Flowers bring joy, beauty, and a touch of magic to your space but what happens after they start to fade? At May Flowers, we believe in getting the most out of every stem. With a little creativity, your bouquet can have a second (or even third) life. Here are five unexpected ways to reuse your flowers at home (and yes, we really use these tips in the studio).
1. Give Leftover Blooms a Second Life in Bud Vases
Just because your full arrangement has faded doesn’t mean every bloom is past its prime. Often, a few resilient stems, like chrysanthemums, or carnations, are still going strong. Instead of tossing the whole bouquet, salvage what’s still fresh and re-style them in small bud vases around your home.
Pro tip: Cut the stems shorter and refresh the water daily to get a few extra days out of them!
2. Create Your Own Botanical Art
Pressed flowers make beautiful, one-of-a-kind art pieces. Lay petals or whole small flowers between parchment paper and press them in a heavy book for a week or two. Once dried, frame them or arrange in a shadow box. It’s a gorgeous way to preserve a memory—think anniversary bouquets or flowers from a special event.
P.S. We love this flower press by Studio Wald
3. Make Petal Confetti for Celebrations
Instead of tossing your old petals, turn them into biodegradable confetti for your next celebration. Spread petals on a tray and let them air dry until crisp. Then store them in a paper bag or jar until your next birthday, baby shower, or backyard wedding.
Bonus: It’s eco-friendly and compostable!
4. Make Floral Potpourri
Revive your space with a custom potpourri blend. Dry out your flowers completely, then mix with cloves, cinnamon sticks, citrus peels, and a few drops of essential oil. Display in a pretty bowl or sachet bag to naturally scent your home.
Pro tip: At our studio, we use a dehydrator to speed up the process!
5. Natural Fabric Dye
Some flowers, like marigold, hibiscus, and coreopsis, can be used to naturally dye fabric. Boil the petals to extract pigment, then soak natural fibers (like cotton or silk) for a dreamy, muted tone. It’s a sustainable way to give old fabrics new life.
We've used the tips from this article by Remake to do this!
(from Remake - 3 Natural Dyes You Already Have in Your Pantry)
6. Decorate Gift Wrap
Use dried blooms or petals to add a whimsical, handcrafted look to gift wrapping. Tie a few stems with twine or glue pressed flowers onto kraft paper for a charming, earthy presentation. It’s a thoughtful way to extend the beauty of your bouquet to someone else.
Before You Toss That Bouquet…
Flowers may fade, but their usefulness doesn’t have to. With just a little intention, your floral arrangements can continue to bring beauty and purpose into your life, long after they’ve left the vase.
Have a creative way to reuse your flowers? Tag us on Instagram @mayflowers.studio and show us your magic. 🌸
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