00 / 009 / N / Z / 1:43 Gauge Micro Diorama Jam Jar - Laser Cut

Build a mini diorama in a Jam Jar.  Kit comes with the Jar, laser cut wood platform and base and a section of fencing.
 
Not limited to small trains or wagons, you can use this for figures and scenery too. 
 
First pictures show a completed item, this kit is for an unpainted wooden kit and jar without the train and scenery.
 
Our diorama jars are great to build small railway scenes, military models, sci-fi, fantasy scenes or anything your imagination stretches to. A great way to show off set pieces of models in a case where you can also paint and model the back scenes to suit.
 
The jar is around 190mm x 95mm and the build area for your dioarama is about 173mm x 63mm and 47mm high. The end piece can be used as  tunnel mouth, or flipped for a plain piece. A section of fencing is also supplied. 

FAQ – Product FAQs

Jam Jar Diorama Kit – Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is included in the Jam Jar Diorama Kit?

The kit includes a clear jam jar, a laser-cut wooden platform and base, and a section of fencing. It is supplied as an unpainted wooden kit and jar only, without any trains, figures, scenery, or paints.

What are the dimensions of the jar and build area?

The jar is approximately 190mm tall by 95mm in diameter. Inside, the usable build area for your diorama is about 173mm x 63mm, with a height of roughly 47mm for your scene.

What kind of models can I build in this jar?

You can build a wide variety of scenes, including small railway scenes, military models, sci-fi or fantasy vignettes, or figure-based displays. The kit is not limited to trains or wagons; it works well for any small-scale scene that fits the internal dimensions.

Does the kit come with trains, figures, or scenery?

No. The photos show a completed example, but this kit only includes the jar, laser-cut wooden platform and base, and fencing. Any trains, figures, scenery, ground cover, or backscene artwork must be supplied separately by you.

What scale is the kit designed for?

The kit is not tied to a specific scale. You can adapt it to suit a range of small scales, as long as your models fit within the approximate 173mm x 63mm x 47mm build area. Many modellers use it for small railway, military, or sci-fi scales.

Can I customise the backscene and interior?

Yes. The jar works like a small display case, so you can paint and model the back scenes to suit your chosen theme. You are free to add your own ground textures, structures, figures, and lighting, provided they fit within the jar.

How should I start assembling the wooden parts?

Begin by carefully dry-fitting the laser-cut wooden platform and base inside the jar to understand their orientation. Once you are happy with the fit, remove them and glue the wooden components together outside the jar, allowing the glue to fully cure before placing the assembly back into the jar.

What glue should I use for the wooden parts?

A good quality wood glue or PVA is usually sufficient for the laser-cut wooden components. Apply sparingly to avoid excess squeeze-out, and allow plenty of drying time before handling or installing the assembly in the jar.

How do I fit the base and platform into the jar?

Slide the assembled base and platform into the jar at a slight angle, then gently rotate it into position. Take your time to avoid stressing the wood. If the fit is tight, check for any small burrs or paint build-up and sand lightly where needed.

How is the fencing section used?

The supplied fencing can be glued along the edge of the platform or wherever it suits your scene. You can cut it into shorter sections if needed. Paint and weather it before final installation for the best finish.

Can the end piece be used as a tunnel mouth?

Yes. One end piece can be used as a tunnel mouth, giving the impression of a line disappearing into a tunnel. If you prefer a simpler look, you can flip it around and use the plain side instead.

The wooden parts seem too tight inside the jar. What should I do?

If the fit feels too tight, do not force the parts. Remove the wooden assembly and lightly sand the edges, especially where there may be laser-cutting residue or paint build-up. Test-fit frequently until the assembly slides in smoothly without pressure.

The platform looks warped or uneven. Can I fix this?

Minor warping can often be reduced by gently bending the piece in the opposite direction or by gluing it to the base while clamping it flat. Ensure the wood is dry and avoid excessive moisture, which can cause further warping.

My glue is fogging or marking the inside of the jar. How can I prevent this?

Some fast-setting glues, especially certain cyanoacrylates, can release vapours that fog clear surfaces. To avoid this, use PVA or wood glue for wood-to-wood joints and keep the main gluing work outside the jar. Allow glued parts to fully cure before placing them inside.

The jar seems unstable when displayed. Any tips to improve stability?

Ensure the base sits flat within the jar and that the jar itself is on a level surface. If needed, you can add a thin, non-slip pad or mat underneath the jar. Keep heavy scenic elements low and central to avoid making the jar top-heavy.

The end piece doesn’t sit flush when used as a tunnel mouth. What can I do?

Check that there are no small burrs or paint lumps on the edges of the end piece or the platform. Lightly sand the contact areas and test-fit again. A small bead of glue can then be used to hold it in place once you are satisfied with the alignment.

Should I paint the wooden parts before or after assembly?

It is usually best to paint most of the wooden parts before final assembly, especially areas that will be hard to reach inside the jar. However, leave the glue contact surfaces unpainted where possible to ensure a strong bond, and do any final touch-ups after assembly.

What kind of paints work best on the wooden parts?

Acrylic model paints work very well on the laser-cut wood. They dry quickly, offer good coverage, and are easy to clean up. You can also use wood stains or enamels if you prefer, as long as you allow sufficient drying time before placing parts in the jar.

How can I create realistic ground and scenery in such a small space?

Use fine materials and keep everything to scale. For example:

• Fine ballast or sand for track beds and paths
• Static grass or fine turf for vegetation
• Small clump foliage for bushes and hedges
• Thin card or printed backscenes for distant scenery

Can I weather the fencing and wooden base for a more realistic look?

Yes. Light dry-brushing, washes, and subtle weathering powders work very well on the fencing and base. For example, you can add rust tones to the fence and darker washes to bring out the grain and texture of the wood.

Is it possible to add lighting inside the jar?

You can add your own small lighting if you wish, provided it fits within the available space and you manage the wiring and power source externally. Make sure any LEDs or wiring are securely fixed and that heat is minimal to protect the jar and scenery.