I've been perusing some of my old model reference materials as I ease back into this great hobby...I came across several references to Marine Styrofoam (sp?) as a base material. Does anyone have any experience with this? Is it sold under any other names? And finally- where can a person buy it?

TIA

Jim

Yes - I'm familiar - Francois Verlinden made this popular as a base in his Diorama publications. It is a much finer grain of styrofoam (not "peppbles of plastic) that has a stiff and fine "honeycomb" texture. It cuts easily and can be sanded smooth. To use it as a base, you will need to first shape it, then coat with a thin layer of plaster of paris to seal it and smooth the surface. Wait until it firmly hardens and you are ready to use it as your base. Thinner sheets can also be used for building walls. Your best variety will be found at Pool Supply Stores, Boat shops, or on occasion at Home Depot or Lowe's. It is not too expensive and is quite light.

Thanks! And yes it was in the verlinden magazines and books.

Jim

I think that a suitable substitute here in North America might be the blue builder's styrofoam. It's the stuff that goes on the skin of the house before they put on the siding. It's fairly cheap, and cuts and sands well. It may not be sturdy enough to hold up plaster or resin buldings, but if you can get a scrap piece from a building site, you might give it a try.