STYROFOAM brand foam crafts

Beachcombing Wall Art Trio

Relive sand-between-your-toes memories every time you look at this modern DIY wall art mosaic. STYROFOAMâ„¢ Brand foam adapts easily to altered art like this.
   Completion Time - 
2 hours
   Designer - 
Kathleen George

Materials

STYROFOAM Brand Foam
  • Block, 18" x 12" x 1" OR
  • Sheet, 36" x 12" x 1"
Other Materials
  • Tan acrylic paint
  • Ceramic stucco texture gel
  • Natural found objects and/or memorabilia of choice
  • Thin cardboard
  • Hook-and-loop tape tabs

Tools

  • Serrated knife
  • Candle stub or paraffin
  • Pencil
  • Ruler
  • Palette knife
  • Rubber spatula
  • Disposable bowl
  • Small natural sponge
  • Clean, dry rag

Instructions

  • 1. Wax serrated knife with candle stub or paraffin. Measureand cut a 12" square from foam block (or sheet); set asideremaining foam for future projects. Cut following blocks fromfoam square: 12" x 6"; 6" x 6"; 5" x 5".

  • 2. Measure and cut three pieces of cardboard slightly largerthan foam blocks to aid in handling.

  • 3. Arrange found objects and memorabilia on top of each foamblock as desired. When pleased with arrangement, carefully setobjects aside in same manner.

  • 4. Using putty knife, spread thin layer of stucco gel ontosides and top of 5" x 5" foam block. Carefully place objectsonto block, gently pressing items down into wet gel to secure.Let dry completely before handling.

  • 5. Place small amount of stucco gel into disposable bowl. Addtiny amount of tan paint and mix well; this creates an "aged" look.

  • 6. Repeat Step 4 for 6" x 6" and 12" x 6" foam blocks. Be sureto press objects firmly into stucco gel to secure. For largeor thick objects, such as a stone, press object down intosurface of foam to secure. Let dry completely.

  • 7. If desired, add additional shading to 6" x 6" block. Thinsmall amount of paint with water to create a very dilute colorwash. Apply wash over dry stucco using small, damp sponge. Usedry rag to remove excess color in some areas. For more "aged"look, apply a second coat of color wash around block edges.Let dry completely.

  • 8. Following manufacturer's instructions, apply hook-and-looptabs to back of each block and to desired wall.