A Guide for Florists: Framing Flowers After End of Vase Life
Once the vase life of flowers has come to an end, they can still serve a purpose by being preserved and framed. This Bloom & Song guide outlines the steps to ensure your customers can elegantly display their blooms long after the fresh bouquet has faded.
Step 1: Collection of Materials
You Will Need:
Flowers
Frame (shadow box frames work best)
Acid-free paper or cardboard
Scissors
Tweezers
Glue or double-sided tape
Silica gel (optional for drying)
A weight (such as a heavy book)
Step 2: Preparation of Flowers
Selecting the Flowers: Choose flowers that maintain their shape and colour well when dried. Roses, lilies, and statice are excellent choices.
Drying Process: There are two popular methods for drying flowers:
Air Drying: Bundle the flowers together and hang them upside down in a cool, dark, and dry location for two to three weeks.
Silica Gel Drying: Submerge the flowers in silica gel in an airtight container for approximately one week for quicker drying. This method helps retain colour and shape.
Trimming: Once dried, trim the stems to your desired length, typically around 5-10 cm, depending on the frame’s depth.
Step 3: Arranging the Flowers
Layout Planning: Before securing anything, arrange the dried flowers on a piece of acid-free paper or cardboard to test various layouts. Consider symmetry, balance, and overall aesthetics.
Securing Flowers: Once satisfied with the layout, use glue or double-sided tape to secure the flowers. Start with larger blooms and fill in the gaps with smaller flowers or foliage.
Step 4: Framing
Choosing a Frame: Select a frame that complements the flowers. A shadow box is ideal as it provides depth for the flowers without crushing them.
Mounting: Place the secured flowers and background into the frame. Ensure everything is flat and securely positioned.
Final Touches: If desired, add decorative elements such as dried leaves, ribbons, or a small note in the frame to personalise it.
Sealing the Frame: Secure the back of the frame to protect the flowers from dust and pests.
Step 5: Displaying
Instruct your customers to display their framed flowers in a dry environment away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Hong Kong flower tips
Framing flowers after their vase life provides an opportunity for customers to cherish memories associated with special occasions. By following the steps above, florists can offer a delightful and creative service to their clientele, extending the life of beautiful blooms.
