5 Ways to Make Dried Flowers, Easy and Practical

Illustration (Paul Wence/Pexels)

JAKARTA - Generally, flowers need water. But if you want your flowers to last for years, you need to dry them the right way. Reporting from Reader's Digest, Thursday, August 10, the following VOI describes how to get started and what is needed.

How to dry flowers: With a microwave

This method saves a lot of time as the flowers will dry in minutes. This method is also suitable for beginners. Prepare the flowers you want to dry, some ceramic containers, coffee filter paper, and a microwave. Place the flowers one by one into a ceramic container that has been lined with coffee filter paper. Then, put in the microwave for three minutes and cool it down. Once cool, remove the flowers carefully.

How to dry flowers: With silica gel

If you want dried flowers to look like they are in the garden, try using silica gel. Silica gel is best used to dry tough textured flowers like zinnias or roses. Pour silica gel in a large container then place a flower in the middle. Wait up to a week for the best results.

How to dry flowers: Air drying

Hanging wreaths upside down is a traditional technique of drying flowers. Collect the flowers in a bunch and secure the stems with an elastic band. Hang upside down in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, such as in an empty cupboard. Within a few weeks, the petals shrink and change color.

How to dry flowers: By pressing

Although this method is time consuming, the results are always satisfactory. Pick up an encyclopedia or thick book. Line the pages with parchment or waxed paper and arrange the flowers face down so they don't overlap. Close the book and leave it for seven to ten days.

How to dry flowers: In a vase

Drying flowers in a vase is also quite easy. Place a few flower stalks in a vase filled with 3 inches of water. After all the water has evaporated, the flowers will be standing straight and strong, but dry. Hydrangeas or baby's breath are good choices for this method, as flowers with softer stems can droop. Simply use the vase as a table decoration or remove the flowers, tie a ribbon around the stem and hang on the wall.