Cutting and painting styrofoam

I am going to start making the centerpieces for DS's b-day. I should use acrylic paint on styrofoam, right? Also, what kind of knife/blade would be best to cut shapes out of styrofoam?

Thanks

Re: Cutting and painting styrofoam

Do you mean foam board? If so, I'd say acrylic is your best bet, but you might want to seal it (wth a polyeurathane spray sealant) afterwards to prevent chipping.

If you meant on foam sheets (like material), paint pens work very well.

I always use a utility blade ?knife to cut foam board. Plus use a t-square or a ruler to get straight cuts. Cut through the front first, get a deep groove, then fold the board to get a crease on the back. Then flip the board and use the blade to cut down the crease. Do not "saw" or else you'll get a jagged edge.

For foam sheets, any sharp scissor will work. Fiscars are the best.

Message edited 1/18/2008 4:19:20 PM.