Keep Those Sunflowers Forever: A Step-by-Step Guide to Preserving Sunflowers in a Frame

Sunflowers are one of the most iconic symbols of summer. Their bright yellow petals and tall, sturdy stems evoke feelings of joy and warmth As summer turns to fall, it can be sad to watch these beauties wither away But what if you could keep them forever? With the right techniques, you can preserve sunflowers in frames for year-round enjoyment.

Why Preserve Sunflowers?

Sunflowers pack so much color and personality into a single bloom. Preserving them is a great way to continue appreciating their beauty even after the growing season ends. Framed sunflowers make excellent home decor pieces and thoughtful gifts. They also serve as charming reminders of summer for many years to come.

What You’ll Need

Preserving sunflowers is a relatively simple project Here are the key supplies you’ll need

• Freshly cut sunflower heads with stems attached
• Clippers or scissors
• Silica gel packets
• Airtight container or large paper bag
• Frame with glass or acrylic glazing
• Hot glue and pins

Step 1: Cut and Dry the Blooms

Timing is important when harvesting sunflowers for preserving. Choose blooms that have fully opened but are still in their prime without browned petals or wilting. Use clippers or scissors to cut the stems several inches below the flower head.

Next place the fresh sunflowers in an airtight container or paper bag along with several silica gel packets. The silica will absorb moisture from the blooms and quicken the drying process. Allow 1-2 weeks for thorough drying time. Check periodically and replace the silica gel packs if they become saturated.

Proper drying helps the flowers retain their shape and color vibrancy once framed. Make sure no moisture remains before moving to the framing stage.

Step 2: Prepare the Frame

While your sunflowers are drying, you can prep the frame. Look for a shadowbox style frame at least 1-2 inches deep to allow space for the sunflower heads. Remove the back panel and lay out your design plan. Consider covering the backing with pretty scrapbook paper, photos, or other decorative elements.

For framed sunflowers, less is often more. Let the dried blooms be the star without too many distracting background elements. Keep in mind the sunflower placement as you decorate the backing panel.

Step 3: Mount the Sunflowers

Once fully dried, you’re ready to mount the sunflowers in the frame. Arrange the blooms how you’d like them to appear in the final display. Carefully pin the stems in place using dressmaker pins. You can also use hot glue to securely adhere the flower heads to the backing.

Apply a light coat of hairspray or artist fixative spray to the sunflowers and let dry. This seals in the color and helps hold the petals in position. Avoid overspraying as too much moisture can cause issues over time.

Step 4: Finish and Display

With your sunflowers pinned and sprayed, place the decorated backing panel back into the frame. Secure it in place and insert the included hanging hardware if using the frame for wall display.

Find a spot that’s out of direct sunlight to help preserve your framed flowers. Quick temperature or humidity changes can affect dried botanicals over time. Your lovingly preserved sunflowers will brighten up your home for many seasons to come.

Troubleshooting Tips

Follow these troubleshooting tips for framed sunflowers that last:

• Inspect dried blooms for any lingering moisture and re-dry if needed before framing. Trapped moisture leads to rot.

• Hot glue stems for added stability if pins alone don’t hold. Use glue sparingly to avoid oozing through petals.

• For wall mounting, use heavy duty wall anchors rated for the frame’s weight. This prevents accidents from falls.

• If sunflowers start to sag or warp over time, you may need to replace the silica gel in the frame to absorb excess moisture.

Creative Ways to Display Framed Sunflowers

Looking for inspiration on how to showcase your preserved sunflowers? Here are some creative framing and display ideas:

• Feature a solo oversized bloom in a square or round frame. This bold yet simple approach has dramatic impact.

• Create a sunflower collage effect with multiple smaller dried flowers in an interesting asymmetrical layout.

• Mix sunflowers with other dried botanicals like statice, baby’s breath, or lavender sprigs. Contrasting textures look striking together.

• Incorporate sunflowers into a shadowbox diorama along with mementos, photos, or textiles for a multifaceted display.

• Group coordinated frames over a sofa, mantel, or bed as an eye-catching focal wall.

Don’t limit yourself to traditional framing techniques. Use your imagination, and those lovely sunflowers will grace your home in style year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time to cut sunflowers for drying?

Cut sunflowers once the blooms have fully opened. Avoid wilted or browning flowers, and pick them in early morning or late evening when they contain less moisture.

How long does it take sunflowers to dry?

With proper air circulation, sunflowers take 1-2 weeks to thoroughly dry. The process happens more quickly with added desiccant like silica gel. Check on the progress after 5-7 days.

Can you dry sunflowers using a food dehydrator?

Yes, using a food dehydrator with an adjustable thermostat is an effective (and faster) way to dry sunflowers. Keep the temperature between 95-100°F.

How do you keep framed sunflowers from fading?

Protect framed sunflowers from direct sunlight. Also apply UV-protective sealant spray and keep them in a climate controlled environment to help prevent fading over time.

What can damage preserved sunflowers?

Moisture, humidity, rapid temperature changes, and too much handling or movement can all degrade preserved sunflowers. Handle frames gently and inspect botanicals periodically.

Bring Summer Inside!

With the simple process described above, you can enjoy gorgeous sunflowers all year long. Preserving these symbols of summer in frames is deeply satisfying and makes a thoughtful handmade gift. Bring the warm joy of sunflowers into your home decor with this fun craft.