A little late but for future reference,
For dust fullers earth is great and is used throughout the industry, best applied with a dust spreader such as the Dustin Mizer.
Cobwebs can be purchased from a bag (not very good quality) or for preference can be made with a spinner or a shooter...
While I can't speak from experience as I'm studying in the UK, several of the designers I've worked with have recommended both the AFI and also Chapman University Production Design courses. AFI student work has recently been featured in one of the latest editions of the Art Directors Guild...
The method I've used a few times is simply to paint it on. Get some good earthy colours and get painting.
A few tips:
Always have some reference photos with you when you're painting unless you're a scenic artist who has painted more mold than they've eaten hot dinners.
Don't overdo it...
This is a very late reply but I'll write it for future reference;
If in LA you might try the The Center for Film & Television Design at the Art Directors Guild Building in Studio City.
Another option is to do a Library Search; large libraries often have a host of strange items you wouldn't...
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