Did anyone see the demonstration on TV of preserving live flowers by
dipping them in hot paraffin? It is truly amazing. Melt the paraffin in
a large coffee can which is sitting in hot water on the stove. Just dip
in your flower (they did roses) for 2 seconds, shake off excess, and swish
through a bowl of ice water (doesn't have to be ice cold - just nice and
cool). Let dry on waxed paper.
I tried a variety of flowers - the best were the fresh, firm ones. They
get only slightly "damaged", have a beautiful shine, and an entriguing
appearance. I also tried some ferns and other greenery which turned out
great. On TV, they also did silk flowers - haven't tried that yet, but it
sounds great. All these waxed flowers would be super for decorating a
cake.
A word of caution - keep the fire under your water low!! Paraffin is
flammable, you know. Also, cover all surfaces close to your work with
aluminum foil or you'll be cleaning up little spills and drips of
flammable paraffin for an hour like I did! A hint: when you pass the
flowers through the water, hold sideways; if you hold the flower verically
(upside down), the petals spread when they hit the water.
Of course, the finished flowers need to be kept away from sunlight and
heat. I didn't see the whole presentation on TV, so if I've forgotten
anything, please add on.
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Tha mo chas air ceann mo naimhdean.
by