BLUEPRINT: MODEL DIORAMAS HANDBOOK

OVERVIEW

Let’s get the stats out of the way:

– Hardback
– 8.5 x 11
– 192 pages
– 4/c Printing, Satin Gloss finish

WHAT’S INSIDE

The contents break down like this:

Chapter 1 - Defining a Diorama
Chapter 2 - Tool, Paints and Glues
Chapeter 3 - Kits Incorporating Diorama Parts
Chapter 4 - Aftermarket Diorama Elements
Chapter 5 - Material World (dio building materials)
Chapter 6 - Base Decisions (bases)
Chapter 7 - Landscaping
Chapter 8 - Buildings
 Chapter 9 - Example Builds
Chapter 10 - Variations on a Theme (unusual applications)
Chapter 11 - On the Screen (dios in movies)
Useful Contacts and Resources

A CLOSER LOOK

I’m going to just cut to the chase here. There are a lot of publications that feature in-depth articles on master-level dioramas and how the builder achieved them (Dioramag and AMMO Series books come to mind)—Model Diorama Handbook is not necessarily one of them. So what is it? I’ll let the author tell you. 

“The primary aim of this book is to provide an overall view of model dioramas, examing how the traditional model companies — the ‘mainstream’ companies — started to include ‘diorama accessories’ with their kits / Next this book looks at how these companies started to manufacture separate kits of diorama parts and accessories, and the arrival of the specialist names. / This book looks at the materials required for building dioramas. / This book also looks into some of the terms used. / Overall, this book aims to show a wide range of techniques and materials that can be applied...

It starts with a thorough examination of what a diorama is, including a short history lesson and the dictionary definition of “diorama.” There are a number of cool pictures of classic kits.

This history continues for almost 40 pages, and does include a section about “catalogue dioramas.” Miraculously the author mentions the Monogram diorama series without mentioning the legendary Shep Paine. 

Model Dioramas Handbook is loaded with photos of dioramas, from basic entry-level efforts to a couple very nice pieces by renowned modeler Spencer Pollard. One place where this book really shines is that it takes the intimidation factor out of diorama building. The most inexperienced builder can gain inspiration and encouragement from what can be achieved with a base and a little ground cover.

Some chapters, such as the chapter on basing, show a few rudimentary step-by-step processes. The author uses a beginner-friendly approach to materials and application — except for mentioning that he used a bandsaw to cut his base. The doesn't go into great detail, but does a decent job of giving the reader the gist of what's involved. 

Toward the end of the book, there are several example builds from a range of subjects, including planes, trains and rockets. Again, the text gives the reader a basic understanding of how each piece was achieved.  

The “Variations on a Theme” chapter explores the role dioramas play in the professional world, including architecture and museum displays.  

SUMMARY

Model Dioramas Handbook is a brave attempt to bring a very broad, potentially complex topic to a general audience. The text tends to ramble occasionally and the photo quality is not consistent. That being said, the author’s passion for the subject matter is evident and it is an honest effort. So who is this book for? I’m honestly not sure. It did leave me with a very pleasant nostalgia, reminding me of the books I pored over as a middle-schooler, dreaming of being the next Francois Verlinden. It may be a fun read for a very young or very inexperienced model builder and may keep them from being overwhelmed by more complex tools and techniques. 

Recommended for readers with a mildly casual interest in diorama building.

Thanks goes out to Casemate Publishing for this review sample.

Reviewed by Matt Deck

If you liked this review, consider joining AMPS. Your annual membership
includes six copies of AMPS's magazine, Boresight,
and helps to support our ongoing reviews.

Click here for more information about joining AMPS