How to Preserve Funeral Flowers: 5 Ways To Create Lasting Tributes

Whether it’s a hand bouquet of flowers to honour a loved one or an arrangement adorned with meaningful service, preserving funeral flowers can help keep cherished memories alive. 

In Singapore, where floral tributes often carry cultural and symbolic significance, preserving these flowers can be a heartfelt way to keep cherished memories alive and acts as a long lasting tribute to the dearly departed.

If you're wondering how to preserve funeral flowers effectively, this guide offers practical methods to transform blooms into lasting keepsakes.

5 Methods To Preserve Memorial Flowers

Preserving flowers doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are tried-and-tested methods that cater to different needs and preferences.

1. Air Drying

Air drying is one of the easiest and most popular ways to preserve memorial flowers. This technique maintains the flowers' natural form while giving them a vintage appearance.

Steps:

1. Choose fresh flowers and gently pat them dry.
2. Remove excess leaves to prevent mould or decay.
3. Tie the flowers into small bundles using twine or ribbon.
4. Hang the flowers upside down in a cool, dry, dark area for 2–3 weeks.
5. Once fully dried, carefully arrange the flowers in a shadow box or frame.

This method works well for bouquets, roses, or any flowers with sturdy petals and stems.

2. Pressing Flowers

Pressing flowers is ideal for creating flat, artistic displays. This method is especially effective for single blooms or petals you wish to use in cards, bookmarks, or photo albums.

Steps:

1. Select flowers with flat blooms or press individual petals.
2. Put the flowers between two pieces of parchment paper.
3. Insert the parchment paper inside a heavy book and stack additional books for weight.
4. Leave the flowers to press for 1–2 weeks.
5. Once dried, use the pressed flowers in a frame or laminate them for protection.

Tip: Flowers like daisies and pansies work exceptionally well when pressing.

3. Using Silica Gel

Silica gel is an excellent option for maintaining the shape and colour of memorial flowers. It helps remove moisture while preserving delicate details.

Steps:

1. Purchase silica gel from a craft store.
2. Follow instructions and pour a layer of silica gel in an airtight container.
3. Position the flowers face up on the gel and carefully cover them with more silica gel.
4. Seal the container and leave it for 1–2 weeks.
5. Gently remove the flowers and brush off excess gel.

This technique is perfect for preserving intricate flowers like lilies or orchids.

4. Epoxy Resin For Keepsakes

Encasing flowers in resin creates durable and beautiful keepsakes, such as paperweights or pendants.

Steps:

1. Begin by drying the flowers using air drying or silica gel.
2. Arrange the dried flowers in a mould.
3. Mix the resin as per instructions and pour it over the flowers.
4. Allow the resin to harden for 24–48 hours.
5. Remove the keepsake from the mould and polish if needed.

Resin preservation works well for smaller arrangements or individual flowers.

5. Freeze Drying

Freezing flowers at home requires some preparation and the right equipment, but if done properly, it ensures excellent preservation.

Steps:

1. Trim stems, remove leaves, and pat the flowers dry.
2. Arrange the flowers on a tray, keeping them spaced apart.
3. Pre-freeze the flowers in a standard freezer for 6–12 hours.
4. Place the frozen flowers in a freeze dryer and run the cycle (24–48 hours).
5. Store the preserved flowers in airtight containers to prevent moisture damage.

This method is particularly useful for preserving full bouquets or fragile arrangements. It ensures that flowers retain their natural colour, shape, and details for years.

Tips for Preserving Flowers Successfully

• Choose Fresh Blooms: The sooner you preserve the flowers, the better the results.
• Avoid Excess Moisture: Ensure flowers are dry before beginning any preservation method to prevent mould.
• Store Away From Sunlight: Preserved flowers can deteriorate if they are directly exposed to sunlight for prolonged periods.
• Handle With Care: Dried flowers are delicate and may crumble if mishandled.

4 Creative Ideas For Preserved Memorial Flowers

Preserving memorial flowers goes beyond simply keeping them intact—transforming them into unique keepsakes honouring a loved one’s memory. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Shadow Boxes

Shadow boxes are an elegant way to display preserved flowers while protecting them from damage.

• Arrange dried flowers, such as roses or lilies, alongside a cherished photo, a handwritten note, or a keepsake like a ribbon from the bouquet.
• Add a personal touch by placing meaningful items, such keepsakes or a printed quote that reflects their spirit.
• Shadow boxes can be placed on shelves or on walls, making them a timeless tribute.

Pressed Flower Frames

Pressed flowers framed in glass create a beautiful and minimalist keepsake that can be displayed anywhere.

• Use flowers with thin petals like daisies, pansies, or carnations for the best results.
• Arrange the pressed flowers into a pattern, like a heart or initials, or leave them scattered for an organic look.
• Choose a high-quality glass frame to protect the delicate petals and keep them vibrant for years.

Jewellery

Memorial jewellery allows you to carry a tangible memory wherever you go.

• Encapsulate small dried flowers in resin to create pendants, earrings, or bracelets. Tiny blooms or petals, such as baby’s breath or delphinium, work particularly well for jewellery.
• Combine preserved flowers with other meaningful elements, like charms or beads, to create a truly personalised piece.
• These pieces make thoughtful gifts for family members or close friends.

Keepsake Boxes

A keepsake box can hold various preserved flowers along with other treasured items, making them a wonderful addition to dedicating memories and tribute for a loved one.

• Line the inside of the box with a fabric or paper that complements the flower arrangement.
• Include the preserved blooms alongside small trinkets, like jewellery, handwritten notes, or photos.
• This box can be revisited whenever you wish to reflect on fond memories.

Conclusion On How To Preserve Funeral Flowers

In Singapore, funeral flowers hold deep cultural significance. They offer solace and bring a sense of peace to grieving families during sombre times.

For those seeking meaningful arrangements for memorial services, Singapore Florist provides a wide selection of elegant funeral flowers thoughtfully designed to convey heartfelt condolences. 

They also offer a selection of preserved flowers in Singapore, making them a one-stop destination for those looking to express sentiments that last.

With years of expertise and an unwavering commitment to quality, Singapore Florist ensures every arrangement reflects the profound emotions of saying goodbye to a loved one.

Frequently Asked Questions About How To Preserve Funeral Flowers 

How Long Do Preserved Flowers Last?

If stored correctly, preserved flowers can last for years, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

Can You Preserve Funeral Flowers At Home?

Yes, air drying, pressing, and silica gel can be done at home with minimal tools.

What’s The Best Method To Preserve The Colour Of Flowers?

Using silica gel or freeze-drying is the best way to maintain the vibrant colours of flowers.

Can All Types Of Flowers Be Preserved?

While most flowers can be preserved, those with sturdier petals, like roses and carnations, often yield better results.

How Do You Protect Preserved Flowers From Damage?

Preserved flowers should be placed in sealed displays, like frames or shadow boxes, to protect them from dust and handling.

Do Preserved Flowers Require Maintenance?

Minimal maintenance is required; simply keep them in a cool, dry environment and avoid exposure to sunlight.

Are There Professional Services For Preserving Funeral Flowers?

Many florists and preservation specialists offer services like freeze drying and resin keepsake creation.