Diorama scratch built for PG RX-78 GP01/fb -03

After spending time perfecting the wall panels, I was finally ready to move on to the next big step in my Gundam diorama project: building the upright beams that fit vertically between each panel. I constructed each upright from smaller segments to match the exact height of my wall. With my wall having on one side a 45 degree turn, this set of uprights have a different shape. Once all the segments were glued together, I gave them a couple of coats of my trusted Halfords primer. This not only helped to smooth out any imperfections but also ensured a solid base for the paint.

To create a cohesive, industrial look, I painted the beams in the same “Gun Metal” shade as the floor. This choice really brought the whole structure together, making it look like a single, welded frame, just like you’d expect in a real-life hangar or factory setting.

At this stage, the area where the PG Gundam will eventually be displayed was still unfinished. I wanted this section to stand out from the rest of the floor, which features a main grid pattern. Instead of repeating that design, I decided to experiment with a different panel effect. I found a 1/100 scale sheet that mimics roof tiles, and with a few bits from my scrap bits box, I managed to achieve the unique look I was after. For this area, I switched things up by using a matte dark grey paint instead of Gun Metal. This subtle change in colour helped to visually separate this base from the rest of the diorama.

One challenge with large floor areas in dioramas is avoiding a monotonous look. To break up the expanse and add some functional interest, I decided to build a raised platform that would also serve as a mounting point for some of the extra armour pieces from the RX-78 GP01/fb kit. I wanted the platform to feature a lit display board, adding both realism and a cool visual element to the scene.

For the side mounting part I got creative and repurposed some weapons racks originally designed for 1/6 scale military figures (or “dolls,” for lack of a better word). Before committing to any cuts, I spent time testing and re-testing how all the pieces would fit together. This step is crucial in any build is measure twice, cut once! Once I was confident in the layout, I grabbed my saw and knife and started modifying the parts.

The platform’s outer structure came together using leftover beam and frame pieces from earlier stages of the build. At every step, I relied on the aluminium angle used before and clamps to keep everything perfectly square. Patience is key here: I only moved on to the next stage once the glue had fully set, ensuring a strong and stable construction.

The top floor and side panels were carefully test-fitted, glued into position, and left to cure until solid. Inside the platform, I installed four 4mm square rods—not just for structural support, but also to cleverly hide the wires for the lighting system.

Before painting, I masked off the areas where the top floor would be glued, then followed my regular priming and spraying routine with Gun Metal. This kept the finish consistent and professional, tying the gantry visually to the rest of the diorama.

Since the scene is set in a gravity-based environment, I needed a way for workers (imaginary or otherwise!) to reach the top of the platform. After considering a few options, a ladder seemed like the best solution. EMA Models offers a fantastic 1/50 scale caged ladder set, which fit the bill perfectly. Safety is important even in Gundam builds so I painted the ladder and cage with white primer, followed by three coats of Vallejo Premium yellow. The strong pigment in this paint ensured a bold, high-visibility finish, just like you’d see on real industrial equipment.

Tips and Reflections

Throughout this build stage, I found that taking time to plan each step and test-fit components made a huge difference in the final result. Repurposing parts from other kits and using scrap materials not only saved money but also added unique character to the diorama. Don’t be afraid to experiment as sometimes the best effects come from unexpected combinations.