How to get started on Dioramas

here is a very usefull site i found might help
http://users.pandora.be/ronny.noben/website/tips.htm#diorama

One good resource is this very forum
Start off by looking at as many pics of dioramas as possible, as that will give you some idea of what you want to build.
Then, start asking questions. Couple of basic things you need to know;
What to build the base out of
what to use for ground work, and how to 'detail' it
Greenery, as in grass, shrubs, and trees
There are a variety of products available for everything, but you can usually find cheap, everyday materials as substitutes.
If I may suggest, try to pick up the excellent "How to build Dioramas" by Shep Paine.

I agree with Clay. The best place to start is with Shepard Paine's books. There is little to add to the subject that is not covered in his books. As you progress, I would also recommend Modelling Masterclass, Terrains and Buildings. Both excellent. Both very informative and step by step.

Hope this helps.

Ted

the best way is look at a lot of pictures. i have about 1000' books on ww2. but there are 2 out there that can really help one is called how to build dioramas by sherperd paine and modeling tanks and military vehicles also by shep paine. i still use them for ideas.i must say that it's good to read that there are more people out there who like dioramas.so keep going! this is my frist computer ilike reading all of this.

Here is another link:
http://ipmsstockholm.org/magazine/2002/06/stuff_eng_tech_diorama_bases.htm

Also have a look at Games Workshop and other wargaming stuff to see how they make their terrain, yup, not quiet the same but they got some very good ideas and often will make amazing stuff literally from rubbish.

GW has a few books out on the topic, I also use a few books for doll-houses for reference purpose.

QUOTE: Originally posted by ferni5 from where do you buy that special clay and sand and stuff?

The "clay" is either celluclay (available at Michaels or Hobby Lobby, or wall spackle available at Lowes or Home Hardware. You can also try the model railroad section of your local hobby shop. As for sand, I just get mine outside.

For info on dioramas, get Shep Paine's "How to build dioramas" second edition...best book I ever read on the subject. It's available from Amazon or your local bookstore. it's ISBN number is 0890241953

from where do you buy that special clay and sand and stuff?

Try www.digitaldioramas.com for beginners info also I have a aircraft dio build going on over at www.theaerodrome.com go toForums , then Models Cheers! John.