Making Your Diorama

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More of my customers are using my products such as 1 1/6th scale flags, and military patches to had realism to there model making and diorama so here's some basic tips to get knew model makers started on there journey good luck and have fun. My website is linked above but if you need anything you can also contact me via email: paulharding30@hotmail.co.uk

The above 1 1/6th scale flags are limited in stock so if you want some or want some different ones please drop me an email and will have made to your requirements.

 The word diorama is a way to build an exciting scene in a small space. They usually model a historical time period, a nature scene, or a fictional situation, and allow a lot of room for creativity and innovation. Whether your diorama is a school project, a base for a model, or just for fun, building one is easy. Try these techniques for a homemade diorama.



Choose a theme.

Dioramas are small scenes created of layers of materials, all depicting a similar theme. Think of the topic or idea you want your diorama to portray - is it a scene from a book? A period in time? An example of an ecosystem or animal/plant group? The options for a diorama are endless; anything topics with a common thread could be made into a diorama.

•  themes you choose may vary depending on the ultimate size you want and the amount of supplies you have. A very broad theme may not be able to be accomplished in a small shoebox, while a very specific theme will be difficult to accomplish in a large frame.
• Consider the availability of your supplies. If you want to make a diorama with an ocean theme, but have nothing to represent water or fish, it will be difficult to accomplish.

 

 

Plan your diorama. Create a list of ideas for possible inclusions for your diorama. How do you want the background to look? Will you use found objects only, or printed pictures as well? Do you need to buy any supplies to create your scene, or can it all be made using things from your home and garden? Brainstorming ideas prior to starting to build up your diorama will help you to have a more finished looking piece.






    Select a frame.

Because dioramas have layers of background, they need a box or frame that is several inches deep. For a basic diorama, a shoebox or old shipping box can be turned on its side and used. Larger dioramas can be created out of a large wooden crate or frame attached to a box. Anything that gives the illusion of a small open-faced room can be used as the frame for your diorama

Create your background. Your diorama should be worked on from the back to the front. As you work, you will add layers of details and images which create depth in your scene. Make the background first against the formost wall of your box. Consider painting a basic scene or printing an image and gluing it on. You could also create a collage out of magazine cut outs to act as the background for your diorama.

Begin adding details. Add your first layer of details and objects at the back and near the sides of your diorama. At this point, you could add larger detail items such as trees, rocks, or pieces of furniture. Keep to the edges of your project, as you will work inwards and forwards as you go.


Add your figures. Although you don’t have to, complete your scene with the addition of small figurines or models. Keeping with our nature theme example, you might put small toy animals or bugs throughout the frame. Consider hanging things like birds or tiny airplanes from the top of your frame using fishing line and a bit of hot glue or staples. Simple photos could also be printed of the figures and be cut out and set amongst the landscape. This is the final step in your diorama, so complete the scene as you like






Create a textured ground. Although you may just want a simple, smooth ground in your diorama, you can create a very realistic and textured ground easily. Try gluing sand or gravel along the bottom of the frame to give the look of a rough terrain. Pine needles, small leaves, and grass clippings can be glued down to look like grass or a more natural bottom.

To give the appearance of trees in your diorama, gather small twigs and branches from your yard or neighbourhood. Twigs without any leaves look like trees barren in the winter, while small branches off of bushes or trees with needles look like full trees. Stick a tiny ball of clay on the bottom of the branch to hold it upright, or glue it to the inside of your box.