I have found a good article on drying flowers in sand.  I have tried silica gel but was not pleased with the results.  It left a coating on the flowers.  It is possible to press flowers between several layers of 'pressing paper' which is sold at craft stores. You place the flower in between several layers and then use a heavy object, like several books to flatten.  I think you would be most pleased with the very fine sand.  It will help preserve your blossom without making it flat https://www.finegardening.com/article/drying-flowers-in-sand