The Preservation Process

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Silica Gel

Instead of pressing or hanging, we use silica gel to preserve the shape and color of the flowers. Silica gel is a porous material that absorbs and holds moisture. Unlike the little packet of beads you might find in the bottom of a shoe box or in some food packaging, our silica gel looks and feels like sand. Once each bloom is prepped, silica gel is carefully poured around and over each bloom, completely encapsulating it. Depending on the size and moisture content of the flower, it will remain in the silica gel for or 2-3 weeks until it is completely dry.    

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Epoxy Resin

Once completely dry, the flowers are removed from the silica gel and cast in epoxy resin. A variety of silicone, HDPE and handmade molds, in all shapes and sizes, are utilized depending on the size and shape of the flowers. Many thin layers of resin are poured over the flowers until the mold is full or has reached the appropriate depth. This is a time consuming process and can take over a month to complete. Although most resin will fully cure in about 72 hours, we let each keepsake cure for at least seven (7) days to ensure it’s rock solid.    

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Finishing

Once completely cured, the beautiful flora and resin piece is removed from the mold. Some molds leave a lip or seam that require sanding and polishing to achieve a perfectly shiny surface. Finally, the finished keepsake is carefully packaged and shipped to its forever home!