Ever received flowers so special you wished you could keep them forever? Whether it’s a wedding bouquet, anniversary roses, or wildflowers from a favorite walk, framing flowers is a beautiful way to preserve those memories. Think of it as capturing a moment in time—a touch of nature behind glass.
Choosing the Right Flowers
Best Types of Flowers for Pressing
Not all blooms are equal when it comes to preserving. The best flowers for pressing include:
- Pansies
- Daisies
- Baby’s breath
- Fern leaves
- Cosmos
- Queen Anne’s lace
These have flat or semi-flat shapes that dry well without much distortion.
Fresh vs. Dried Flowers
You can use fresh flowers for pressing or already dried ones. Fresh flowers press better, while air-dried or silica-gel-dried flowers retain their 3D form for shadow box framing.
Methods of Preserving Flowers
Pressing Method
Ideal for a sleek, flat look. Perfect for minimalist or modern decor.
Air-Drying Method
Best for keeping a flower’s original shape. Hang flowers upside-down in a dry, dark place for 2-3 weeks.
Silica Gel Method
Use silica crystals to dry flowers while keeping their structure and color more intact—great for larger blooms like roses and peonies.
Supplies You’ll Need to Frame Flowers
Here’s what you’ll need to start:
- Fresh or dried flowers
- Heavy books or flower press
- Tweezers
- Acid-free paper or cardstock
- Clear glue or mod podge
- Picture frame (preferably with UV-protection glass)
- Scissors
- Optional: silica gel, shadow box frame
How to Press Flowers for Framing
Step 1: Pick and Prep Your Flowers
Choose flowers at their peak. Snip off excess stems and pat them dry.
Step 2: Use a Book or Press
Place flowers between sheets of parchment paper, then inside a heavy book or flower press. Add extra books for weight.
Step 3: Wait and Check
Leave them for about 7–14 days. When they feel papery and dry, they’re ready.
How to Air-Dry Flowers for Framing
- Tie the flowers in small bunches.
- Hang them upside down in a cool, dark, dry place.
- Wait about 2–3 weeks until they’re fully dry and crisp.
Great for flowers like lavender, statice, or strawflower.
Using Silica Gel to Preserve 3D Flowers
Silica gel is perfect for preserving larger or delicate blooms.
- Pour a layer of silica in a container.
- Place the flower face-up and gently pour more silica over it.
- Seal the container and wait 5–7 days.
- Remove carefully with tweezers.
Assembling Your Flower Frame
Layout Planning
Arrange your flowers before gluing. Try a few styles—symmetrical, scattered, or a bouquet shape.
Securing Flowers in Place
Use tweezers and tiny dabs of clear-drying glue to stick flowers on acid-free paper or fabric.
Backing and Sealing the Frame
Once dried and arranged, sandwich your art between the frame’s glass and backing. Use a shadow box if using 3D flowers.
Creative Framing Ideas
- Minimalist look: Single flower on white paper in a simple wood frame.
- Vintage style: Use lace or antique-looking paper for the background.
- Shadow boxes: Great for bouquet-style arrangements or thicker blooms.
Tips for Long-Lasting Flower Frames
- Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Avoid humid areas like bathrooms.
- Use UV-protective glass if possible.
Displaying Your Flower Art
Frame them in:
- Bedrooms
- Hallways
- Entryways
- Above desks
Or change them out seasonally for a rotating nature display.
Gifting Framed Flowers
A personalized flower frame makes a thoughtful gift for:
- Weddings
- Anniversaries
- Memorials
- Mother’s Day
- Valentine’s Day
Write a little note on the back or include the flower’s meaning.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Pressing damp flowers (they’ll mold!)
- Rushing the drying process
- Using cheap glue that yellows
- Not using acid-free paper (causes discoloration)
Conclusion
Framing flowers is more than a crafty DIY—it’s a way to lock in beauty, memories, and meaning. Whether you’re preserving a personal moment or just love nature’s elegance, a framed flower brings warmth and charm to any space.
Go ahead—pick that bloom, press it with care, and frame your own piece of nature’s art!
FAQs
Q1: How long do framed flowers last?
With proper care, pressed flowers in a frame can last several years, especially if protected from sunlight and moisture.
Q2: Can I frame fresh flowers?
Not directly. You need to dry or press them first to prevent mold or decay.
Q3: What is the best frame type for pressed flowers?
Simple glass-front frames work best. For 3D flowers, go with a shadow box.
Q4: Do framed flowers fade?
Yes, especially under direct sunlight. Use UV-glass and keep them out of harsh light.
Q5: Can I use flowers from a bouquet?
Absolutely! Just dry or press them soon after the event for best results.
