Here to stay?
From what was a slow burning return of dried foliage within fresh bouquets and a hint of botanical pressings in frames; dried flowers seem to have exploded across the interiors scene.
From commercial to residential and events spaces ,the age old preservation process has evolved into something quite spectacular.
As a more sustainable choice than faux/plastic versions … I’m all for it! There is also something magical about collecting your own flowers to dry. Perhaps as many feel cheated out of a summer this year , drying flowers is a way of carrying forward the beautiful blooms into winter. A reminder of better things to come.
As much as the current revival of everything 70’s harkens back to an era with rose tinted glasses, flower pressing and drying may follow suit and gain further popularity. As individuals look to the smaller joys in the everyday. Memories of grandparents hanging bouquets in airing cupboards and above fireplaces. ( although be warned , I remember them being dust collectors! ).
Two simple methods of drying are as follows:
To air the flowers, first remove excess foliage and tie the stems hanging downwards , preferably in airy and enclosed cupboard, away from direct light. This can take up to three weeks for them to completely dry out. This method can also make for a pretty and more traditional display.
Another option is to microwave, of which there are multiple ways to execute, depending on what type of flower head is being used the timings and methods are slightly different.But fear not, as always, youtube has the answers.
A Modern Twist
For more contemporary examples of how to use dried flowers, look to Instagram. The likes of Food Stories and Rebecca Louise Law use the medium as sculptural statements and installation art.
If you are looking for something all together more punchy in colour, look to youtube for video tutorials on how to spray paint your blooms.
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