These instructions sound more difficult than the construction process really is - a demonstration of some of the key elements will help you visualize the process. This may take a total of about 2-3 hours to create one tree, but the results are the best that I have found for 1/48 or 1/35 scale dioramas. Begin with a fairly rigid type of wire with more than 6 strands in it. I prefer picture hanging wire, but I'm sure there are comparable electrical wire choices. Study of the characteristics of the type of tree you are desiring to create is very helpful - a picture is recommended so that you keep the vision and desired result consistent throughout construction.

Estimate the height of the tree you desire and cut the wire according to the following suggestions. For example, a 6-inch tall tree will need about 4 or 5 sections of wire between 8 and 12 inches in length. I suggest differing lengths because not all the branches should be the small length (unless you desire a symmetrical tree). After the lengths are cut, fold each piece in half and form a loop in the middle. Holding a finger in the loop, begin twisting the wires together. The loop portion is the root structure and the trunk is being formed as you twist the wire together. To help with the twisting, I use needle nose pliers to aid in keep the twists as "tight" possible.

As you twist, estimate where you desire the first branch to be formed and fold one or two of the lengths away from the line of the trunk. At this point, only create the first segment of the branch, you will "unravel" the wire later to create the secondary branches and twigs. Continue twisting the remaining wires until you reach the point where you desire the second branch to occur. Keep in mind that the branches need to protrude in different directions away from the trunk (Otherwise, you'll have a "flat" tree). Proceed on up the trunk until you run out of wire lengths for branches.

Now turn your attention to the "root" structure - which is now just the looped end. Take wire cutters and cut through the end of each loop. Fan out the roots and unravel one wire-end about halfway through to the trunk. Divide the unraveled strands in half and twist each "half" of the strands together to make branch roots. Then continue to twist and divide the subsidiary roots until you have just one strand of wire left at the end of each. Proceed to do the same thing with each of the remaining lengths of wire for each root. I vary the thickness and number of root "branches" to add variety and realism (since few trees grow perfectly symmetrical. With the root structure done, you have a "stand" to set the tree upright and allow it to easily be affixed to your diorama base with Cellu-clay.

Now go to the lowest branch of the tree and begin unraveling the strands of individual wire. Only unravel down to the point at which you want the first "fork" to be. Divide the strands of wire into groups of 2, 3 or 4. Begin then twisting each group of strands with itself. Depending upon how many individual strands you have, create the end twigs. I have found that the more "hap-hazard" the pattern appears, the more realistic the effect. When done with the lowest branch, go to the next highest branch and unravel the wire. Perform the same steps for each branch until all the branches are complete. You should now have a "skeleton tree".

At this point, you should go back and do some "fine-tuning" adjustment of the branches to even out the spread and distribution of the branches. When you are satisfied with the appearance, in a small cup create a relatively thin mixture composed of Snow-Tec and appropriately colored acrylic paint. Experiment with the consistency until it doesn't run totally off the tree or "clump-up". Spread the mixture all over the tree, covering each branch. After drying for 2-3 hours, you may desire to add another coat on the trunk, if you need to "beef-up" the thickness a little. After this cures for a day or so, you should have a tree with no foliage, but with a texture that resembles bark. I like to add a wash of thinned black enamel at this point to exaggerate the texture a little.

Once this is completely dry we are ready to add foliage. Take a small amount of steel wool and pick it apart until there is just a small "wisp" of wool fibers in a clump. Starting with the lowest branched first, apply a thinned mixture of PVA (Elmer's) to the twigs where the foliage will be placed. Place the "shredded" steel wool into the branch and spread over the all the twigs. The steel wool should not be too thick. Continue gluing shredded steel wool to the branches and twigs until you are done.

Next, go to the grocery store and find "foliage" in the desired color… Parsley is great for spring colors, Pesto is good for early fall, Woodland Scenics also makes "shredded foam" foliage in virtually any color for any season. Depending upon the scale, you may need to chop the foliage into smaller "leaves". To adhere the foliage to the steel wool, I use a canned spray glue, there are many varieties, some more toxic than others so use in a ventilated area. Spray the glue on the steel wool and then sprinkle the prepared foliage over the steel wool. Be careful when sprinkling and don't allow the foliage to adhere to the trunk of the tree.

After this dries for a few hours, you are ready to apply a touch-up coat of airbrushed foliage color to the steel wool. Choose (or mix) a color closely matching the foliage and carefully spray the steel wool. Do not spray directly at the trunk or you will over-paint the trunk color… After the foliage color has dried, you may wish to spot air-brush the foliage again to produce a "splotchy" multi-colored green look. This is effective for autumn, when the leaves are turning brown in phases.

The reason I like this technique is that is allows total freedom in the creation of the customized size and type of tree you desire. The only type of tree that can't be done with this technique is coniferous varieties (pine trees). The cost to produce one tree is less than a buck.

Detail list of components and tools needed:
Steel picture hanger wire $3
Steel wool $1.50
Snow-Tec (available from Micheal's Craft Store) small container - $3
Chopped parsley $2 (or Woodland Scenics shredded foam foliage $5)
Tamiya Gray acrylic paint Tamiya Forrest Green acrylic paint Krylon Aerosol spray glue $4 PVA (Elmer's) glue $2
Needle nose pliers Small wire cutters

This should be enough material to make more than a dozen trees (maybe more depending upon scale).