Here’s a way to make simple disposable foam brushes for glue, paint, stain, or epoxy. Slice strips of foam, then cover one side of the foam with spray adhesive—Elmer’s Craft Bond works well. Press tongue depressors or other sticks onto one side of the foam at appropriate intervals. Now fold the foam over the sticks evenly, press, and cut the segments apart. I make dozens of different sizes at a time. Upholstery shops have foam scraps of all thicknesses, and it doesn’t take much to make a bunch of brushes—a few feet of 3/8-in.-thick material goes a long way.

Drawing by Jim Richey.

Drawing by Jim Richey.

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