Hi Ray
Following from the flickr thread.
Recycling is superb and using natural elements in the layout is an excellent way to achieve a realistic look. I've smiled after reading about the spent mate leaves. Here in Argentina many modellers use it in their layouts. However, the colour isn't adequate and may need adjusting. About painting scatter, I used the following technique:
-As I have several kinds of scatter with different colours, I did several mixtures. Many times the resulting colour was extravagant, even if the texture was good.
-I prepared a watered greyish or brownish colour mix, and I applied it over the glued scatter.
-The different colours became harmonized.
By the way, I use to glue scatter in position placing a layer of PVA glue and the scatter material over it. I leave it to dry and then I vacuum any loose residue.
Cheers,
Jose