In this part of the tutorial we make the various objects and put them in the diorama,creating the scene. And I give you a whole bunch of items that you can print up, cut up and put in your diorama!

I have a template for you of space objects including an astronaut going for a space walk. You can download it here (pdf) , and print it up.

So, download that sheet and print it up. Then use glue stick or spray adhesive to glue it to cereal box cardboard or something similar like manila file folders.

And cut the pieces out.

Now you can glue the various pieces into your shoebox. And for some of the items you should make cardboard standoffs like this. Then they float in space, making it all very three dimensional.

Like this. The rocket is about an inch off the back surface and the astronaut is about two inches off the back surface. This gives it a great look. And notice that I have glued some of the stars right to the background.

So, go ahead and have some fun with this. Glue the various pieces into the shoebox in various ways. Here you can see Jupiter is glued to the side of the box and the Earth is glued t0 the top of the box.

You can add more stuff too. Draw some items on your own. How about a satellite? Or some floating space scrap! An alien space ship? That would be fun :)

Now you have the basic idea of how to make a shoebox diorama from scratch. You just need some cardboard or foamboard and some pictures! Let your imagination soar! Design your own in any theme that you want. It is very easy for you to find images on the web for your project. But, I have lots more ideas and dioramas:

Ok, Let's continue, I have some fun variations for you

Make a Dolphin Diorama

This is a beautiful diorama made and submitted by a web visitor. It uses some easy yet fantastic water effects. Check out the diorama and see how to make one here: The Dolphin Diorama

Ocean Diorama

This is a unique little ocean diorama shaped like the porthole of a submarine and made out of a cookie tin. I have full instructions and artwork for you to print and make. Easy and fun project. A new take on the ocean diorama. Imagine looking out the porthole of your submarine and discovering Atlantis! Now you can. Ocean Diorama

Will's Book on Diorama Making

How to Make Fantasy and Medieval Dioramas

This books shows you how to make fantasy and medieval dioramas using many commonly available tools and materials. There are over 100 pictures and illustrations showing you how to make great dioramas in fantasy and medieval styles. Chapters include basics, water effects, terrain tips and special effects like electricity and small motors. Tutorials include how to use foam, plaster of paris and paper mache to make great looking dioramas.