How to Paint Styrofoam Balls

Paint Styrofoam balls with acrylic paint.

Although Styrofoam lends itself to many craft projects, it can be difficult to work with this porous material. Whether you are painting, cutting or gluing Styrofoam, handle the Styrofoam carefully so you do not damage its surface. When your project requires painting Styrofoam balls, select the right kind of paint and apply it properly to ensure it adheres to the Styrofoam surface.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Toothpicks
• Acrylic paint
• Palette
• Stiff stenciling brush

Instructions

1. Spread the newspaper over a flat work area to protect its surface.

2. Insert one toothpick approximately 1 inch into the Styrofoam ball and a second toothpick on the opposite side of the ball. You will use these toothpicks to hold the Styrofoam ball while you paint it.

3. Squeeze a small amount of acrylic paint onto the palette.

4. Dip the stenciling brush into the paint so the top 1/4 inch of the brush has paint covering it.

5. Hold the Styrofoam ball by one of the toothpicks, while you prepare to apply the paint.

6. Apply the paint to the Styrofoam ball with the stenciling brush. You can pounce the brush lightly against the Styrofoam surface, or you could also rub the bristles of the brush back and forth to coat the Styrofoam. Add more paint to the stenciling brush as necessary and continue working until you coat the Styrofoam ball completely.

7. Allow the paint on the Styrofoam ball to dry completely. Prop the ball up on several toothpicks to enable it to dry without contacting any surfaces.

References

• Dow: Crafting Tips-Styrofoam Brand Foam