Select an image of a red panda. Red panda images can be found in books, magazines and online.
Cut a large block of foam, with a handsaw, that measures 30 inches by 30 inches squared. You will use this large block of foam to create the red panda’s body. Depending on the age of the red panda, its body size varies from 20 to 26 inches in length.
Cut another block of foam that measures 22 inches by 10 inches thick. This smaller section of foam is used to create the red panda’s tail. A red panda’s tail, depending on its growth, ranges in length from 12 to 20 inches.
Cut the large block of Styrofoam down further with a serrated knife. Make the basic form of the red panda. Individual details will be added later.
Cut the smaller section down so that it resembles a red panda’s tail. It is important to note that the tail shouldn’t be carved straight, but curved as if it is in motion. This technique provides the appearance of movement.
Add details to the red panda’s body. Sculpt around the basic form with a heated wire cutter. Remember to add dimension to the eyes, mouth and nose area.
Add details to the tail section. Use the heated wire cutter to notch small nicks into the surface of the red panda. Once painted, these notches will look like fur.
Break a wooden skewer in half. Insert the skewer halves into the back end of the red panda.
Apply the Styrofoam glue to the tail section of the panda and insert the tail onto the skewers. The skewers add stability to the sculpture. Allow the glue to dry before painting the red panda.
Paint the panda with black, golden brown, white and red acrylic paint. Use the image as a painting guide. Allow the paint to dry before displaying.