making a cross for church

[david briggs Fl]

I've been asked to build a 8' cross covered with styrofoam for my church. Any input would be appreciated. If the length is 8' how long should the cross beam be?

[Scott Hildenbrand]

Size is always subjective in crosses and there is no set dimension. More often than not they're either 1:2 or 1:3, which deals strictly with the length of the lower section.

The following represents blocks @ 12" square.

http://thecrossweb.com/images/Made/how%20to%20make%20a%20cross/wooden%20cross%20pattern.jpg

[Mike Henderson]

I'd measure the span of your arms held out from your sides, then add a little bit. I don't think the length is critical. It's symbolic, rather than functional (at least I hope so).:)

Mike

[Cliff Holmes]

covered with styrofoam

:confused:

[harry strasil]

this is the general standard,

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v81/irnsrgn/smithing/cross2.jpg

[david briggs Fl]

The styrofoam is for pinning prayer request to the cross.

[harry strasil]

Cork would be a better alternative and it will last much longer and hold the pins better. FWIW

[Scott Hildenbrand]

Cork would be a better alternative and it will last much longer and hold the pins better. FWIW

+1

If still considering foam, do NOT use Styrofoam.. Pick up some sheet insulation instead.. 1/2" thick is all that's needed. If it can be attached in a manner in which it's replaceable that would be great.. IE screws or such.

Will this be covered in a fabric, or just painted? If just painted.. +5 for cork.

[Jamie Buxton]

Cork would be a better alternative and it will last much longer and hold the pins better. FWIW

If you make the cork layer thick enough to hold pins -- say 3/8" -- that turns out to be a spendy choice. Most commercial bulletin boards are actually a thinner layer of cork over something that looks like Homosote. The thin layer of cork looks good, and is self-healing. The homosote keeps the cost down. A good source for cork is http://www.jelinek.com/

[david briggs Fl]

Our paster wants this done before Sunday, so I need to find materials available locally. Cork is a good idea if I can find it at Lowe's at a price the Church is willing to pay.

[Scott Hildenbrand]

Won't find cork at Lowes, at least not the way you need it..

Question still remains, what were you going to cover the foam with?

[Jon Lanier]

Try Cork or ceiling tile.