55cm Model Railway Shelf Diorama optional Fiddle Stick, lighting and Shelf

This self-assembly kit allows you to build an operational shelf diorama effortlessly. We call it the Olanda case. Crafted from high-quality Medite MDF, it is both easy to assemble and is ideal for modeling a shelf based layout. Unlike plain boards and kits, this diorama features both a picture frame front to frame your work and a lid that can be used to house optional LED lighting. The right lighting can truly enhance any layout, and brings it to life. 

Key Features:

• High-quality Medite MDF construction
• Picture frame front and lid for optional lighting
• Optional Fiddle Stick - accessory for bringing trains and wagons into the display
• Fits neatly into IKEA Mosslanda shelf, perfect for showcasing your layout when not in use

The Diorama is 55cm x 10cm x 15.3cm high and can house N, OO9 or OO dioramas.

One of the unique features of this Diorama case is the separate internal baseboard. Constructed of 4mm Medite MDF you can build and test out your layout onto this before installing it into the main case. This is so much easier as it avoids having to build everything through the window.
​
There are also two types of end supplied with the entrance hole either in the center or offset so you can decide where the track should exit.
​
The Fiddle stick can be slotted in to the side and allows you to bring trains and wagons into the diorama. If you want , you can get additional Fiddle sticks to increase the operational capacity of  your layout and they are a great way to safely hold your locos and wagons when not in use. 

Plus, as an added bonus, this shelf layout fits snuggly into an IKEA Mosslanda shelf (Supplied in the full kit). You can fit this to a wall and its a great place to display  your layout when not in use, to make it a framed masterpiece and conversation starter. 

The diorama and fiddlestick come with instructions if needed, although the construction is very easy and just requires wood glue (not included) to hold things together. 

You can choose from one of the four options available. 
1. The Diorama case with Lid.
2. The Diorama case with one Fiddle Stick
3. A Single Fiddle Stick (Add one or more to the above options)
4. The full kit, comprising the Diorama Case, A Fiddle stick, LED Lighting strip and plug, and a Mosslanda Shelf

When ordering the full kit please state if you want the black or wood effect shelf. If nothing is stated, then the kit will be shipped with the black shelf

Pictures of completed dioramas, models and locos etc. are just for information purposes and are not included....

Note: This baseboard is supplied in flat-pack form and requires assembly 

Edges have a dark finish and may have a slight smell that fades quickly. Any marks from the laser process can be removed by light sanding or sealing with MDF sealer prior to painting if required.

FAQ – Product FAQs

Olanda Case – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Olanda case?

The Olanda case is a self-assembly, operational shelf diorama kit made from high-quality Medite MDF. It is designed as a framed display case with a lid, ideal for creating compact shelf-based railway layouts or static dioramas.

What are the dimensions and compatible scales?

The diorama measures 55cm x 10cm x 15.3cm high. It is designed to house N, OO9 or OO scale dioramas, whether you are building an operational micro-layout or a scenic display.

What options can I choose when ordering?

You can choose from four options:

• Diorama case with lid
• Diorama case with one Fiddle Stick
• A single Fiddle Stick (to add to other options)
• The full kit: Diorama case, one Fiddle Stick, LED lighting strip and plug, and an IKEA Mosslanda shelf

What is included in the full kit?

The full kit includes the Olanda diorama case, one Fiddle Stick, an LED lighting strip with plug, and an IKEA Mosslanda shelf. The shelf can be supplied in black or wood effect; if no preference is stated at ordering, a black shelf will be supplied.

What is the Fiddle Stick and what does it do?

The Fiddle Stick is an accessory that slots into the side of the diorama and allows you to bring trains and wagons into the scene. You can add extra Fiddle Sticks to increase operational capacity and use them as safe storage for locomotives and rolling stock when they are not in the case.

Does the Olanda case fit into an IKEA Mosslanda shelf?

Yes. The Olanda case is designed to fit neatly into an IKEA Mosslanda shelf. This makes it easy to mount on a wall and display your layout as a framed piece when not in use.

Does the kit come pre-assembled?

No. The diorama and Fiddle Stick are supplied in flat-pack form and require assembly. The construction is straightforward and is designed to go together easily.

Is wood glue included?

No. Wood glue is not included. You will need a suitable wood glue to assemble the Medite MDF components securely.

Are the models and scenery shown in photos included?

No. Any completed dioramas, locomotives, wagons or scenic items shown in photos are for illustration only and are not included with the kit.

Is lighting included with every Olanda case?

No. A lid that can house optional LED lighting is part of the case design, but the LED lighting strip and plug are only included in the full kit option. Other options do not include lighting.

Can I choose the position of the track entrance?

Yes. The kit includes two types of end pieces: one with the entrance hole in the centre and one with the entrance hole offset. You can choose which to use so the track exits where it best suits your plan.

What is the internal baseboard and why is it separate?

The Olanda case includes a separate internal baseboard made from 4mm Medite MDF. You can build and test your layout on this baseboard outside the case, then slide it into the main case when you are ready. This avoids having to build everything through the front opening.

How do I assemble the Olanda case?

The parts are designed to slot together and are secured with wood glue. Dry-fit the pieces first to understand the layout, then glue and clamp or hold them in place until the glue sets. Follow the included instructions for the correct order of assembly.

Do I need any special tools for assembly?

No special tools are required. Typically you will only need:

• Wood glue suitable for MDF
• A small brush or nozzle for applying glue
• Clamps or elastic bands to hold parts while drying
• Fine sandpaper for cleaning up edges if desired

How do I fit the internal baseboard into the case?

Build and detail your layout on the separate 4mm MDF baseboard first. Once you are happy with the track and scenery, carefully slide the baseboard into the main case from the open side, ensuring it sits flat and square inside the frame.

How do I install optional LED lighting in the lid?

The lid is designed to house an LED lighting strip. If you have the full kit, position the supplied LED strip inside the lid so it faces down into the scene, then route the cable neatly out of the case. Secure the strip according to the LED manufacturer’s instructions, taking care not to damage the MDF.

How do I use the Fiddle Stick with the diorama?

Slot the Fiddle Stick into the side of the diorama at the entrance hole you have chosen. Align the track on the Fiddle Stick with the track inside the case so trains can roll smoothly between them. The Fiddle Stick can then be used to bring trains on and off the layout or to store stock safely.

The parts have a dark edge and a smell. Is this normal?

Yes. The dark edges and slight smell come from the laser cutting process and are normal for Medite MDF kits. The smell fades quickly once the kit is out of the packaging and assembled.

How can I remove laser marks before painting?

You can remove or reduce laser marks by lightly sanding the affected areas with fine sandpaper. Alternatively, seal the MDF with an MDF sealer before painting, which also helps achieve a smoother finish.

The parts do not seem to fit perfectly. What should I check?

First, make sure any small bits of laser residue are removed from the slots and tabs. A light sand can help parts seat fully. Also check that you are using the correct pieces in the right orientation according to the instructions before applying glue.

The case does not sit flat or feels twisted after assembly.

This usually means it dried slightly out of square. When gluing, assemble the main frame on a flat surface and check that all corners are square before the glue sets. If it has already dried, gentle sanding of high spots on the base can help improve stability.

The LED strip is not lighting up in my full kit.

Check that the LED strip is firmly plugged into the supplied power plug and that the plug is connected to a working socket. Also confirm that the strip has not been kinked or damaged during installation. If the strip still does not light, test it outside the case to rule out a wiring issue.

The Fiddle Stick feels loose when slotted into the case.

Ensure that the entrance end piece is fully seated and glued squarely. If the fit is still loose, you can add a very thin shim of card or a light layer of paint or varnish in the slot area to tighten the fit, taking care not to obstruct the track alignment.

What kind of paint should I use on the Olanda case?

You can use most hobby acrylics or other paints suitable for MDF. Many modellers seal the MDF first with an MDF sealer or primer, then apply their chosen colours. Always test on a small offcut or hidden area first.

Do I need to seal the MDF before painting?

Sealing is not mandatory but is recommended. A suitable MDF sealer or primer reduces paint absorption, evens out the surface, and helps hide any laser marks, giving you a smoother, more durable finish.

Can I paint the case and baseboard before assembly?

You can, but it is usually easier to assemble the main structure first and then paint, especially around joints. Many modellers paint the interior and the separate baseboard after assembly but before adding track and scenery.

How should I finish the picture frame front?

The picture frame front can be painted, stained, or left in a simple painted MDF finish, depending on the look you want. A clean, neutral colour often helps frame the scene and draw attention to the layout inside.

Any tips for painting the interior for best lighting?

For layouts with LED lighting in the lid, lighter interior colours help reflect light and brighten the scene. Many modellers use light greys or off-whites for the sky and upper walls, with darker tones for the lower scenery to create depth.