Making a Dynamite Diorama

School projects are a big part of any education, and often require visual aids to better drive the point of the lesson along. While you may be finding yourself up to your eyeballs in poster board and colored pencils, there are some projects that can be more stunning than others.

If you find that you need to assist in a last minute school assignment, one great way to put your creative talents to use is to create a scenic diorama. These colorful and creative displays are as classic as history itself, and a great way to impress teachers and peers alike. Following these simple tips will ensure your kid is the talk of the classroom, and secure that passing grade with flying colors.

Create your base with a box and a picture frame. If you want to score some bonus points on this project, using an antique frame to add some sense of elegance to the era you are displaying. If you want to make it simpler or more modern, a simple gold or silver frame will make the scene stand out just fine.

Set the scene with an amazing backdrop. If you choose to paint your scene, using plain paper will be a great canvas to really let your details shine. If you prefer to make something a little splashier, or your painting skills aren’t up to par, then using a coloring wrapping paper can be an easy fix. Don’t forget to line the bottom of the box as well for your flooring.

Get creative with your figures. There are several mediums that can be used to create your historical figures. Clay, paper mache or even toys can be painted and dressed to represent the men, women and animals at your scene. Every student will be sure to pay attention if they are seeing the great battle of Troy performed by Lego men!

Details, details, details. Adding some scenic details will make everything really come to life. Boulders, cannons, trees and clouds are the kind of natural elements that make a diorama not only historically accurate but can be used as excellent talking points about the environment of the scene being described.

Make use of thin thread to create a three-dimensional effect in empty space. If you are using a scene with birds, airplanes or fish that seem weightlessly floating through the sea, using thread to effortlessly hang them from the ceiling of your scene will make them magically come to life.