It's a Small World

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Create your own little diorama dominion.

From the column DIY: Design It

by Patricia Zapata

Tips and Variations

Magazine photos are good sources for background images or objects to cut out and include in your diorama.
My stylistic approach tends to be clean and simple. If you prefer a more elaborate piece, your trees can have a more textural appearance by drawing on them, or by actually cutting them out of fabric (glued on cardstock) or sandpaper.
Fabric, cotton, sand, dry beans and rice are elements that can also be used to add texture to your artwork.
If you're working on an outdoor scene take advantage of small leaves and twigs, but make sure they are completely dry and insect free before including them in your diorama.
Whether you're working on an interior or outdoor scene keeping the basic principles of perspective in mind will help make your piece look more realistic (if that is your goal).
More importantly, have fun and try to remember what you would've done if you were back in elementary school. Just let go!

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