Dried flowers: 7 modern ways to use them

Colourful dried flowers in stylish modern vases.

1. Arrange them in a vase

Arranging dried flowers in a vase is one of the simplest yet most elegant ways to showcase their beauty. Unlike fresh blooms, dried flowers have a timeless charm that can last for years if cared for properly. Here's how you can create your own stunning arrangement:

Start by choosing a vase that complements the colours and textures of your dried flowers. Clear glass vases are a classic choice, but don't shy away from experimenting with ceramic or even metallic options for a modern twist.

Select Your Flowers: Pick a variety of dried flowers with different shapes and sizes. Think about mixing tall stems like pampas grass with more compact blooms like dried roses or lavender.
Prepare the Vase: Place a floral foam block at the bottom of the vase if you want your arrangement to hold a specific shape. This is particularly useful for more intricate designs.
Arrange the Stems: Begin with the tallest stems in the centre or at the back, depending on whether your vase will be viewed from one side or all around. Gradually add in medium and then shorter stems, ensuring a balanced look from every angle.
Add Finishing Touches: Fill in any gaps with smaller flowers or foliage, like eucalyptus or baby's breath. These can soften the edges and add depth to your arrangement.

Dried flower arrangements are not only beautiful but also incredibly low-maintenance. Just keep them out of direct sunlight and away from moisture to preserve their colour and structure. With the right care, your dried floral display can be a lasting feature in your home decor, bringing a touch of nature indoors all year round.

2. Weave into a wreath or flower crown

A wreath made of dried flowers in soft colours.

Creating a wreath or flower crown with dried flowers is like crafting a little piece of nature you can wear or display. It's a fun way to add a personal touch to your style or home decor. Plus, it's surprisingly easy! Here's how you can do it:

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Dried Flower Crown

Gather Your Materials: You'll need some dried flowers, floral wire, floral tape, and a pair of scissors. Choose flowers that complement each other in colour and size. Think about adding some greenery or small buds for extra texture.
Create the Base: Use the floral wire to form a circle that fits comfortably on your head if you're making a crown. For a wreath, shape the wire into a circle of your desired size. Wrap the wire with floral tape to make it sturdier and more comfortable.
Attach the Flowers: Start with the larger flowers, securing them to the base with floral tape. Layer smaller flowers and greenery around them, using the tape to hold everything in place. Be sure to cover the wire completely.
Finish with Flair: Once you're happy with the arrangement, check for any loose ends or gaps. Add more flowers or greenery to fill in any spaces.

Tips for a Stunning Wreath or Crown

Colour Coordination: Choose a colour scheme that matches the occasion or your personal style. Pastels for spring, rich reds and oranges for autumn, or whites and blues for a wintery feel.
Mix and Match: Combine different types of dried flowers like lavender, roses, and baby's breath. This not only adds visual interest but also layers of fragrance.
Personal Touches: Incorporate sentimental flowers from special occasions, like a wedding or birthday, to make your wreath or crown even more meaningful.

Crafting a wreath or flower crown with dried flowers is a delightful way to embrace nature's beauty and creativity. Whether you're wearing it to a festival or hanging it on your door, it's sure to bring a smile to your face and a touch of elegance to your day.

3. Make coasters

Who knew coasters could be this captivating? Dried flower coasters are not only functional but also add a personal touch to your home decor. Here's how you can make your own stunning set.

Gather Your Materials: You'll need dried flowers, a silicone mould for coasters, resin, and a mixing stick. Ensure your flowers are completely dry to maintain their colour and shape when set in resin.
Arrange the Flowers: Place your dried flowers in the mould, arranging them in a design that pleases you. You can go for a minimalist look with a single bloom or a more elaborate pattern with multiple flowers.
Mix and Pour the Resin: Follow the instructions on your resin kit. Mix it carefully and pour a thin layer over the flowers in the mould. Make sure the flowers are fully covered but not floating.
Let it Cure: Allow the resin to set for 24 to 48 hours. This is crucial for ensuring your coasters are solid and durable.
Remove and Enjoy: Once the resin has cured, gently remove the coasters from the mould. You'll have a beautiful, handcrafted piece that's perfect for protecting your surfaces and sparking conversation.

These coasters make fantastic gifts and are a great way to preserve the beauty of flowers in a practical form. Plus, every time you set down your cup of tea or coffee, you'll be reminded of the simple joys of nature.

4. Add to gift wrapping

Gift wrapping can be an art, and dried flowers add a charming touch that elevates your presentation to the next level. Here’s how you can incorporate these delicate beauties into your gift wrapping routine:

Choose Your Flowers: Start by selecting small, dried flowers that complement your wrapping paper. Think about colours and themes, maybe baby’s breath for a soft touch or lavender for a pop of colour.
Wrap with Care: Use simple brown kraft paper or a solid colour that lets the flowers stand out. Wrap your gift as you normally would, ensuring the paper is smooth and secure.
Add the Floral Touch: Now for the fun part! Arrange a small bouquet or a single stem on top of your wrapped gift. You can secure the flowers using twine or a thin ribbon, tying it in a neat bow. The contrast of natural twine with vibrant blooms can look especially striking.
Personalise It: Add a handwritten tag or a small note tucked under the ribbon. This adds a personal touch that shows you’ve put thought into every detail.
Occasion Specific: Tailor your flower choice to the occasion. Use daisies and bright colours for birthdays, or go for muted tones with eucalyptus for a more sophisticated look, perhaps for a wedding or an anniversary.

By using dried flowers, not only are you giving a gift, but you’re also sharing a piece of art that the recipient can cherish even after the wrapping comes off. It’s a lovely way to make your presents stand out and show a bit of your personality, too.

5. Add to your phone case

Transform Your Phone Case with Dried Flowers

If you're looking for a way to carry a little piece of nature with you all the time, why not jazz up your phone case with some dried flowers? It's a fun and creative project that results in a unique accessory. Here's how to do it:

Gather Your Supplies: You'll need a clear phone case, some dried flowers, clear resin or PVA glue, and a small brush or toothpick for application.
Select Your Flowers: Choose flowers that are small and flat, like daisies or pansies. Make sure they're completely dry to avoid any moisture trapped under the resin.
Arrange Your Design: Lay out your flowers on the phone case before securing them. Odd numbers of flowers tend to look more natural and appealing.
Secure the Flowers: Use a dab of clear resin or PVA glue to stick each flower onto the case. Be careful not to use too much, as it can become messy.
Seal the Design: Once the flowers are in place, cover them with a layer of resin. This will protect the flowers and give your case a glossy finish.
Let It Dry: Allow the resin to cure completely. This could take a few hours or overnight, depending on the product you use.
Enjoy Your New Accessory: Once dry, pop your phone into the case and admire your handiwork! Not only is it a conversation starter, but it also adds a personal touch to your everyday gadget.

This simple DIY project is perfect for anyone wanting to add a bit of personality to their phone case. Plus, it's a great way to keep your favourite blooms close by.

6. Press into your journal, cards or personal letters

Pressing flowers is like bottling up a bit of nature's magic to enjoy later. It's a simple yet delightful way to add a personal touch to your journal, cards, or letters. Here’s how you can get started:

Step-by-Step Guide to Pressing Flowers

Choose your flowers: Opt for flowers and leaves that are not too thick. Delicate blooms like pansies, violets, or ferns work beautifully.
Press them: Place your chosen flowers between two pieces of parchment paper. Then, sandwich them within the pages of a heavy book. Add more weight on top for good measure. Leave them for about a week.
Decorate: Once dried, use a bit of craft glue to attach your flowers to your journal pages, cards, or letters. Arrange them in a way that tells a story or simply looks pleasing.

Why Pressed Flowers?

Sentimental Value: Using flowers from a special occasion can make your journal or letter even more meaningful.
Unique Artistry: Each pressed flower is unique, adding a one-of-a-kind element to your creations.
Eco-Friendly Craft: It's a sustainable way to repurpose flowers that might otherwise be discarded.

Tips for Best Results

Avoid thick flowers: They don’t press well and can become mouldy.
Be patient: The longer you leave them, the better they’ll dry.
Experiment: Try different flowers and leaves to see which ones you like best.

Adding pressed flowers to your personal items is a charming way to keep memories alive and add a touch of nature to everyday objects. So next time you receive a bouquet, consider saving a few blooms for pressing. Happy crafting!

7. Create mini-art pieces

Creating mini-art pieces with dried flowers is like capturing a bit of nature's beauty in a frame. These tiny masterpieces can add a unique touch to any space, whether it's your home, office, or as a special gift. Here's how you can get started:

Gather Your Supplies: You'll need dried flowers, a small frame (clear glass frames work beautifully), and some adhesive. You might also want to have a pair of tweezers to help with delicate placement.
Select Your Flowers: Choose flowers that are flat and have vibrant colours. Pressed flowers like pansies, daisies, or even ferns can work well. The key is to pick blooms that have been dried properly to maintain their colour and shape.
Design Your Layout: Before you start glueing, arrange your flowers on a piece of paper to decide on a layout. Think about the balance and symmetry of your design. You might want to create a pattern or just go for a natural, scattered look.
Assemble Your Art: Carefully place each flower in the frame, using adhesive to secure them. Make sure the glass is clean and free from dust before sealing it. This step requires a bit of patience, but the end result is worth it.
Display and Enjoy: Once your mini-art piece is complete, find the perfect spot to display it. These can be hung on walls, placed on desks, or even given as a thoughtful gift.

Creating mini-art pieces with dried flowers is not only a fun and creative project but also a way to preserve memories. Whether you're using blooms from your garden or flowers from a special occasion, these art pieces are sure to bring a touch of elegance and nostalgia to any room.

8. Create a memory jar

Creating a memory jar with dried flowers is a delightful way to preserve your cherished moments. This simple yet meaningful project allows you to capture the essence of special occasions or everyday joys in a visually appealing way. Here's how you can make your own memory jar:

Choose Your Jar: Start by selecting a clear jar. It could be a mason jar, a vintage glass jar, or even a simple vase. The key is that it's transparent so you can see all the lovely items inside.
Gather Your Memories: Collect dried flowers that hold significance for you. Maybe they’re from a bouquet you received on a special day, or perhaps they’re blooms you've dried yourself. Along with the flowers, gather other small mementoes like handwritten notes, photographs, or tiny trinkets that remind you of the moment you're capturing.
Assemble Your Jar: Begin layering your items in the jar. Start with a base of dried flowers, then add your other keepsakes. Feel free to arrange them in a way that feels right to you—there's no wrong way to do this! You can even sprinkle in some copper pennies to keep the flowers fresh longer.
Seal and Display: Once you’re happy with your arrangement, seal the jar. You can use a decorative lid or tie a ribbon around the top for an extra touch. Place your memory jar somewhere you’ll see it often, like a bookshelf or bedside table, so you can enjoy your memories whenever you like.

Creating a memory jar is not just about preserving flowers; it's about capturing a slice of life, a memory that you can revisit anytime. Each time you look at your jar, you’ll be reminded of those special moments, making it a truly personal piece of decor.

9. Make a floral bath soak

Imagine sinking into a bath that's not only warm and soothing but also filled with the gentle fragrance of flowers. A floral bath soak is like a hug in a tub, perfect after a long day. Not only does it smell divine, but it’s also super easy to make at home. Here’s how you can whip up your own floral bath soak.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Dried Flowers: Choose your favourites like rose petals, lavender, or chamomile. These not only add a lovely scent but also look beautiful floating in the water.
Epsom Salts: These are great for relaxing muscles and softening skin.
Baking Soda: Helps to soften the water and skin.
Essential Oils: Add a few drops of your favourite scent. Rose essential oils work wonderfully here.

Steps to Create Your Floral Bath Soak

Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of Epsom salts and 1 cup of baking soda. Stir well to ensure they are evenly mixed.
Add the Flowers: Gently fold in about 1 cup of your chosen dried flowers. Ensure they are distributed throughout the salt mixture.
Incorporate Essential Oils: Add 10-15 drops of essential oil, mixing thoroughly to distribute the scent evenly.
Store Your Soak: Transfer your mixture to an airtight container. A glass jar works perfectly, keeping moisture out and the fragrance in.

Tips for the Perfect Bath

Use a Muslin Bag: Place your bath soak in a muslin bag before adding it to the bath. This keeps the flowers contained, making clean-up a breeze.
Adjust Scents: Feel free to experiment with different flower and essential oil combinations until you find your perfect blend.
Enjoy Regularly: Make bath time a regular self-care ritual to unwind and recharge.

Creating your own floral bath soak is not just about pampering yourself; it's a wonderful way to incorporate natural elements into your self-care routine. Plus, it makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family. So go ahead, treat yourself to a little floral magic in your bath!

10. Infuse scent into potpourri

Creating potpourri with dried flowers is like crafting a little bowl of happiness for your home. It's not just about the look, but the scent that fills the room, making everything feel cosy and inviting. Here's how you can do it.

First, you'll want to gather your ingredients. Dried flower petals are a must—think roses, lavender, or chamomile. These are the stars of the show. Next, add in some herbs like rosemary or mint. They not only add a lovely fragrance but also a touch of greenery. For a bit of spice, toss in some cinnamon sticks or star anise. These spices will blend beautifully with the flowers and herbs, creating a warm, welcoming aroma.

Now, let's get to the mixing. In a large bowl, combine your dried petals, herbs, and spices. Don't worry about being too precise—it's all about what smells good to you. Once mixed, add a few drops of essential oils to enhance the scent. Lavender, rose, or citrus oils work wonders here.

Finally, find a pretty bowl or jar to display your potpourri. Not only will it look beautiful, but it will also allow the fragrance to gently waft through your space. If you prefer a more subtle scent, cover the jar when not in use.

And there you have it! A simple, yet effective way to use dried flowers to make your home smell amazing. Plus, it's a fun and creative project that you can change up with the seasons or your mood. Enjoy your fragrant masterpiece!