How to Make a Fantasy Miniature

Using Ixia Magic series templates, you can build miniature fantasy compositions and also use them in role-playing games.

Paper

Choosing the right paper is crucial. You can use anything from standard office paper to 200 g/m² thick paper. Office paper, while easier to cut, is quite thin and may result in soft, light-transparent designs. On the other hand, thicker paper is more challenging to assemble but yields opaque and sturdier elements.

All Ixia sets have been tested with both 70 g/m² office paper and 200 g/m² thick paper. Opt for matte, non-glossy paper that bends well without cracking. Avoid coated paper, as it can develop surface cracks when folded.

Printing

For best results, use a color printer. You can print at home using a regular inkjet printer or visit a print shop—just specify the required paper type. 

Tools

You'll need the following tools to build your miniatures:

Scissors
Scoring Stick  A modeling point stylus with a suitable tip size, or any appropriate object like a non-writing ballpoint pen, a stack of play dough, or a knitting needle.
Ruler  Use in conjunction with the scoring stick.
Glue  A glue stick or your preferred type of paper glue.

A craft mat is also advisable for scoring, and tweezers can be useful for handling small parts.

Assembly steps

If you’re working with an Ixia diorama kit, follow the provided instructions to ensure a smooth assembly process. Here are the general steps:

1. Print
   Print the templates at home or at a print shop.
2. Cut
   Pre-cut the pieces with a margin, then cut along the contour.
3. Score
   Use a blunt stick and ruler to create precise fold lines. Scoring is crucial for making even folds.
4. Pre-Fold
   Pre-fold the pieces to understand what the assembled element will look like and plan the sequence of gluing.
5. Glue
   Ixia templates mark the convenient starting points for assembly.
   Places for gluing are marked with icon 
   Start assembling the element from the place marked with the pink icon 

Training Example: Making a Miniature Citizen House

1. Find the Template Locate the Citizen House template in the Shop section oh the ixia3d.com website. There is a yellow button-link to the Patreon page where you can download the template.
2. Download the PDF File on the Patreon page, choose the Letter or A4 format. Letter: (11x8.5 inches) is common in North America. A4: (297x210 mm) is common in other countries. No registration is needed to access the free templates. Full access is available with a Patreon subscription.
3. Assemble According to Instructions The instructions are on page 1 of the template.
4. Print the Page with Elements Use a color printer for best results.
5. Cut the Elements Pre-cut the pieces with a margin, then cut along the contour.
6. Score the Lines Make score lines on the elements.
7. Pre-Fold Pre-fold the pieces to plan the assembly sequence.
8. Assemble the House with Glue Follow the instructions and glue the parts together.
The house is now ready.

Use Magic Series Templates to Assemble Your Fantasy World.