Gather: 

  • Four sheets of blue construction foam (8’ x 10’)
  • Dark brown spray paint
  • Tan latex paint
  • Brown wood stain
  • Duct tape
  • Utility knife
  • Tape measure
  • Tan king size flat sheet
Directions:   
1.      Remove all plastic film from the front of each sheet of construction foam board. 

2.      Lay two sheets of blue construction foam side by side on the floor face up (printed side on the floor).

3.      Measure down the far left side (from the top) two feet and mark it.  Stretch a long piece of tape from that mark to the top corner of the far right side across both sheets of foam board.  
4.      Using a shape blade, cut along that line. 

5.      Lay the other two sheets of blue construction foam side by side on the floor face up (printed side on the floor). 

6.      Measure down the far right side (from the top) two feet and mark that.  Stretch a long piece of tape from that mark to the top corner of the far left side across both sheets of foam board.  

7.      Using a sharp blade, cut along that line.

 *Note-When the panels are joined together and standing, it will seem to have a small mountain peak appearance.  This is correct. 
   
8.      Stand each panel in a well ventilated area and draw lines with a pencil up and down like jail bars about 4”-5” apart on each panel.  Spray paint the lines with dark brown. *Note- Hold the can closer to the panel to create a more narrow line.  The spray paint will melt into the foam slightly (If you removed the plastic film).  This is the desired effect.   

9.      Turn the panel on its side and spray paint short lines in between the long lines spacing two or three feet apart. These will be the end of the planks that create the wall. *Note- If the paint runs and melts into the foam, this will only add character to the wood. 
  10.  Let the panels dry completely. 

11.   Paint the tan latex paint on the foam panels with a narrow roller.  Be sure to paint the edges of each panel.  Let it dry completely. 

12.  Lightly brush dark wood stain with the very tips of the brush to create lines (wood grain) on the tan painted planks you have created. *Tip- Use a paper towel to dab the wet paint brush of stain to make the brush mostly dry since stain is very liquid and you only want lines.  Practice a few swipes on some scape cardboard first. 

13.  Be sure the stain is also around the edges of the panel to give a more finished look.

Optional- Use a metallic silver or copper permanent marker to draw small dots as nail heads on each board. 

Tip – Paint and stain the cut piece removed from each of the corners to add to the interior as a desk top or shelf.  Set the desktop on a crate of stool or adhere it in the corner with Velcro self-adhesive tabs or add support cardboard triangle pieces under the shelf. 
14.   Cut an opening for the window so the telescope can point outward.  Add theme fabric for a curtain. 

For more VBS 2017 decorating ideas check out the book Decorating Made Easy (005732157) at www.lifeway.com.

Download the Printable SHARPEN Promotion with Schedule

 

 

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