sand

The first thing to do is sift the sand so that you get fine particles. Then you can apply it to whatever surface you like with white glue.

Try sifting out playsand.

Paint the surface in a sandy colour, then you can add the fine sand on to it.  You can then use white glue to glue down what the paint didn't hold when dried.

Use sand that the glass blowers use. Its finer and the grain is smaller so it looks more to scale. Once you have the sand in place saturate the whole area with Woodland Senics scenery glue and let it set for about two days. you can also use Elmers glue diluted with water and just a few drops of Dawn dish washing detergent. Once its set you can go back over it with more sand if needed and just repeat the proccess. When you get it where you think its perfect seal the sand with a light mist of dullcote. You may want to give it a wash of flat black or brown or tan to give it more depth  .

You could also look into florists shops for sand. And casting sand is small grain too...    so see if there are any jewlers or foundarys in your area.

I also would use Elmers-type white glue. However one problem with it is that it can have a satiny to glossy shine to it. May have to use a shot of dullcoat. The Woodland scenics stuff isn't as shiny as regular white glue.

I always use dental pumice that is very regular and quite accurate..then I secure it with diluted carpenters wood glue.  Spot on effect.

Rob

Thanks to all who answered my question about the sand. I finally got hold of some of the dental pumice, and looks like an answer to prayer! Will put up some photos if I ever get the project done. Thanks again all!

I knew it would be awesome...it's so fine and nearly perfect for the job....good luck and glad I could help.

Rob

Dental pumice?

For the most accurate diorama sand..dental pumice is spot on....sterile and it wets real nice.