My Favorite Mosses I LOVE to Use

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My Favorite Mosses

Since I use mosses and all different forms of natural materials in my wreaths, I thought you might like to see a few of the many types available that I love 


First, there is Black Lichen

It is the perfect moss for a variety of designs and uses. It’s great for hiding problem areas in your designs.  I teach how to do this with green sheet moss in all my instructional videos.  The same applies to Black Lichen as well as green sheet moss.

It gives some dimension, interest and can cover picks as well as glue drips.  It is a wonderful source of texture with the different shades of black, gray, and green.

Before using, dip in warm water then blot with a towel or place on newspaper and let drain. This allows the black lichen to regain its shape and look fresh as though it were growing in the forest.

 

Second, there is Mood Moss, which I love

Mist it with warm water when it gets dried out. This moss is very different from others because it looks like sort of a green ball of sheet moss.  The difference is that it is a little denser.  This one covers a multitude of errors!

It is harvested in clumps, and looks best where these are placed close together, to accentuate the tufted look. The clumps can be secured by placing greening pins around the edge of each piece.

 

Third, you’ll find Reindeer Moss, which I also love

I once ordered a huge box which was a collection of many different types of moss.  I was in heaven as I loved almost each and every one!!

Then, I continued to use them all since it is another great texture and color to cover your work as well as many other mistakes which you may need to cover in your wreath, design, or arrangement.

 

Fourth is my personal favorite and staple; green sheet moss


Sheet moss is peeled off the surface of the ground, sides of trees, and tree roots. Sometimes I get really large pieces which really come in handy if I’m using desert foam bricks that need to be covered in arrangements.I use mine in each and every wreath or design. I think it is the least expensive of all the mosses. The young woman who makes my wild birch wreath bases also harvests fresh moss for me from the mountains of Kentucky.

You can also use small pieces just to fill in some blank spots on your wreaths so as to cover up the wreath form if that is desired.

Other ideas are to cover a container that you want to look rustic. When I design topiaries, I use it to cover my Styrofoam ball for the top.

 

Fifth is airy light brown Spanish moss

This is also used by many florists. You’ll find this in humid areas mostly that are near the coast. It grows in trees and hangs down making it easy to harvest.

It’s also a great selection to cover picks, glue, and other work which may show from the front or back of your wreath designs.

If you live in the south or a very humid area you can place your dried items outside in the open air for a couple of hours; they will absorb the moisture in the air.Spanish moss can be misted slightly, 30 minutes to an hour before you use. This will soften and cut down on dust. Don’t wet completely.

Wreaths will take on a new dimension when using Spanish and other mosses to achieve a more rustic look.

 

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