Everything you need to know about flower preservation
A preservation artist's honest guide to understanding options, costs, and possibilities
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Demystifying flower preservation
Just a few years ago, bridal and memorial flower preservation was a niche offering that only a few lucky people knew about.
Now, it has become a popular wedding, special event and even custom art service, with hundreds of new artists joining the fray every year in the US and across the world.
And I say to that, the more the merrier! That’s because I think choosing a flower preservation service or artist is as personal as choosing the flowers themselves (or your wedding dress).
I have put together this guide to help YOU better understand your options.
Whether you are based in the US or elsewhere, are looking to preserve your flowers or start your own flower preservation business, I’ve tried to capture everything I know about this industry as objectively as possible.
This brings me to a full disclosure: I’ve owned my Chicago-based flower preservation practice since 2021. Over the years, I have researched dozens of floral preservation businesses and artists to find a niche for myself.
Today, I want to share what I have learned about the practice of flower preservation to help you make informed decisions.
The basics of flower preservation
Flower preservation consists of removing moisture from natural flowers and greenery, thus maintaining much of their natural shape and color over a very long time.
There are many ways to preserve flowers and each method leads to different results and has its own pluses and minuses. Here are some things to know:
Traditional press: The flowers will be flat and change their color quite dramatically in some cases. Whites will turn ivory. Reds and pinks will darken. Some yellows will brown. This is by far my favorite method.
Foam press: This method relies on a dehydrator and a specially made press consisting of foam layers and perforated boards holding them together. I use this method frequently because of its superior color retention and speed. However, it doesn’t work with all types of flowers - some, like orchids and hydrangeas, tend to burn at the edges even in low temperature settings. Foam presses are not freely available, so most artists - including myself - fabricate their own.
Microwave press: The flowers will also be flat, but will retain color better than a traditional press. There are some downsides. Fluffy flowers like ranunculus and peonies are likely to lose petal definition because of the combination of heat, moisture and very delicate petals. Some flowers and greenery may turn out wrinkly and crunchy.
Silica sand: This is the favorite flower preservation method for resin and shadow box artists - and for good reason. Silica quickly wicks out moisture while retaining the natural shape of the flowers and much of the color. The downside is mostly to the artist: Silica can cause health problems if not handled with proper PPE. I use this method occasionally when I want to achieve a texture effect in my custom frames.
Freeze-drying: This method used to be popular in the ’90s but less so today. It’s mostly because it requires a large investment in a bulky machine that has limited use. The freeze-drying method leads to beautiful shape and color retention.
Air-drying: This method is as old as humans have been around. Though flowers will shrink, wrinkle and lose much of their color, it is a costless way to keep your precious flowers for a long time. Air-drying is susceptible to molding if water is trapped between petals and there’s insufficient air circulation.
Combination of methods: Many artists mix different floral preservation techniques. My go-tos are traditional and foam presses. Using the best features of two or more methods results in the goldilocks of flower preservation: excellent color retention, texture and shape.
“Using the best features of two or more methods results in the goldilocks of flower preservation: excellent color retention, texture and shape.”
Types of flower preservation professionals
Currently, in the US, a few large floral preservation businesses provide either a specific service (like floating frames or resin blocks) or several (pressed flower frames, resin blocks and decor, jewelry, etc).
For every large business, there are hundreds of very talented independent artists. Most of them are one-woman shows (yes, the vast majority are run by women!), while others receive support from a small team. My own practice, Bloom & Make, is a one-woman show.
This brings me to some things to know about working with a large flower preservation business vs an independent artist or studio.
Large flower preservation businesses
These are true success stories for their entrepreneurial owners. It’s incredibly hard to scale a business, let alone in the time-intensive flower preservation industry. These providers accept hundreds and even thousands of commissions each year. That means they have a large team supporting a very efficient process focused on speed. This may mean their product offering is more limited or has a similar style/look. On the upside, you will probably receive your piece(s) faster..
Independent artists
These talented individuals pour their heart and soul into their craft. It is difficult for any artist to establish themselves, especially in the flower preservation space. I think the most difficult part is balancing the joy the art brings with the financial realities of running a business. The artists who have found that balance are thriving and choose their clients as much as the clients choose them. Independent artists (like me) and small studios typically provide much more personal connection and creativity than a large business. But because we run the show alone (or with limited help), it will take longer to finish.
Flower preservation products and pricing range
Preserved flowers are an incredibly versatile art medium when preserved correctly. Flower preservation is often an investment, especially if it’s done by established and reputable independent artists and businesses who stand by their craft. It is a labor and material-intensive endeavor requiring well-honed skills and a unique artistic style perfected over many years.
Expand the categories below to see the pricing range for the most popular options. In my flower preservation practice, the typical cost per order is in the $700-1,500 range.
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These are custom or premade framed pieces in a variety of shapes (round, geometrical), depths (from flat to shadow boxes), sizes and framing materials (wood, metal)
16x20” frame:
Low range $250-400
Mid-range $500-1,000
High end - up to $2,500
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They come in geometrical shapes and a variety of sizes
10x10” block: $300-700
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These include serving trays, boards, coasters, paperweights, candle holders, bookends, clocks, cabinet door knobs, tables.
11x14” serving tray with handles: $300-600
Set of 4 coasters: $100-$300
Bookend: $250-600
Side table: up to $2,000 or even more, depending on the size and style
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These include bookmarks, bottle stoppers, key chains, phone cases, small dishes, jewelry boxes, photo frames, ornaments
Usually in the $25-150 range
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Options include earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, beads, brooches, pins, hair accessories.
Usually in the $30-150 range, though solid gold options are priced higher
A hidden cost: Shipping
Most flower preservation studios and artists will strongly recommend next-day air shipping for peak freshness, which can cost up to $200 depending on the distance and package size. Shipping speed is crucial especially when your flowers are white or ivory (they bruise easily) or have a short vase life (dahlias, some peonies, poppies, etc).
Insured shipping of your finished order can cost up to $100 if the box is very large or heavy.
Deciding what flower preservation option works best for you
Not all flower preservation art is created equal - and that's a good thing! Your choice between pressed flower frames, resin blocks, functional decor, or jewelry should reflect both your lifestyle and preferences.
Here are the key questions to ask yourself before choosing:
Do you think art should be for display only or used with care as part of your everyday life? In my practice, some clients choose a mix - a statement piece for the wall plus coasters they can actually use.
Do you prefer one large statement piece as a focal point or multiple smaller pieces you can display around your house? This often comes down to your decorating style.
Are you comfortable with discoloration and surface scratches on functional decor? Resin items used daily will show wear, just like any cherished piece.
What's your available display space like? A stunning wall frame needs... well, wall space! Meanwhile, smaller pieces can find homes on shelves, side tables, nightstands and desks.
Are you planning to move homes often? I always advise clients who are renting or planning moves to consider more portable options.
What's your home's lighting situation? Direct sunlight can speed up flower fading (unless they are color-enhanced) and resin yellowing.
Do you plan to gift any pieces to family members? Many of my clients choose to split their arrangements into smaller pieces - a frame for themselves, jewelry for moms, and ornaments for bridesmaids.
Take time to consider these questions. Your preserved flowers should fit seamlessly into your life, whether that's as a stunning focal point or sweet daily reminders of your special day.
“Your preserved flowers should fit seamlessly into your life, whether that’s as a stunning focal point or sweet daily reminders of your special day.”
What you need to know about floating frames and resin products
Before you choose between floating and matted frames, there are some lesser-known details to consider. Floating frames create a striking "suspended in air" look that many people love. However, they come with unique characteristics:
Unlike matted frames, floating frames are permanently sealed. This means any flower fragments that may detach over time will remain visible between the glass.
Despite meticulous cleaning, some dust particles inevitably get trapped during assembly - it's simply the nature of working with static-prone materials like glass and flowers.
Your wall color will also play a crucial role: the transparent back of floating frames means the wall shows through, potentially affecting the overall look of your piece. For this reason, matted frames often provide a more reliable presentation since they create their own neutral backdrop.
Resin pieces, while beautiful, undergo natural aging processes. Here’s what you should expect:
All epoxy resin will gradually yellow and lose its glass-like finish over time, typically within 1-2 years. This aging accelerates with sun exposure, regardless of UV protection additives.
Functional items like coasters and trays show wear faster due to regular use - expect surface scratches and dulling of the finish.
Resin can trap air bubbles during pouring, which appear as small imperfections in the final piece.
Temperature changes may cause slight warping in larger items.
Think of resin pieces like fine leather - they develop a patina that tells their story. If you prefer items that maintain their original appearance, pressed flower frames might be a better choice.
Best flowers for preservation
While any flower can technically be preserved, some varieties are naturally more suited to the process than others. The ideal candidates maintain their color and shape beautifully, while trickier blooms may require specialized techniques or multiple preservation methods - and even then, they might look quite different from their fresh state.
When evaluating flowers for preservation, I consider four key factors: initial color retention after pressing or drying, long-term color stability, shape preservation, and texture quality.
Stars of preservation (these beauties preserve exceptionally well):
Anemones
Baby's breath
Blue and pink hydrangea
Blue delphinium
Butterfly ranunculus
Clematis
Darker carnations
Dusty miller
Eucalyptus (all varieties)
Hellebores
Ornamental grasses
Pink and white peonies
Poppies
Roses in darker hues
Smokebush foliage
Strawflowers
Sweet peas
Thistle
Dark-colored stock
The challenging ones (these require extra care or may change significantly):
All types of lilies (including calla)
Chrysanthemums
Echinacea
Light-colored stock
Lilac
Monstera leaves
Most aster varieties
Most dahlias
Most orchid varieties
Pittosporum greenery
Ranunculus (especially yellow and orange, which tend to fade within months)
Sunflowers
Tulips
Veronica
White and red hydrangeas
White and toffee roses
Zinnias
If your bouquet contains flowers from the "challenging" list, don't worry! A skilled preservation artist can often work magic with these blooms through specialized techniques and careful handling. Just be sure to discuss expectations with your artist, as these flowers may require color correction or could change more dramatically over time.
Natural aging vs color enhancement: What you need to know
Let's talk about one of the most important aspects of flower preservation: color changes and enhancement. In my practice, I always color-correct flowers that change dramatically during preservation - and some definitely do! (Looking at you, chrysanthemums.) For other flowers that maintain their colors better, I offer clients the choice between natural aging and color enhancement. Neither option is "wrong" - it's entirely about your preference and the specific flowers in your piece!
Color correction serves two vital purposes in flower preservation. First and most importantly, it restores flowers that undergo dramatic color changes during the preservation process - for instance, those beautiful toffee roses that have a tendency to turn purple! Second, it helps ensure your preserved piece maintains its intended look over time, whether displayed in a frame or encased in resin.
Natural preservation allows flowers to fade gracefully over the years, though this process accelerates if non-archival materials are used in framing. Think regular glass instead of museum glass, or standard mat board rather than acid-free options. But don't worry - we're talking years, not months.
Color correction is where things get interesting (and sometimes controversial) in the flower preservation industry. Each artist and preservation business has their own stance and preferred techniques. The most common methods include:
Airbrush application
Spray painting
Acrylic painting
Soft pastel coloring
Alcohol ink coloring
In my experience, skilled artists often combine multiple methods to achieve the most natural-looking results. The flower type itself often dictates which correction technique works best - what works beautifully on a rose might look artificial on a delicate sweet pea.
A note about pricing: Some artists and businesses charge extra for color correction, while others (like myself) include it in the total cost. I personally believe in including it because I want my clients to feel like they have options without worrying about additional fees.
Here's my honest take: Color enhancement can be wonderful when done with a gentle hand, but overdone correction gives flowers an unnatural, flat appearance. That's why I always recommend asking to see examples of an artist's color-corrected pieces before committing. When reviewing their work, watch out for bright, uniform colors that look more like artificial flowers than preserved ones. While some level of correction will usually be visible to a trained eye, the goal is to mimic the natural vibrancy of fresh flowers while respecting their unique characteristics.
Remember, even with color correction, your preserved flowers won't look exactly like they did on your special day - and that's okay! The goal is to capture their essence and beauty in a lasting way that suits your preferences.
“While some level of correction will usually be visible to a trained eye, the goal is to mimic the natural vibrancy of fresh flowers while respecting their unique characteristics.”
Why quality preservation takes time: A detailed timeline
Ever wonder why preserving your flowers can take more than 12 months? Let me break down the process step by step.
Pressed Flower Preservation Timeline
Initial Preparation (1-2 hours)
Rehydrating flowers if needed
Cleaning and prepping each bloom
Pressing Process (3-5 hours)
Carefully arranging flowers in press
Applying chosen preservation method(s)
Drying Phase (up to 4 weeks)
Regular paper changes (1-2 hours total)
Monitoring moisture levels
Post-Press Processing (4-7 hours)
Carefully removing from press (1 hour)
Reassembling flowers (3-6 hours)
Design Phase (5-7 hours)
Color correction (2-3 hours)
Creating design mock-ups (1 hour)
Gluing approved design (2-3 hours)
Finishing Touches (1.5-2 hours)
Frame assembly (1 hour)
Packaging (30-60 minutes)
Total time per pressed flower frame: 15.5 to 25 hrs
Resin Preservation Timeline
Initial Preparation (1-2 hours)
Same careful cleaning and prep work
Silica Drying (up to 4 weeks)
Placing in silica (1-2 hours)
Drying period
Removal and cleaning (1-2 hours)
Design Phase (5-7 hours)
Flower reassembly (2-3 hours)
Color correction (2-3 hours)
Design mock-ups (1 hour)
Resin Work (3+ weeks)
Multiple pouring stages
Full curing time
Final sanding and topcoating (2-3 hours plus 3 days for curing)
Finishing Touches (30-60 minutes)
Final packaging and preparation
Total time per resin block: 10.5 to 28 hrs
Behind every preservation
Throughout the process, there are various administrative tasks that take up to 5 hours per order:
Client communications
Progress photos and videos
Order management
Quality checks
Now you can see why most preservation artists quote several weeks for completion! Each step requires patience and attention to detail to ensure your flowers are preserved beautifully.
How your preserved flowers will age
Let's have an honest conversation about how preserved flowers and resin pieces change over time. I believe in setting clear expectations so you can make informed decisions about your preservation investment.
Natural aging of preserved flowers
Without color correction, preserved flowers will gradually fade - it's simply part of their journey. The process accelerates under certain conditions:
Display in non-archival frames
Exposure to direct sunlight
High humidity environments
Light-colored flowers (white, blush, yellow, blue, lavender) are the first to show changes, eventually turning ivory or light brown. Their darker cousins (red, burgundy, purple) hold their ground longer but will eventually join the browns. Greenery and foliage follow a similar path, lightening to warm brown tones over time.
The resin conundrum
You might think encasing flowers in resin would protect them from these changes. While resin does slow the fading process (especially when kept away from direct sunlight), it introduces its own challenge: yellowing.
Here's the truth about resin that not everyone talks about: even the highest quality epoxy resin will turn yellow within about two years. What about the appearance of the flowers? Think of it like placing a yellow filter over a photograph - yellow resin affects everything beneath it. This yellowing not only changes the overall appearance of your piece but also alters the color of your preserved flowers, even if they were color-corrected.
My professional recommendations
This is exactly why I always recommend black backgrounds for resin pieces like coasters and trays. The dark backdrop cleverly minimizes the appearance of yellowing and keeps the focus where it should be - on your beautiful flowers.
It's also one of the main reasons I've chosen to specialize in pressed flower frames. With proper archival materials and appropriate display conditions, framed pieces offer superior long-term preservation of your precious memories.
Whether you choose a frame or resin piece, remember that preserved flowers are like any other natural material - they tell the story of time. The key is working with an artist who understands these changes and can help you make choices that will best protect your investment.
Giving new life to air-dried flowers
Did you know that air-dried arrangements can get a second chance at preservation? Yes, even those bouquets you dried years ago! I've successfully restored air-dried bouquets that were over 5 years old, transforming them into new keepsakes. But there's one critical condition: they must be completely mold-free.
About mold (this is important!)
Let me emphasize something crucial: mold isn't always visible at first glance. It loves to hide between flowers, especially inside densely packed blooms. Any arrangement needs to be carefully taken apart and examined before restoration can begin. I cannot emphasize this enough - mold is a deal-breaker for restoration.
The restoration possibilities
If your dried flowers pass the mold inspection, you have several exciting options:
Preservation in resin
Display in a shadow box
And yes, even pressing!
Here's something that might surprise you: through a year of experimentation, I've developed a process that allows me to rehydrate and press almost any dried flower and foliage (assuming they're mold-free, of course). Combined with careful color correction, we can bring back some of their original vibrancy. While the results won't be identical to preserving fresh flowers, the transformed pieces are often stunning in their own right.
Lost your bouquet? There's still hope!
If you no longer have your original flowers, don't worry! Most preservation artists and businesses, including myself, offer bouquet recreation services. We can source flowers that match your original arrangement and preserve those instead. While it won't be your exact bouquet, it can be a beautiful way to capture the essence of your special day.
Shipping your flowers for preservation (and back again)
Let's talk about one of the most nerve-wracking parts of flower preservation - shipping your precious blooms! Whether you're sending your wedding bouquet or other special flowers, proper shipping can make all the difference in preservation success.
First though, it’s good to remember that you cannot ship fresh flowers internationally because of laws and regulations regarding fresh produce. Your best bet is to find a local artist or studio who can then ship the completed order back to you.
If your wedding is in a different US state (within the contiguous borders), you may be able to add them to your carry-on - make sure to check with your airline. If it’s allowed, avoid wrapping them in plastic or packing them in the luggage. You can follow steps 1-2 below and then place the bouquet in a paper bag to take with you on the plane.
Before you pack, there's one crucial tip: Shake off any water that may be stuck between petals and allow it to dry off. Water droplets on the blooms will likely brown the petals during shipping.
Find a box that fits the bouquet snugly, with a little wiggle room for a layer of crumpled paper on the bottom and top, respectively.
Give the stems a fresh cut and wrap them in wet paper towels. Carefully insert the stems & paper towels into a plastic bag with no holes. Tightly secure the bag with an elastic band or tape.
Place crumpled packing paper along the bottom of the box. It can also be newspaper or even office paper, as long as it's crumpled up to cushion the bouquet. Please use ONLY paper - no plastic of any kind or packing peanuts. These materials trap moisture and will cause browning.
Place the bouquet in the box and cover it with another layer of paper. You can use a few sheets of paper towels or packing paper.
Tape the box and either place "Fragile" stickers on several sides, or simply write with a Sharpie "Handle with care". You can also mark the top side so the delivery person is extra careful.
Remember, timing is everything when shipping fresh flowers. Always choose overnight or priority shipping, and try to ship early in the week (Monday through Wednesday). This helps avoid any weekend delays where your flowers might sit in a warehouse. During summer and winter, keep an eye on the temperatures along your shipping route - extreme weather can affect your flowers.
Receiving your preserved pieces
Now, let's fast forward to when your preserved flowers are ready to come home. A quality preservation artist will take as much care shipping your finished piece as you did sending your fresh flowers. Here's what to expect from a professional:
Your preserved piece should arrive in secure, professional packaging. For framed pieces, this means double-boxing with corner protection - these aren't just pretty frames, they're precious memories! Resin pieces need careful cushioning to prevent any knocks or bumps during transit.
Document everything when your package arrives. Take photos or videos as you unbox your piece - not because anything will go wrong, but because it's better to be prepared. A reputable artist will include proper documentation, display instructions, and clear contact information for any concerns.
I've learned that transparent communication about shipping is a sign of a professional preservation service. If an artist is vague about their shipping procedures or doesn't provide tracking and insurance options, that's a red flag. Your preserved flowers are irreplaceable - they deserve the same care in transit as they received during preservation.
10 tips for choosing your flower preservation artist
After everything we've discussed about flower preservation, let me help you choose the right artist or business for your precious flowers. Here are my top 10 tips, including some red flags to watch out for:
Always get a contract. A detailed contract isn't just paperwork - it protects both you and the artist. It should clearly outline the preservation method, timeline, pricing, and what happens if something goes wrong (because yes, working with organic materials can be unpredictable).
Look for process transparency. The artist should be willing to explain their preservation methods, timeline, and pricing structure. If they're vague about their techniques or dodge specific questions, that's a red flag. Remember, quality preservation takes up to 12 months - anyone promising extremely quick turnarounds (e.g., a few weeks) might be cutting corners.
Review their color correction approach. As we discussed earlier, some level of color correction is often necessary. Ask to see examples of both fresh and preserved pieces to understand how they handle color changes. Be wary of unnaturally bright or flat-looking preserved flowers.
Understand their material choices. Quality preservation requires quality materials. Ask about their framing materials (archival vs. standard) or resin type. A reputable artist will be happy to explain why they use specific materials and how they affect longevity.
Check their expertise with your flowers. Remember my list of tricky flowers? If your bouquet contains challenging varieties like orchids or dahlias, ask specifically about their experience with these flowers. They should be upfront about potential difficulties and color changes.
Evaluate their communication style Do they respond promptly and clearly to your questions? Are they willing to share progress updates? Good communication is crucial when you're entrusting someone with irreplaceable flowers.
Review their portfolio thoroughly. Look for consistency in their work quality and style. Red flag: if their portfolio only shows fresh or just-completed pieces, ask about how their work ages over time.
Clarify the pricing structure. Watch out for hidden fees. Are design changes included? What about color correction? Shipping? A trustworthy artist will be upfront about all costs from the start.
Major red flags to watch for
Refusing to provide a contract
Unusually quick turnaround times (remember those timelines we discussed?)
No clear policy for handling preservation issues
Reluctance to show aged pieces
Pressure tactics or rushing your decision
Vague answers about their preservation methods
Poor or inconsistent communication
Unwillingness to provide references or previous client contacts
Remember, you're not just paying for a service - you're entrusting someone with flowers that can never be replaced. Take your time choosing the right artist for your preservation journey.