Expanding foam, also known as spray foam, is a polyurethane foam product that expands quickly after application to insulate, seal gaps, or fill voids. While it is most commonly used for insulating buildings or sealing cracks and gaps, expanding foam can also be used for a variety of craft projects due to its lightweight, sculptable, and durable properties once cured.
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What is expanding foam?
Expanding foam comes in pressurized aerosol cans and expands rapidly after being sprayed out. It is made from polyurethane and contains foaming agents that cause the liquid to expand up to 30-60 times its original volume after application.
There are two main types of expanding foam:
- Polyurethane foam – This type of foam is more rigid and dries harder than latex foam. It is often used for insulation and sealing.
- Latex foam – Latex foam is softer and more flexible. It is commonly used as a filler and for crafts.
Expanding foam goes through an exothermic reaction as it cures, meaning it generates heat. This allows the foam to fully expand and solidify into a rigid or semi-rigid foam plastic. Once cured, expanding foam is a permanent installation and cannot be removed or reused.
Is expanding foam safe for crafts?
Expanding polyurethane and latex foam products marketed for crafts and taxidermy are generally considered safe for these applications. However, some precautions should be taken when working with expanding foam:
- Use in a well-ventilated area – the fumes released as the foam cures can be strong.
- Wear gloves and eye protection – uncured foam can be irritating to skin and eyes.
- Do not ingest – expanding foam products may contain toxic ingredients and should not be eaten.
- Check the label – only use foams designated as safe for arts and crafts.
The fumes released as expanding foam cures dissipate within 24-48 hours. Once fully cured, the foam itself is inert and non-toxic.
What are some craft uses for expanding foam?
Expanding foam has many creative applications for DIY crafts and art projects, such as:
Floral Arrangements
Floral foam is a popular base for flower arranging, but expanding foam works too. Simply spray foam into a container or form, let cure, and insert stems. The foam will hold flowers securely in place.
Faux Taxidermy
Taxidermists often use expanding foam to create custom mounts for faux animal heads and other taxidermy projects. The lightweight foam can be carved, shaped, and painted to recreate animal features.
Props and Costume Pieces
Lightweight rigid and flexible expanding foam makes an excellent material for creating costume armor, props like swords and shields, theatrical set pieces, and decorations. Appliques and details can be carved or adhered to the cured foam.
DIY Mannequins
Expanding foam can be shaped into customized mannequins and dress forms. Simply build up foam over a base form or sculpt to the desired shape. Once cured, it can be sanded and painted.
Faux Food
Crafting realistic fake cakes, fruity desserts, and other foods is possible with expanding foam. Sculpt baked goods, ice cream cones, pizza, sandwiches and more, then paint with acrylics once cured.
Kids’ Crafts
From magic wands to imaginary playgrounds, expanding foam is an endlessly creative material for kids’ arts and crafts. Supervise children closely when using, and ensure proper ventilation.
Step-by-Step Craft Project with Expanding Foam
Here is a simple tutorial for creating a floral foam centerpiece using expanding foam:
Supplies Needed
- Expanding foam designed for floral use or crafts
- Container to contain the foam while curing (disposable aluminum pans work well)
- Assorted fake flowers, leaves, and fillers
- Florist foam pins, sticks, or hot glue for securing arrangements
- Acrylic paint and brush (optional)
Instructions
- Lay down a protective work surface. Cover any nearby surfaces you don’t want accidentally sprayed. Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Fill the bottom of the container with an initial layer of foam. Let fully cure for at least 24 hours.
- Spray in additional layers, building up to the desired shape, and letting foam fully cure between applications. Too much foam at once will collapse under its own weight.
- Once fully cured, removed the foam shape from the container. Trim or carve into final shape if desired.
- Optional: Paint the cured foam with acrylic craft paint in your desired base color. Let dry.
- Cut flower stems and insert into the foam. Use pins or hot glue if needed for more support.
- Arrange flowers, leaves, and fillers to create your floral design. Spray with water or floral preservative to prolong the life of your arrangement.
- Display your finished foam centerpiece or gift to a loved one!
Tips for Working with Expanding Foam
When working on crafts with expanding foam, keep these tips in mind:
- Apply in thin layers and let fully cure between applications. Foam expands up to 60 times its original volume.
- Cured foam can be sanded, cut, carved, and painted like wood.
- Wetting a knife makes cutting cured foam easier.
- Only apply to surfaces that can withstand adhesive. Foam will stick to skin, clothing, surfaces.
- Unused foam will still cure and expand slowly on its own. Properly discard after completing your project.
- Work in a well-ventilated area until cured. Wear gloves and eye protection.
Best Expanding Foam Products for Crafting
There are many brands of expanding foam on the market. Look for products specifically designed for arts, crafts, and taxidermy rather than standard insulation foams. Some top options include:
FloraCraft Make It: Fun Foam
This popular craft foam is available at many craft stores. It’s lightweight, carves well, and is safe for permanent floral arrangements and kids’ crafts. Available in 12 and 20 ounce cans.
Plasti Dip Craft Foam
Plasti Dip foam is designed for floral and taxidermy uses. It’s less rigid than other foams and flexible when cured. Easy to shape detailed objects.
Penguins Taxidermy Foam
Formulated especially for taxidermy shaping and mounting. This strong expanding foam retains detail well after curing. Available in black or white.
Touch ‘n Foam Craft Foam
This general craft foam expands up to 3 times original volume into a semi-rigid, carveable foam. Bonds well to other foams and surfaces.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using expanding foam for arts and crafts:
Does expanding foam stick to everything?
Expanding foam is designed to adhere permanently to most surfaces including wood, metal, stone, plastic, foam, etc. It will stick to skin and clothing as well, so gloves and old clothes are recommended when applying.
How long does expanding foam take to cure?
Cure times vary by product, temperature, and humidity. Most expanding foams are fully cured in 24-48 hours. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cure times.
Can you carve cured expanding foam?
Yes, once fully cured expanding foam can be carved, sawed, sanded, and shaped easily using basic woodworking tools. Letting foam cure slightly longer makes carving easier.
Is expanding foam waterproof?
Fully cured expanding foam is water resistant and will not absorb moisture. It can be used outdoors and in wet environments once hardened.
Can you paint expanding foam?
Cured expanding foam accepts acrylic craft paints and spray paints well. Priming first allows for smoother coverage. Let paint fully dry before handling the foam.
Conclusion
Expanding foam is a versatile material with many applications for creative DIY crafts and art projects. While some safety precautions must be taken when working with uncured foam, once fully hardened it is an easy to use sculptable material that can bring imagination to life. With creativity and the right foam product, crafters can design stunning floral arrangements, props, home decor pieces, and more.