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Foam board construction

Printed From: Community Theater Green Room
Category: Producing Theater
Forum Name: Set Design and Construction
Forum Discription: Post your questions or suggestions about designing or building a set here.
URL: http://www.communitytheater.org/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=1810
Printed Date: 3/29/24 at 1:32am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 8.05 - http://www.webwizforums.com


Topic: Foam board construction
Posted By: baydrama
Subject: Foam board construction
Date Posted: 4/19/06 at 2:31pm

Any thoughts from all y'all experts on building with foam board or foam-cor? I want to use this to build some kitchen cabinets for our set, but I've never done it before. Any input is much appreciated!

 

Thanks.




Replies:
Posted By: Aimee
Date Posted: 4/19/06 at 11:04pm

Baydrama,

I have used this many times (the pink foam insulation you can buy at Home Depot in 4x8 sheets) Mostly to build things that need to be light and moveable. We made some records (huge) for "Leader of the Pack". We've used it to make part of a chimney, we've used it to make misc props. I don't think I would reccomend it to be used for making cabinets. I doubt it would last that long or be strong enough to hold anything. (IMO) I've always used a foam cutter  (purchased at a hobby store) to cut it and sculpt it. Makes great rocks, bricks. things like that.

With out knowing precisely what you need here are a few ideas on the real thing!

If you are going to need working  cabinets,  might want to break down and make 'em. Who knows when you may need them again!  Also, I have found sometimes companies will give old demo units away. Try checking with a local comapny that sells cabinets and see if they have some they can donate or you can get real cheap!

Good luck!



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Aimee


Posted By: Spectrum
Date Posted: 4/21/06 at 10:35pm

I have built cabinets using foam core, and the results were completely satisfactory.  First I built a framework with 1x2's and then covered them with the foam core.  (This is the 1/8th inch thick foam sandwiched between heavy paper surfaces.)  The corners and edges were taped and then the whole thing was painted.  The resulting "cabinetry" was light enough to be hung without stressing the set and from the audience, it all looked absolutely believable.  HOWEVER, there were two realities that went with this type of construction.  ONE, the doors could not be real doors and opened because the thin foam core was not stable enough to stay flat as a door.  TWO, this set piece was only good for the one show since time and temperature severely warp the foam core and it does not store well.



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Growing old is mandatory. Growing up is optional.


Posted By: pdavis69
Date Posted: 4/24/06 at 9:35pm
I have used the foam board on many sets that I have built.  Most of them were in recreating rock walls or brick work.  Given the present prices on the foam board ($20+ in our area), I'd suggest going for 8th inch plywood (about $11).  Both come in 4'x8' sheets.  Weight is a bit more, but not all that much.

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Patrick L. Davis
Fort Findlay Playhouse



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