How to Preserve Flowers from a Funeral: A Journey Through Time and Memory

Preserving flowers from a funeral is not just about keeping a physical memento; it’s about holding onto a piece of a loved one’s memory, a tangible connection to a moment that was both painful and beautiful. The process of preserving these flowers can be as varied as the emotions they evoke, and it often involves a blend of traditional methods and modern techniques. In this article, we will explore various ways to preserve funeral flowers, each with its own unique approach and significance.

1. Air Drying: The Timeless Method

Air drying is one of the oldest and most straightforward methods of preserving flowers. This technique involves hanging the flowers upside down in a dry, dark place, allowing them to naturally lose their moisture over time. The key to successful air drying is to ensure that the flowers are not exposed to direct sunlight, which can cause them to fade. This method is particularly effective for flowers with sturdy stems and petals, such as roses, lavender, and baby’s breath.

Pros:

• Simple and cost-effective.
• Retains the natural shape and color of the flowers.

Cons:

• Can take several weeks to complete.
• Not suitable for all types of flowers, especially those with delicate petals.

2. Pressing Flowers: A Delicate Art

Pressing flowers is another traditional method that has been used for centuries to preserve the beauty of blooms. This technique involves placing the flowers between sheets of absorbent paper and applying pressure, either by using a flower press or heavy books. Over time, the flowers flatten and dry out, creating a delicate, two-dimensional keepsake.

Pros:

• Creates a flat, easy-to-store memento.
• Ideal for creating framed artwork or scrapbook pages.

Cons:

• The flowers lose their three-dimensional shape.
• Colors may fade over time.

3. Silica Gel: The Modern Approach

Silica gel is a desiccant that absorbs moisture, making it an excellent tool for preserving flowers. This method involves burying the flowers in a container filled with silica gel, which slowly draws out the moisture while maintaining the flower’s shape and color. The process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the size and type of flower.

Pros:

• Preserves the flower’s natural shape and color.
• Faster than air drying.

Cons:

• Requires purchasing silica gel.
• The flowers can become brittle if left in the gel for too long.

4. Resin Casting: A Lasting Tribute

Resin casting is a more modern and artistic way to preserve funeral flowers. This method involves embedding the flowers in a clear resin, which hardens to create a durable, transparent block. The flowers are suspended in the resin, allowing them to be viewed from all angles. This technique is particularly popular for creating jewelry, paperweights, or decorative items.

Pros:

• Creates a durable, long-lasting keepsake.
• Allows for creative expression and customization.

Cons:

• Requires specialized materials and equipment.
• Can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.

5. Freeze Drying: The High-Tech Solution

Freeze drying is a more advanced method of preserving flowers, often used by professional florists. This process involves freezing the flowers and then slowly removing the moisture through sublimation, where ice turns directly into vapor without passing through the liquid phase. The result is a flower that retains its original shape, color, and texture.

Pros:

• Preserves the flower’s natural appearance.
• Long-lasting and durable.

Cons:

• Expensive and requires specialized equipment.
• Not a DIY method; typically done by professionals.

6. Wax Dipping: A Unique Preservation Technique

Wax dipping is a lesser-known method that involves coating the flowers in melted wax. The wax seals the flowers, preventing moisture from escaping and preserving their appearance. This technique is particularly effective for flowers with thick petals, such as roses or lilies.

Pros:

• Creates a unique, glossy finish.
• Preserves the flower’s shape and color.

Cons:

• The wax can make the flowers feel stiff.
• Not suitable for all types of flowers.

7. Creating a Memory Box: A Personal Touch

A memory box is a more personal and creative way to preserve funeral flowers. This method involves placing the dried or pressed flowers in a decorative box, along with other mementos such as photographs, letters, or small keepsakes. The box can be customized to reflect the personality and memories of the loved one.

Pros:

• Allows for a personalized and meaningful tribute.
• Combines multiple mementos in one place.

Cons:

• Requires additional materials and creativity.
• The flowers may not be as prominently displayed as in other methods.

8. Photography: Capturing the Moment

While not a method of physical preservation, photography is a powerful way to capture the beauty of funeral flowers. High-quality photographs can be printed and framed, or compiled into a photo album. This method allows you to keep a visual record of the flowers, even if the physical blooms have faded.

Pros:

• Easy to do and accessible to everyone.
• Can be shared with others and displayed in various formats.

Cons:

• Does not preserve the physical flowers.
• Requires a good camera and some photography skills.

9. Creating a Flower Shadow Box: A Visual Tribute

A flower shadow box is a creative way to display and preserve funeral flowers. This method involves arranging the dried or pressed flowers in a deep frame, often with a background that complements the flowers. The shadow box can be hung on a wall or placed on a shelf, serving as a visual tribute to the loved one.

Pros:

• Creates a beautiful and artistic display.
• Combines preservation with decoration.

Cons:

• Requires some artistic skill and materials.
• The flowers may fade over time, even in a shadow box.

10. Using a Flower Preservation Service: Professional Care

For those who prefer a hands-off approach, there are professional flower preservation services available. These services use advanced techniques, such as freeze drying or resin casting, to preserve the flowers. The preserved flowers can then be returned to you in a variety of forms, from framed displays to jewelry.

Pros:

• High-quality preservation with professional results.
• Saves time and effort.

Cons:

• Can be expensive.
• Requires sending the flowers away, which may not be ideal for everyone.

Conclusion

Preserving flowers from a funeral is a deeply personal and meaningful way to honor a loved one’s memory. Whether you choose a traditional method like air drying or pressing, or opt for a more modern technique like resin casting or freeze drying, each method offers its own unique way of keeping a piece of that special moment alive. The choice of preservation method will depend on your personal preferences, the type of flowers, and the level of effort you’re willing to invest. Regardless of the method you choose, the preserved flowers will serve as a lasting tribute, a beautiful reminder of the love and memories shared.

Related Q&A

Q: How long do preserved flowers last? A: The longevity of preserved flowers depends on the method used. Air-dried flowers can last for several years if kept in a dry, dark place. Resin-cast flowers can last indefinitely, while freeze-dried flowers can last for decades if properly cared for.

Q: Can all types of flowers be preserved? A: Not all flowers are suitable for every preservation method. Delicate flowers with thin petals may not hold up well in air drying or pressing, while thicker, sturdier flowers like roses and lilies are more versatile.

Q: Is it possible to preserve flowers with their original color? A: Some methods, like silica gel and freeze drying, are better at retaining the original color of the flowers. However, over time, even preserved flowers may experience some fading.

Q: Can I preserve flowers myself, or do I need professional help? A: Many preservation methods, such as air drying, pressing, and using silica gel, can be done at home with minimal equipment. More advanced techniques like resin casting and freeze drying may require professional assistance.

Q: What should I do if I want to preserve a large bouquet? A: For large bouquets, you may need to separate the flowers and preserve them individually. Some methods, like resin casting, may not be practical for large quantities, so consider using a combination of techniques to preserve the entire bouquet.

Q: Are there any environmental concerns with flower preservation? A: Some preservation methods, like resin casting, involve the use of chemicals that may have environmental impacts. If you’re concerned about the environment, consider using natural methods like air drying or pressing.