To apply most types of soil, sand, or grit to foam bases, there is a very simple technique. First, sand the base to create a rough surface. This is done to ensure good contact between the adhesive and base. Next mix up polyester resin and catalyst in container. Apply it to the base surface with a paint brush. Once the base has been fully painted with the resin, take the soil in your hand and scatter on base. There is no need to be picky about the quantity of dirt placed on the base, only the dirt that actually comes in contact with the resin will stick. Let this set for a few minutes, then turn over the base so that the excess dirt will fall off. Turn base upright, apply more soil material and let dry. After it has dried shake off any excess dirt.
To apply artificial plants with stems to base all you need to do is drill a hole in the base, clip the stem so it will set down into the hole at the proper depth. Mix up either an amount of bondo or fiberglass resin, fill the hole you have drilled with this material for stem. Push stem down into hole, move plant into its proper position. Let dry.
To apply moss type materials to bases you just need to do three simple steps.
- Soak moss in water
- Take moss and place on base using a staple gun with 9/16 staples
- Fluff moss so as to cover staples
To put wood pieces onto foam bases you can do one of two things. You can trim foam so wood will set down on the bottom of the base and use wood screws through the bottom of base into the wood. You can also apply bondo mixture to the bottom and let dry.