Most of what people ask is here. If yours isn't, the contact page is always open.
What is Little World Workshop?
Little World Workshop is my independent studio, focused on the creation of handcrafted miniature worlds. I design and make every piece by hand, treating each scene as a small composition — something to be explored, displayed and collected. My work is available directly from my own shop, as well as through eBay and Etsy.
Where are you based?
I live and work in Surrey, UK. The correspondence address for Little World Workshop is 5 Brayford Square, London, E1 0SG — postal only, not a workshop you can visit.
Can I visit your studio?
Not at the moment — I work from a small private studio and don't have a space set up for visitors. The best way to see the work in person is at one of the craft fairs and miniature events I attend throughout the year.
Can I see your work in person?
Yes — I show at craft fairs and miniature events throughout the year, and it's a great way to see the scale and detail up close. You'll find upcoming dates and locations on the events page.
What types of models and dioramas do you make?
Wargaming terrain, OO gauge model railway scenes, fantasy and whimsical pieces, and bespoke commissions. They sit across three collections — Workshop Originals, Little World Pieces, and Commissions — though in practice the work doesn't always stay neatly inside categories.
What's the difference between Workshop Originals and Little World Pieces?
Workshop Originals are made for you — pieces built to order from a range of established designs. You choose what you'd like, and I build it for you from scratch. Little World Pieces are something different: one-off builds, each centred on a particular setting — a handturned bowl, a vintage tin, a glass dome — that I come across and can't resist making a world inside. They're never repeated, and when they're gone, they're gone. The newsletter is the best way to hear when new ones become available.
How do you make your models?
Each piece starts with a specific idea — a scene, a mood, something I want to make feel real at a few centimetres across. I work with clay, card, metal, foam, plastic, resin, and natural materials depending on what the piece needs. Paint and weathering come last. I don't consider something finished until it holds together as a scene rather than just a collection of parts.
How long have you been making models?
Over 30 years — it started as a child and never really stopped. For much of that time it ran alongside model railways; more recently it's become its own thing entirely.
How long does it take to complete a diorama?
It depends on the piece. Something small and self-contained might take a few days. A larger or more complex scene can take several weeks. Every project is different.
What's the lead time for Workshop Originals?
Workshop Originals are made to order, with a lead time of 7 to 12 working days. I'll confirm the timeline when you place your order.
Do you take custom orders?
Yes. If you have a particular scene or idea in mind, get in touch and we can talk through whether it's something I can take on. Lead times vary depending on complexity and how many pieces I have running at the time.
What scales do you work in?
Mostly 1:35, 1:48, and 1:72, though I'll work in other scales when the piece calls for it. My model railway pieces are built for OO gauge layouts (1/76.2 scale) and work equally well for 009 narrow gauge.
Can I request modifications to a model I see on your site?
Most pieces are ready-made and can't be changed once finished. If you've seen something close to what you're after, though, it's worth getting in touch — sometimes a similar piece can be made to order with small variations.
Where can I purchase your models?
You can purchase my models directly from my eBay store, Etsy, or — for the lowest prices — direct via my shop.
Do you ship internationally?
Not currently — I ship within the UK only.
What materials do you use?
Air drying clay, polymer clay, resin, wood, metal, card, and foam mostly — along with natural materials and found objects when they're right for a piece.
How do you ship your models?
Each piece is hand-wrapped and packed in a sturdy cardboard box before going out via Royal Mail. I pack them the way I'd want something fragile sent to me.
Can I commission a diorama for a gift or special occasion?
Yes — and it's something I take particular care with. A piece built around a specific person or memory tends to be among the most satisfying work I do. Get in touch and we can talk through what you have in mind.
Do you offer tutorials or classes on diorama making?
I occasionally offer tutorials and behind-the-scenes looks at my process on the blog, and have written a number of guides and tips for model-making on my companion site, ModelRailwayEngineer.com.
Are your models suitable for children?
My model railway models can be used on a Hornby-style layout by older children, though they may require connection to the railway's electrical supply and should be supervised. My other models are display pieces only, and all contain small glued items that are not suitable for young children.
Do you offer a returns policy?
If something arrives damaged, please get in touch within 7 days and I'll put it right. Bespoke commission pieces are non-refundable.