Hang Drying Flowers For Bouquet Preservation
Does Hanging Flowers Preserve Them? Here’s What You Should Know.
There’s nothing quite like the beauty of fresh flowers to brighten up your day and remind you of special moments. But what if you could keep that beauty alive for years to come? Enter hang drying—a simple yet magical way to preserve your blooms. Hang drying flowers is a wonderful DIY project that allows you to cherish your floral memories forever. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of hang drying flowers and learn how to preserve those precious petals!
Why Hang Dry Flowers?
Hang drying is one of the oldest and most traditional methods of flower preservation. It’s an easy and cost-effective way to keep your flowers looking lovely for a long time. Whether it’s your wedding bouquet, a thoughtful gift, or garden blooms, hang drying allows you to capture their beauty and enjoy them in new and creative ways.
Why Should I NOT Hang Dry Flowers?
Once your flowers are dry, they’re going to be delicate! Keep this in mind before making your choice; you should know exactly what you’re going to do with your dried bouquet, because once it’s crispy and falling apart, there’s no turning back. It becomes nearly impossible to press and frame a fully dried bouquet, so your artistic and display options will be limited.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hang Drying Flowers
Step 1: Choose the Right Flowers
Start by selecting fresh, healthy flowers. Flowers with sturdy stems and vibrant colors work best for hang drying. Some popular choices include roses, lavender, baby's breath, and hydrangeas.
Step 2: Prepare the Flowers
Before you begin the drying process, remove any excess foliage from the stems. Trim the stems to your desired length, but leave enough length for easy hanging.
Step 3: Bundle and Tie
Gather your flowers into small bundles, making sure the flowers are not overcrowded. Secure the stems together with a rubber band or twine. The bundle should be tight enough to hold the flowers together but not too tight that it crushes the stems.
Step 4: Hang Upside Down
Hang the flower bundles upside down in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated area. This could be a closet, attic, or any room with good airflow. Darkness helps preserve the color of the flowers, while ventilation prevents mold and mildew.
Step 5: Wait and Watch the Magic Happen
Allow the flowers to hang dry for two to three weeks. During this time, the moisture in the flowers will evaporate, leaving you with beautifully preserved blooms. Be patient, and let nature work its magic!
Best Practices for Hang Drying Flowers
Temporary Moisture Removal for Pressing: Hanging flowers upside down for a few hours or a day can be a great way to remove a bit of moisture while retaining color before pressing them in a book or classic press.
Protect from UV Light: Once your flowers are dried, it’s crucial to protect them from UV light to prevent fading. Display them in areas away from direct sunlight or use UV-protective glazing in frames.
Handle with Care: Hang-dried flowers are delicate and can become brittle over time. Handle them gently to avoid damage.
Prevent Dust and Moisture: Keep your dried flowers in a dry environment and dust them regularly with a soft brush. Avoid exposing them to humidity, as moisture can cause mold.
Preservation Options Post-Drying
Once your flowers are beautifully dried, you can choose to protect them further in two main ways:
Framing with UV Protective Glazing:
Pressed flower frames with UV protection are the most effective way to ensure long-lasting preservation. This method shields your flowers from harmful UV rays and environmental factors, keeping them vibrant and intact for years. But once your flowers are fully dried remember, you’re going to have to get a super deep shadow box or large glass done to cover these puppies.
Casting in Resin:
For a modern and chic look, consider casting your dried flowers in resin. While resin preservation encases the flowers and prevents them from aging, keep in mind that a full bouquet cast in resin will be absolutely huge, and resin can yellow over time if exposed to UV light. Resin is best suited for smaller floral arrangements and decorative pieces like jewelry!
So, Are You Going To Hang Dry Your Bouquet?
While hang drying flowers is a simple and cost-free method, it might not be the best choice for long-term preservation. If you're looking for a truly lasting keepsake, pressed and framed flowers with UV protective glazing are a superior option. Hang drying can be a great temporary step to remove some moisture before pressing your flowers. For expert preservation services and high-quality UV-protective framing, visit For Keeps Florals and let your floral memories blossom forever!
