I read Kenneth Grahame’s classic tale The Wind in the Willows for the first time this month. A wonder weaver recommended it and I’m so glad that I followed her advice, for I simply adored it! There were so many moments that spoke to my heart.
To celebrate the book, I’m creating a series of dioramas. Last week, I started the first scene – the iconic moment when Rat and Mole stumble on Mr. Badger’s sett in the snow. Mr. Badger grumpily opens his door and says,
‘“Now, the very next time this happens,” … “I shall be exceedingly angry. Who is it this time, disturbing people on such a night? Speak up!”
Creating the scene
To create the diorama, I rummaged through my craft supplies and also the recyclables bin. Where possible, I like to use what I have. This principle not only helps to make my art practice sustainable but also nurtures my curiosity and problem-solving.
Mr. Badger is a spun cotton figure, dressed with cotton fabric and felt. Meanwhile, I made the entrance to his sett using cardboard, toilet paper and other common craft materials.
Click on the video below to watch highlights of my process.
Make a mini lantern
In the iconic scene, Mr. Badger carries a light. In the original book, he carries a candle. However, in other versions, he is depicted holding a light. For the scene, I chose the latter, simply because I found items perfect for a lantern.
Make a miniature lantern with me. Watch my video below to learn step-by-step how I made Mr. Badger’s lantern from a candy bottle, paper and fairy lights.
Do you too love The Wind in the Willows? Please share with me your favourite scenes in the comments below.
Learn more about me here. And if you’d like to stay up to date with my latest news, I invite you to join my email list.
And if you too love to make miniatures, I invite you to check out my Substack membership. This month we’ll be making miniature food following a menu inspired by The Wind in the Willows. We’ll also explore the life of Kenneth Grahame and the origin of his classic book.
