Drying flowers is an essential step in preserving their beauty for use in resin crafts. Properly dried flowers maintain their color and shape, ensuring that your final resin pieces look stunning. This article will guide you through the various methods of drying flowers, the best practices to follow, and tips for selecting the right flowers for your resin projects.
Importance of Drying Flowers
Drying flowers before embedding them in resin is crucial for several reasons. Fresh flowers contain moisture, which can lead to mold growth and deterioration once they are encased in resin. Dried flowers retain their appearance and color, making them ideal for creating beautiful and lasting pieces. Additionally, dried flowers are lighter, which helps prevent them from floating or shifting once the resin is poured.
Selecting the Right Flowers
Choosing the right flowers is the first step in the drying process. Some flowers dry better than others, and their characteristics can affect the final result. Here are some tips for selecting flowers
Opt for Sturdy Flowers
Flowers with thicker petals and sturdy structures tend to dry better. Examples include roses, daisies, lavender, and zinnias. These flowers maintain their shape and color during the drying process.
Avoid Delicate Flowers
Flowers with thin petals, like poppies or peonies, may not hold up well when dried. They can become brittle and lose their vibrant colors.
Harvest at the Right Time
Pick flowers when they are fully open but not past their prime. This ensures that they have the best color and shape for drying.
Methods for Drying Flowers
There are several effective methods for drying flowers. Each method has its advantages, and the choice depends on the type of flowers you are working with and the desired outcome. Here are some popular methods
Air Drying
Air drying is one of the simplest and most common methods for drying flowers. To air dry flowers, follow these steps
- Gather your flowers and remove any unwanted leaves.
- Bundle the flowers into small groups using string or rubber bands.
- Hang the bundles upside down in a cool, dark, and dry place. A well-ventilated area is ideal to prevent mold.
- Leave the flowers to dry for one to three weeks, depending on the type and thickness of the flowers.
Pressing
Pressing flowers is another effective method that can create flat, beautifully preserved blooms. Here is how to press flowers
- Choose a heavy book or a flower press.
- Place the flowers between two sheets of parchment paper or blotting paper.
- Close the book or press and add weight on top if using a book.
- Leave the flowers to press for one to two weeks. Check periodically to ensure they are drying properly.
Silica Gel Drying
Using silica gel is a more advanced method that can help retain the flowers’ colors and shapes. Silica gel absorbs moisture quickly and is particularly effective for delicate flowers. Follow these steps
- Fill an airtight container with a layer of silica gel.
- Place the flowers face up in the gel, ensuring they do not touch each other.
- Gently cover the flowers with more silica gel, making sure they are fully submerged.
- Seal the container and leave it for about one to two weeks. Check for dryness by gently removing a flower.
Microwave Drying
For those looking for a quicker method, microwave drying can be effective. Here is how to do it
- Place the flowers between two paper towels and put them on a microwave-safe plate.
- Place a cup of water in the microwave to prevent overheating.
- Microwave the flowers in short intervals, starting with 30 seconds. Check for dryness after each interval.
- Once dried, allow the flowers to cool before handling.
Preparing Dried Flowers for Resin
After drying the flowers, it is essential to prepare them properly before embedding them in resin. Here are some steps to follow
Trim Stems and Leaves
If you plan to use only the petals or specific parts of the flower, trim away any unwanted stems and leaves. This will help create a cleaner look in your resin piece.
Inspect for Damage
Examine the dried flowers for any signs of damage or discoloration. Remove any petals that are brittle or have lost their color, as these may not look good once encased in resin.
Arrange the Flowers
Consider how you want to arrange the flowers in your resin piece. You can create a simple layout or a more complex design. Use tweezers to handle delicate flowers and arrange them carefully in your mold.
Tips for Successful Flower Drying
To ensure the best results when drying flowers for resin, keep the following tips in mind
Choose the Right Environment
Select a cool, dark, and dry place for air drying or pressing flowers. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause colors to fade.
Be Patient
Allow sufficient time for the flowers to dry completely. Rushing the process can lead to moisture remaining in the flowers, which can cause problems later.
Experiment with Different Methods
Different flowers respond better to different drying methods. Experiment with various techniques to find what works best for your chosen flowers.
Store Dried Flowers Properly
Once dried, store flowers in a cool, dark place in a sealed container to prevent moisture absorption and fading. Avoid exposure to humidity.
Conclusion
Drying flowers before using them in resin is a vital step in creating beautiful and lasting pieces. By selecting the right flowers and using effective drying methods, you can preserve their beauty and enhance your resin projects. Whether you choose air drying, pressing, silica gel drying, or microwave drying, each method has its benefits. With patience and practice, you can master the art of drying flowers and create stunning resin pieces that showcase the natural beauty of your blooms. Enjoy the process and let your creativity shine.
