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Foam used to design a model car... Need help

Discussion in 'Collectables, Literature, & Models' started by BLACK HORSE, Aug 30, 2009.

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  1. BLACK HORSE

    BLACK HORSE Formula 3
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    Feb 11, 2004
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    Rob
    #1 BLACK HORSE, Aug 30, 2009
    I have a general modeling question. I want to use foam to sculpture a body design for a non-ferrari related 1:24 scale model car, so does anyone know what type of foam works best with easy sanding, and achieve a great painting surface? Any suggestions is much appreciated
     
  2. ItalianHorses

    ItalianHorses Formula Junior

    Feb 16, 2004
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    #2 ItalianHorses, Aug 30, 2009
    Why foam?
    What about sculpting putty? You can then make a copy in resin.
     
  3. Sfumato

    Sfumato F1 World Champ

    Nov 1, 2003
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    #3 Sfumato, Aug 30, 2009
  4. dmaxx3500

    dmaxx3500 Formula 3

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    #4 dmaxx3500, Aug 30, 2009
    go to a florist a ''hobby lobby'' store and get some green plant foam,you can cut it with an electric carving knife and sand it to shape
     
  5. Zoom Zoom

    Zoom Zoom Karting

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    #5 Zoom Zoom, Aug 31, 2009
    There are fairly dense polyurethane foams that prototype modelmakers use that are okay for using for 1/24 scale models, I've even seen blocks of it at a Hobbytown once. While it's relatively easy to shape (if the density isn't too high), it has a porous surface that needs a thick 2-component urethane primer applied as a liquid filler, then lots of sanding/smoothing for paint.

    Renshape is excellent for the job, and the machined/sanded surface will be much smoother than the foam. It is also much more expensive, but for prototype work (it's intended purpose in life), it's worth it.

    A friend of mine just made an incredible body master (for making a vacuum formed set of body panels for a 1/24 scale Lancia) from Corian. It machined beautifully, and the finish was amazing. If you can find scraps of it, laminate it to the right thickness, it will work very nice..better finish than Renshape. All this dependant on what kind of equipment you have to work with to cut/shape/finish the project. If you are working w/lighter tools, try to find a local supplier of high density polyurethane foam. Some places even sell the components so you can mix/pour your own.
     
  6. Sfumato

    Sfumato F1 World Champ

    Nov 1, 2003
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    #6 Sfumato, Aug 31, 2009
    Last edited: Aug 31, 2009
    Bob:
    We redid the house and moved the kids rooms, so office was discombobulated.
    I have Acme PM, so I'll get shipment together. Only been what, a year?

    Corian-hmmm. Way cheaper than renshape. Miata-Ferrari, this dumbazz always finds expensive way to do same thing. :)

    PS, which Lawnchair was the master? B20? I need the B24 and HF Quattroruotes
     
  7. BLACK HORSE

    BLACK HORSE Formula 3
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    #7 BLACK HORSE, Aug 31, 2009
    My intent for using foam is to begin building my two sons, their cub scout's pinewood derby cars for next months race. I would like to experiment with foam glued to a pine block and then sand down to get a nice sleek body design. Since I have a weight limit of 5oz I figure working with foam would be a better choice and of course is lighter than wood, or plastics but much easer to shape and paint. I still need a foam product that offers a dense surface. I have never worked with foam, so this would be a learning curve for me.
     
  8. Zoom Zoom

    Zoom Zoom Karting

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    #8 Zoom Zoom, Sep 3, 2009
    Last edited by a moderator: Sep 7, 2017
    Sounds good!

    Was at Ferrari dealer a week ago, we stayed past closing talking to one of the nicest salesmen you could imagine, just another car guy and a rabid Miata fanatic/owner. He got it cheap from a college guy whose Dad gave it to him and he really wanted a truck, the Miata was a "girl's car" and he was happy to get rid of it. It also happened to be a very rare Miata Type R. As long as Biff is happy with his truck, his Miata is in the hands of a true enthusiast, and the Type R is anything but a "girl's car" LOL.

    I believe the Lancia is a D24. Bill Cunningham is building it, this is his big project he started after last year's epic scratchbuilt Maserati Birdcage. First photo is the vacuum formed panels and assembled body, second is the Corian master. Notice how he's made the master in multiple pieces that disassemble, so he can lay them out for vacuum forming.
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