Deals at Foam Mart Leave Lots of Cushion for Other Purchases

The Foam Mart has been filling pillows and making foam pads for 36 years.

Sheets of foam 8 feet long come in densities appropriate for different needs, and cushions can also be customized. One sheet of 4-by-24-by-96 feet runs $64.47.

Thickness ranges from 2 feet to 8 feet. Because of this versatility, owner Jerry Goldstein estimates that about 30% of Foam Mart’s customers need foam for specialized uses, such as recording or film studios and special-effects companies.

The fabrics to cover the foam are purchased from liquidations or factory overstocks and are priced accordingly. Some handsome tapestries are on the racks, running from $12.95 (retail $30) to $16 a yard (retail $40). There are cottons and poly-cottons for as low as $5.99 a yard, but vinyl and canvas are often more appropriate for foam-rubber pieces. Boat owners generally go for the mildew-resistant vinyl, priced from $9.95 to $14.99 a yard, about 25% lower than at most stores.

Canvas comes in varying weights not usually available at fabric stores. The heaviest and strongest, called “hammock weight,” runs $22 a yard. Elsewhere it is often $30.

This is a family operation, and, as you might expect, the service reflects pride in the business. If you don’t need the fabrics but just new foam, the folks here will fill your pillows or whatever for free . . . you pay only for the foam.

The Foam Mart, 628 N. Victory Blvd., Burbank. Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (818) 848-3626.

WEEKEND SUPERSALE

It’s time for the annual summer clearance sale at For Kids Only when they take 50% off most inventory. Because this is a discount operation, “half off” takes on a new meaning for the European imports in children’s apparel and shoes from infant to preteen.

For Kids Only, 18155 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana (818) 708-9543.

For more bargains, visit https://www.bargainsla.com.