To effectively mount dried leaves on paper, carefully arrange the pressed specimens on archival-quality paper and secure them with small dabs of white library glue in several strategic locations. This method ensures both preservation and an aesthetically pleasing display.
Essential Materials for Mounting Dried Leaves
Selecting the right materials is crucial for the longevity and appearance of your mounted leaf specimens. Herbariums, for instance, adhere to strict standards to ensure specimens last for centuries.
- Archival Paper: Opt for 100 percent rag paper, which is acid-free and designed for long-term preservation. A common size used in herbariums is approximately 11 1/2 by 16 1/2 inches, providing ample space for arrangement.
- White Library Glue: This specific type of white glue is favored for its archival quality, strong bond, and non-yellowing properties. It's designed to be stable over time, preventing damage to your specimens.
- Tweezers: Indispensable for delicate handling of dried leaves, preventing breakage and smudges.
- Weight (Optional): A flat, heavy object like a book or a glass pane can be useful for gently pressing the leaf onto the glue for a secure bond.
- Pencil: For lightly marking arrangement positions or labeling.
Preparing Your Leaves for Mounting
Before mounting, ensure your leaves are thoroughly dried and pressed. Improperly dried leaves can mold or wrinkle, compromising your display.
- Pressing: Place fresh leaves between sheets of absorbent paper (like newspaper or blotter paper) within a heavy book or a specialized plant press.
- Drying: Allow several weeks for the leaves to dry completely, changing the absorbent paper periodically to prevent mold. They should be flat and brittle when ready.
Step-by-Step Guide to Mounting Dried Leaves
Mounting is a delicate process that requires precision to secure the leaves without damaging them.
1. Arrange Your Specimen
Carefully lay out the dried leaf (or leaves) on your archival paper. Experiment with different positions until you find an arrangement that is both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. Consider:
- Balance: Distribute the visual weight evenly across the paper.
- Space: Leave room for potential labels or annotations if desired.
- Delicacy: Use tweezers to move the fragile leaves to prevent tearing.
2. Apply the Adhesive
Once the arrangement is finalized, it's time to apply the glue. The key is to use a minimal amount in strategic spots.
- Dab, Don't Spread: Place tiny dabs of white library glue in several places on the underside of the leaf to hold it down securely. Focus on areas where the leaf naturally touches the paper, such as the main stem, larger veins, or the edges of the leaf where it might curl.
- Less is More: Too much glue can seep through the leaf, causing discoloration or making it look messy. A small bead, no larger than a pinhead, is often sufficient for each point.
3. Secure and Dry
Gently press the glued areas of the leaf onto the paper.
- Gentle Pressure: Use a clean, soft cloth, a piece of blotter paper, or even your finger (if clean) to apply light, even pressure over the glued spots for a few seconds.
- Final Press (Optional): For very thin or delicate leaves, you might place a clean sheet of paper over the entire mounted specimen and then a flat weight on top for an hour or two to ensure a flat, secure bond as the glue dries.
- Drying Time: Allow the mounted leaf to dry completely for several hours, or even overnight, before handling further or displaying.
Tips for Long-Lasting Mounted Leaves
- Archival Integrity: Always use acid-free and lignin-free materials for paper, glue, and any labels to prevent degradation over time.
- Minimal Handling: Dried leaves are extremely fragile. Handle them as little as possible, and always with tweezers.
- Environmental Control: Store or display your mounted leaves away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity, which can cause fading, brittleness, or mold.
- Documentation: Label your specimens with details like the plant name, collection date, and location. This adds significant value, especially for scientific or educational purposes.
Choosing the Right Paper for Preservation
| Paper Type | Characteristics | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| 100% Rag Paper | Acid-free, lignin-free, durable cotton fibers, pH neutral. | Archival preservation, herbarium specimens, fine art |
| Acid-Free Cardstock | pH neutral, good for crafts, less durable than rag paper. | Decorative displays, temporary projects |
| Watercolor Paper | Often acid-free, textured, absorbent. | Artistic projects, textured backgrounds |
Display and Preservation
Once your leaves are securely mounted and dry, consider how you will display or store them. Framing with UV-protective glass can further safeguard your creations from light damage. For collections, storing mounted leaves in archival boxes or binders can protect them from dust and physical damage.
