Introduction: Styrofoam Fake Faux Fun

By Cory Potter
About: I have a degree in Electronics Engineering and various certifications in all kinds of internet programming languages. Professionally, I have over 20 years of experience in various roles including an electronic…

***The double-negative is intentional because what I’m about to show you is both fake and real.***

I have to admit that when I started collecting Styrofoam packaging from products and empty Styrofoam coolers used for shipping temperature sensitive medications, I didn't know what I was going to do with it. I just couldn't see throwing this stuff away and it most probably ending up in some landfill somewhere..

Over this Summer, I tried a few ideas; I am making Halloween prop gravestones and fake rocks for an entire water feature.

Step 1: Parts and Tools

Glue:

  • Water-based ( or at least, water clean-up ) liquid glue Wood glues typically fall into this category but dries yellow white glues that dry clear - ish
  • Elmer’s brand School Glue ( Water-based and surprisingly effective )
  • Elmer’s brand All-Purpose (PVAc: Poly Vinyl Acetate based)

Tape

Spray Paint ~ Only AFTER you treat the Styrofoam to a coat of Elmer's!

Additives:

  • Dry mortar mix
  • Sand, desired coarse and color

Tools:

  • Hot Glue Gun
  • Paint Spray Gun and/or foam brushes
  • Air Compressor, if spray gun.
  • Foam Cutter ( Optional)

Step 2: ​Prepare the Styrofoam

  • Hot glue works well, but keep in mind that the glue can get very hot, melt the Styrofoam and burn your fingers and hands.
  • Break or use a foam cutter to shape the Styrofoam.

Step 3: Build Up the Desired Effect

  • Build up the desired effect

Step 4: Spray and Dust

  • Spray a 50/50 Elmer's Glue All / Tap Water mixture on the form.
  • Toss and throw mortar mix or sand onto the form.

Repeat this process as needed to get the desired effect. The fountain has been built-up about 5 more times!

Step 5: Another Form to Hide the Water Pump

  • Another form to hide the water pump
  • Gravestone for Halloween

Step 6: Styrofoam Fountain and Gravestone

Styrofoam Fountain and Gravestone

Add Lights!!

Making a Lightshow with Arduino

Make a solar-powered - rechargeable power pack

Enjoy my work and learn more at my website: CoreConduit