Preserving flowers in resin is a popular technique for creating beautiful, lasting keepsakes. Drying flowers correctly is crucial for this process, as it ensures the flowers maintain their shape, color, and texture. This article will guide you through the steps of drying flowers for resin, including methods, tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
Choosing the Right Flowers
Not all flowers are suitable for resin. Some flowers retain their shape and color better than others after drying.
Best Flowers for Resin
Roses: These flowers are a popular choice due to their classic beauty and sturdy petals.
Lavender: Lavender dries well and retains its vibrant color and fragrance.
Daisies: Daisies are relatively easy to dry and their simple shape makes them ideal for resin.
Peonies: Peonies can be used, but they require careful handling as they are delicate.
Flowers to Avoid
Sunflowers: Sunflowers tend to lose their shape and color when dried.
Tulips: Tulips can become limp and lose their structure.
Orchids: These flowers are challenging to dry without losing their delicate features.
Preparing Flowers for Drying
Proper preparation is key to ensuring that flowers dry well and retain their beauty.
1. Select Fresh Flowers
Choose flowers that are fully bloomed but not wilted or overripe. Fresh flowers have better color and texture when dried.
2. Trim the Stems
Cut the stems of the flowers to a manageable length. This makes handling easier and ensures that the flowers fit into your drying setup.
3. Remove Excess Foliage
Strip away any leaves or extra foliage from the stems. Leaves can turn brown and affect the overall appearance of the dried flowers.
Drying Methods
There are several methods to dry flowers, each with its benefits and suitability for different types of flowers.
1. Air Drying
Air drying is a traditional and simple method that works well for many flowers.
Steps:
Tie the Stems: Gather the flowers into small bunches and tie the stems together with string or rubber bands.
Hang Upside Down: Hang the bunches upside down in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated area. This helps prevent the flowers from becoming discolored due to exposure to light.
Wait: Allow the flowers to dry for 1 to 3 weeks. The drying time can vary depending on the flower type and environmental conditions.
2. Pressing
Pressing flowers is another effective method, especially for flat flowers.
Steps:
Prepare the Press: Place the flowers between two sheets of parchment paper or newspaper.
Apply Pressure: Use a flower press or a heavy book to apply pressure. Ensure that the flowers are evenly spaced and not overlapping.
Dry: Leave the flowers pressed for 1 to 2 weeks. Check periodically to ensure they are drying evenly.
3. Silica Gel Drying
Silica gel is a desiccant that absorbs moisture, making it a quick and effective method for drying flowers.
Steps:
Prepare the Container: Fill a container with a layer of silica gel.
Add Flowers: Place the flowers on top of the silica gel, covering them completely with more gel.
Seal and Wait: Seal the container and leave it in a dry place for 2 to 7 days, depending on the flower type.
4. Using a Dehydrator
A food dehydrator can also be used to dry flowers quickly.
Steps:
Prepare the Flowers: Trim and arrange the flowers on the dehydrator trays.
Set the Temperature: Set the dehydrator to a low temperature, around 95°F (35°C), to avoid burning the flowers.
Dry: Check the flowers after a few hours. The drying time will vary depending on the flower type and the dehydrator used.
See also: How to Dry Yarrow for Flower Arrangements
Preparing Dried Flowers for Resin
Once your flowers are dried, they need to be prepared for inclusion in resin.
1. Handle with Care
Dried flowers are delicate and can easily break or crumble. Handle them gently to avoid damaging their structure.
2. Trim Excess Stems
Cut off any remaining stems to ensure that the flowers fit well into the resin mold.
3. Clean the Flowers
Dust off any silica gel or debris that may be on the flowers. Use a soft brush or a gentle blow of air to clean them.
4. Arrange Flowers
Plan your arrangement before placing the flowers into the resin mold. This helps achieve the desired look and ensures that the flowers are positioned correctly.
Casting Flowers in Resin
With the flowers prepared, you are ready to cast them in resin.
1. Prepare the Resin
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the resin and hardener. Ensure you work in a well-ventilated area and use gloves to protect your hands.
2. Pour a Base Layer
Pour a small amount of resin into the mold to create a base layer. This layer helps to stabilize the flowers and prevent them from floating.
3. Position the Flowers
Carefully place the dried flowers onto the base layer of resin. Arrange them according to your design.
4. Pour the Remaining Resin
Pour the remaining resin over the flowers, covering them completely. Use a toothpick or a skewer to gently move the flowers if necessary and remove any air bubbles.
5. Cure the Resin
Allow the resin to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Curing times can vary, but it generally takes 24 to 48 hours for the resin to fully harden.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using Fresh Flowers
Fresh flowers contain moisture, which can cause problems in resin. Always ensure flowers are fully dried before casting.
2. Overloading the Mold
Avoid overloading the mold with too many flowers, which can affect the curing process and result in uneven results.
3. Inadequate Ventilation
Resin fumes can be harmful, so always work in a well-ventilated area to ensure safety.
4. Not Following Instructions
Resin products come with specific instructions for mixing and curing. Following these instructions is crucial for achieving the best results.
Conclusion
Drying flowers for resin is a rewarding process that allows you to create beautiful, lasting keepsakes. By selecting the right flowers, choosing an appropriate drying method, and carefully preparing and casting the flowers in resin, you can produce stunning pieces that capture the beauty of nature.
Understanding and avoiding common mistakes will help ensure your finished products are of the highest quality. With patience and attention to detail, you can preserve the delicate beauty of flowers and create unique, handcrafted items that will be cherished for years to come.
