Things You'll Need
White glue
Food coloring
Shallow plastic tray
Disposable sponges
Craft paint
Paintbrushes
Skewers
Large foam block
Styrofoam balls
Adding some stand-out color to your next Styrofoam craft project is a cinch. You can use a bit of food grade coloring and white glue to dye Styrofoam balls for a very bright look. You can also go the traditional route and use Styrofoam-safe craft paints.
Dye Styrofoam With Food Coloring and Glue
Step 1
Squeeze white glue into the plastic tray, about 1 tablespoon per Styrofoam ball.
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Step 2
Add a few drops of food coloring. Stir until the coloring is thoroughly mixed into the glue.
Step 3
Roll the Styrofoam ball in the glue until it is completely covered all the way around. Repeat as necessary with other colors and the remaining Styrofoam balls.
Step 4
Spear the Styrofoam balls with skewers. Place the balls upright in the large foam block with the skewers to dry overnight.
Painting the Styrofoam Balls
Step 1
Pour a small amount of craft paint into a clean plastic tray. Skewer a Styrofoam ball to serve as a holder while you work.
Step 2
Load a paintbrush or the flat sponge with the craft paint. Brush the paint onto the skewered Styrofoam ball until it is completely covered.
Step 3
Place the painted Styrofoam upright in the large foam block with the skewer to dry. Once dry, you can add a second coat of craft paint to cover any thin spots.
Tip
Some acrylic paints can also be used to color Styrofoam.
Warning
Dipping the Styrofoam in food coloring and water is unlikely to dye the plastic. Do not attempt to use spray paint. It will melt the Styrofoam.
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