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A Simple Diorama

Preparing the base

Now that I have my mdf cut to the proper dimensions I mark a border around the edge which is 10mm in from the outside edge. This will be the perimeter of the diorama materials. I then mark the rough locations of the diorama content. This image shows how the base is marked showing the position of the main components and where I will build up the different layers [figure 2].

The next step is to put a border around the base using angled balsa wood. This will give the base a decorative look and allow me build the base to a solid edge (it also stops bits from falling out of the diorama). The edging trim is glued to the base using PVA glue [figure 3].

The next part to be added are the edges for any raised sections of the base. Like the border, this is done with balsa wood sheet and glued with PVA (white) glue. Again, make this a little taller than the actual height of the raised piece. Allow the glue on the edging trim to completely dry before starting the next stage. Use masking tape to hold the bevelled and raised edges in position while the glue dries [figure 4].

Raising the Ground

Now that the base has been prepared we need to introduce the raised areas of the ground work. This is done by using polystyrene ceiling tiles. These come in various thickness and can be shaped with a knife and secured using PVA glue. The polystyrene ceiling tile is cut to shape and glued to the base. The front edge is cut at an angle to give a sloped effect [figure 5].

After the ceiling tile has been shaped and allowed to dry, it’s worth test fitting some of the components of the diorama to ensure it will still look as expected [figure 6].

Adding Features

Now that the polystyrene has been added to the base to give the base some height and the models test fitted, we need to begin adding some features to the base. These can be from commercial companies or, in the case of plaster buildings, can be cast with the use of simple molds (this will form the basis of another article in the future) [figure 7]. As you begin to add features to the base you'll start to see the diorama coming together. A piece of matt board has been added to the back of the diorama, covering the polystyrene. This is to make the next stage a bit easier [figure 8].