Styrofoam carving and shaping?

Question:

Styrofoam carving and shaping?

Trying to make a detailed sculpture out of styrofoam (a bee's honeycomb). The teacher recommended a certain type of file. I bought it and it isn't working well. It "saws" the styrofoam, makes it shed pieces and takes forever. This project will take months to complete at this rate...and it's due in three weeks!

How do I carve and shape styrofoam in detail? Is there a tool that will shape styrofoam more quickly and in detail?

Additional Details

1 week ago
The styrofoam I have to use is white and we had to use the type the school provided, so I have no choice in material.
Also, I already tried an electric knife (my aunt's new one!) and it didn't work any better than the filing tool.

1 week ago
I've already tried various grades of sand paper and it's not working well. Once I get it into the shape I want, sandpaper will help smooth surface, but won't cut the design I require.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: 1 week ago
The styrofoam I have to use is white and we had to use the type the school provided, so I have no choice in material.
Also, I already tried an electric knife (my aunt's new one!) and it didn't work any better than the filing tool.