- 3 lbs. of silica gel
- 2 dozen pieces of 18 gauge wire
- 2 dozen pieces of 30 gauge wire
- flowers
- airtight container: (tupperware, cookie tins, or plastic food containers) cup (for pouring the silica gel)
- wire clippers or scissors
- knife (any kitchen knife will work)
- label
- paint brush (small, fine bristles are best)
- oven safe container or pan for baking the silica gel
- dust mask and rubber Gloves (for highly allergic people)
As with any new endeavor, it is best to start with the basics. I recommend trying a sturdy, easy-to-preserve bloom at first (rose, peony, zinnia, hydrangea, sunflower, marigold or calla lily are all good choices). Don’t plan a recreation of your entire bridal bouquet for your first project. After a little practice and patience, you will be skilled enough to experiment with more daring projects.
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Cut bloom at it's peak and blemish free, leaving approximately a 1-inch stem. The flower should be open and slightly firm with no surface moisture on its petals.
With thin or hollow stemmed flowers (dahlias, viburnum, marigolds, zinnias, gerberas) insert a 3-inch fine gauge wire up or through the stem (I use a #30) to add support when attaching the final wire stem.
Place stem down in 1-inch layer of silica gel. The flower should not touch the walls of the container or the other flowers if you are preserving several simultaneously.
Start pouring the silica gel slowly into the container. It is important to support the outer petals while pouring the silica gel into the center of the flower.
Distribute the silica gel evenly, pouring a bit inside the flower then a bit outside the flower. Also try to sprinkle it in between all the petals. From time to time, gently shake the container to settle the silica gel. Continue to pour until the flower is completely covered. Then close the container with an airtight lid.
Label the container, indicating the type of flower and the date. Store it in a dry, cool place.
After the necessary amount of time has elapsed, remove the airtight lid. Slowly start to pour out the silica gel by delicately tipping the container.
Place your hand over the emerging bloom while continuing to pour the silica gel in to empty receptacle (an aluminum baking pan works well). Gently shake the bloom to dislodge any remaining silica gel. A paintbrush can be used to gently sweep away any residual dust.
If you are not ready to make your arrangement, store your preserved bloom, stem down, sprinkling a handful of silica gel in the bottom of the box. Place in a dry, cool spot until you are ready to start.
I have experimented with many other methods of preserving flowers (air-drying, freeze drying, using borax or kitty litter) and have found that silica gel is by far the most successful. If you keep your finished arrangements in an air-conditioned environment during humid months (and away from rambunctious children or pets year round) they will bring color and joy to any corner of your home or office for up to one year.
