain their shape. Silica gel drying is a more intricate process that involves burying the flowers in a container of silica gel and waiting for them to dry out. Pressing flowers involves placing them between absorbent paper and pressing them until they are completely dried.
Resin Preservation
Resin preservation is another popular technique for preserving funeral flowers. This method involves encasing the flowers in resin, a clear liquid that hardens into a solid, glass-like finish. Resin not only preserves the flowers but also enhances their beauty by giving them a glossy and polished look. The end result is a stunning keepsake that captures the essence of the flowers in time.
Freezing Flowers
Freezing flowers is a unique preservation method that involves freezing the flowers to maintain their shape, color, and freshness. This technique is particularly effective for delicate flowers that are prone to wilting. By freezing the flowers, you can retain their vibrancy and beauty for an extended period.
Shadow Box Display
Creating a shadow box display is a creative way to preserve funeral flowers while also creating a decorative piece to honor your loved one. A shadow box is a box frame with a transparent front that allows you to arrange and display the flowers in a visually appealing way. You can add other memorabilia such as photos, letters, or keepsakes to personalize the display further.
DIY Potpourri
Repurpose your funeral flowers by turning them into potpourri. Potpourri is a mixture of dried flowers, herbs, and spices that emits a pleasant fragrance. By drying and mixing your funeral flowers with other scented ingredients, you can create a fragrant potpourri that not only preserves the flowers but also fills your home with a comforting aroma.
Infusing Flowers in Oils
Infusing flowers in oils is a preservation method that not only extends the lifespan of the flowers but also allows you to extract their scent and essence. By submerging the flowers in carrier oils like almond or jojoba oil and letting them sit for a few weeks, you can create floral-infused oils that can be used for aromatherapy, skincare, or massage.
Wax Dipping
Wax dipping is a preservation technique that involves dipping the funeral flowers in melted wax to seal and protect them. The wax creates a protective barrier around the flowers, preventing them from wilting or decaying. This method not only preserves the flowers but also gives them a unique and timeless appearance.
Frame Pressing
Frame pressing is a simple yet elegant way to preserve funeral flowers. This technique involves carefully pressing the flowers in a heavy book or flower press and framing them in a display frame. By framing the pressed flowers, you can create a beautiful and lasting tribute that captures the essence of the flowers in a delicate and artistic manner.
Creating Flower Petal Jewelry
Turn your funeral flowers into wearable keepsakes by creating flower petal jewelry. By drying and encapsulating the flower petals in resin or glass, you can transform them into unique and personalized jewelry pieces such as pendants, earrings, or bracelets. Flower petal jewelry serves as a beautiful and meaningful memento that allows you to carry a piece of your loved one with you wherever you go.
Candle Embedding
Embedding funeral flowers in candles is a creative way to preserve the flowers while creating a warm and soothing atmosphere in your home. By placing dried flowers in the melted wax of a candle and allowing them to solidify, you can create decorative candles that serve as a symbol of remembrance and light.
A Lasting Tribute
Preserving funeral flowers allows us to hold onto the memories of our loved ones long after they have passed. By exploring different preservation techniques such as drying, resin encasing, freezing, and creating keepsakes, we can create lasting tributes that honor the lives and legacies of those we hold dear. Whether you choose to create a shadow box display, infuse flowers in oils, or make flower petal jewelry, the essence of the flowers will live on in these beautiful and meaningful creations.