looking for foam alternative

[mommy amber]

does anyone know of an alternative to structural craft foam (like you find in the giant sheets at the fabric store...often used as furniture cushions, etc).  I need something with firm support but do not want to use foam b/c I cannot find it without flame retardant added in it...stabilizer isn't enough support.  thanks!!

[FarmerBeth]

I don't think this is feasible in and of itself, but when I needle felt wool it does get a firmness like that structural craft foam.  I think that could be hard to do over a large surface, though, even with a felting needle punch.  If you quilted together a few layers of wool quilt batting that might do it, though.  What is it you're making?

[mommy amber]

well, I make wool felt food (http://www.etsy.com/shop/amberparis) and some things would benefit from a little added stability...since posting this, I've been experimenting with using extra heavy-weight stabilizer paired with several layers of quilt batting and it seems to be doing the trick...a foam-like alternative would be quicker and easier...but I think you're right, it probably doesn't exist at this point.  thanks for your input!

[E.V. Lowi]

A local upholstery shop might have something you can use to substitute for foam. There are poly battings that are thicker and stiffer than your average quilt batting.

[FarmerBeth]

mommy amber, those wool cupcakes are adorable!