When looking for theatrical props in Tampa, foam is typically the best place to begin. A foam prop can be purchased at a much lower cost than wood or metal and is much lighter and can be carved into practically any shape imaginable, making it ideal for school plays, touring shows, film sets, and even theme park pieces. The final price will vary according to the size, detail, coating and timeline; this guide will help you determine your costs before you call.
We are IPS Foam in Clearwater and have created stage props, movie props and set pieces for productions of any size. We’ve worked as a studio for HBO, Amazon Prime, independent studios, television shows, musicians and theme parks, and for school theatres too. Let’s say you’re thinking about building; here are some things we say.
What is considered to be a theatrical prop?
The term “word” is loosely applied. In reality, there are three groups:
Hand props are small items which actors carry, such as a goblet, a sword, a briefcase, etc. They have to be light and easy to lift.
The larger items that make up a scene – columns, rocks, trees, arches, thrones, signs and backdrops- these are set pieces. Foam comes into its own here, as one person can lift a six-foot column of foam, whereas one person cannot lift a six-foot column of solid wood for the same amount of money.
Décor and special pieces include oversized letters, sculptures, parade floats, concert and event props, and trade show displays. See our 3D letters, signs and sculptures and monuments for examples.
Why do so many prop makers use foam?
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is the material behind most of our work, and it’s popular for good reasons.
It’s inexpensive compared with wood or metal, so budgets stretch further. It’s light enough to move around the stage quickly and to pack up for a tour. It carves easily with hand tools or hot wire cutting, and for complicated shapes, a CNC router can do the work from a digital file.
It also takes paint and coatings well. Once a prop is coated and sealed, it stands up to repeated handling, which matters for a show that runs for weeks.
What drives the cost
Foam prices depend on the job, not a fixed list. The main factors:
Size. More volume means more material and longer cutting time.
Complexity. A simple cut shape is the cheapest. A hand-carved, detailed sculpture takes a lot more labour, and that’s where most of the cost sits.
Finish. A raw prop costs the least. Adding a hardcoat, paint, texture and special effects moves the price up.
Quantity. If you need several of the same prop, we can mould or programme the shape once, which brings the cost per piece down.
Timeline. Rush orders can cost more, and schedules are tighter during busy seasons.
Delivery and install. Large pieces may need special transport and setup.
We don’t publish flat prices because every project differs, but a sketch, photo or drawing with dimensions usually gets you a quote quickly. Prices also change from year to year, so a quote for your 2026 project is more reliable than any number on a web page.
Foam, wood or rental?
Each has its place.
Wood and metal are sturdy and realistic but heavy, slow to assemble and expensive for the larger sizes. Renting works for a basic object that you have to use just one time – for example, a plain chair or table and not a particular design of rental stock. Fibreglass or resin can provide a hard, shiny surface but is heavier and more expensive.
Foam is in the middle. It’s the best choice when you want a custom shape, a large size and a modest budget. A blend is a good set-up for many productions: purchased or rented standard furniture and made foam of what everyone else didn’t get.
A word on safety
A little maintenance is required for foam props. Please be aware that EPS is combustible, so please consult your venue’s fire codes before the load-in. There are materials or coatings that are required for many theatres, schools and event spaces,, and the final word goes to the fire marshal. If you know where the prop will be used, we can talk about coating options that will work.
Foam cutting may produce fumes, so ventilate any area where the foam is being cut with a hot wire. When actors are standing on props or leaning on them, ask the props what the weight limit is, but do not assume that foam props can support all the actors’ weight.
Overcast skies and warm temperatures indicate that plans are in the works for Tampa Bay.
There are a couple of additional factors to consider in Florida. Humidity and sun exposure can impact props left outside the home or in storage; a good coating is important. When you’re planning events in the Tampa area, such as outdoor shows, festivals and parades, be sure to let people know ahead of time if your event will be held outdoors and be ready to offer a bit of coverage to the elements. A large block of land to a venue is a matter of planning – particularly for driving it through the Howard Frankland or the downtown system.
Being close helps. We’re in Clearwater, and we deliver across Tampa Bay and much of Florida, which makes it easier to visit, check a fit and make adjustments.
How to order and what to send
Start early. Complex builds can take a few weeks, and the weeks before a big show fill up fast. When you reach out, send:
- A sketch, photo, drawing or reference image
- Dimensions, or the space where the prop will sit
- Where it will be used (indoor, outdoor, touring) and any venue rules
- How many pieces do you need
- Your deadline and your budget range, if you have one
If you don’t have a drawing, describe what you want, and we can help with design, including CAD design, 3D scanning and foam sculpturing. You can also see more on our stage and theatrical props page and our party props.
To get a quote on your props, call IPS Foam at 727-447-0085 (we answer seven days a week), or send details through the contact page. We’re at 1611 N Hercules Ave, Clearwater, FL 33765, open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, with weekends and after hours by appointment.