Thank you, gentlemen, for the comments and leaf idea. The fact is, I just like to play with epoxy. I enjoy finding things at flea markets and garage sales that I can encapsulate with epoxy. I have tried all kinds of goofy ideas, including feathers, bamboo placemats and baskets, foam, wood, clay, anything that looks interesting. So far, feathers have been the only disappointment, in that they lose most of their colors turning almost a black color. Clay will work but requires rough sanding and probably a layer of glass. Leaves should work fine, and would look kinda natural, so I'll do some testing. The foam paddle blade is sort of cheesey or tacky, I realize that, but my kids sure like it. There will be more to come. Any other ideas?
Smf