Good Morning, I'm in process of trying to make a small round layout ( XL pizza size ). Have glued (2) 1 inch thick foamboard pieces together and have rough sawed diameter. What can I use to "finish" or clean up the sides? Sanding block is what I first thought of, but I'll defer to you more experienced foamboard users! Thanks in advance. Mike
I've not done this for a layout in quite this way, but maybe use a rasp for final shaping to knock off the high spots on the diameter. Then, use a wall filler or spackle all around the edge. Once that dries, use a sander to smooth it.
I use a sheetrock hand sander with a sanding screen. The screen doesn't plug up and you can get them in 80 and 120 grit. Be ready with the shop vac. It's gonna get messy : )
Thanks all for the suggestions, not looking for real smooth finish just wanting to knock off rough spots, plan on painting sides black to highlight scenery above. Yes, I had a time cleaning up after rough sawing, vacuum is warmed up for next step.......
Have you considered an electrical foam knife? The most basic are battery operated and are shaped similar to a hacksaw - the handle holds the battery(ies) and the frame is metal. The blade is a piece of piano wire so when the switch is close, current flows through the frame and wire which heats the wire enough to neatly trim the foam. Here's one sold at Joan's Fabrics. There are also some relatively low cost plug in models such as this one at Target .
You can get both of these at either Michaels or AC Moore - think 40 or 50% off coupon. I have and use both the second one is VERY fragile.
I have some old sheets of plastic left over from a bathroom shower enclosure. Cut strips to make fascia to cover sides of foam surfaced layout. Filled with latex caulk. Paint and ground cover over caulk.
Just to follow up, I used some spackling in nooks and cranies, smoothed that out and lightly sanded entire surface, I found some Rustoleum flat black latex paint ( stuff is REAL thick ) and painted outside with that. Came out pretty good, 7 year old grandson is happy so there we go.. thanks again for all the replies, appreciate the help! Mike
