In my Bloomin’ News cover article in May 2021 on the current dried flower trend in floral design, I offer a few tips on how to design with dried flowers and how to make your own dried flowers from fresh flowers. I was delighted to see a new book on this subject called Cut & Dry: The Modern Guide to Dried Flowers from Growing to Styling by a seasoned floral designer, Carolyn Dunster published in May of this year.
Carolyn Dunster is a self-described “botanical stylist,” planting designer and garden writer. She began her career as a journalist and studied at the Inchbald Garden Design School in London and trained with florist Jane Packer. She is the author of Urban Flowers (Frances Lincoln, 2017).
From Amazon:
Learn how to make stylish dried floral designs that will last longer than freshly cut bouquets.
Do you adore having flowers around the house but they always seem to wilt and fall to pieces as soon as you place them in water? No longer! Join the trend of DIY drying and create stunning bouquets that will outlast fresh cuts while still adding that soft, romantic floral touch.
Expert florist Carolyn Dunster breathes new life into the age-old art of growing, drying, and displaying blooms in ways that will bring a chic, natural vibe to any room. Whether you are looking for elegant DIY bridal arrangements or trying to add a little bohemian flair to a room’s décor, there are dried designs that will complement every aesthetic and occasion.
Written for a new, younger audience that is just discovering the art of drying flowers and from a popular British botanical stylist with a penchant for urban gardening, this book is a modern spin on a classic craft. For those who are concerned with environmental impact, dried flowers are also gaining popularity as a more sustainable approach to floristry.
Dried flowers are perfect for:
• DIY bridal bouquets and table arrangements
• Stylish home décor
• Sprucing up your place of business in an affordable, low maintenance wayThis book is an ideal purchase for anyone wanting to get started with the art of growing and drying flowers. Learn how to grow your own stems and the best combinations of color and texture to create floral sculptures that breathe new life into any space in any season.
Her book Urban Flowers that was published in 2017 is a great inspiration to start a garden of any size whether you have a small deck or a large yard.