Black EVA foam, 3 mm thick - 50x50 cm - self-adhesive

3 mm EVA foam. Black, with adhesive. Density 80 kg/m3, hardness 30 Shore A. 

How do we ship?

The foam comes in 100x100 cm sheets (this is the largest size). Smaller sheets, i.e. 50x100 cm and 50x50 cm, are always cut to size so that they fit into parcel machines. The foam is flexible and is rolled up before shipping.

What is EVA foam?

EVA foam is a flexible and lightweight material that is ideal for creative, technical, and industrial projects. The foam is smooth, closed-cell (impermeable to air and water), and compared to other materials, its hardness is classified as medium (harder than upholstery foams, much softer than hard rubber). It is suitable for heat forming (thermoforming).

What kind of adhesive is used on the foam?

The self-adhesive foam has a layer of hot melt adhesive applied to it. This means that the adhesive has been applied to the foam while hot and is fused into the material, then secured with special protective paper. Upon first contact, the adhesive is not very sticky, which allows for possible corrections by peeling it off and reattaching it. The adhesive gains a stronger grip after about a week because, like almost any type of adhesive, it needs time to bond properly.

What is EVA foam suitable for? 

It is primarily the basic choice when it comes to material for making props and cosplay costumes. It molds well and retains its shape. Thinner foam can be used for details, and thicker foam for larger elements such as a whole breastplate, helmet, or props.

Other uses?

• Automotive (insulation, light soundproofing, steering wheel pads),
• sports (light protectors, water sports accessories),
• orthopedics (shoe inserts),
• advertising (inserts for boxes and displays),
• decorations (large flowers, wings, wall decorations),
• industry (gaskets, suitcase fillings),
• boats (carpeting),
• theater (props),
• tailoring (protective elements, clothing stiffeners).

What are its characteristics?

Important characteristics include water resistance, weather resistance, and buoyancy. Thanks to these properties, the material is successfully used in fishing, water sports, and boat finishing.

The foam has a smooth and aesthetic surface, which is easy to clean thanks to its closed-cell structure. This means that colored foams can be successfully used to create decorations without having to paint them later.

The use of EVA foam in cosplay

First of all, EVA foam is one of the most popular materials for making props and costumes because it is easy to shape, cut, paint, and glue at home.

The range of applications is very wide. From small details to larger elements such as helmets, gauntlets, breastplates, shields, and swords. In general, entire costumes can be made from it.

What is thermoforming?

Thermoformability means that when heated with a heat gun or heater, the foam softens and becomes more malleable. It can be shaped by bending and stretching, and after cooling, the foam retains its shape.

Painting

For painting, we recommend paints that remain flexible, i.e., acrylic paints, spray rubber paints, or paints with latex additives, such as Flexi Paint. A primer is not necessary, but in many cases it is worth using one, as it facilitates the application of subsequent layers and improves coverage.

Gluing

The foam has adhesive on one side, but you may need to glue something to the foam.

The choice of the right adhesive depends on the type of work. For small items, cyanoacrylate adhesive is the fastest and most durable solution. For larger items that require flexibility, choose spray contact adhesive or butaprene. For stationary items such as decorations, hot glue is useful. In some cases, double-sided tape, hobby adhesives, and polyvinyl adhesives can also be considered.

Additional processing

Mechanical processing of the foam is also possible. It can be easily cut with a wallpaper knife, sanded with sandpaper, and even milled.

Are there different options?

We only offer self-adhesive foam in one specification with a density of 80kg/m3. It is very versatile and in most cases, 80kg/m3 EVA foam is a sufficient choice.

FAQ 

Is the foam supplied in rolls?

No, the foam is supplied in sheets with maximum dimensions of 100x100 cm.

Do you offer other sizes?

We cut the 100x100 cm sheets into smaller pieces, i.e. 50x100 and 50x50 cm.

How do you ship the foam?

We roll the foam into rolls and pack them in rectangular cardboard boxes. This way, they take up less space, and the 50x100 cm sheets fit into parcel lockers and collection points.

Can you ship the foam flat so that I don't have to straighten it?

This is possible for orders of sheets measuring 50x100 cm or smaller. The total thickness of the sheets must be at least 5 cm, and the order processing time may be extended. Please confirm this option before placing your order.

How hard is EVA foam?

Our basic foam is much harder than the upholstery foams used, for example, in mattresses, and harder and stiffer than foam puzzles. However, it is much softer than rubber sheets or foamed PVC. It is difficult to illustrate this with examples, so we encourage you to order samples.

Does the foam have adhesive?

Yes, this model has adhesive on one side.

Is the foam suitable for CO2 laser cutting?

Yes, the foam is suitable for laser engraving and cutting. We engrave and cut foams up to 10 mm thick. The advantage of laser cutting is the ability to produce repetitive and complex shapes without the need for cutting dies.