How to Build the Tomb of Jesus From Styrofoam

An empty tomb Easter decoration keeps the focus on the risen Lord.

If you would like children to participate in the making of this craft, allow them to do the painting, but an adult should cut the Styrofoam.

1. Measure 4” from the top of the ball with a ruler. Cut off that segment of the ball with the knife. Flip the ball over so that it sits steady on its level bottom.

2. Measure along the base of the tomb to find the center. Mark 2” on either side of the center point. Cut an upside down “U” shape that begins and ends with 2” marks. This is the tomb opening. Reserve the U shaped cutout to use as the stone.

3. Cut out a 4” wide, 4” tall and 4” deep cavity, beginning with the U shaped opening.

4. Cover your work surface with newspaper. Shake the can of spray paint for 30 seconds. Hold the tomb upside down in one hand and hold the can of spray paint 12" from the tomb in the other hand. Spray paint the inner cavity with up-and-down and side-to-side strokes. Flip the tomb over and sit it on its base. Paint the outside of the tomb with the same up-and-down and side-to-side strokes. Allow to dry. A second coat of paint may be necessary.

5. Paint the front of the U shaped stone gray. Allow to dry. Flip over and paint the back and sides of the U shaped stone gray. Allow to dry.

6. Spread glue over the square of fabric. Crumple the fabric into a ball and place in the back of the tomb to represent the burial cloths.

Tip

Some spray paints will melt the Styrofoam. Use craft paint that is marked for use with Styrofoam.