Home >> Science & Nature >> Science

How to Make a Brain Mold Out of Styrofoam

Brain models are used in science fairs and Halloween parties. They are also used as study aids for anatomy and neuroscience classes. The models do not always show all parts of the brain. Some of them do not show the cerebellum, for example. However, they usually show the hemispheres, and some details of the brain lobes. Brain molds can be made from materials such as Styrofoam, clay, or plaster. To make a brain mold out of Styrofoam, choose a block that is larger than the actual model. This helps protect the mold from premature crumbling. When finished, fill it with material such as clay, epoxy resin, or plaster.

Things You'll Need

Styrofoam
Styrofoam cutter
Utility knife
Plastic brain model
Pencil
Paper
Ruler
Compass
Coarse and fine sandpaper
Clay
Acrylic paint
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Choose the dimensions of the brain you want to mold. These must include the length, diameter and height. Write the parameters down.
- 2
  Design the model. Use the plastic brain model, pencil and paper to sketch outlines of how the brain should look from the top and the bottom.
- 3
  Create a small mockup out of clay. First, hollow the clay out with the utility knife. Afterwards, carve lines into it, using the outlines as guidelines. The mockup can also be created with a practice block of foam.
- 4
  Sketch an outline onto the top of the Styrofoam. Use a ruler and compass to create the proper dimensions. Trace the outline lightly with the utility knife.
- 5
  Begin cutting away parts of the foam. Use the Styrofoam cutter, utility knife, or both. The mold should be curved, with a line in the middle that shows the two hemispheres. It should have curved lines or rope-like features to represent the structure of the brain̵7;s lobes.
- 6
  Sand the insides with coarse sandpaper. When finished, sand it again, but with fine sandpaper
- 7
  Paint the mold with an acrylic paint. Set it to the side to dry, then apply another coat, if necessary.

Science