Anyone know where I can get big (8 ft X 4ft) foam core?

Thanks!
Josh London

What kind of foam core are you talking about, art board, or wood or chipboard panels with foam insulation sandwiched in between? Most Lumberyards can order the later for you if they don't carry it. The former may not be manufactured in that size. If it were, its main use would be in signage. You might try some of the local sign companies, especially those that specialize in making temporary signs like Fast Signs, etc.

I would like something very strong, yet light.

The ideal thing would be the kind with the foam in the middle. I'm going to be using it to make The Pass By Panels from Osborne's Easy Build Illusions. Then I'm going to have the company's logo silk-screened on the board.

Josh

If you have a local art supply store, they should have Gator Foam brand materials in thicknesses of an inch or more. Also check with sign shops.

Most suppliers require you buy a case of it. (25 sheets of 3/8") Your best bet is either contact a sign shop, or a prop company.

Tim

I second the suggestion of calling a sign shop. I work at one and know that we use this material from time to time.

I have used material that has been a dream to use instead of plywood...

It is an expanded foam sheet of PVC/plastic. I have used 1/4" 4x8 sheets. It will cost around $60 and can be found at plastic supply houses.

It is basically a plastic board, but with the expanded (think foam) middle, it is very light. It can be cut with simple tools (table saw is best) and assembly is glue (special adhesive also from the supply house) that takes minutes to set up and is STRONG. It paints well (I used spray can type). I also found that boxes can be watertight (nice for that time I broke an egg in it!!!) It has been very stable (no warping like cheap wood plywood.

Expensive, but the stability and ease of assembly makes up for it...
Lynn Fox

I used to buy large size when I had a photo studio. I purchased them from "Baltimore Display" They specialize in items for Malls and window dressers that need displays.

I'm sure that there is a company in your area that carries this. I found it to be a lot less (Cost wise) than an art supply or sign shop. Careful when you shop there, because they have many cool items.

Hope this helps,
Bill

Bill or Lynn (or anyone else), do you know this material's brand name?
Thanks!

Curt

I use gator foam a lot in my business, your best source will be a plexiglass/plastic sheet goods supplier. If they do not have it try a sign/graphics supply house, like Tubelite Co. Gator foam brand is the best and strongest but it is also the most expensive.