How To Preserve Flowers From A Funeral: 3 Main Methods

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 article 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. Discover the art of preserving funeral flowers. 

Consideration Of Flower Type, Condition, And Desired Outcome

Before diving into the preservation process, it's essential to consider the 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. Determine your desired outcome, whether you wish to create a framed display, jewellery, or another sentimental keepsake. 

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.

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.

2. Flower Pressing

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

Follow these steps to create pressed funeral flowers:

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

3. Resin Flower Preservation

Flower resin 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. Flower resin preservation offers a unique way to capture the essence of special occasions, sentimental moments, or cherished memories by preserving flowers.

Follow these steps to protect funeral flowers using resin:

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.

Displaying And Repurposing 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:

• Framing: Arrange the preserved flowers in a beautiful frame, creating a lasting tribute that can be hung on the wall.
• Jewellery: 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.
• Crafts: Use the preserved flowers to create bookmarks, pressed flower cards, or decorative ornaments that can be cherished and shared with others.
• Shadow Boxes and Memory Jars: Arrange the preserved flowers alongside photographs, letters, or other sentimental items in shadow boxes or memory jars, creating a meaningful display that captures the essence of your loved ones' memory.

Conclusion On How To Preserve 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. Let us encourage you to embark on this preservation journey as you embark on a path of remembrance, love, and healing. Preserve your funeral flowers and find solace in the beauty that endures.

Frequently Asked Questions About How To Preserve 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.