Do you understand the types of Styrofoam to use for crafting? Did you know that Styrofoam is actually a brand name? In reality all types of foam fall under the category of craft foam. There are several different types and choosing a type is dependent upon your application. Don’t worry! We are going to walk you through everything you need to know about Styrofoam and other craft foams! Find the best one for your craft project and get started making something amazing today.
Types Of Styrofoam
I shot a quick video showing you the different types of foam and explaining the differences. You can watch the video below!
Can’t watch the video? Then check out the information below!
Types Of Styrofoam To Use For Crafting
As I mentioned before there are several types of styrofoam that you can use for your crafting projects. Choosing the best one is crucial in order for your project to be successful. So, below, I am going to talk about the 5 most popular types of styrofoam and share some fun projects that you can make using each type.
You will definitely want to bookmark this page so you can refer back to it when you are making your next styrofoam project!
Without further ado, let’s talk styrofoam!
Fresh Floral Foam
Fresh Floral Foam is the first product I tackled in the video above. It is intended to wick moisture to keep fresh floral arrangements alive. It is extremely soft and easy to mold with your hands to fit in a container. All foams can be purchased in a variety of shapes and sizes. You should double-check the label for the word “fresh” or “wet” when dealing with fresh floral arrangements.
Below are some examples of projects you can make using Fresh Floral Foam!
Dry Floral Foam
Dry Floral Foam is intended for silk floral arrangements and is usually green in color. You can get this under the desert, dry, or econofoam brand names. It is not as soft as fresh floral foam. Due to that, I would recommend using a serrated knife or electric foam cutter to trim the foam to the size of your container.
This foam is designed to keep your silk flowers upright when you press the stems into the foam. It also comes in a wide variety of shapes and sizes so pick one closest to your needs. Be sure to double-check the label when purchasing this craft foam as you do not want the wet foam in this case.
Below are some examples of projects you can make using Dry Floral Foam!
Styrofoam
STYROFOAM ® is what people generally say when talking about craft foam. It is actually a brand name indicated by a manufacturer. It is intended for a variety of craft projects and comes in a wide variety of shapes and sizes for any project you have in mind.
My personal favorite aspect is that it comes in huge sheets that you can then cut to any size or shape you desire with a foam cutter. STYROFOAM has a rough texture on the surface that will show through when you paint. There are a couple of products on the market that will fill in that texture if a smooth finish is required. Note that water-based paints are recommended for all foam products and you should never use spray paint.
Spray paint will damage the foam and leave you with a less-than-desirable result. You can also buy extruded foam products under the STYROFOAM brand name such as wreath forms. While these products are still STYROFOAM, they are extruded to give a smooth texture. I do not recommend the extruded forms if you are going to be adding anything that you need to poke into the surface.
Below are some examples of projects you can make using STYROFOAM ®!
Smoothfoam
Smoothfoam is the smooth version of STYROFOAM that is manufactured by a different company. It is smoother for painted applications but still not a super slick surface. For most applications, my personal preference is STYROFOAM but Smoothfoam will do in a pinch.
Below are some examples of projects you can make using Smoothfoam!
Specialty Foam
Specialty Foam is generally urethane foam that is in specialty shapes. You can expect to find shapes from topiaries to heads and more. This is great if you are looking for something specific for a project. Especially if the shape will be too difficult to cut yourself from another foam product.
Below are some examples of projects you can make using Specialty Foam!
Now that you understand the types of Styrofoam to use for crafting, get out and make a few craft foam projects! You can create so many amazing things with just a little foam!
FAQs About Types Of Styrofoam
If you have questions about the different types of styrofoam or styrofoam in general, I have the answers. For any future questions, please leave them for me in the comments down below. I’m happy to help!
Where Do You Find Styrofoam?
You can all these different types of styrofoam at your local craft store, big box store, or online!
What Do You Use To Cut Styrofoam?
This will depend on the type of styrofoam you are cutting. However, in general, I would recommend the following:
- Fresh Floral Foam: A serrated knife.
- Dry Floral Foam: A serrated knife or electric foam cutter.
- Styrofoam: An electric foam cutter.
- Smoothfoam: A serrated knife or electric foam cutter.
- Specialty Foam: You don’t need a cutting tool, since you are buying a specific shape.
Out Of All The Different Types Of Styrofoam, What Do You Recommend For Everyday Crafting?
For everyday crafting, I like using the brand name STYROFOAM. This is because it comes in a variety of shapes, and sizes and can be used in so many projects. Also, it’s very budget-friendly.
6 More Styrofoam Crafts
Do you love learning about the different types of styrofoam, and are looking for styrofoam crafts? Then check out the projects below!
