Hobbies And Interests
The Triassic Period
Occurring 200 to 250 million years ago, the Triassic Period is considered the "Age of the Dinosaurs." With temperatures ranging from mild to very hot, different types of evergreen trees flourished in the milder areas, many of the tree types being cone-bearing. Dinosaurs like the razor-clawed carnivorous Euraptor, and the plant-eating Pisanosaurus that could walk on its hind legs, thrived during this time. The oceans were teemed with the Icthyosaurus, which looked like a menacing dolphin.
The Jurassic Period
Dinosaurs dominated this period, occurring 145 to 200 million years ago, as species of giant ferocious beasts flourished. The first known birds also rose into existence during this time. Geological changes during this period, like earthquakes and volcanoes, also began creating land masses that more resembled today's geography. Many areas were warm and moist, creating widespread tropical conditions. Pines, palms and ferns grew in abundance. The plant-eating Stegosaurus and the 140-foot Seismosaurus lived during this time. The flesh-eating Allosaurus and Dilophosaurus were common predators.
The Cretaceous Period
Dinosaurs reached their pinnacle during the Cretaceous Period. Occurring 65 to 145 million years ago, this period was characterized by more distinct seasons and the largest variety of dinosaurs yet. Common trees like oak and maple arose during the Cretaceous, as did the first flowering plants. The large, flying Pteranodon ruled the skies. The plant-eating Triceratops lived in this period as did the ferocious Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Creating Your Diorama
Use picture references as a guide when creating your diorama. Applying the paper Mache technique, crumple pieces of newspaper and bind them with tape to create hills, mountains and volcanoes. Tape these wads of paper down to a movable wood or plastic base. Dip pre-cut strips of cheesecloth into your mixture of plaster and water and place over the entire ground area of your diorama. Use a few layers of cloth over the piece and allow it to dry. Take any leftover plaster to fill in remaining gaps and holes. Use craft paint to add color to the diorama and spray an adhesive in some areas in order to sprinkle on powdered felt for grass. Small model plants and animals are available at many craft and hobby stores. You can also make your plants, animals and rocks with wooden sticks, paper or hardening clay.