We have found that EVA foam readily accepts paint

This extremely dense foam can be found in many commercial applications from handle grips to flotation safety devices to sports safety equipment. We have found that EVA foam readily accepts paint, glues and various finishes which makes it ideal for costume accessories and props.

Although we have been using EVA foam for many years, the idea for this tutorial came about just recently. We had a production of "Man of LaMancha" to get ready for shipping. When I pulled the armor for the Knight of the Mirrors from storage, I saw that he was in desperate need of a new helmet. There were only a few days before we needed to ship the show. Not enough time to make a fiberglass helmet. And, of course, my neighborhood armorer was out of the helmet style that I wanted in size. So I decided to use EVA foam to get this job done.

Closed cell foam is available in several colors, and comes by the yard, in sheets, or custom cut to your dimensions. Closed cell foam does not absorb water. We have five grades of closed cell foam: Crosslinked Polyethylene, EVA grade, Volara. The fifth, Neoprene, is another type of closed cell foam. It's about the same firmness as EVA foam but much more pliable, durable, and heavy. Visit our neoprene page for more info.

EVA foam about ago at a trade show and since that time it has become a staple supply in our work room. We began using it for character heads but soon discovered that it had so many possibilities in other aspects of costuming. And we are constantly finding new uses for the product.

Desk for kids EVA foam material