Foam Cores

Randy Bauer
11 min readJun 11, 2024

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Welcome to our roundup of the best Foam Core products on the market! Foam Core has been making waves in the DIY community, and we’ve gathered together a selection of top-notch options to help you find the perfect fit for your next project. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with our expert recommendations and hands-on reviews.

The Top 7 Best Foam Cores

  1. 18x24 White Foam Core Backing Boards for Art and Photography — Transform your artwork with the versatile Golden State Art 10-piece foam core backing boards, boasting a 1/8" thickness and 18x24 size, perfect for enhancing your masterpiece and fitting your frame.
  2. Future Foam 6 in. T Multi-Purpose Foam Roll for Comfortable DIY Projects — Add versatility to your DIY crafts and home projects with Future Foam 6 in. T Multi-Purpose Foam Vary — perfect for cushioning, seating, and outdoor comfort.
  3. High-Quality 24x36 inch White Foam Core Mounting Boards — 25pk, Sturdy for Posters and Documents — Sturdy and versatile, MyBinding’s 550432 White Foam Core Mounting Boards offer premium results for document and poster mounting, available in various thicknesses and colors for tailored usage.
  4. Versatile 20-Pack White Foam Boards for Art, Crafts, and Display — Experience the versatility of ALISWAT’s 20 Pack White Foam Boards with a premium three-layer structure, perfect for crafts, education, presentations, and exhibitions, featuring a 5mm thick foam core that unleashes your creativity.
  5. Creatology Thick Foam Sheet for Crafts and DIY Projects — Unleash creativity with Creatology’s colorful, 0.24-inch thick foam sheets, ideal for crafting fun, imaginative, and durable projects.
  6. 3.5" Rigid Foam Core Board with CFC-Free — Get ready to create lasting and sturdy masterpieces with the Elmer’s Foam Board, featuring a warp-resistant and versatile rigid foam core that cuts easily and readily accepts a multitude of mediums.
  7. FoamTouch 1-Inch x 24-Inch x 80-Inch Upholstery Foam Core — Experience the ultimate comfort and durability with FoamTouch 1" x 24" x 80" Upholstery Foam, specifically designed for a wide range of home and commercial upholstery applications, backed by a 1.8 lb density and lasting 3–7 years.

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Reviews

18x24 White Foam Core Backing Boards for Art and Photography

These 10 Golden State Art foam core boards are just the right size for your 18x24 frames, and their pristine white finish adds a professional touch to any matted artwork or photo. At 1/8 inch thick, they provide the perfect amount of support, ensuring that your creations stand out beautifully.

However, one potential downside is that while these foam core boards fit well into 18x24 frames, they don’t quite match the exact dimensions, which might be an issue for those aiming for a perfect fit. Additionally, since this product has no user reviews yet, it’s hard to gauge how well they perform in the long run. Overall, these foam core boards make an excellent choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance and support to their artwork.

Future Foam 6 in. T Multi-Purpose Foam Roll for Comfortable DIY Projects

In my search for the perfect camping pad for my upcoming adventure, Future Foam’s 6-inch T Multi-Purpose Foam caught my eye. As a craft enthusiast and a DIYer by heart, I was intrigued by its adaptability for a variety of applications.

Upon receiving the foam and unpacking it, I was pleasantly surprised by its sturdiness and the ease of cutting it to the desired shape and size. This product truly lived up to the “easy to cut” claim, not only ensuring a precise fit but also providing an opportunity to unleash my creativity with different project ideas.

One of the most remarkable features of this foam is its immense durability, which can be attributed to its solid construction and ability to maintain its shape over time. No more worrying about it going flat or tearing apart after a few uses!

However, as some reviewers have pointed out, this foam may not be the perfect choice for certain applications, like cushioning for wooden benches or seat cushions in a sagging couch. Despite being firm and comfortable, it may not meet the requirements of those projects, as the firmness might cause discomfort in certain instances.

In conclusion, the Future Foam T Multi-Purpose Foam is an excellent choice for those looking to add comfort and ease to craft projects, home decoration, or even create a cozy camping pad. Despite a few drawbacks, the overall quality and versatility make this foam a worthy investment, and I highly recommend it.

High-Quality 24x36 inch White Foam Core Mounting Boards — 25pk, Sturdy for Posters and Documents

While browsing for mounting boards, I stumbled upon the White 3/16 inch Foam Core 24 inch x 36 inch Mounting Boards from MyBinding. What caught my attention was their affordable pricing and decent quality.

Using them, I found they are perfect for various mounting tasks such as showcasing my playhouse models. The boards are sturdy and lightweight, making them easy to handle.

However, one downside is that they do not come with adhesive included, which means that it needs to be bought separately. Despite this minor setback, I found the boards to offer good value for money and served their purpose well.

Versatile 20-Pack White Foam Boards for Art, Crafts, and Display

Experience the versatility of the ALISWAT Foam Boards with their 20-pack featuring 12 inch by 16.5 inch white foam sheets. These lightweight yet durable boards are perfect for a multitude of creative endeavors, including arts, crafts, and school projects.

The smooth surface allows for effortless application of paints, glue, and markers, while their resistance to warping and denting makes them an ideal choice for long-lasting creations. With a thickness of 3/16 inches, these foam sheets offer endless possibilities for indoor signs, mounting displays, and framing exhibits. Embrace your inner artist and unleash your creativity with the ALISWAT Foam Boards.

Creatology Thick Foam Sheet for Crafts and DIY Projects

I recently got my hands on the Creatology 12" x 18" thick foam sheet for a fun DIY project, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations! The foam sheet was soft and pliable, making it a perfect base for any craft project you can imagine.

One of the standout features of this product is its versatility. It’s ideal for rainy day and after-school crafts, where kids can let their creative juices flow. I was particularly impressed by the ease with which it could be customized with various embellishments, from glitter and buttons to rhinestones.

The foam itself is lightweight yet sturdy, making it easy to work with for both experienced crafters and beginners. It can be cut with precision using a sharp blade, and it even holds up well when heated with a heat gun or iron on a low to medium setting.

However, no product is without its drawbacks. One drawback I noticed was that the foam can be difficult to cut if the blade is not sharp enough, which may slow down the crafting process. Additionally, while the foam is lightweight, it may not be the best option for heavy-duty DIY projects.

Overall, the Creatology 12" x 18" thick foam sheet is a must-have for anyone looking to spark their child’s imagination or kickstart their own creative endeavors. Its affordability and ease of use make it an excellent addition to any crafting arsenal.

3.5" Rigid Foam Core Board with CFC-Free

The Elmer’s Foam Board provides a perfect blend of rigidity and flexibility, making it a standout choice for artists and craftsmen. Its resilient core ensures that it can withstand dents without succumbing to warping. Additionally, this CFC-free foam board is eco-friendly, making it a great addition to any art studio.

Despite its strength, it remains lightweight and easy to maneuver for precise cutting. Impressively, it accepts a wide range of inks, paints, glues, and markers, giving you endless creative possibilities.

FoamTouch 1-Inch x 24-Inch x 80-Inch Upholstery Foam Core

I recently tried the FoamTouch 1" x 24" x 80" Upholstery Foam, and I must say, it was quite a comfortable experience. As a reviewer, I found this foam to be perfect for my cushioned furniture and boat seats, providing the right firmness and support.

One highlight of this product is its 100% recovery rate, ensuring that the cushions maintain their shape for a longer period, from 3–7 years. It was also made in the USA, which adds to its appeal as a high-quality product.

However, there was one thing that I noticed — the foam’s size was a bit smaller than advertised. Instead of the mentioned 24 inches in width, it measured at 71 inches. Although this might not seem like a big difference, it can impact the look and fit of the cushion when upholstering furniture or boat seats.

I’m glad to say that the foam was easy to work with, and it didn’t have an overpowering chemical smell. The firmness of the foam was ideal for my needs, and it was nice to see that it retained its shape even after multiple washings.

Overall, the FoamTouch 1" x 24" x 80" Upholstery Foam was a great addition to my home and boat cushions, providing the right balance of firmness and support. Although there was a minor issue with the size, I’d still recommend it for anyone looking for a comfortable and durable foam for their upholstery projects.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our Foam Core Buyer’s Guide. This guide is designed to help you understand the key features, considerations, and general advice related to foam core products. By reading through this guide, you will be well-informed to make the best decision when selecting a foam core that fits your needs.

Common Applications of Foam Core

Foam core is a versatile and lightweight material used in various applications, such as:

  1. Constructing display panels, banners, and signs;
  2. Making props, models, and decorative pieces for events;
  3. Creating templates for woodworking, metalworking, and other crafts;
  4. Insulating doors, windows, and walls;
  5. Protecting surfaces and objects during transportation or storage.

Different Types of Foam Core

It is essential to understand the distinct types of foam core products available in the market. The most common types include:

  1. Expanded polystyrene (EPS or styrofoam);
  2. Polyurethane (PU) foam;
  3. Polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam;
  4. Polyethylene (PE) foam. Each type has its unique properties, such as density, thermal efficiency, and fire resistance.

Important Features to Consider

When selecting a foam core, the following features play a crucial role in determining its suitability for your intended application:

  1. Density: The weight of the foam core determines its rigidity and strength. Lighter densities offer better cutting ease but are less durable than heavier densities;
  2. Thermal efficiency: Different foam core types offer different levels of insulation. Choose a material that matches your desired thermal performance;
  3. Fire resistance: Some foam cores have built-in fire-retardant properties or can be treated with fire-retardant chemicals;
  4. Water resistance: Certain foam cores can be moisture-resistant or waterproof, which may be desirable for outdoor or humid environments.

General Advice and Recommendations

While selecting a foam core, keep in mind the following tips to ensure the best possible outcome:

  1. Always read the product specifications and recommendations, including material density, thickness, and surface finish. 2. Consider the size of the project and the tooling requirements when purchasing foam core sheets. 3. Allow adequate time for cutting, shaping, and sanding the foam core materials, as they may require more patience and care than traditional materials. 4. Always follow safety guidelines, such as wearing protective gear, when handling foam core products.

FAQ

What is a foam core?

A foam core is a lightweight and rigid board material made from a foam center sandwiched between two layers of paper. This material is commonly used for hobbies, crafts, and as a building material. It is known for its durability, lightweight, and affordability, making it a popular choice for various applications.

Foam cores come in different densities, thicknesses, and types, allowing users to choose the right material for their specific project. They can be cut, shaped, or painted to create a wide range of custom designs and artwork. Additionally, foam cores provide excellent insulation properties and can be used as a core material for doors and other building components.

What are the advantages of using foam core?

Foam core has several advantages, making it a popular choice for various applications. Some of the key benefits include its lightweight, rigid, and cost-effective nature. It also offers excellent insulation properties and is easy to cut and shape, allowing for precise and intricate designs. This versatility makes it ideal for a wide range of hobbies and crafts, from model making and sculpture to painting and framing.

Furthermore, foam core can be easily painted or finished with various materials, providing a smooth and even surface for artwork or displays. Its durability also makes it a reliable and long-lasting material for building and construction projects, where it can be used as a core material for doors, walls, and other building components.

What types of foam cores are available?

There are several types of foam cores available, each with its unique properties and characteristics. Some of the most common types include extruded polystyrene foam (XPS), expanded polystyrene foam (EPS), and polyurethane foam (PU) cores. These foam materials differ in their composition, density, and insulation properties.

Extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) is known for its high insulation value and durability, making it a popular choice for insulation applications. Expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) is lighter and has a lower cost, making it suitable for less demanding projects. Polyurethane foam (PU) cores offer a higher density and better mechanical properties, making them ideal for use in building and construction projects.

How can foam core be used in hobbies and crafts?

Foam core is a versatile material that can be used in a wide range of hobbies and crafts. It is commonly used in model making, sculpture, and painting. Foam core can be cut, shaped, or sanded to create intricate and detailed designs, providing a solid foundation for artwork and displays. It can also be used as a base for painting, allowing for a smooth and even surface for detailed brushwork or airbrushing.

Another popular use for foam core in hobbies and crafts is in creating 3D models and prototypes. Its lightweight and rigid nature make it an ideal material for creating detailed and accurate models for architectural and engineering projects. Additionally, foam core can be used as a display base for artwork and trophies, providing a durable and attractive platform for showcasing your creations.

How can foam core be used in building and construction?

Foam core is also a valuable material in the construction industry, where it can be used as a core material for doors, walls, and other building components. Its excellent insulation properties and lightweight nature make it an ideal choice for reducing energy consumption and improving the overall performance of a building. Foam core can be easily cut and shaped to fit specific dimensions and requirements, ensuring a precise and efficient installation process.

Additionally, foam core is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional building materials. Its low energy consumption during production and its ability to reduce energy consumption in buildings contribute to its environmental benefits. Furthermore, foam core can be recycled and reused in various applications, making it a sustainable and responsible choice for construction projects.

How can foam core be painted or finished?

Foam core can be easily painted or finished with various materials to enhance its appearance and functionality. It is essential to prepare the surface before painting to ensure a smooth and even finish. This can be done by sanding or smoothing the surface, removing any rough spots or imperfections. It is also recommended to use high-quality primer and paint specifically designed for foam core to achieve the best results.

Apart from painting, foam core can be finished with various materials such as vinyl, fabric, or wallpaper. These finishes can be used to create a seamless and attractive appearance for the finished product, while also providing additional protection and durability. Furthermore, foam core can be laminated with clear or printed films, allowing for a wide range of custom designs and patterns to be applied to the surface.

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Randy Bauer
Randy Bauer

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