DIY STRUCTURE FOR DIORAMAS (BASIC)
Structures are the next important elements in a diorama. Although it might not be the main attraction compared to the figures and machines around the scene, it can be a very effective backdrop for your story telling. At the same time it can fill the gaps around the main topic, which makes the diorama look more interesting. This short article will give you simple idea of how you can produce your own structure with Plaster of Paris together with some simple tools/equipment. Before you start the practical part of the construction, you will need to know what type of structures you are building. You can do some simple research on architecture during those period of your diorama in your nearby libraries. The way the structure is constructed might also be something interesting to be studied. For the first few projects, choose a more simple design so that you can concentrate more on the basic construction techniques. Below are examples of building constructed by the following method.

Hopefully, this simple technique will be useful for those of you who are interested to constructed your own structure. Happy Modeling

If you need any help, just email me at stone5@singnet.com.sg. I will try my best to solve your problems or queries.

Bernard Cher

Step 1. After you have decided on the type of structure you want to build, draw it to scale on a piece of paper. Step 2. Place a piece of transparency over the drawing you have drawn. This is for easy removal of the completed structure at the end of the day. At the same time protecting your drawing for future use. Step 3. Now for the "formwork"/mould. You will need to have 4 square/rectangular plastic rods preferably the thickness of the structure you are building. Normally I would have the rod that is 8mm thick and about 200-300mm in length. Place the rods on the transparency and position them around the perimeter of the building. Secure the rods around with "blue-tack" so that it will not move when the plaster is pour in later. Step 4. For the doors and windows, cut their shape out from Styrofoam and secure them in position on the transparency with double-sided tapes
Step 5. Check that all the rods, doors… are secured in position. Mixed the Plaster of Paris and pour it on the "formwork"/mould starting from the four corners, the edges and finally the rest of the structure. Step 6. Carefully remove the rods and Styrofoam and transparency. Step 7. Add details to the structure with reference to the real thing you have researched from the sources. And lastly, paint it to the appropriate colours.
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