How to preserve flowers permanently at home?

Silica gel is a granular substance that absorbs moisture quickly. You can buy it from craft or florist supply shops. Choose flowers that are fully open but not past their best. Cut the stems short, leaving about two centimetres. Pour a layer of silica gel into a lidded plastic or glass container. Place the flowers face up on the gel, then carefully pour more gel over them until they are completely covered. Use a soft brush or a spoon to make sure the gel gets between the petals. Seal the container and leave it for seven to fourteen days. The gel will turn a different colour as it absorbs moisture.

Once dry, gently pour out the gel and lift the flowers with tweezers. Brush off any remaining crystals with a soft paintbrush. Spray the flowers with a clear acrylic sealant to protect them from humidity and dust. Keep them in a display case or under a glass dome to stop them reabsorbing moisture from the air.

This method works well for roses, daisies, ranunculus and many other blooms. It is more reliable than air drying for delicate petals. For a simpler, flatter result, pressing flowers in a heavy book is another permanent option, though it loses the three-dimensional shape.