How to Make a DIY Moss Topiary in a Pot

Dry Brushing with Gesso for Texture

After the gesso dries, I begin adding the white gesso for my DIY moss topiary randomly using a dry brush technique. This time I did use a sponge brush however if this is new to you, I HIGHLY recommend a chip brush or craft brush!

This is where the texture begins to build on the flowerpot. Let this dry for a bit.

Notice the texture in the picture above!

Step: 2

Next step for the flowerpot, using a flat craft brush add a bit of burnt umber to a paper bowl with a bit of water. By the way when I say a bit of burnt umber paint, I mean a very small amount. Dip the brush in and add wet streaks in small random sections. Now wipe and blend with a rag or paper towel. The pot together with the burnt umber begins to have an aged look. Let dry for a bit.

Of course, flowerpots need to have a moss look for age don’t you agree? So, now the small brush and dry it on the paper towel/rag.

Using a small amount of your avocado paint and the tip of the brush randomly add to the edges of the pot and blend for a moss look. Also, blend it here and there in a few spots on the body of the pot.

By the way, I’m letting it run purposely to add a moss look to other parts of the flowerpot for my Topiary plant.

How to Add the Greenery to This Easy Craft Idea Using Tacky Glue

Step: 3

So, let’s begin putting the moss topiary together. Because this step is pretty messy, I pour the reindeer moss into a brown bag. However, large plastic bag or spread newspaper on the floor will work too.

We are using spray adhesive; so, I suggest opening the garage door or doing this process outside for safety from fumes. Spray the ball with the adhesive letting it sit for a moment to get tacky.

I wear rubber gloves during this step because it gets very sticky. Grab handfuls of moss and press it on the topiary ball. If there is bare spots spray again with a bit of adhesive and do the same process until the topiary form is covered completely.

Supplies for Simple Fake soil

• non clumping kitty litter
• burnt umber craft paint
• black craft paint
• Elmer’s glue
• paper bowl or plastic container

Making Imitation Soil to Add a Realistic Look to This Easy Craft

Step: 4

How about making soil to add a realistic look to the DIY moss topiary?

Yes, realistic soil, I think this is a great addition. By the way I shared this a while back, but I think it’s such an easy fast craft it’s worth sharing again! When I say easy and fast, you truly will be shocked because it takes minutes to create.

Step 1

So, are you ready to see how to make this real looking dirt? Here we go, grab a paper bowl or container. Pour a decent amount of non-clumping kitty litter to the container. Next add Elmer’s glue and stir together. It’s especially important this be moist. This is important because it dries quickly.

Adding the Imitation Soil to the Bottom of The Pot

Because I am making an extra topiary and the base is cut, adding a bit of moist Kitty litter to the bottom is necessary. This will act like glue and hold it in place. Then I poured in plain kitty litter to fill in the pot.

Step 2

Using a plastic spoon or your hand move the kitty litter around the foam to act as a mortar. If the topiary is intact with the bottom this step isn’t necessary. It fits inside the flowerpot perfectly.

Step 3

Finishing with plain kitty litter.

Adding Burnt Umber and Black Paint to Make it Look Like Dirt

I wish I had precise measurements unfortunately I don’t because I sort of winged it when coming up with this idea. But if you follow what I suggest it’s AMAZING!

Now add a squirt of black paint and burnt umber paint and mix with a plastic spoon or a craft stick. After this step simply add it to the moss topiary. While it’s wet sprinkle pieces of moss and let dry for few hours. You will truly be amazed how much this looks like real dirt. It’s a game changer for fake plants to make them appear more realistic.

I also rub the fake soil on the wood dowel of the topiary to add dimension. As you can see, I also add a bit of moss here and there to add to the realistic look.

These fake plants also look beautiful as centerpieces. Wouldn’t this be perfect for a gardening party or any spring or summer gathering?

I hope you enjoyed seeing and learning how to make a DIY moss topiary in a pot. As I mention above these are beyond simple to make and add tons of character, elegance and greenery to any home decor.

I’d love to hear what you think and if you will add these to your home.

Oh, and what you think about this homemade soil idea too!