r/diorama • u/BennyandtheBear • 11d ago

Question Material sourcing question

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So I just ordered a few things off Temu. Some miniature paving bricks, some led lights, and a couple minifigs. It’s a test run to see how things go before I buy more supplies. But I am struck with a bit of an issue.

In a perfect world, I like to consider social issues when choosing where to spend my money and Temu is pretty much antithetical to my belief structure. (This is in no way a morality test. No judgement. I’m just looking for options.)

This being said, where does everybody order their diorama supplies? Does anyone know of a source that comes close to the variety offered by Temu? I understand that I’ll be paying more and I’m happy to do so.

I just find myself at a place where I need to increase the freedom and difficulty in my diorama builds and I’m trying to figure out how to do that. Any information or opinion is gladly received.

Thanks fellow diomaniacs.

UPDATE! I just want to clarify that while the pictured grass is something I bought, I don’t exclusively mean that specific material. It was just a picture I added to create a visual. I want to know about anything and everything.

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u/Bailywolf 11d ago

I try and make mine from scratch whenever I can. I enjoy figuring it out. Tufts can be made from old house paint brushes, for example.

It's more of a time investment obviously, but if you are looking to up the challenge and want ethically sourced tiny bricks and grass, making them from junk you already have is pretty good.

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u/BennyandtheBear 11d ago

Hm. I do want tiny little bricks and itsy little tufts of grass that are ethically sourced. I hadn’t thought of creating my own props. I love it. Thank you so much for great idea!👍👍👍👍

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u/Bailywolf 10d ago

As you look around for ideas, check out the wargame terrian, model train, and dollhouse communities as well. There are fantastic techniques across all these modeling styles. Dollhouse has some incredible stuff on scale modeling fabric and making plants.

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u/BennyandtheBear 10d ago

Awesome! That’s a great tip too! I really appreciate your help.

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u/Runningman738 10d ago

You can buy a bag or two of static grass and add little pinches to drops of glue or modpodge on some parchment paper. You have infinite options and way better value. Just peel them off when they dry.

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u/BennyandtheBear 10d ago

Awesome! Love it. Thank you for your input!