1:25 Scale model by Jack Seymour

Model-making course

Course description

This course focuses on the traditional methods of scale model making for theatre, events & film. Offering a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, the course delves into exploring in depth techniques, how models are used as a tool to communicate design intentions in 3D form and how attention to detail can help equip students of all stages in the art of storytelling through model-making.

Course overview

  • Introduction to scale model-making

  • Brief history of models and their use

  • Introduction to analogue technical drawing

  • Construction theory

  • How to create textured surfaces

  • Practical exercises

  • Building your own scale-model

  • One-on-one tutoring and support

Course specifics

The course runs for 8 sessions, on consecutive Saturdays from 10:30 – 14:30 in a South London based studio and has a maximum of 4 participants per course.

Next course start date: 12th July 2025

*unfortunately the studio is not wheelchair accessible.

Who should attend

Anyone who wants to better their craft, have a refresher, has a passion for making small things or is simply curious.

Course fee and what is included

Fee is £750.00 per person

What is provided

Mountboard
Black foam
Tracing paper
Cutting mats
Scalpel (with compatible blades)
Model-making tweezers
Metal straight edge rulers
Scale rulers (1:25)
10A blades
Scissors
Tape measures
Glue
Gesso (primer)
Printing facilities
Some paints, coloured pencils, markers
Basic tools (pliers, wire cutters, etc)
Drawing boards
Scale figures
Tea and coffee

What you should bring

Laptop/ipad (for research)
Sketchbook
Mechanical Pencil
Other types of materials which will be discussed based on your individual models as the course progresses
Enthusiasm for making tiny things!

Student testimonials

 ‘I decided to join this course because I understood the importance of models in the production process however I did not yet have the skills to make proper scale models. I also wanted to join because Ioana is an amazing teacher who is deeply dedicated to her students development. I knew the people she’d be bringing together would be amazing, and this held true. Throughout the course I got to learn new ways of model making through history, various different materials and experimentation. This course gave me the confidence to keep going in the direction of Set Design and now I am doing a masters in set design at UAL - Asli Özüak

‘Ioana shares not only her huge amount of experience in model making and techniques but more importantly the way in which we need to think when approaching a model. This is supported by the rich contextual history of model making, and most importantly the planning process. All of this in a truly lovely and safe environment. I’d highly recommend it for anyone with a love of the tiny.’ - Jack Seymour

This course is a great starting point to learn the basics of model-making in the context of theatre stage. Ioana creates an incredibly friendly as well as a seriously productive environment, while cracking a few jokes and sharing her great depth of knowledge. The course is suitable for absolute beginners as well as intermediates who desire to improve their skills and learn more about the theory and history behind this beautiful hands-on craft. It is also a great opportunity to network amongst creatives, make new friends and enjoy the wonderful miniature world of model-making!’ - Sara Mackenzie

For more info and queries