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The Best Methods for Flower Drying
by Villette Mastase
http://www.flowerki.com
Just as there is more than one flower that makes a good
choice for drying, there is more than one way to dry a
flower. The three most popular ways to dry a flower are;
1) Silica Gel 2) Use a dehydrator and 3) Use Glycerin. Some
people may also attempt to dry a flower by simply hanging
it and air-drying. This method is much less reliable as
there are so many variables like temperature and moisture.
Depending on your purpose, there are three main methods of
flower drying to choose from. The application of silica gel
(or proper alternate), drying by use of a dehydrator, or
the absorption of glycerin are the most efficient ways for
turning that blossom into a craft.
Silica, which is actually a form of sand, can be
substituted by clean sand, borax or cornmeal. This method
calls for a dry container with a tight fitting lid. Take
the container and line the bottom with a thin layer of the
gel. Then, place the flower in the container while adding
more gel around the bloom in order to avoid crushing it.
Once it is secure, sprinkle some gel over top. Next, cover
with the lid and allow it to sit for about a week or until
completely dry. Once finished, use a small paintbrush to
remove remaining silica.
Remember, the more heat, the quicker the flower will dry.
If you are making potpourri, your best bet is to use a
dehydrator; not only is it the speediest method, it aids in
preserving fragrance. If a dehydrator is not available,
hanging the flowers in a dry space in a loosely woven
basket will also do the trick. However, this method is
inferior because you must take into account huge variables,
such as moisture and temperature.
If you want to keep your flower pliable when it dries, try
using glycerin. Glycerin is used by having the flower
absorb the glycerin. Sometimes glycerin will turn the
leaves and the flower another color.
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