Can you Mod Podge on styrofoam? Find out if Mod Podge melts styrofoam in this post and get a cute DIY tray project idea. Learn how to seal styrofoam here!
As a professional decoupager (is that a thing?) and blogger, I get asked a lot of questions about Mod Podge. For example, is Mod Podge waterproof? (Not technically). And, can it be removed? (It depends).
Another question I get asked often is, can you Mod Podge on styrofoam? And the short answer – yes! But, it really depends on the foam. Smooth is easier than rough. Keep reading.
Different Types of Styrofoam
It’s important to note that this craft is done with smooth (polystyrene) foam. It is much easier to Mod Podge on smooth foam versus the rough.
The rough foam has open cells, so the Mod Podge tends to soak down into the foam and not stay at the surface so that you can attach anything.
It can help to place a base layer of paint or Mod Podge down first onto the foam, but it’s still difficult. The more open the cells on the foam, the harder it is. I have successfully done it with thinner materials like tissue paper, but it’s not easy.
I recommend sticking with foam that is as smooth as possible. If you have a green floral ring (for example), you can always paint it white first before decoupaging it. Yes, foam can also be painted with acrylic paint.
Now, if you’d like to see how I Mod Podge on styrofoam (with fabric), continue by checking out the project below!
Gather These Supplies
- Styrofoam trays – 2 of the same size
- Fabric
- Mod Podge Gloss
- Wide paintbrush
- Scissors
It doesn’t matter which Mod Podge formula you use. This post uses Gloss, but you can use any (if you’re feeling festive, go for the sparkle!).
Get the printable how to card for this project below!
Mod Podge on Styrofoam
Equipment
- Wide paintbrush
Instructions
- Using the styrofoam tray as your guide, cut the fabric to size. Make sure to add in about 1” all around the styrofoam tray so you are able to fold it over the edges, and also additional allowance if your tray is deeper.
- Apply a generous amount of Mod Podge on the top of one tray, and apply your fabric. Make sure to push the fabric in the grooves and corners if your styrofoam tray has it. I find that working in sections is best as it helps you smoothen the fabric down better. Let it dry.
- Repeat step 2, but with the bottom of the other tray.
- Fold the fabric over the edges on both trays, and Mod Podge them to secure. For the corners, fold them neatly and as closely to the edge of the tray as possible. Cut any excess fabric and Mod Podge the folds to secure. Wait for those to dry.
- Attach the trays together by using Mod Podge on the exposed styrofoam sides and stacking them together. Let dry completely before using.
Notes
If you have any questions, I’d love to hear them in the comments!
Nevart
Saturday 8th of June 2024
Thank you that's incredible
Kat
Monday 13th of June 2011
I wholeheartedly agree with you, Mel! This inspired me to copy pieces of fabric I had cut for a quilt. Arranged them hodge-podge on paper & made copies. Painted the bottom of the styrofoam, then Mod Podged a copy of the fabric on the top. This will be a new spoon rest for my stove. Thanks so much for sharing and inspiring!
creativejewishmom/sara
Saturday 11th of June 2011
Thanks so much Amy, you're always so generous with the text about me, though of course I can't complain! Love ya too! xoxoxoSara
Mel M. M. McCarthy
Saturday 11th of June 2011
The hoardosaurus in me knew that those meat trays wanted to be something. Beautiful!
Jo
Friday 10th of June 2011
Love it, going over to Creative Jewish Mom,now!~JOLazyonLoblolly