styrofoam trees

pdomensis · 05-13-13, 01:39 PM

Has anyone created or seen tree trunks made using the styrofoam/grout method? I had an idea of doing trunks going up the back corners of a large arboreal enclosure with real branches and artificial plants grafted into the trunks. I'd love to make something like the base of the Moreton bay figs on Jurassic Park.

NextMorph · 05-14-13, 03:22 AM

I've never made trees but have done other stuff with styrofoam and grout. I say go for it!!! Just make a plan ahead of time and then start carving away! My only suggestion is to keep the grout relatively thin and put many coats so it doesn't just chip off in big chunks. Also.... lots of clear-coat at the end so that it will clean fine.

And make sure you post pics.

Cor8et · 05-14-13, 03:24 AM

Bookmarked

scottyy · 05-14-13, 09:35 PM

lizard-landscapes.com he has videos on how to make it and i am actually attempting to make a fake rock wall background using one of his tutorial videos. Leopard gecko habitat, or tarantula, tree frog, snake, vietnamese centipede etc. - YouTube thats the link to the tree hide tutorial. it is an EXTREMELY messy project though. if you do decide to try it you can pm me and i will give you a few tips to help you along the way. it is very easy and will only cost roughly 70 bucks depending on the size of the structure. i hope that helps.

NextMorph · 05-14-13, 11:03 PM

I posted a few pics of a landscape I did for my collared lizard in a different thread here:

Styrofoam and Grout Landscape

Making a tree wouldn't be all that different.. it just means carving the styrofoam differently. The link in the comment before mine shows it very well.

There is no limit other than your imagination as to what you can do for these projects.