How to Dry an Open Rose
Roses, on account of being bulky are difficult to dry. But follow these simple instructions to dry preserve them for a long time.
The first thing to do when pressing a rose is to prepare it for drying. Cut an inch or two from the stem while under water to give a fresh cut. Then put the rose in a vase with warm water and floral preservative. Use sugar if you do not have the preservative. Let the rose hydrate for an hour or two.
Once the rose is conditioned and has opened up, remove a few petals from the outside if they are not fresh enough. Then dip the flower head into a little vinegar to preserve the pink pigments in the flower and shake it off gently. Place the flower back into the preservative water till the petals dry. Take some pieces of paper and cut a hole in the middle, and then from the outer edge to the hole.
To press, place the rose facing upward. Lift the upper 2/3 of the petals and place a couple papers on the remaining 1/3 with the other petals sticking out from the hole in the paper. Put the middle third of the petals on the paper, so the sheet is between the petals all around. Place some more papers on those petals, with the top third of the petals sticking out of that hole. Lay down the remaining petals, sheet of regular paper, thick layer of paper towels and cardboard in order.
Now you have your rose still intact, but pressing in three layers. Use rubber bands to secure the whole bundle tightly, in a way that it’s pressing, but air can still circulate through the paper and cardboard. Put this into the refrigerator but do not seal it as it needs to breathe.
