Living in the Pacific Northwest means being surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and an abundance of vibrant, native flowers. As a resin artist, I’m passionate about capturing the essence of this stunning region through the art of flower preservation. In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite local blooms that are perfect for preserving in resin, along with tips on how to prepare them for the process.
1. The Charm of Local Blooms
The diverse climates of the Pacific Northwest nurture a wide variety of beautiful flowers, each with its own unique character. From the lush coastal areas to the rugged mountains, the local flora is rich in color, texture, and fragrance. By preserving these blooms in resin, we not only create stunning art pieces but also celebrate the natural beauty that surrounds us every day.
2. Best Local Flowers for Preservation
Here are some of the Pacific Northwest’s standout flowers that work beautifully for resin art:
1. Western Red Columbine (Aquilegia formosa)
These enchanting red and yellow flowers add a splash of color and whimsy to any piece. Their unique shape and vibrant hues hold up beautifully in resin, making them a delightful choice for floral art.
2. Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium)
With clusters of bright yellow blooms, Oregon Grape not only looks stunning but also offers a lovely scent. The small yet hardy flowers are perfect for adding intricate details to your resin creations.
3. Pacific Coast Iris (Iris douglasiana)
These striking blue to purple flowers can bring a touch of elegance to your artwork. Their flat petals preserve well in resin, showcasing their beautiful details.
4. Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
Commonly found in meadows, Red Clover features charming pinkish-purple heads. These delicate flowers are hardy and make lovely inclusions in resin, adding a soft touch.
5. Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium)
Known for its tall, vibrant pink spikes, Fireweed is a favorite in the wildflower community. It dries beautifully and retains its bright color, making it a fantastic addition to your resin pieces.
6. Wild Sweet Pea (Lathyrus latifolius)
This climbing plant blooms with lovely pink and purple flowers that can add a romantic flair to your art. They’re also quite sturdy, holding their shape nicely during the drying process.
7. Camas Lily (Camassia quamash)
With its striking blue blooms, the Camas Lily is not only beautiful but also holds historical significance in the region. These flowers preserve well and can give your artwork a unique touch.
8. Huckleberry Flowers (Vaccinium spp.)
Delicate white or pink huckleberry blooms add a soft, natural element to any piece. They hold their color beautifully and complement other flowers perfectly.
3. Tips for Harvesting and Preparing Local Flowers
When it comes to harvesting flowers for preservation, here are some friendly tips to ensure the best results:
• Pick Fresh Blooms: Look for flowers that are fully open and free from damage. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to harvest when they’re well-hydrated.
• Be Gentle: Handle the flowers with care as you remove them from their stems. If you want to include leaves, choose those that are healthy and vibrant.
• Hydrate Before Preserving: Place your cut flowers in a vase with water for a few hours before drying or shipping them. This helps them retain their beauty.
• Drying Techniques: Consider air drying or using silica gel to preserve your flowers before embedding them in resin. Each method has its advantages, so choose what works best for you.
4. Conclusion
The Pacific Northwest is filled with unique and beautiful flowers that make for stunning resin art, allowing you to capture the spirit of this remarkable region. By choosing local blooms like the Western Red Columbine and Oregon Grape, you can create meaningful pieces that reflect the beauty of your surroundings.
At That Lady Heather, I’m dedicated to helping you preserve your cherished memories through art. If you have any questions about local flowers or the preservation process, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can create timeless keepsakes that celebrate the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.