Reptile & Amphibian Forums

what is the best way to build a light but sturdy hide for my uromastyx. i want to beable make one to fit my cage and style that i want. i was thinking about a foam block and cut it to shape but i dont know what to cover it in. any help and pictures would be great. thanks in advanced.
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Jeff Kearney
Orlando, FL

1.0.0 Egyptian Uromastyx (Dino)
2.7.0 Bearded Dragons (Too many to name)
1.0.0 Mali Uromastyx (Rex)
2.2.0 Ball Python (Ali, Gator, Para, Medic)
0.1.1 Leopard Gecko (Layla, Nubbs, Iggy)
0.2.0 Fat-Tailed Gecko (Penelope, Brownie)
0.0.1 Corn Snake (Not sure yet)
0.0.2 Blue Phase Dumpys Tree Frog (Sticky, Squishy)

you can use a styrofoam block or sheets of styrofoam from an arts n' crafts store. the thing is be creative, I am in the process off building a background with ledges,hides etc; etc; My supplies are as follows:
Floor tile grout
Poly-expandable foam
"No Nails" for Polystyrene / or similar contact adhesive
water-resistant PVA (non-toxic children's version)
Paints (non-toxic acrylic paint)
Plastic artists pallet knifes (6 piece set)
half inch Paint Brush

This is what you need to creat a light-weight, yet durable, natural fauk rockwork piece or pieces. Cheers

can you give me a step by step list of how you cover the foam. with pictures if possible thanks so much.
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Jeff Kearney
Orlando, FL

1.0.0 Egyptian Uromastyx (Dino)
2.7.0 Bearded Dragons (Too many to name)
1.0.0 Mali Uromastyx (Rex)
2.2.0 Ball Python (Ali, Gator, Para, Medic)
0.1.1 Leopard Gecko (Layla, Nubbs, Iggy)
0.2.0 Fat-Tailed Gecko (Penelope, Brownie)
0.0.1 Corn Snake (Not sure yet)
0.0.2 Blue Phase Dumpys Tree Frog (Sticky, Squishy)

first, you want to carve the piece or pieces you want, use a medium sand paper for smoothing out the edges, then if they need attachment use the "no nails" adh. The next step would be the grout, now depending on if the heat lamps will be hitting them, is how many layers. I'm doing 5 layers, because I am doing a 4 foot long wall with rock ledges etc; the most important thing with how many coats of grout, is the durability. Just make sure to let a good set time after every application, 2 hours between each layer. Doing this will allow you to see all the light spots that need more grout. Make sure to cover every inch inside and out. Let the hide,rock w/e sit over night, then apply paint, be creative, hell have fun. After the paint use Elmers Carpenters exterior wood glue, with this part do at least 2-3 layers and let sit overnight and boom you created your first piece of faux rockwork. a nice light, durable, piece of cage furniture. Cheers