Understanding Miniature Scales: A Beginner's Guide

If you're new to the world of miniatures, you might have seen terms like 1:6, 1:12, or 1:64 scale and wondered, “What do these numbers mean?” Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, I’ll explain what different scales mean, and how they apply to the miniature toys and accessories I make.

What Does "Scale" Mean?

"Scale" is simply a way to describe how much smaller a miniature item is compared to the real thing. For example, if an item is 1:6 scale (or 1/6), that means it's six times smaller than its real-life counterpart. A 1:12 scale means it’s twelve times smaller, and so on.

Let’s break down some common scales and give you examples to help you visualize them.

1:6 Scale (1/6)

  • What it means: For every 6 cm (or inches) in the real world, the miniature is 1 cm (or inch).
  • Popular for: Action figures like Barbie, G.I. Joe, or collectible dolls.
  • Example: A typical chair that’s 3 feet (36 inches or 91 cm) tall in real life would be 6 inches (15.2 cm) tall in 1:6 scale.

1:12 Scale (1/12)

  • What it means: For every 12 cm (or inches) in the real world, the miniature is 1 cm (or inch).
  • Popular for: Dollhouses and detailed room displays.
  • Example: A regular kitchen table that’s 30 inches (76 cm) tall in reality would be about 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) tall in 1:12 scale.

1:24 Scale (1/24)

  • What it means: For every 24 cm (or inches) in the real world, the miniature is 1 cm (or inch).
  • Popular for: Smaller dollhouses and detailed models.
  • Example: A sofa that is 36 inches (91 cm) wide would be about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) wide in 1:24 scale.