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Prepare the boxScout around for a shoebox or similar-sized box. A larger box gives you more space to work with and allows you to put in more details. |
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If you're using a box other than a shoebox, cut out the box's front panel. Use tape or glue gun to fix any open flaps in place. |
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Paint the box exterior (optional)
Painting the outside of your box is optional but if you wish to do so, use acrylic paint. |
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Color the box interiorThere are two ways to color the inside of the box. In both instances, plan the colors for the foreground and background to create the tone for your diorama.
a.) Cover the box interior with colored paper or craft foam. Use white glue to fix the edges of the paper in place. |
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b.) Paint the inside of the box with acrylic or poster paint. |
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4. |
Add background detailsPaint on some background details and/or glue on various materials for added texture. |
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5. |
Draw or print out the animals
Draw the animals, cut them out from magazines or print out online images. You can also print out these animal templates:
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Color and cut out the animals
The paper animals should be able to stand up so use card stock for printing them out or draw them on construction paper. Color and cut out the animals. |
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Background animalsPlan the layout for your diorama. You can glue on some of the animals onto the background. |
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8. |
Create paper tabs
Make side, bottom, or center tabs for the rest of the animals. These will allow the animals to be attached to the bottom and/or sides of your box. There are a number of ways to make the tabs:
a.) Make L-shaped paper tabs and glue these at the back of the animal's legs (bottom tabs) and/or sides (side tabs). |
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b.) Incorporate the tabs into foreground elements such as grass, rocks, or snow. Draw the foreground element, including the tabs (shown in shaded area). Cut out the whole piece and glue it at the base of the animal's legs. Fold the tabs to allow the animal to stand or be attached to the box. |
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c.) Fold a rectangular piece of paper on both ends to create a center tab. This tab allows you attach an animal to the background (fish) or to other elements (bee atop a flower) in your diorama.
d.) Not in photo: Draw side and/or bottom tabs before cutting out your animals in Step 6. |
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Position the animalsPosition the animals inside your diorama. Glue the tabs to the bottom and/or sides of the box. |
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Finishing touchesYou may add additional details on the foreground such as these small floating chunks of ice for a polar-themed diorama. |
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Besides learning about animals and their habitats, this craft can be used to foster awareness on environmental issues and concern for nature. For instance, this polar diorama shows the plight of polar animals in their melting habitat.
More ideas are presented below. Use them as a springboard for your own habitat diorama project. |