Looking into the feasibilty of a graphic made out of styrofoam - something we haven't done before. Could somebody point me at the encapsulant needed to harden the surface (if I've got that right) - where to get it, what to use, etc.
Many thanks,
Posted by Si Allen (Member # 420) on :
Depends on how hardened it needs to be. Most cases, 3 coats of latex paint works well. If there are prying and poking fingers, then a 2 part epoxy will be what you need. No thinners, otherwise, they will eat the styrofoam. (Try putting a lil thinner in a styro cup and see how far you can carry it! )
Posted by Linda Silver Eagle (Member # 274) on :
I remember when I visited J.T. Gazeway several years ago showing me how to seal foam projects. I don't remember his email address or website name, but searching the archives for his name should produce something. I think Dan Swatsky may still keep in touch with him. J.T. could help you with the recipe LOL. Try emailing him and see what happens! I know the 3-D sculptures for a mural that I went out to help him on were awesome and sturdy as a result of his process.
I hope this has helped!
Posted by Kelly Thorson (Member # 2958) on :
Hi Graham I use the VFI Quick Spray System. They are merchants here. You can buy their Product through Hesterman Tech in Regina. Hesterman also has a paint on two part coat that works as long as you are working on flat surfaces. It levels out so I find it a little tough on curved surfaces although you can build it up in coats. I'm surprised how long just a couple of coats of latex has held up on exterior signs too. If this is something that you just want to last temporarily I have a couple that are going into their third year and still holding up. Steve Greer's Magic Smooth is another option that works fantastic if you want to incorporate a texture. If you want email or post more information or the graphic and I'll tell you what route I'd take. I use the pink extruded polystyrene insulation foam, it carves beautifully. I love the unlimited potential for working with these materials.
Posted by Jill Steblyna (Member # 6642) on :
I recently coated a foam sign with west systems epoxy it was my first attempt and I was very pleased with how easily it went on.It's two parts you mix them together then you have about 10 minutes to spread the epoxy on it is self leveling and dries to a glossy hard coat,I would post a picture but don't know how.Thanks are overdue to Si among others for their advice with this sign I couldn't have done it without their help.Gives me confidence to try new things when I know so many kind letterheads are willing to share their knowledge. Thanks guys.
Posted by Jane Diaz (Member # 595) on :
http://www.abracadabrasigns.com/home2.htm We recently purchased some of this Magic stuff after we saw a demo at the Sign Circus in Georgia and are very impressed with it. We have tried the West system stuff too and it works well.
Posted by Curtis hammond (Member # 2170) on :
Ya, magic sculpt and magic smooth,,, very nice stuff
Posted by Dave Draper (Member # 102) on :
Define "STYROFOAM" (which is a brand name) Do you mean: Expanded, or Extruded EPS or something else? What density? Outdoor or Indoor?
We use Industial Polymner's product called STYRO SPRAY (misleading name since we brush it on).
It depends what the finale finish is (like paint or vinyl or signgold, then we prep according to what we have to have stick on top of that.
100% Acrylic Latex (as in Sherwin Williams Super Paint will last for years out door on the top of "EXTRUDED EPS" which you might see out at your favorite franchise home center. Pink or Blue 4x8 sheets is what I'm talking about.
The white stuff is "EXPANDED" EPS and mostly 1lb recycled junk swept up off the floor when sold to MENARDS Home Centers because they want it cheap. Before we knew any better, we learned the "hard way." Ask me how I know this since we build EPS monuments for other shops. Just FYI...we use 2 LB density and have to buy it direct from the mill. Posted by Rene Giroux (Member # 4980) on :
Like Jane said... Abracadabra is the way to go, talk to Steve, he's the man !
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