Diorama Ideas

This is a tutorial on how to make a creative shoebox diorama. The tutorial shows you step by step how to make the diorama and I have included all the artwork so you can download, print, cut-out, and use them in your diorama. But you can also create your own diorama based on your ideas. This pages is a listing of ideas on dioramas and how to generate great ideas and themes. Creativity and imagination are the key to making a unique and wonderful diorama.

Before Beginning your shoebox diorama - some things to think about

Its a three dimensional work - A shoebox diorama is a complete world and it is three dimensional. This is one of the appeals of a shoebox diorama. When you are designing and making it keep in mind that it is not a flat piece of art. It is three dimensional. Don't be afraid to take up all the space from front to back. This adds a level of excitement to it.

It should tell a story - A shoebox diorama is not just a pretty scene. You should try to take it to another level and create a story with it. Picture in your mind one particular moment in time in the life of the character or characters in the scene. What is happening? What is the story? Adding a story to your diorama gives it a little something extra that people will enjoy. It gives them something to think about.

Your only limit is your imagination - There are no real rules with making a shoebox diorama. Use whatever materials you would like to use. Create whatever kind of scene you would like to create. Don't be bashful.

You can't just start making one - Before you can start making your diorama you have to have a plan. And this means you have to draw out some rough sketches. Get a sketch pad and pencil and start drawing ideas of your scene. Move the objects in the scene around. Remember that it is three dimensional. Look for unique perspectives.

A good tip - Draw a variety of objects for your scene then cut them out. Lay them out on a piece of paper and rearrange them to see what the would look like. Remember that you are making a three dimensional scene so overlap items. Look for unique perspectives.

Ideas About the Unique layout of your Diorama

One of the great things about a diorama is the variety of ways to display it. What I mean is that you dont just put your scene in a box. The Display is part of the fun and appeal of a diorama. Here are some Ideas for Making your diorama Display unique.

Using a box or shoebox:

Use the box horizontal
Use the box vertical - I like this option
Put the cover on the box and then cut an observation hole in it so people can peek into it. You will have to cut some holes in the top or back to let light in or put a little battery operated light inside.
Put a layer of plastic or Saran Wrap over the front so it becomes an enclosed project that people look into
Cut the box in half so it hinges open and people can look inside. Some tape on the back makes a nice hinge

Ideas on the Subject of your diorama