Thread: column material

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I am making columns for my front walk. I am using milk crates for the frame, and I can use either plywood (which I already have on hand) or styrofoam to cover the frames. Thoughts? Preferences? I am comfortable working with either. I will be capping them and painting the things solid gray maybe with the stone type paint or something like that.
I love asking you guys questions, you are all so knowledgable and supportive.
Thanks

Personal preference... I used styrofoam for my columns, first because of the weight, and also the flexibility of the material. It can be sanded, scored, cut, distressed, etc., relatively easily. The apperance also somewhat resembles stone more than wood can.

how thick of the foam did you use?

I have used both. My current ones are plywood, but I agree with Herman, I think the Styrofoam gives you much more flexibility and you can age them better. The ones I have now look too new, and I am actually thinking about covering the wood with the foam again if time permits.

Originally Posted by tinafromidaho

how thick of the foam did you use?

2" foam was mainly used, with various other thickness for some of the detail, brickwork etc

I myself use foam too... 2" max... The weight is a huge concern, the foam is a lot lighter, and I agree with Herman...I think you can do more with it...shaping stones, sanding, weathering...etc,Plywood is a lot heavier to tote around, IMO.

here's a quick picture of my column, with foam.

Halloween Forum - CMGhost's Album: Halloween Props - Picture

Mine are plywood and they are very heavy...I cart them around on an old skate board. The upside is that while sitting in my garage they get bumped and dinged all year long and there is no damage.