DIY: How to Dry Roses

Drying flowers is generally a simple and fun activity once you understand the process. And it's a creative project that one can start on his or her own or with family and friends.

First, you need to make sure you have good, fresh roses free from parasites or mold. Hearty roses, such as Hybrid Teas or Damask roses, are among the best for drying. Snip away any thorns; this will make the stems easier to handle. Once you have your clippings, you have at least several days before the flowers begin to wilt. At that time you may still be able to dry the flowers, but their appearance may not be as vibrant. Often, the stems will bend into awkward positions and some or all of the petals may fall off.

Begin by selecting a cool and moisture-free area to dry your roses. If you have a fairly dust free, cool-temperature room, that should be fine. If not, try a cool, dry closet. You may want to place the heads of the flowers in a clean brown paper bag and gently tie the opening with string.

You can hang your roses individually and then group them afterward, or you may want to hang them in bunches. Turn them upside down and either position them, with thread or a loose rubber band, onto a bar. If you prefer, you can tape them to the wall instead, but it's important that it's in an area where the contact won't cause moisture formation.

Within days you should begin to see changes in the flowers. They will start to shrink, but few to no petals will fall off of the bloom. If the flowers you chose have a lighter color, they will begin to darken. Depending on what look you're going for, the best types of roses to dry are a deep, natural pink to red. Yellow roses tend to brown more, while reds either keep their coloring or turn a deeper shade of red.

Check the bouquet or individual roses after about a week. You need to make sure that no moisture is present inside. You can do this by checking them gently with the tips of your fingers. You don't want to squeeze them. If you do handle them roughly, the dried petals may crumble.

Once they're dry, take them down and begin arranging them as you see fit. You can use the roses as wall decorations or put them in vases. Be as creative as you like!