Hi, I’m Ronald.

I enjoy making things and figuring out how they work. Give me paper, cardboard, scissors and an idea, and before long my worktable fills with pieces of a new miniature world.

Small worlds, plenty of experiments

A forest, an ocean or a little stable can begin as a simple idea. Turning it into something that can be printed, cut and built takes test prints, adjustments and sometimes a fresh start. That process of discovering what works is a large part of why I enjoy designing.

My collection grew into printable dioramas and paper projects that I also offer through Etsy. This website brings the finished designs together with the ideas behind them.

Making room for imagination

Making things for and with my children has influenced how I think about a template. It provides a starting point, but there should still be room to move an animal, add a plant or invent a story. Your version does not have to copy every detail of the example.

A horse stable and paddock can become a little country scene; a rainforest diorama can spark questions about the animals living there. The building and the conversation belong to you.

Less preparation, more creating

The printable parts save you from drawing all the scenery yourself. Gather the supplies listed for the project, print the pages and start with a few pieces. For most shoebox dioramas, the basics are paper, scissors, glue and a cardboard box.

You can spread the work over several sessions. Parents can help with difficult cuts while children choose where pieces go. It can be a family afternoon, a homeschool activity or simply a satisfying paper craft for someone who enjoys miniatures.

A starting point for learning

Building a habitat gives you something to look at and talk about together. Combine it with books, observations or your own research, and let children explain what they have learned. For a school assignment, check the teacher’s instructions before choosing a model.

Have a practical question? Visit the FAQ or send me a message. I hope you find a small world you feel like making.

Ronald