A diorama is a kind of model in which a scene is usually represented to scale. For children it is a lot of fun, since it is not a simple drawing. The diorama includes natural elements, figures in movement and in short, any ingredient that is fun.
Taking advantage of the summer holidays, it is the ideal occasion to build a diorama that represents the sea. In this way, the children will have a different craft to do as a family. In addition, they will be able to use things that they have collected during the holidays. Will be a perfect memory of this summer, and a perfect occasion to work as a family.
How to make a diorama
Doing this project is very simple, but before getting into it, it is important to take into account some details. Above all, you have to plan it well, in this way you can find all the necessary elements to recreate this special scene. Here are the essential steps to carry out this fun project.
- Planning: The first of all is to think diorama theme. I propose a marine setting, but if you are not going on vacation to the beach you can choose another theme. Here you will find a bit of inspiration, but you can adapt it to your tastes.
- Find out what the chosen fund looks like: If you choose the seabed, look for information about the seabed and the species that inhabit it. In this way, children will have a clearer idea of what the spectacular seabed is like. In the same way if you have been in the field or in another country. The diorama must be as realistic as possible, and for this it is best to inform yourself well.
- Draw a sketch: So that when creating the diorama everything has a meaning, it is preferable to make a small drawing that serves as a sketch. Think how you want the background to be and the organization of all the pieces to be included. In this way you will have all the materials ready, so that nothing is missing when starting the project.
- Find all the materials: Once the sketch is created, you will have a clearer idea of everything you will need. If you have chosen the sea, you will have to collect shells, sand from the sea or whatever you want to include. Always carry a list with you, like this during the holidays you can accumulate everything you need.
- Set the stage: The diorama is performed at different depths, so you will need a stage with a lot of depth. Seeks a large box that is deep enough and that it has an open part at the front. You can reuse a box that you find in the recycling areas, or buy a new one in a specialized store.
Build a diorama in a few steps
Once all the materials have been gathered and with the sketch prepared, it's time for fun, building the diorama. To get started, you can paint the outside of the box to make it more eye-catching and pretty. Once the stage is ready, you can start with the interior decoration, starting with placing a background.
The bottom can be lined with onion paper, with wrapping papers or even painted. Depending on the chosen scenario, it will be better in one way or another. For the marine diorama you can use paper in a dark blue color. Use other papers with blues in other shades to add depth. At the base, apply a generous layer of white glue and spread the sand of the sea. Make sure that the entire bottom is well covered with the sand, let the glue dry well and after a few hours, turn the box so that the excess sand falls out.
To finish, you have to place all chosen elements. In the base on the sand you can place the collected shells, a horse or a starfish. You can also draw different types of fish and animal species, cut them out and incorporate them into the diorama with the help of skewer sticks. If you place them at different heights and in different layers, you will get the desired depth.
The important is enjoy this craft as a family, remembering this summer's vacation.