/cgl/ - Cosplay & EGL

So, I'm stuck on making my first prop. It doesn't seem too difficult in theory, but I'm stuck on the steps because I suck.

I plan on using a wooden dowel for the base of my staff, carved insulation foam for the top details, sand that, cover with masking tape and paper mache, gesso then paint. The problem I'm having is with the staff details, though. Would I just be able to create the vertical lines with foam sheets? Should I cover that or just straight gesso and paint?