Foam is one of the most used materials in the world. When it comes to patching up furniture or creating new, foam remains to be popular.
The reason for its popularity is that the foam is easy to use and work with. Foam is easy to manipulate and create different forms of figures as well. Apart from that, foam is super easy to mold.
That said, another factor for the popularity of foam is that these things aren’t all that expensive. If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to improve your woodwork, it is to make use of foam.
The problem with Foam
Although foam is easy to use and is amazing, there is one problem with foam. Now, despite the fact that foam pieces are easy to use, they cannot blend well with the surroundings.
Now, see, the foam comes in generic colors. That said, the generic colors do not really mean that foam will not go well wherever you put it.
So, in other words, merging foam with the wall or a door is what you need to know. That said, you will have to ensure that you know how to make foam look like wood.
Steps on how to make foam look like wood
If you’re looking to learn about how to make foam look like wood, here are some things you will need:
- Foam
- Sandpaper
- Knife or scissors.
- Dry brush.
- Clean rags.
- Primer.
- Paint of your choice.
Step 1: Choose the type of wood look
Before you get to painting and priming, you will need to prep first. So, the first step is to look at the type of wood style you want to have.
Make sure that you carefully inspect the wood work. This will help you understand what kind of paint or stain to purchase. In this manner, you will be able to find the right fit for the surrounding environment.
Remember different types of wood will need different kinds of paints and colors.
Make sure you pay attention to the tint as well.
On a side note, you need to understand that foam goes better with dark brown wood types. This makes it easy for you to mask imperfections as well.
Step 2: Get the materials
The next step is to purchase the materials you will need. So, you should go and look for foam that is best for you to work with.
You can choose whichever foam brand you are comfortable with. Also, purchase the primer, sealer, paint, and brushes, if you do not have them.
Step 3: Sanding and Carving the foam (optional)
This step in our how to make foam look like wood guide is optional. If you need a look that is crafted with a particular style, you will need to carve it.
But before you carve the foam, you will need to sand the foam. Once you sand the surface, you will have to use your carving tools. Make sure that the designs that you have in mind are carefully done.
That said, this will help you prep the surface for the next surfaces.
But remember, this is only necessary if you want to carve the foam.
Step 4: Priming and Sealing the Foam
This step in our how to make foam look like wood guide is to ensure that you have everything in place.
So, all you need to do is make use of a sealant and primer on your foam’s surface. This will give you the area to paint over the surface.
Step 5: Paint the Foam
We are getting to the end of our how to make foam look like wood now. Once you prime and seal the surface, you can begin with the first layer of paint.
Remember, to clean up if you spill some of the paint with a clean rag. Also, make sure that you pay attention to the color.
If you’re not sure of the color, test it on some spare wood or foam. This will help you to gauge the type of color you have.
If you want a lighter shade and you have a paint that is darker in color, dilute it. Do not think of using darker shades on the foam if the surrounding environment is light.
Once you apply the coat of paint, leave it to dry. Make sure it is even.
Step 6: Add another additional coat of paint
Next, you should look too evenly apply one more coat. Two coats at least are necessary for your how to make foam look like wood steps. This ensures that the foam looks like a part of the entire deal.
Adding more layers to the foam ensures you get a realistic look. That said when you decide to get another layer on the surface, paint lightly.
Make sure that you allow each of the additional layers to dry out completely.
Tips to keep in mind
Apart from the steps mentioned above for how to make foam look like wood, you need to keep the following things in mind:
- Make sure that all of your paint layers are even. The shades should not differ.
- Next, ensure that the brush strokes are in the same direction. If you switch the direction of the brush strokes, you will see uneven paint on the foam. Also, make sure that the brushstrokes are in the same direction as the wood grain.
- For the last or the finishing touches, you should make use of wood stains. Wood stains leave the surface looking quite real. So, if you’re going for a realistic look, then the wood stain is what you need.
Conclusion
When you want to ensure that you follow the how to make foam look like wood steps mentioned above. Once you do that, make sure that you leave the paint to dry.
Always remember, thinner coats of paint do not take a long time to dry out. But if you have thick coats on the surface, it will take longer for it to dry out.
