Need help with my first top!

[Squonk]

So I've scoped out this website a few times and I love the tops I have seen! I wanted a more natural, "connection to the sea" type of top, so I went to Micheal's, bought the Lions Paw seashells, got the beads.... But I have no idea where to get fake seaweed? I looked and I looked in the fake greenery section, but nada, nothing! If you guys could help me with some suggestions, that be rad. In addition, should I use a plain old bra as the structure? Or a swim suit top?

Also, I'm trying to make a headpiece. I saw another mermaid put a hair comb inside to hold it to her hair, but my hair is super kinky and in locs right now. I need suggestions as to how I can keep my headpiece from falling off and be secured to my hair.

[WavyMermaidy]

Hi Squonk (cute name!). Pet stores are great places for seaweed...in the aquarium sections. My top is made from a bra...I've been using it in water for well over a year and it is doing just fine. I did however cut off the back strap and shoulder straps and replace them with my own netting ties so I can't speak to any strap stretching issues with bras if that is a concern.

[Winged Mermaid]

I personally don't like buying aquarium plants.. they're expensive and very uncomforatable on tops and tangle in hair. But maybe that's just me :P As to where to look in craft stores, the Accessory FAQ has a section on that http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?6472

[Mermaid Galene]

I find plastic plants of any kind impossible to tolerate on a top. I literally have hypersensitive skin (yeah, it's an actual medical condition), so anything the least bit scratchy is like a Princess and the Pea situation for me. Silk plants work well, though. You can find some relatively cheap silk aquarium plants at pet stores, and there are usually lots of silk plants to choose from at Michaels or a similar store. Instead of looking specifically for water plants, just go for a slik plant that has a shape and color you like. Almost any fake plant looks aquatic when matched up with mer accents and accessories.