/cgl/ - Cosplay & EGL

>>7530269

It's EVA foam, commonly known as gym mat floor foam, garage floor foam, etc., and basically denser than craft foam (craft foam is also EVA foam). Don't mistake it for camping or yoga foam, though; they're different and don't work well for cosplay/props iirc.
It's a staple in cosplay/prop making. Usually come in giant 46"x93" 1/4" thick sheets, or 1/2" thick puzzle-piece style mat packs (I notice you're euro by "armoured," so sorry for not using metric). Over here in the states, you can get them in department stores/sports stores like Sears, Big5, Lowers, etc.
Craft foam you'll find at craft stores on the other hand you can find in thicknesses from 2mm-5mm iirc. The three stars on my chest are made with 3mm [eva]craft foam.

I heat form it with a heat gun, but I think a blow dryer works also, just not as fast. Keep in mind since it's not rigid/a foam, it'll only keep its "general" bend (unlike heat forming a plastic), unless you glue it down to something else while bent already.

Additional info:
-hot glue is the staple glue for eva foam
-always use fresh utility blades/razors for clean cuts
-use a cutting board for clean cuts
-you'll need to seal it first before priming/painting it since it's porous; diluted white/wood/pva glue applied with a foam brush works and is cheap. Though there are other more expensive methods with even better end finishes (plastidip, etc.) I use Mod Podge, which is a lot like pva glue, but runnier so it doesn't need diluting, and isn't that more expensive.
-use nylon web straps and plastic buckles to attach separate pieces together. consider velcro for some parts too (I put on that lower torso like a skirt, except instead of a zipper, it's velcro).

Hope this helps.