How to store spruce, cedar and pine cones for crafts

There are ways to extend the life of different types of buds. It is only necessary not to miss a single important detail in this matter.

Key points for long-term storage of buds

Usually the cones brought from the forest are dirty and infested with small pests. Such an unfavorable presence can significantly speed up the process of deterioration of the handicraft material. Therefore, you should not be lazy, but you need to carefully examine each specimen and dry the buds properly, then they will be in suitable condition for a longer period. To make it easier to remove debris and seeds, you can use regular tweezers.

You can read more about how to properly dry cedar, spruce and pine cones at article.

After this, the cones need to be “opened” and disinfected by soaking them in a solution of white wine vinegar or a solution of soap and water (1 teaspoon of soap and 4 liters of water). They must be completely immersed in the solution and remain in it for 30 minutes.After half an hour, the cones should be removed and left to dry on a newspaper overnight, and then they should be heated in the oven at a temperature of 94-122 °C.

After this procedure, the fruits of coniferous trees will shine from being covered with melted resin. Thanks to this natural preservative, craft material can be stored for a long time. You can extend the storage period by using varnish, paint or wax. That is, each specimen must be dipped in one of these substances and then dried.

Necessary conditions for storing pine cones at home

The main thing that is required when saving pine cones is to maintain a certain temperature balance. They feel great in conditions where the thermometer readings are low. It is important that the buds are stored in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. To prolong the shelf life of the cones, they should be packed in bags made of natural “breathable” fabric and left in a suspended state, so rodents will not get to them. Plastic bags cannot be used as containers.

See the video “Procurement of natural materials, drying and storage”:

If it is not possible to hang bags with materials for crafts, then they need to be laid out on a surface covered with paper (you also need to save those pine cones that have been treated with wax, varnish, etc.). The main thing is that the room is dry and well ventilated. If you follow all the tips listed above, the cones will not be banned for several years, but their nuts (for example, pine nuts are considered a delicious and healthy product) can be suitable for consumption for up to six months.

See also: how to cone jam.