Let’s not waste these pretty flowers this year. It’s time we explore our options.
1. Potpourri
It often refers to a scented mixture of spices and dried flowers that is usually kept in a decorative bowl or jar and used to perfume a room. This word has two common meanings in use today, one which refers to “a mixture of flowers, herbs, and spices that is usually kept in a jar and used for scent,” and the other, somewhat more figurative, which refers to “a miscellaneous collection, or medley.” However, the earliest use of potpourri in English was to describe neither of these, but rather a kind of stew. It was borrowed directly from the French (pot pourri), and in that language the literal meaning of these words is “putrid pot.”
2. Pressed flower cards
It’s no secret that getting a handmade, custom card is one of the nicest treats you can receive. I mean, someone went through the effort of making a card for your special occasion just for you. Luckily, custom cards don’t have to be a ton of work for the maker and they can be just as fun to whip up as they are to give. Pressed flower craft consists of drying flower petals and leaves in a flower press to flatten and exclude light and moisture. Pressing flowers makes them appear flat, and there is often a change in color, ranging from faded colors to a greater intensity of vibrant colors. It has long been practiced as an art form in China and in Japan, where it is known as oshibana.
3. Scented water
It is made of flowers or herbs and is the precursor of the modern day perfume. In Medieval times a scented water was used for hygiene by a person washing their hands with it before meals, since many meals were forkless. The wealthy of Medieval times had their linen clothes boiled in scented water. Scented waters were still being used into the 19th century of the wealthy nobles in Egypt as a type of perfume. It was an Egyptian custom then to sprinkle guests with rose water or orange-flower water after dinner just before they were to go home
4. Candles
This is pure creativity that will Bring the scents of your flower garden inside with Floral Candle. They are simply made by pressing dried flower petals on a candle. This is good way to gift your loved ones.
These are some of the interesting things you can try out at home and have a little fun with flowers.
BY TRACY KINUTHIA
MD – GOULDIAN FLOWERS
Location: A2 Mayfair MaIsonettes
Mpaka Road, Westlands
Tel: +254 740 090 087, +254 724 978 698
Email: info@gouldianflowers.com
Website: http://www.gouldianflowers.com/
