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Sheets to Shapes main page
Sheets-to-Shapes General Instructions
Sheets-to-Shapes Designs & Templates
Shape & Size Listing

Following are the general instructions for Sheets-to-Shapes™ templates.

1. Select template and print out on an 8-1/2" x 11" sheet of paper. On a photocopy machine, enlarge template by 200 percent. If you do not have a copy machine with an enlargement feature, this can be readily done at you local office supply store, such as Office Max, or office services provider, such as Mail Boxes etc or Kinko's. For added convenience, you can send the template pattern via email to Kinko's. The cost for an enlargement is nominal.
2. Cut out enlarged templates on solid lines. Do not cut along the dotted lines; the dotted lines will be used later to add details to the foam shapes. Pin templates to foam sheets and cut out shapes. (Hint: When cutting out shapes, remove large pieces of foam first, before cutting out finer details.)
3. Remove templates and pins from foam sheet. Use sharp knife to bevel edges of shape; sand beveled edges smooth with a scrap of STYROFOAM™ brand foam.
4. Following the dotted lines on templates, add details to the foam shapes using a wood pick, knife tip, or the tip of a hot knife.
5. Prepare surface for painting using a heat gun, which will slightly melt and smooth the surface, and also enhance the scored lines. Depending on the desired effect, do not over heat. Overheating can cause the foam to shrink and distort.
6. Spray paint the foam with a primer. Using a primer first ensures that your final, color coat will cover more thoroughly. Spray or brush on your top coat; let dry and add an additional coat if necessary. Note: Always test paint first on a scrap piece of foam. Paints containing solvent may melt a portion of the foam.
7. To add details, fold a chenille stem in half and use as a paint brush. Or, wrap a chenille stem around a wood pick.
8. Assemble shapes using wood picks and glue.