How to Shape Styrofoam
Styrofoam is a mainstay in the craft world. There are so many great ideas for using Styrofoam. Every holiday has a craft project that calls for some form of this great craft item. It can be used for trees at Christmas or hearts on Valentine's Day. Projects call for all sorts of shapes and sizes. Sometimes the crafter must form her own piece of Styrofoam to be used in the project. Cutting and shaping Styrofoam is very easily done.
Things You'll Need
- Serrated knife
- White craft glue
- Toothpicks or floral picks
- Pattern (optional)
- Fine sand paper
Instructions
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1
Determine the shape of the Styrofoam needed for the art or craft project. Certain projects may require a larger piece than is possible for the shapes in most craft stores.
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2
Glue the Styrofoam pieces together, if more than one piece is needed. Using toothpicks as dowel rods to hold the pieces together will create a stronger bond than just gluing. Hot glue from a hot glue gun tends to melt the Styrofoam. White craft glue works best. Allow the pieces to dry completely before attempting to cut out the shape needed.
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3
Trace the pattern of the shape onto the Styrofoam. This can be done with a pen or pencil, but a felt tip marker works best.
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4
Begin cutting the Styrofoam with the knife using a back and forth sawing motion. Even though this is a very easy material to cut, it will break off if care is not used in the cutting process.
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5
Finish off the piece by gently rubbing the cut edges with fine sand paper. This makes the cuts look more uniform and professional.
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Tips & Warnings
Special shapes can be made by using a form and pressing the Styrofoam into the shape. Using glue and floral picks or toothpicks as you work will result in a strong bond. Allow the shape to dry overnight before removing from the form.
Any project using knives or sharp cutting instruments can be potentially harmful. Do not allow children to attempt this without adult supervision.
