Ready to paint your styrofoam craft project? Wondering which paints will work best?
We've already researched how to paint styrofoam to perfection on all your DIY projects.
Save yourself some time by letting us do the work for you when it comes to finding the best products for the purpose.
In this ProPaintCorner.com guide, you will learn:
- The best paints for use on styrofoam
- Tips and tricks for a high-quality paint job
- What paints not to use on styrofoam
- And much more!
Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose and use the best paint for styrofoam!
| Image | Product | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Our Top Pick
| Our Top Pick | Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint Set
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| View on Amazon |
| Best Budget
| Best Budget | Apple Barrel Essential Paint Set
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| View on Amazon |
| Best High End
| Best High End | Turner Acrylic Paint Set
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| View on Amazon |
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| Crafts 4 All 24 Acrylic Paint Set
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| View on Amazon | |
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| Krylon Short Cuts
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| View on Amazon | |
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| Sargent Art Primary Acrylic Paint Set
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| View on Amazon | |
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| Color Technik Acrylic Paint Set
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| View on Amazon | |
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| Colorations Simply Washable Tempera Paints
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| View on Amazon |
Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
Updated On September 1, 2023
This Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint Set is great for painting anything from styrofoam balls to canvas, wood, stone, paper, and more.
One of the things that makes this kit different than other kits is that it comes with a wide variety of colors while also giving you a large quantity (240 ml) which is quite a bit more than other kits that have lots of colors included.
Don't purchase a paint kit that leaves you short on a certain color of the paint. Instead, purchase this Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint Set that will leave you sufficient no matter how many coats of paint your project needs.
Top 8 Best Paint For Styrofoam
In a hurry? Check out our top 8 paints for styrofoam! Keep reading to discover more about our top picks.
What Is Paint For Styrofoam?
Basically, any water-based paint or acrylic is suitable for use on styrofoam.
Technically, you could use the same paint that you use on the walls(if it's latex paint) and you'll be good to go.
Because most styrofoam projects are art-related, we have recommended mostly artistic paint kits in this guide.
What Are The Different Types of Paint For Styrofoam?
Spray paint
There are a few different types of spray paint(like Rust-Oleum) that are designed especially for use on styrofoam.
Acrylic Craft Paint
Acrylic paints are water-based paints that are generally used for art projects.
Latex Paint
Latex is another water-based paint that is safe for use on styrofoam.
Read More >> What Are The Best Spray Paints For Art/Graffiti?
How Does Paint For Styrofoam Work?
Painting styrofoam is easily done by using a foam brush or synthetic-bristled brush.
You can use sandpaper to sand the surface of the foam to help get rid of imperfections and reduce the number of coats necessary.
After applying the first coat, let it dry, and apply a second coat.
If the second coat dries, and the surface still isn't covered to satisfaction, then go ahead and apply an additional coat.
You may have to use several coats to effectively coat your styrofoam because it is a porous surface.
What To Look For In The Best Paint For Styrofoam?
- Water-based
The most important factor when searching for paint is that is making sure that it is either acrylic or latex paint(water-based) as other paints like polyurethane and enamels can eat through the foam and ruin your project.
- Quantity
Our Reviews Of The Best Paint For Styrofoam
Pick #1: Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint Set
This attractive 14-piece paint set is a great value that is going to leave you with paint leftover on your project compared to if you purchase a different product on this list.
With clear labels and artist quality, this paint has a creamy texture that is easy to work with, and the best part is that the box and containers have a super-attractive look, so we highly recommend this painting kit for a great gift idea.
Pros
Cons
Pick #2: Apple Barrel Essential Paint Set
Here is a 12-piece set of artfully created acrylic paints that are great for use on projects like foam, ceramics, and more.
One of the great qualities of this paint set is how unique the colors are, like Atlantis, Candy Apple, Clover Fields, Lemon that brightens up any project with their classic look.
By this super-affordable set of paints of Amazon.
Pros
Cons
Pick #3: Turner Acrylic Paint Set
Looking for a large set of acrylic paints that will allow you to paint intricately on your craft foam projects?
This Turner Acrylic paint set has 48 tubes of quality paint for you to choose from, so you can easily apply the desired color onto your foam finish without having to mix paints.
The colors in this Turner set dry quickly and are also water-reducible.
Pros
Cons
Pick #4: Crafts 4 All 24 Acrylic Paint Set
Crafts 4 All provides artists with an affordable 24-piece acrylic set that is great for all skill levels from beginner to expert.
The vibrant colors that come in this set mix easily with each other to create a limitless amount of hues and shades.
This is the perfect set of versatile paints if you are looking to artistically paint smaller foam pieces to perfection.
Pros
Cons
Pick #5: Krylon Short Cuts
Not trying to use a paintbrush? Try these Krylon Short Cuts spray paint that is safe for use on styrofoam products.
Regular spray paint might eat through your styrofoam, however, this fast-drying enamel is a great solution for painting polystyrene, and you can find it in many different colors when shopping on Amazon.
3 fluid ounces will cover a few square feet, so you may want to purchase more than one can if you are painting a larger craft product.
Pros
Cons
Pros
Cons
Check out this 8-piece set of 6-ounce washable paints that get the job done at a super affordable price.
Although you'll have to mix some colors to get the exact color you want, this is a great option for teachers that need to purchase in bulk.
Great for projects like sponge painting, easel painting, crafts, and more.
Pros
Cons
Our Top Pick: Magicfly Bulk Acrylic Paint Set
We like the Magicfy Acrylic Paint Set because it has attractive packaging, 14 very useful colors, and quantities that will get you through multiple projects.
There's nothing worse than purchasing a paint kit that doesn't give you enough of each color to get the job done, so don't do it!
Each color comes with 240 ml(8.12 fluid ounces) of paint which is enough to paint multiple projects without having to worry about running out of paint.
Plus, it's such a great value for the money. Check out the lowest price on Amazon now!
Final Thoughts On Best Paint For Styrofoam
Gluing styrofoam together?
Here are a few solutions for gluing styrofoam together, including:
- White glue
- Craft sealant(try Mod Podge)
- Hot glue
Note: You might also try airbrush painting your styrofoam project.
Not sure if your paint will work? Do a simple test
Now that you know there are only certain paints that will work on painting styrofoam, all you have to do is pour a little bit of the paint you are looking to use onto the styrofoam.
If the paint has chemical solvents, it will likely dissolve the foam, and you'll be able to see it instantly.
You might even end up with a hole that goes all the way through your foam piece by pouring just a tiny bit of resin on top.
And if you're looking to lay up fiberglass or carbon fiber over you foam(which is a common thing these days), be sure to do this test with the resin or glue, and use polyurethane for the best results.
Questions?
You are now ready to paint your piece of styrofoam as if you were an ultra-pro thanks to Pro Paint Corner.
Don't forget to hit us up on our page if you have any questions!
