Collect leaves from the ground or directly from the tree or plant. Ensure the specimens are vibrant in color and contain no rips or holes. Avoid poisonous plants such as poison oak or poison ivy.
Lay the leaves on a large piece of cardboard. Place several pieces of newspaper on top of the leaves. Cover the paper with another piece of cardboard. Set a heavy object on the cardboard and allow the leaves to press until they are dry.
Place the pressed leaves in a frame with a background that contrasts the colors of the foliage. Date the back of the frame with the month, year and location of the vacation.
Scoop sand into a bucket. Spread the sand in a thin layer on large cloth rags. Set the rags in direct sunlight, if possible. Allow the sand to completely dry.
Place a funnel in a spice jar or clear wine bottle with the label removed. Shovel the sand into the jar through the funnel. Fill the sand to the top of the jar.
Seal the jar with a lid, or if using a wine bottle, place a cork inside the opening. Label the jar with the date and location of the sand collection.
Collect brochures from all the attractions you visit while on vacation. Brochures are available at most hotels and tourist offices.
Lay out the brochures on a table to determine a pattern for your collage. Overlap the brochures and place them in various directions. When ready, glue the brochures in the pattern on a large sheet of paper measured to the size of the frame. Allow the glue to dry.
Insert the collage in a picture frame of your choosing. Adjust as needed. Include the date of the trip on the back of the frame.
