Funeral or condolence flowers hold a profound significance, representing love, remembrance, and our heartfelt condolences to honour the departed. Instead of letting these sentimental blooms fade away, learn how to preserve funeral flowers and allow yourself to hold onto the memories they evoke. 

This guide will explore various preservation methods, from drying and pressing to resin embedding, empowering you to transform funeral flowers into lasting memories and honouring the lives of your loved ones.

Considerations For The Best Flower Preservation Outcome

Before diving into the preservation process, it's essential to consider three main things:

• flower type
• condition and
• desired outcome

Some flowers, like roses or lilies, dry better than others, so choose blooms that are more likely to retain their shape and colour during preservation. For example, hydrangeas are known for their ability to dry beautifully.

Assess the condition of the flowers, ensuring they are fresh and free from damage. Flowers arranged in a bouquet should be carefully removed from wrapping or ribbons.

Finally, determine your desired outcome, whether you wish to create a framed display, jewellery or another sentimental keepsake. 

6 Main Methods For Preserving Funeral Flowers

1. Drying Funeral Flowers

Flower drying preserves flowers by removing their moisture, allowing them to retain their shape, colour, and beauty for an extended period. When flowers are dried, the water content within the petals and stems evaporates, resulting in more durable and long-lasting floral arrangements.

During the drying process, flowers may undergo certain changes. The flowers may shrink slightly in size, and their colours may intensify or subtly change. Some delicate flowers may lose their fragrance during drying, but their visual appeal remains intact.

Overall, you can expect dried flowers to maintain their natural charm and provide an everlasting reminder of the special moments or sentiments associated with them.

This method is particularly well-suited for crafting personalised keepsakes such as shadow box displays, resin jewellery incorporating flower elements, or custom-made wreaths that are a beautiful homage to a loved one's memory.

Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Remove any excess foliage from the flowers, leaving only the blooms.
2. Group the flowers in small bundles, securing the stems with a rubber band or twine.
3. Hang the bundles upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
4. Ensure there is enough space between the bundles for air circulation.
5. Let the flowers dry undisturbed for several weeks or until they feel crisp.
6. Check on the flowers periodically to monitor the drying progress and make any necessary adjustments.
7. Once the flowers are fully dried, carefully remove them from the drying area once they are fully dried.
8. Trim the stems if needed, and gently handle the dried flowers to prevent breakage.

It's important to note that different flower types and preservation methods may yield varying results. Some flowers dry better than others, retaining their shape and colour more effectively. Patience is key during the drying process, as the flowers can take several weeks to fully dry.

By understanding the nature of flower drying and having realistic expectations, you can create beautiful and cherished dried flower arrangements that bring joy and lasting memories, especially when you’re preserving funeral flowers at home on your own.

2. Flower Pressing

Pressing flowers is a timeless preservation method that results in flattened blooms, perfect for creating framed displays or crafting projects.

This method gently removes moisture from the flowers over several weeks, ensuring that their colours and shapes are preserved in a flattened form. The process not only extends the life of these precious blooms but also transforms them into versatile art materials.

1. Place the flowers between layers of absorbent paper, such as parchment or blotting paper.
2. Arrange the flowers in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
3. Add another layer of absorbent paper on top of the flowers.
4. Close the pages of a heavy book or use a flower press to apply pressure evenly.
5. Leave the flowers pressed for several weeks, periodically changing the paper to absorb moisture.
6. Once the flowers are thoroughly dried, carefully remove them from the press.
7. Gently handle the pressed flowers, which can be delicate and prone to breakage.

3. Resin Flower Preservation

Resin flower preservation is a method of preserving real flowers by encasing them in a clear resin medium. The resin protects delicate flowers, preventing them from decaying while preserving their shape, colour, and intricate details.

This process creates a beautiful and durable keepsake that allows you to enjoy the beauty of the flowers for years to come. Resin flower preservation offers a unique way to capture the essence of special occasions, sentimental moments, or cherished memories by preserving flowers.

1. Arrange the flowers in a silicone mould, ensuring they fit comfortably and create an aesthetically pleasing arrangement.
2. Mix the resin according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring proper ratios and thorough blending.
3. Pour the mixed resin into the mould, covering the flowers completely.
4. Use a toothpick or a heat gun to remove any air bubbles trapped in the resin.
5. Allow the resin to cure and harden according to the manufacturer's instructions, which typically takes several hours to a day.
6. Once fully cured, carefully remove the resin piece from the mould, ensuring the flowers are securely encased.
7. Trim any excess resin and polish the surface, if needed, to achieve a smooth and glossy finish.

4. Freeze Drying

Freeze drying is a professional method that preserves funeral flowers in a near-perfect state by removing moisture without compromising the structure, colour, or shape. This method is highly effective for long-term preservation and is typically done by specialised companies, as it involves advanced equipment.

1. Choose flowers that you want to preserve. Ensure they are fresh and undamaged.
2. The flowers are frozen at very low temperatures, often below -20°C.
3. In a vacuum chamber, sublimation occurs, where frozen water molecules are removed from the flowers without melting, thus retaining the flower’s structure.
4. Once the process is complete, the flowers can be arranged as desired and kept in display cases to protect them from dust and damage.

5. Wax Dipping

Wax dipping is an affordable and simple method to preserve flowers for a few months to years. The process involves dipping flowers in paraffin wax to coat them, giving the blooms a firm, glossy finish while maintaining their appearance.

Melt paraffin wax in a pot or slow cooker until it becomes fully liquefied. Let it cool slightly until the wax is not too hot, as overheating may damage the flowers.

• Cut the flower stems to your desired length.
• Holding the flower by the stem, dip the flower head into the wax, ensuring the whole surface is coated.
• Allow the wax to harden briefly, then dip again to ensure thorough coverage.
• Once the flower is fully coated, dry it in a cool spot.

6. Microwave Drying

Microwave drying is a fast method that uses silica gel and short bursts of heat to preserve flowers by drying them rapidly. This technique is suitable for those who want to quickly preserve flowers without the long waiting periods associated with air drying.

1. Select flowers and trim their stems. Ensure they are dry and fresh.
2. Lay a layer of silica gel at the bottom of a microwave-safe container. Place the flowers on top, ensuring they are covered by more silica gel.
3. Place a cup of water in the microwave (to prevent flowers from burning). Microwave in 30-second intervals at medium heat until the flowers are fully dry. This typically takes 2 to 5 minutes, depending on the type of flower.
4. Leave the flowers in the silica gel for 24 hours to ensure they are completely dried out.
5. Once dry, gently remove any excess silica gel with a brush and display the flowers.

5 Ways To Display And Repurpose Preserved Funeral Flowers 

Once you have preserved the funeral flowers, it's time to display and repurpose them in ways that hold special meaning. Here are a few ideas to consider:

1. Framing Preserved Funeral Flowers

Arrange the preserved flowers in a beautiful frame, creating a lasting tribute that can be hung on the wall.

Using the pressing method to preserve funeral flowers is ideal for framing, as it flattens the blooms, maintaining their colour and shape perfectly for display.

1. Start by carefully arranging your pressed flowers on a neutral or contrasting background to highlight their beauty.
2. Next, choose a frame that complements the colours of the flowers and the decor of the room where it will be displayed.
3. Finally, secure the arrangement behind glass to protect the delicate pressed flowers from dust and fading.

This method transforms the preserved flowers into a striking piece of art, allowing you to keep the memory of your loved one alive in a visually appealing way.

Each framed arrangement serves as a unique, personal reminder of special moments shared, making it an invaluable addition to your home's decor.

2. Create A Jewellery Piece

Incorporate preserved flowers into jewellery pieces such as pendants, earrings, or bracelets, allowing you to carry the memory of your loved ones close to your heart.

The resin preservation method is particularly suitable for creating jewellery, as it encases the flowers in a clear, durable medium that protects and showcases their beauty.

1. To start, select small flowers or petals that have been preserved, ensuring they are fully dried or cured in resin.
2. Then, carefully place the preserved flowers into your chosen jewellery moulds, mixing and pouring the resin around them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Once the resin has cured, remove your new floral jewellery pieces from the moulds.

3. Create Bookmarks, Cards And Other Crafts

4. Shadow Boxes And Memory Jars

1. To create a shadow box, select a deep frame that can house the preserved flowers and other keepsakes.
2. Arrange the items in a visually appealing manner, securing them in place with adhesive or pins.
3. Choose a clear, wide-mouthed jar for a memory jar and layer your preserved flowers with other mementoes.

Both methods not only serve as a decorative homage to the deceased but also as a physical manifestation of cherished memories, providing comfort and a tangible connection to loved ones.

5. Make Customised Candles

Embed preserved funeral flowers into handmade candles. This method allows you to repurpose the flowers in a unique and functional way.

Each time the candle is lit, it offers a moment to reflect and remember, blending the candle's fragrance with the visual beauty of the preserved flowers.

Dried flowers are ideal for this craft, as their low moisture content prevents them from affecting the candle's burn.

1. Begin by selecting a mould or container for your candle.
2. Melt clear wax according to the manufacturer's instructions, then carefully place the preserved flowers around the sides of the mould.
3. Pour the melted wax into the mould, ensuring the flowers remain in place, and insert a wick.
4. Once the wax has solidified, you'll have a beautiful candle embedded with memories.
5. Lighting the candle becomes a ritual of remembrance, illuminating the flowers and evoking memories of the loved one it commemorates.

This creative repurposing of funeral flowers into candles offers a decorative element and a heartfelt way to keep the essence of your loved one present in your home.

Conclusion On Preserving Funeral Flowers

Preserving funeral flowers provides a meaningful way to honour and remember those who have touched our lives. By choosing a preservation method that resonates with you, you can transform these symbolic blooms into cherished keepsakes that encapsulate the essence of your loved ones.

Whether it's creating a delicate pressed flower arrangement, a mesmerising resin pendant, or a framed floral display, each preserved bloom becomes a tangible connection to the memories we hold dear.

In moments of grief and remembrance, Windflower Florist offers a sensitive selection of funeral and condolence flower stands crafted to convey your deepest sympathies. As a trusted florist in Singapore, we ensure our floral tributes gently remind us of the beauty and love that remain, even in times of loss.

Frequently Asked Questions About Preserving Funeral Flowers

Can I Preserve Funeral Flowers That Have Been Arranged In A Bouquet? 

Yes, you can preserve funeral flowers arranged in a bouquet. Remove any wrapping or ribbons before proceeding with the preservation method of your choice.

How Long Will It Take For Flowers To Dry? 

The drying process for flowers can take several weeks. The duration depends on the flower type, size, and drying conditions. Being patient and allowing the flowers ample time to fully dry is essential.

What Types Of Flowers Are Best For Pressing? 

Flowers with flat or thin petals, such as pansies, daisies, and delphiniums, are ideal for pressing. However, many flowers can be pressed successfully, so feel free to experiment.

Can I Preserve Funeral Flowers With Colour Intact? 

Yes, you can preserve funeral flowers with their colour intact. The drying and pressing methods generally retain the colour of the flowers, allowing you to cherish the original hues. However, it's important to note that some colour fading may occur over time.