Question
Hi Tom,
A few years ago I thought it would be neat if I could gather some leaves,(from various trees), as they turn colors in Fall, spread and attatch them on a mat or matted board like they insert behind a diploma or painting, and then frame it with a glass cover to hang on the wall. I was thinking at the time about giving my Mom one for Mother's Day or Christmas;keeps popping up in my head. I still want to do that.
 It seems that I would need to spray or apply a liquid,(preservative), over the leaves to keep their permanent color over the years. What would you use? Also, should I apply special efforts to keep the leaves from curling up before applying them to the matting's surface? The back side of the leaves would need some type adhesive to adhere to the matting. What type would you recommend? It has been recommended that I use an acid-free matting material. That's about all I know. Project may sound a little unusual or "off the wall", but I think it would be absolutely beautiful providing the leaves would hold their colors. Thanks for any guidance or help!

Sincerely,

Mike Eidson, LAc.

Answer
Hi Mike,
Thanks for your question.  Unfortunately, my expertise is in seeding and propagation.  I'm not very artistic nor am I very craftsy.  I went throught the "experts" here at All Experts and I really couldn't find anyone that might be able to answer your question.  What I would suggest you do is go to one of the Arts and Crafts experts and see if they can't direct you to someone who can tell you what to do.  Also, I believe I saw something as you describe on a Martha Stewart Living show a few years ago.  You may want to access her site.  Just do a Google.com search for "Martha Stewart Living".  I hope this helps.
Tom