Read our blog post to find out how to preserve your sunflowers in a frame so they’ll last for years to come!
preserve sunflowers in a Frame” src=”https://i4.ytimg.com/vi/Cl1lu_ECDSk/sddefault.jpg” style=”display:none”>Checkout this video:
Introduction
Have you ever wanted to keep a lasting reminder of summertime all year long? If you love sunflowers, why not try preserving them in a frame? It’s a simple project that’ll take you just a few hours, and the results are truly beautiful. Read on for step-by-step instructions.
What You’ll Need
To preserve your sunflowers, you will need:
-A clean, dry, and dust-free picture frame
-Clear drying agent (silica gel or borax)
-Cotton balls
-Tweezers
-A paintbrush (optional)
Step 1: Preparing the Sunflower
Gather a sunflower from your garden or purchase one from a local florist. Choose a sunflower that has not yet fully bloomed for the best results. Cut the stem of the flower at an angle using sharp shears, then place the sunflower in a bucket of water.
Step 2: Strengthening the Stem
Pour a cup of household bleach into the bucket of water to help prevent bacteria growth. Add two tablespoons of sugar to the bleach and water solution and stir until dissolved. Allow the sunflower to soak in this solution for four hours.
Step 3: Drying the Sunflower
Remove the sunflower from the bleach and water solution after four hours and shake off any excess moisture. Place the sunflower upside down on a towel and allow it to air dry overnight.
Step 4: Preparing the Frame
Choose a frame that will comfortably fit your dried sunflower. Remove any glass or backing from the frame, then lightly sand down the surface of the frame with medium-grit sandpaper. Wipe off any dust with a damp cloth, then set the frame aside to dry.
Step 5: Assembling Your Sunflower Frame
Begin by hot gluing one end of a length of twine or string to the back of your frame. Wrap the twine around the frame and glue it in place as you go. Trim off any excess twine, then hot glue your dried sunflower to the center front of your frame. Hang your finished sunflower frame in a bright spot and enjoy!
Step 2: Applying the Preservative
After you have gathered your supplies, it is time to begin preserving your sunflowers. Begin by gently removing any dirt or debris from the blooms using a soft brush. Next, lay the flowers out on a layer of paper towels and allow them to air dry for several hours or overnight. Once they are dry, carefully apply a thin layer of preservative to the backs of the blooms using a paintbrush. Be sure to avoid getting any preservative on the petals or leaves, as this can damage them. Allow the flowers to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Framing the Sunflower
Now that your sunflower is dry, it’s time to frame it. You’ll need:
-A frame
-A piece of glass or Plexiglas
-A backing (foam core, cardboard, etc.)
-Tape
-Scissors
1. First, measure the glass or Plexiglas and cut the backing to fit snugly inside the frame. If you’re using foam core, be sure to cut it a little smaller than the frame so it doesn’t show.
2. Next, place the backing inside the frame and tape it in place. Be sure to use a strong tape so the backing doesn’t fall out.
3. Now, place the glass or Plexiglas over top of the backing and tape it in place. Again, be sure to use a strong tape so the glass doesn’t fall out.
4. Finally, position your sunflower in the center of the glass or Plexiglas and secure it in place with tape. Be sure to use a strong tape so the sunflower doesn’t fall out.
Step 4: Hanging the Sunflower
Now that your sunflower is dry, it’s time to hang it in a frame. You’ll need a few supplies before you get started:
-A frame in the size and style of your choice
-Pliers
-Wire
-Scissors
To hang your sunflower, start by taking the backing off of the frame. Next, use the pliers to bend the wire into a loop. The loop should be small enough to fit through the hole in the top of the sunflower, but large enough that the ends can be wrapped around the back of the frame. Once the wire is in place, use the scissors to trim any excess. Finally, replace the backing on the frame and secure it in place. Your sunflower is now ready to enjoy!
Tips
Here are some tips for how to preserve your sunflowers so that they’ll last in a frame:
-Cut the sunflowers at their peak, when the back of the flower is yellow.
-Use a sharp knife to make a clean cut at an angle, about an inch from the base of the stem.
-Remove any leaves from the stem, as these will drain energy from the flower.
-Place the flowers in a bucket of cool water and add a packet of floral preservative.
-Let the sunflowers soak for at least four hours, or overnight if possible.
-When you’re ready to arrange the flowers, start by trimming the stems again and removing any excess leaves.
-Arrange the sunflowers in a vase or frame, using florist’s foam to keep them in place.
-Spray the flowers lightly with hairspray or another type of sealant. This will help them retain their color and prevent fading.
Warnings
-Use a sharp knife to cut the sunflower stem at an angle.
-Cut the stem about 2 inches from the base of the flower.
-Remove all the leaves from the stem.
-Place the sunflower in a vase with fresh water
-Change the water every few days.
-Mist the sunflower with water every day.
-Check for insects and remove them if present.
-Place the sunflower in a sunny location.
Things You’ll Need
-Scissors
-Poster board
-A sharp knife
-A cutting board
-A glue stick
-2 sheets of clear contact paper
-Pencil
-Ruler or a straight edge
-A sunflower that has not yet bloomed
To preserve your sunflower, you will need the following items: scissors, poster board, a sharp knife, a cutting board, a glue stick, 2 sheets of clear contact paper, a pencil, a ruler or a straight edge, and a sunflower that has not yet bloomed.
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