Dollhouse Miniatures - Issue 56 (2017-03-04)

CINDY CHINN MAKES MICRO ART OUT OF LEAD PENCILS March / April 17 ISSUE 56

dhminiatures.com

THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL

Price US $9.95 Canada $15.95

PROJECTS Bunny rug • Gothic style chair • Flower containers

• Baby’s Easter playsuit • Miniature comforter • Cross-stitch carpet

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pring has sprung

Step into Dominique Autin’s half-inch scale Easter shop

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Bring Your Dollhouse to Life

LIGHT IT!

Need Help? Afraid of Electricity? Learn how simple wiring can be from Carl Sahlberg. Sign up for his wiring class on April 20th at the Tom Bishop International Show. Not interested in a class? Have Carl come to your house and wire it for you.

Call 317-414-3921 for more information.

122 Gallison Hill Road, Montpelier, VT 05602

Creative Reproductions 2 Scale www.cr2s.com [email protected]

Let me wire your dollhouse for you!

Probably the only French part of Basle.

Toy Worlds Museum Basle | Museum, Tue. to Sun. from 10 to 18, in December, daily from 10 to 18 | Ristorante La Sosta and Museum shop, daily from 10 to 18 Steinenvorstadt 1, CH-4051 Basel | www.swmb.museum

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Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel 19.08.16 14:44

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Dollhouse Land Artistry in Miniature by Laura Crain

Artisan Painted Furniture Garden & Floral Artist Creations See you at: Miniatures West Show & Sale f

N.A.M.E. Sacramento Regional f

Chicago International Show f

and Texas Miniature Showcase 27134A Paseo Espada • Suite 304 • San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 (949) 496-9841 • [email protected]

Miniature Masterworks SAVE THE DATE SEPTEMB ER 15 – 17, 2017 A juried showcase of fine-scale miniature work.

For more information, visit toyandminiaturemuseum.org/masterworks

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Dollhouse Miniatures PO Box 219 Kasson, MN 55944

Phone: (507) 634-3143 Toll Free: 1-866-606-6587 E-mail: [email protected] UK: PO Box 2258, Pulborough West Sussex RH20 9BA Tel: 01903 884988 Publisher: Kelly Johnson Email: [email protected] Editor: Auralea Krieger Email: [email protected] Advertising Manager: Sara Vix Email: [email protected] Customer Service: Email: [email protected] Distribution: Hope Johnson Email: [email protected] Designer: Auralea Krieger Ad Designer: Lauren Nielsen Cover Photo: Janny and Simon Warnaar Contributors: Sue Bakker, Erzsébet Bodzás, Cindy Chinn, Ronnie Godfrey, T. A. Gozeski, Michal Gvir, Romaine Hoffman, Wendy Jack, Auralea Krieger, Joachim Kuehner, Pam North, Michael Reynolds, Rebecca Smith-Keary, Keith Walker, Deb Weissler, Sue Winter

Issue 56 March/April 2017 Published by Ashdown Inc.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: 1 year (6 issues): $54.99

Canada $85.99 CAD; UK £63.99; Europe €74.99; Rest of World $81.99 USD

2 year (12 issues): $104.99

Canada $161.99 CAD; UK £121.99 GBP Europe €145.99 EUR; Rest of World $159.99 USD Dollhouse Miniatures (ISSN 1094-1916 (USPS 957-440) is published bi-monthly at PO Box 219, Kasson, MN 55944. Subscription price $54.99. Periodicals postage paid at Kasson MN and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address corrections to Dollhouse Miniatures, PO Box 219, Kasson, MN 55944. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. All material submitted to the magazine for publication in whatever form is accepted solely on the basis that copyright in the work will be vested in the publisher who assumes all rights worldwide, in all forms and in all media. Submitted materials cannot be returned unless accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope. In any event the publisher can accept no responsibility for loss or damage to contributions. Material is accepted solely on the basis that the author accepts the assessment of the Publisher as to its commercial value. All material submitted to the magazine is subject to editing.

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contents 08 13 26 60 66 68 72 74 10 16 20

PROJECTS Bunny rug

This 1:12-scale carpet would look wonderful in any little boy’s or girl’s bedroom.

Victorian Gothic style chair Enjoy part two of Keith Walker’s project to make a Victorian Gothic style writing desk and chair.

Flower containers

No matter what size your garden, there is always space for a container for flowers, herbs, or shrubs.

Babies Easter playsuit

Rebecca Smith-Keary shares how to make your mini babies look sweet in their Easter playsuits.

A versatile mini bag

Make a beach bag to get a jump start on your summer scenes along with Sue Winter.

Make an unmade bed

Auralea Krieger shares a quick and easy way to give shape to your miniature comforter.

Cross-stitch a classic design

The talented Sue Bakker has designed this beautiful petit point rug for a 1:12-scale room.

A dollhouse for a dollhouse Take the leap and give a 1:144-scale dollhouse a quick make over for your 1:12-scale dollhouse.

FEATURES

A passion for animals

Israeli sculptor Michal Gvir’s passion for all animals great and small has resulted in a delightful menagerie.

Miniaturist extraordinaire

Michael Reynolds is revisiting a creative passion that he found solace in as a child.

Get your kicks on Route 66

With the desire to preserve the history of past places Wendy Jack created a nostalgic 1:12 scale journey.

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welcome

I truly loved to see and read about the immense amount of dedication the artists on these pages have for their art. I don’t know why but when I see others deeply engrossed in the creation process it makes me feel that all is right in the world. I remember when I taught mixed media workshops for children. Mostly it was chaos but there were always one or two that tuned out everyone around them to focus on their creation. Those were my golden moments as an instructor. Interestingly enough it was the same with my adult workshops. Some were there to laugh and fiddle with

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papers, but about half way through a few would become very focused and involved. Getting lost in creating is a great form of meditation no matter what your medium is. Something similar happens to me at miniature shows. As I scan the tables my imagination starts to see scenes and stories with the beautifully made miniature objects. Sometimes I leave with special additions to ongoing projects, but the big score for me is when I leave with an item that has triggered a brand new project! There are lots of miniature shows across the US for you to enjoy this year and hopefully you can find your way to them.

Mini food with max appeal

Erzsébet Bodzás combines her beautifully handmade food and pottery into stunning masterpieces.

Astounding micro carvings

Cindy Chinn turned an idea for a contest entry into a passionate outlet for her creativity.

Brush strokes in miniature

Fine arts painter Joachim Kuehner has embraced the Baroque period to display his talents.

Spring showcase

Spring has sprung in this fabulous showcase. Enjoy the colorful miniature delights full of love and wonder!

The history of underwear

A look at the history of ladies’ underwear. Now your every detail will be accurate even if it’s covered up!

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The Miniature Show and The Texas Miniature Showcase are just a few that will have so many amazing artists you will be brimming with creative ideas!

REGULARS

Artisan gallery

Linda and Jim Orleff, and Jane Harrop are some of the artists that will be part of The Miniature Show.

The big buzz

Hear what’s buzzing in our mini world! These pages are filled with news updates, events, and contests.

Your letters

See what your fellow readers and miniaturists are learning, discovering, thinking, and discussing.

Mini cutouts

Cut out your very own posters and signs for a minitures Vet’s clinic in one-inch and half-inch scales.

Show calendar

Pull out your mini pens and mark your mini calendars so you don’t miss any of these upcoming shows.

In a Nutshell

Romaine Hoffman’s Hodge-Podge in Cluttersville was based on her latest children’s literature. D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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FEATURE

Every issue, DHM will be introducing you to some of the talented artists that participate in The Miniature Show. So sit back and enjoy!

Linda & Jim Orleff

We love the looks we get when we tell non-miniaturist people that our business is making lights for dollhouses. We hadn’t planned to do that when we retired but the opportunity to buy an existing business came up and it allowed us a lot of flexibility, so Jim and I purchased the Lighting Bug in December 2005 from Isabel and Tom Thompson. They started the business in 1976 when they couldn’t find suitable lights for their family dollhouse. Lighting Bug has been providing lighting to miniature enthusiasts for over 40 years now and we’re happy to be part of that legacy. For me, the interest in miniatures as a business evolved from miniatures as a hobby. I built my RIGHT: The gorgeous Aurora Pink Chandelier with Swarovski crystals. BELOW: A Moroccan style chandelier.

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5-story, 15-room dollhouse in a woodworking class at the local tech college in 1979. I had been doing an assortment of crafts for many years and I liked the idea that the house was a long-term project where I could use all of my crafting skills, just in a much smaller scale. Jim helped me come up with a hard-wire lighting system for the house and although it was built in the age of “non-replaceable” lighting, many of the lights still work from 35+ years ago. He continues to be the technical guru for the business, as well as webmaster, photographer, ad man, and customer service. I’m the lighting artisan and business manager. As small business owners, we wear a lot of hats and our skills blend nicely. People ask us how we come up with our designs. We bought quite a few designs with the business that continue to be popular today, including our signature “bare bulb”. We are always looking at lights whereever we go; our friends are used to us taking pictures of the light fixtures

LEFT: A Tudor style chandelier. BELOW: Lighting Bug’s signature light, the bare bulb

when we’re out shopping or in restaurants. The design shows on HGTV and in magazines provide a lot of inspiration and customers send us pictures and drawings of lights they like. We’re constantly working on new lighting designs and trying to take advantage of the advances in technology. Dollhouse lighting has changed considerably in the eleven years we’ve been doing this because of LED lights and 3D printing. Although we have a webstore, we do miniature shows so our customers have a chance to see our lights in person and we get to see the looks of delight when they see what we make. We hope people who have seen our lights can tell that we’re very picky about our products. If I wouldn’t put a light in one of my projects, then it’s not good enough for a customer. For more information, check out our webstore or like us on Facebook at Lighting Bug Ltd. DHM

GET IN TOUCH Lighting Bug Ltd Linda & Jim Orleff www.lightingbugltd.com Call: 931-287-0195

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FEATURE

LEFT: Camping coach kit in half and quarter-inch scale. Kit comes complete with everything shown except paint, stain, and fabric.

Jane Harrop

I began making miniatures 22 years ago. I started a miniatures club in my local village and then later I began teaching evening classes in making miniatures. I’ve also written four books on the subject, Toys and Games, Finishing Touches, 30s and 40s Era Miniatures, and Edwardian Era Miniatures. I’ve am having so much fun teaching workshops to miniatures enthusiasts online all around the world. I specifically make 1:12, 1:24 and 1:48-scale dollhouse kits. At the

RIGHT: Baby pocket shop kit in quarter scale. Part of a series of pocket shop kits. Great projects for taking away on holiday or to club meetings.

moment I’m working on a 1:24-scale 1970s project with my workshop students. I grew up in that era so it’s bringing back lots of memories for myself as well as my students. Eventually, I hope to create a variety of 1970s inspired kits in all three scales and list them for sale on my website and at miniature exhibitions. All of my kits have been tried and tested by my students, so if they feel any LEFT: Artist’s table “Moment in time” workshop kit available in one-inch and half-inch scales. If I am invited to teach a workshop, this is one of my popular kits. It is also available on my website for miniaturists to assemble at home in their own time.

alterations should be made to the kit to make it easier to construct, this will have been rectified before my kits go on sale on my website. I love the fact that whatever we have in our full sized life, it has probably been replicated perfectly in miniature by someone! DHM

GET IN TOUCH Jane Harrop Web: www.janeharrop.co.uk Email: [email protected]

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PROJECT

a playful BUNNY RUG

This carpet would look wonderful in any little boy’s or girl’s bedroom. Just alter to match the color scheme of your own child’s bedroom!

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he image of the bunny as a childish symbol has been helped somewhat by their inclusion as characters in story books. Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Floppsy, and Cottontail have all entertained the imaginations of children for generations – naturally they make a welcome appearance in the nursery too.

Step 1: The colors used to make this

carpet have been listed in the “You’ll Need” box, but you can easily alter them to suit the décor of your own dollhouse room.

Step 2: Follow the pattern grid and

use three strands of thread throughout, working in a half-cross stitch.

Step 3: When stitching is complete, cut

the canvas to leave four empty rows, then mitre the corners, fold them under and glue them. DHM

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YOU’LLneed u Piece of 18 threads to the inch canvas approx 5” x 3 1/2”

u Anchor thread: Border – Blue 159 u Grass – Green 226

u Sunflower – Yellow 288; Grey – 849

u Rabbits – Brown 308, 306, 301 u Tree – Brown 309, Green 226, 245, 240

u Background – Ecru, White 01

Rug pattern

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Doreen Sinnett Tiny Doll Molds “Arial”

MASSACHUSETTS

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5-8 P.M. $18 includes early sales, weekend admission, and post preview pizza party with dealers. We have over 90+ miniature dollhouse molds ranging in size from 1 1/2” to 6 1/2” tall. We have tiny Babies, Children, Teenagers, Men and Women, original sculpture molds, by Doreen Sinnett. We also have fantasy molds that include Fairies, Santa & Mrs. Santa, Elves, Angels and more! Our 4” and 6” line of Antique Reproduction molds are a wonderful size for your larger dolls to hold. See our 5 1/2” tall “Arial” and our 2 1/2” tall “Fairy Faye” molds at our complete online store.

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Telegraph Key Cobbler’s Table  122 Gallison Hill Road, Montpelier, VT 05602

www.rainbowhandandkathy D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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FEATURE

A passion for animals

Israeli sculptor Michal Gvir’s passion for all animals great and small has resulted in a delightful menagerie she hopes you will enjoy! By Michal Gvir Edited by Deb Weissler

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ello, my name is Michal Gvir. I’m a self-taught artist born twenty-five years ago in a city in the Central District of Israel, where I currently live. Though I’m a city dweller, I love wildlife, and enjoy the bits of nature one can find in an urban area. Being quite curious about nature, I love learning and expanding my knowledge. I’m interested in a number of fields: science, history, archeology, and nature.

A beautifully made 1:12-scale Egyptian Mau.

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TOP: Michal Gvir with her best friend.

I always thought I’d be working with animals in some capacity. I wanted to become a vet or dog trainer, but since I never owned a dog until recently and so had no experience, this goal has never come to fruition. I never thought I would become an animal This 1:12-scale ring tail lemur is perched on his favorite branch. artist instead. I was drawn to the world of As a kid, I never had many artistic expression for as long as I can pets. I used to bring home remember; drawing, painting, sculptstray animals against my ing, and designing have always been a mother’s wishes, so there part of my life. I find comfort in creatwere lots of arguments ing. It’s a means of expressing myself, around this subject. I always who I am and fulfilling my imaginadreamed of having a dog tion. I can’t imagine life without it. I and enjoyed the company of was so inspired by the animals I came animals due to their sincerity, across, I decided to recreate them as loyalty and loving personaliart pieces. ties. They never judge us. The life of an artist isn’t always easy.

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FEATURE

TOP LEFT: Buddy, the dalmatian, is sitting for his cookie like a very good boy! LEFT: Oliver the 1:12-scale Welsh corgi has a very handsome expression. ABOVE: Smudge, the calico cat is curious about these potted flowers that have tipped over.

Being a perfectionist, I’m very critical about my work, and when I look back at my first sculptures, they’re not very good to say the least. Though my work looks much better now, I still have a long way to go as there’s always room for improvement. In 2010 I came across Dollhouse Miniatures magazine while searching for some inspiring photos as references for my sculpting. I was stunned by its beauty, fascinated with the extremely small scale, and was tempted to give it a try.

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Animals and nature are my greatest sources of inspiration. Whenever I come across a sweet animal, I want to create it in miniature.

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I didn’t have much confidence at the a the start and wasn’t sure if people would like my work, but I love sculpting so much, and wanted to improve

and become more professional. The first piece I felt was commercially viable was a miniature snow leopard. Back then I wasn’t creating according to true scale, but I felt comfortable selling him. I listed him on eBay and was so thrilled when he sold! It gave me so much confidence and motivation to continue. It took me years to perfect my process before I appreciated my own pieces. At first I sculpted quite large forms, not focusing on any specific genre. I sculpted re-born babies, horses, and dogs. They were completely out of scale. Mainly I practiced, improving my skills and techniques, without any specific direction. I wasn’t very consistent until I came upon this magazine. It wasn’t easy to work in such tiny scale and it took me sometime before I completed something suitable to market. I had finally chosen my career path! Animals and nature are my greatest sources of inspiration. Whenever I come across a sweet animal, I want to create it in miniature. My miniature cats for example were influenced by the stray cats I fed as a child. In return for a meal, they helped me learn and understand feline

behaviors and movements. Inspiration comes from other sources as well—colors, patterns, flowers, photos, landscapes, movies, and TV shows. Many of the dog breeds I have created were inspired by the show “The Dog Whisperer”. The creative journey begins with the search for some good reference photos. If the miniature is a cat or dog, I can use real life references. The very first step of the sculpting process is creating an armature; a sort of “skeleton” to provide strength to the sculpture. I use wire and aluminum foil, creating a skeleton in two parts. Starting with the head, I fold the wire into the skull shape, cover it with Fimo, and bake it. Then I sculpt the head over the skull and bake it. After the head has been shaped and baked, I continue the wire armature by forming the body skeleton--neck, spine, chest, and tail. The legs I form separately and attach them to the skeleton with thin strips of tape, then add aluminum foil. Once shaped into the desired position, I cover it with a thin layer of Fimo, and bake it. I continue sculpting and modeling the animal’s body and legs until I’m pleased with the results. The final sculpting step is shaping the ears and tail. After the final bake I clean the sculpture with a wet wipe and give it LEFT: Let’s Play! Says Winky the Shih Tzu. D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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FEATURE time job. Though sometimes I create only one animal at a time, I prefer working on several pieces at once. layer by layer, accordMy studio is placed in a corner of ing to hair growth my apartment beside a large window, direction, cutting it overlooking neighborhood and a nice to the desired length trail where people often walk their to achieve realistic dogs. I work on a small computer desk results. After applywith the keyboard drawer as my actual ing the coat, I usually work space. Scattered about are my give the face, ears and favorite modeling tools: needles, toothlegs a brush with picks, and round clay shaper. My latest acrylic paints in order additions were an X-ACTO knife to highlight dark and and a dotting tool. Beside my desk is a light areas, giving the toaster oven in which I bake the Fimo. animal a more lifeIn recent years I’ve taken on a few like appearance. commissions: a Wirehaired DachsFinally I draw the hund, a cat named Camille, some paw prints Wirehaired with acrylic paints, and seal Pointer puppies, them with matte varnish, and a leaping adding an extra layer of bunny, which was glaze to the eyes as well. For a huge challenge. whiskers I insert very fine I was asked to needles, one by one, affixed create a wild with tiny drops of Super bunny in a leapGlue. To give the piece more ing and landing personality, I provide it with pose. According a name, trying to match it to the request, with the character it reprethe bunny was sents. to balance only On average, I create about on his front legs. three animals a month, I knew it was depending on the breed, fur going to be a type, and size of the animal challenge to keep in question. In a year I create him standing ABOVE: A black and white latte around 30-36 animals. A upright without single animal can take a week cat with bright green eyes. support, so I or more to complete. I work inserted a wire about seven hours a day, so it’s a fullbetween its front legs, attempting to make it invisible, so that he could be securely pinned to the ground. The first pose looked too stiff, his back was too rigid. So I sculpted a second bunny with a slightly curved back, which softened the movement and made him look like he was gracefully jumping around. The client was delighted. I market my work on Facebook, where people can view all my miniatures, and eBay is where I sell my work. One day I hope to create entire scene built around a story for others to enjoy. I would also like to try sculpting scale dolls, but for the moment am content improving my animals. DHM LEFT: A walking wire fox terrier in 1:12 scale.

several coats of acrylic paints, according to the various shades, colors, and patterns of the specific animal. Lastly comes the longest phase in the process – the fur coat. Furring is

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A single animal can take a week or more to complete. I work about seven hours a day, so it’s a fulltime job.

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time-consuming, taking many hours to complete. I use synthetic and natural fibers and wool, depending on the colors I need. Sometimes I mix my own colors by hand to create a specific shade. I add the fur using two different techniques according to the lengths of hair required for various parts of the body. For short furred areas such as the face, ears, legs, and belly, I use fur which I cut to thin powder. I apply the powder gently onto a layer of wood or Tacky Glue so that it will be strong and bond well to the sculpture. For longer fur I use an all-purpose adhesive. I apply the fibers carefully, RIGHT: Casper the white bunny is a perfect addition to any miniature garden. 12

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PROJECT

Victorian Gothic DESK CHAIR Enjoy part two of Keith Walker’s project to make a Victorian Gothic style writing desk and chair. Make your set complete with a few more steps. By Keith Walker

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his chair is designed to match the Gothic style desk from issue DHM55 and is modified from a Victorian chair made around 1861.

file or multi tool cutter, make a scallop on two sides starting at 18mm from the bottom. Using the template mark out onto the wood the shapes as shown in the picture. Cut out and shape with a round file. Drill three holes overlapping each other as shown. Keep the legs, cross member and corner supports square and glue together.

Step 2: Cut out the narrow back piece.

Step 1: Cut out the legs and the cross

member for the front. Using an 8mm round

For the ornate feature I made a rugby ball shape on the top of each. Cut slots in the back, spaced as indicated in the drawing. Scallop out as you did for the bottom two legs and use a template to shape the corner pieces. Cut out the cross member 5 x 5 x 28mm and glue all pieces together, keeping them square. About 2mm from the bottom of each leg, file a slot to form a foot. Sand smooth.

YOU’LLneed u Millimeter ruler

u Wood strip: 500mm x 5mm x 5mm (x2) u Supports: 10mm x 5mm x 25mm (x8)

u Back: 60mm x 23mm x 2mm

u Seat top: 38mm x 28mm x 2mm

u eat locator: 28mm x 22mm x 3mm u Top: 8mm dia. x 5mm deep u Leather covering

u Double sided sticky pads

u Gold effect adhesive paper

Step 3: Cut out the backrest and make

a 45° angle as shown. Using a file, make an 8mm diameter piece for the top of the back apex, 5mm deep. Cut a small V slot so that it fits on top of the apex. Now cut

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PROJECT

the two 5 x 5mm bars that fit onto the apex. Glue the top and bars onto the back and leave to set.

Step 4: When the back of the chair is fully set, place the back uprights centrally over the top and mark with a sharp craft knife where the bars need to be cut in. Cut off to the mark.

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Step 5: Lay the double sided sticky pads

on the back of the chair and cut off the pieces that hang over as shown. Reveal one sticky side and attach to the back of the chair covering, leave some of the back covering to fold over. Reveal the other side of the sticky pad and fold the covering over. The sticky surface left can now be stuck to the back of the chair.

Step 6: Next, cut out the two side cross members so that they are 5 x 5 x 23mm long. Using the provided template mark and cut out the side corners and supports. Then glue the corner supports to the cross members and then glue them to the back legs of the chair. Remember to keep the width correct at the front so that the legs will fit.

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PROJECT Step 7: Now glue the front leg assembly to the side members and supports. Clamp in a vice or G-clamp. Ensure the chair is square and leave to set completely.

Step 8: Using the chair as a template mark onto a piece of 2mm thick wood the shape of the seat, then cut out to the marked lines.

Step 9: Try the fit to make sure that the size of the seat bottom is the same as the chair top. Then cut out the seat locator, which is the same size as the inside of the seat cross members. Glue to the seat top in the position shown on the drawing.

type of material as the back, still leaving some of the sticky surface for sticking to the seat.

Step 11: I decided at this stage to cut

some slots in the side of the chair back, as

Step 10: Using the same method as

previously done for the back of the chair, cut the double sided sticky pads to the size of the seat, then cover with the same

indicated in the drawing. This can also be done at stage 2, which makes it easier still. Finally, I decorated the seat of the chair with gold self adhesive paper and a coat of teak oil or beeswax to bring out the warmth of the wood. DHM D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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FEATURE

Miniaturist extraordinaire

Michael Reynolds is revisiting a passion he found solace in as a child. Now his work has reached new heights by fine tuning his techniques. By Pam North

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eorgia born and bred Michael Reynolds has a philosophy that has driven his life: “ I channel adversity into success.” His childhood wasn’t an easy one. He reminisced, “As a kid I was a little goofy nerd, more interested in a blank sheet of paper and a large box of crayons than typical stuff liked by my peers, who perceived my interests as odd. As a result, I was bullied, but that experience gave me the survival skills I would need much later in life. I was left isolated in the mind of a creative adolescent. I could make my world bearable by using my imagination to escape to a much kinder world where animals talked, and every day was spent with fairies, princes, and castles furnished with lovely things and with protective walls. In hindsight, I now understand that it gave me the cushion to the reality of the world that I so desperately needed then. ” He became interested in miniatures in the late 70s, when his mother’s neighbor built a dollhouse, and soon

he built one for his mother, beginning his journey into a fanciful world where anything was possible. “As a teenager I was interested in becoming an architect. I was diagnosed with dyslexia and struggled in school; my learning disability manifested itself most notably with numbers. It was an impossibility for me to become an architect, but miniatures afforded me the possibility

to live out that dream, and figure things out in my own way. I am very organic in my creative process. Like many people who are dyslexic, if I can visualize it first, I can execute it from start to finish. I never draw a piece first. I simply lay out the challenge in my mind, and calculate all the possible ways to make the piece. After it is visualized start to finish, I get to

TOP: Gothic chair with a tufted leather seat made with Amboyna burl wood. RIGHT: A Flemish harpsichord with walnut burl panels and banded with laurel wood. The lid is handpainted with oil paints. 16

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FEATURE LEFT: “The Dragon Bed” Made from Carpathian elm burl, lavishly dressed in embroidered French silk. RIGHT: “Lady Catherine” dressed in “Worth” gown of antique embroidered silk.

work. I often get an idea to create a piece that I have no idea of how to engineer in miniature.” He also began working for a local miniatures shop part-time, but after four years, the shop closed because of a downturn in the economy, and Reynolds began to seek his own place in the world. He spent some time abroad, exposed to diverse cultures in

‘

In the miniature world everyone has a valued story to tell. It can live in a dollhouse, a simple room box, or rest delicately under a glass dome, but it is real and it exists.

’

wonderful locales that echoed those he had imagined as an adolescent. “I eventually landed in the historic city of Charleston S.C., where I felt the connection with history I had discovered in Europe. I fell in love with the theater, eventually becoming a costume

designer, an awardwinning career that lasted for 20 successful years. I understand how the artist uses his mind to deliver creations that are uniquely his own.” Reynolds then decided to seek a new adventure, and reentered the field of dollhouse miniatures, coming full circle. “I channel my rich life of experiences into my work today. I make no claim of being a craftsman of perfect reproduction in-scale furniture, and I am not a formally trained artist or painter. I simply create and bring to life the things that lie in the recesses of my mind. I have revisited a passion I had discovered as a child, a passion I thought I had left behind, but on which I obviously have never truly shut the door; I simply keep turning the page. In the miniature world everyone has a valued story to tell. It can live in a dollhouse, a simple room box, or rest delicately under a glass dome, but it is real and it exists.” Reynolds has devised his own unique techniques. “I spent two years studying in depth many of da Vinci’s techniques. I paint on actual stretched canvas, RIGHT: “Young Lady In A Garden” hand-painted oil on canvas. (Original image by Jean-Frédéric Schall 1761.)

creating a layered technique similar to what da Vinci is believed to have used. I want my finished products to have a resonant depth to them that look like aged paintings.” His craftings also include fancifully dressed dolls (an homage to his theater days), animals, and amazingly intricate furniture. “If I am known for anything in the area of furniture, it is my use of exotic burl woods. I finish my pieces to make them look like they have been sitting in a house for over a hundred years. I use so many exotic woods that I found it difficult to match my carved components with the imported wood veneers that I prefer. I taught myself how to cast components, but my dilemma was that casting in resins resulted in plasticlooking elements. I began researching ancient Italian woodworking compounds that used ground pecan shells and an assortment of glues. Pecan is a very hard wood, so my solution was to grind pecan shells into a flour D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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FEATURE consistency and infuse resin. The result was a component that is porous and stainable like wood. Most of my pieces are combinations of hardwood, veneers, and cast components.” He is into miniatures full-time. “This is what I do for a career. I am a working artist, and devote every hour of every day to my craft. My ongoing challenge has always been to solve the puzzle. By education I have all the classic studies under my belt, but I have never been classically trained in the arts.” Reynolds shared his sources of inspiration. “Simply being alive inspires me. I nearly died in my youth, so every day I have now, I embrace and count myself grateful for it. Most often my ideas come to me in dreams, then morph over time. I always have half-baked pieces sitting in boxes and drawers all over the house. Most of my pieces come to mind quickly, but there are times when I get blocked halfway through the process. I don’t push it; I just set it aside until a solution presents itself. The hardest part BELOW: “Edwardian Curiosity Shop” Mahogany burl with an aged copper roof.

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LEFT: Gothic window with a faux stone finish. ABOVE: Belted chairs with embroidered silk and a marble top occasional table. BELOW: Italian Renaissance desk with a book matched walnut burl top.

about making miniatures is that I have too many ideas and too few hours in the day. I am most driven by the challenge to create something I have never seen before. My recent most difficult challenge was a spiral staircase. I decided not long ago that I had never seen in miniature a free-standing spiral staircase, one with no center pole support, like one in a historic house in Charleston. The challenge was how to engineer ‘plumb’ and ‘level’. As a further complication, I wanted to veneer the piece in exotic burl wood, and had to figure out how to bend a substantial hand rail. After months of trial and error, the process reached happy completion. I have fun with all my little pieces.” Reynolds said he sells everything he makes, because he has no room to collect. He loves the creative process itself, and savors the reward of knowing collectors have acquired his work because they like it. His prices range from a single furniture piece at $110 to a commissioned room for $20,000. He currently is working on a 3-story room he calls the Philosopher’s Library, a culmination of all the techniques he has developed over the past eight years. He also will be teaching the construction of a Tudor room June of 2017.

The room was inspired by a room in a novel he has been writing for the past few years, and the room even has a secret “priest hole” found in estate homes throughout Great Britain. “It’s difficult for me to suggest which pieces are my best, as I work in so many mediums within this niche. I prefer to let the observer do the choosing. Frankly, I am very insecure about my work. I just feel blessed that there are collectors who acquire my pieces because they like them. They are my angels who allow me to pursue what I so love doing.” Reynolds currently lives in a onebedroom condominium in a historic building in the midtown area of Atlanta. “My cat Pippin is my business partner,” he joked. DHM

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THE Cortland CASES

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FEATURE

Get your kicks on Route 66

With the desire to preserve the history of past places Wendy Jack has created a nostalgic journey along route 66 in 1:12 scale. By Wendy Jack

I

became interested in the world of miniatures when I was offered the opportunity to build small scale models for the set designer at Saddleback College. I became inspired to design and build miniature theme rooms, but now my interest has evolved into creating large presentations that are educational as well as artistic and entertaining. I am a visual artist who holds a B.F.A. in the visual arts. Over the years I have worked in a wide variety of artistic mediums, ranging from paint and fabric wall hangings to plaster and cheesecloth sculptures. More recently I have worked as a scene painter for Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, CA and Red Earth Theatre in Sedona. My most recent accomplishment is my Route 66 presentation. It is comprised of a Route 66 themed diorama, a map that displays iconic Route 66 tourist attractions, with an accompanying information board that describes the tourist attractions. It was important to me that the piece was educational as well as entertaining.

I want to educate people, both young and old, about the importance that Route 66 has played in the history of travel and culture in the United States. It is my desire to keep these nostalgic memories alive for years to come.

This Route 66 project has been a long and involved journey with many challenges and learning experiences. I am a perfectionist so am never satisfied unless I am able to achieve the highest level of perfection in my work. Over ten years ago, when working as a

TOP: Wendy Jack proudly posing with her finished project. RIGHT: The 1:12-scale diorama shown from an aerial view.

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scene painter, the college presented a Route 66 themed cabaret theater show. This was a most inspiring venture for me. A few years later I came to live in Williams, Arizona. I was further inspired by this traditional little Route 66 town. I then ventured forward and started creating the diorama portion of the presentation. Soon after I designed a display table for the diorama and the map portion of the presentation. The diorama was built in 1:12 scale. I have attempted to make the various components of it as believable and realistic as possible. The filling station was closely inspired by a 1950s style filling station in Williams, Arizona. The inside decor, the landscaping, the numerous signs, to name a few aspects of the diorama, have been carefully researched and taken from real life inspirations. Because I also view this as an art piece I have taken some artistic liberties. The road meanders in and out, displaying different sizes. This is to give the illusion of how a road seems to become larger and smaller as we see

ABOVE LEFT: The map that shows historic sites along Route 66. ABOVE: Signage with sunflowers. LEFT: Wendy recreated many road signs for this piece.

The diorama measures 43” by 53” and stands 54” high. Though the diorama is made up of numerous materials, much of it is made up of wood. The base is made of pine wood. A considerable amount of the diorama is made up of balsa wood and other soft woods. In some of the cases the wood is used to represent actual wooden items. The telephone poles, the signs,

it curve in and out as we are driving. I have given the suggestion that there are rest rooms by presenting rest room signs. In fact there are none. In actuality the other side of the wall is the inside of the garage. These kinds of illusions allow the viewer to bring their own interpretation to the art piece.

‘

This Route 66 project has been a long and involved journey with many challenges and learning experiences.

’

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are a few examples. In many other cases the wood has been sculpted and painted with acrylic or metallic paint. Some of the materials exist just as they would be in real life. The cottonwood trees are made from actual cottonwood twigs. The walkways are created from actual stones The tiny cars are predominately metal. Even the miniature lights are made of gold colored metal. They have minute light bulbs that really work. The windows are made from Plexiglas. The Route 66 road has a Styrofoam base. Wood filler has been added to sculpt it. Finally it was painted with acrylic paint.

TOP: Wendy has added lots of great details to the cafe with all the fixings. LEFT: A view looking into the tight space. You can’t go wrong with burgers, hot dogs, and fresh donuts!

Being a miniaturist at heart I have employed many of the same techniques and materials in creating the map and the accompanying informa-

tion board as I did when building the diorama. The map and information board are backed with plywood. The raised red letters on the map have been carved from balsa wood and spray painted with metallic paint. All the printed material has been backed with balsa wood and other harder woods. Most importantly, the tourist attractions on the map are

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ABOVE AND LEFT: The filling station was closely inspired by a 1950s style filling station located in Williams, Arizona. It even has a vintage style soda machine!

ABOVE AND LEFT: There is a full service garage to keep the traffic moving safely along Route 66. Immediate left shows the check-out counter with candy for the little cafe.

miniature paintings done by myself and framed with tiny black frames. I want to invite all those of you who

love the world of miniatures and who wish to take a journey back in time to step into this miniature make believe scene. Here we have a miniature section of Route 66, featuring an Avant Guard filling station from D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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the 1950s, complete with a cafe with all the fixings, a garage filled with gas station paraphernalia, a Corvette and so much more. It is nestled in the landscape that is filled with sunflowers, cotton wood trees, driftwood, and numerous other treasures. Of course the Burma Shave signs present their amusing jingles. Please, I encourage you to enjoy and interpret this make believe section of land, that could represent any place along Route 66 as it might have been in its heyday, any way you wish.

ABOVE AND RIGHT: The shelves in the garage hold all the supplies. The shop desk is adorned with Betty Boop! The Route 66 sign on the telephone pole is aged beautifully.

If you were born during these times, let it bring back nostalgic memories. If you were born after these times, well then take an educational journey back in time, to relive these great old days! My desire is to present the Route 66 presentation to museums, organizations and individuals who would be interested in displaying or acquiring it. Further I am open to creating both customized educational dioramas and miniature theme rooms for individuals, organizations, or museums, about any subject matter desired. I am presently working on a large educational diorama of a make believe movie palace inspired from the days of the great movie palaces. Upon completion of this project I would love to invite all of you for a tour of the movie palace and to view an old time movie! DHM LEFT: Another aged sign surrounded by potted sunflowers.

GET IN TOUCH A Nostalgic Journey Along Route 66 Wendy Jack Email: [email protected] Web: wendyjack.info/route66 Phone: 928-814-9913

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The To-Do List Of A Very Wise Miniaturist:

Visit The Museum of Miniature Houses 7 Rooms of beautiful miniatures (I can’t wait!)

“Porcelain by Muriel Hopwood”

Current Exhibits Include: The Furnishing Touch: The History of What’s in a House and Why Hidden Treasures from the Museum Pt. 2

Larrianne’s Small Wonders

Always the best since 1980-Celebrating 30 years One of the nation’s largest & best-stocked stores with 3700 sq ft of miniatures to delight you. Our classes are taught by the best. Visit our website to see what everybody is talking about.

Just off the 101 Freeway 3457 Telegraph Rd, Ventura, California 93003 805-289-1508 - Monday - Saturday 10am to 5pm

larriannessmallwonders.com

Save Time to Shop in the Museum Shop Miniature “finds” at all price point ...

Attend The Museum’s Attic Sale April 29, 2017. Bargains galore! Chautauqua Miniatures & Dollhouse Gallery

111 East Main St - Carmel, IN 46032 317-575-9466 Hours: Wed-Sat: 11am to 4pm - Sun 1pm-4pm Learn more at the Museum’s Website: www.museumofminiatures.org

5031 W. Lake Rd Mayville, NY 14757

Web Site & Store OPEN YEAR ‘ROUND

(716) 753-3100 www.chautauquaminiatures.com FAIRY HOUSES, FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES 5,000 SQ FT OF FUN AND INSPIRATION!

Specializing in Doll Houses and Miniatures

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PROJECT

small blooms IN CONTAINERS No matter how large or small your garden, there is always space for a container for flowers, herbs or shrubs – Ronnie shares a few of her ideas. By Ronnie Godfrey

M

iniature gardening has a lot going for it: no weather to contend with; no slugs and snails; no naughty pets digging up your plants, no water bans. It’s also a lot easier on the back and the purse, and you have a lovely display of color all year round. These two mini projects can be used as part of a garden, on a dollhouse terrace, or in a small room box. The first is suitable for beginners: very quick and easy to make but less realistic, while the second requires some dexterity and more time.

Hyacinths in a green planter

YOU’LLneed

This is very easy to make and uses few materials. The mini hyacinths were cut from sprigs of blossom that can be bought in cake shops or hobby suppliers, and the planter itself was made from craft or lollypop sticks, paper and a toilet roll tube. It can be as deep or as shallow as you wish. Mine is about 1 1/8” high.

u A toilet roll tube

Step 1: Using craft knife or scissors, cut the toilet roll tube to the depth you want the planter to be minus 3/16”. Discard the rest of the tube.

u Brown scenic sawdust or dried tea leaves

Step 2: Draw around the

inside of the cut piece onto the thick paper. Cut around the circle, leaving a margin of about 3/16”.

Step 3: Repeat, but cut

around the pencil line. This will be the template for the foam. Put aside for later.

Step 4: Snip the edge

of the first circle at small intervals up to the pencil line and fold the paper snips at right angles to the circle. This will be the base of the planter.

u Thick paper, any color

u Craft sticks or lollypop sticks u Wooden coffee stirrer if necessary u White glue

u A piece of foam sponge, about 3/4” thick

u Pink or blue flower sprays u Green paper u Scissors

u Craft knife

u Saw or wood shears u Acrylic paint u Varnish u Pencil

u Needle

Step 5: Run a line of glue inside the

cardboard tube and insert the base so that the circle is level with the bottom of the

Tip

Use the smaller craft stick to make the container.

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PROJECT scrape off all the bobbles for about 3/8” at one end.

Step 12: Cut a strip of green paper about 9/16” wide and cut zigzag snips along its length, then cut it into 3/8” pieces.

Step 13: Run glue along the flat edge of the green paper and roll it around the lower part of the flower stem, below the bobbles. Repeat until you have as many flowers as you need. I used 11. Step 14: Using the needle to make a pilot hole, insert the flower sprays into the foam. You could use the same technique of cladding with wood to make a water feature using the cap of an aerosol spray for a base, and a stronger adhesive that works on plastic.

Japanese irises and water u A terra-cotta planter u Scenic water

u Florists’ wire cut into 4” lengths

u White paper - computer paper u Pink paper - computer paper u A small piece wax paper

u Green paper, slightly thicker u

Watercolors, watercolor pencils or colored crayons in yellow Ochre, mauve, brown, and dark green

u Fine paintbrush if using watercolors u Mauve fine felt pen

tube and the snips fit inside. Press them into the glue. Leave to dry.

acrylic paint and leave to dry. Varnish over the paint.

Step 6: Meanwhile cut the craft sticks as

Step 9: Using the paper circle you cut in

shown using the saw or shears.

Step 7: Glue the lengths of stick around

step 3, cut a circle out of the foam. Insert it into the planter. I didn’t glue mine as it was a tight fit.

u Fine scissors u White glue

u Darning needle

u Daisy paper punch – Fiskars “Flowers” corner punch

u Fine pliers

the tube with the cut edge level with the base. If the sticks don’t fit around exactly, either cut a stick vertically and round off the sharp edge to fill the gap or if you’re lucky, a piece of coffee stirrer will fit.

Step 10: Spread glue over the foam and

sprinkle sawdust or tea leaves over the surface. Press down lightly and leave to dry then tap off the excess.

Irises Step 1: Trace off the template for the

Step 8: When the glue is dry, paint the

Step 11: Cut 3/4” lengths off the end

Step 2: Using yellow Ochre, paint a strip

outside and halfway down the inside with

of the flower sprays and using your nail,

irises. Paint all the pieces pale mauve on one side. Leave to dry and then repeat on the other side.

down the center of the petals.

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PROJECT

Step 7: Using the fingers, squeeze the

flower pieces up and round the wire loop until they are securely fixed in place. Leave to dry.

Step 8: Bend the petals outwards from the center, leaving the central ones more vertical.

Step 9: Color a piece of wax paper

brown-yellow. Cut two arched pieces as shown.

Step 10: Spread a thin line of glue along the flat edges, and with the fingers, roll first one, then the second piece around the base of the flower petals. Step 11: Repeat until you have as many flowers as you need. Step 12: Cut long thin green leaves from

paper.

Step 3: When the paint is dry, dot the

Step 5: Using the pliers, bend a small, flat

Lilies Step 1: Punch out 10 daisy shapes and

Step 4: Using the needle, carefully make

Step 6: Thread the flower pieces on in the

Step 2: Using the pliers, bend a small, flat

petals on one side using the felt pen as shown.

a hole through the center of the three flower pieces.

loop at one end of a piece of wire and coat it with glue.

order shown, spreading a little glue around the center of each one.

make a hole through the center of each with the needle.

loop at one end of a piece of wire and coat it with glue.

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PROJECT Step 3: Thread a daisy shape onto the

Step 9: Decide how high you want the

wire and press the petals around the end. Dab a little glue into the center of another daisy and repeat.

lilies to be and cut the stems accordingly. Insert the lilies into one corner of the planter.

Step 4: Continue threading the daisies

Step 10: Insert the leaves around the

onto the wire, dabbing each with a little glue so that it sticks to the one before. Press each layer of petals a little less firmly so that a water lily flower shape is formed.

flowers.

Step 5: Repeat until you have the number

Step 12: Cut the lily flower stems slightly shorter than the depth of the “water” and insert them among the leaves.

Step 11: Carefully place the lily leaves on the surface of the “water”.

of flowers you need.

Step 6: Cut leaf shapes from the green

paper. Using a darker green crayon or watercolor, mark in the veins and smudge the color with a damp brush. The water and assembly

Tip

Only melt enough Scenic Water to fit the terra-cotta pot.

Step 8: Melt the Scenic Water in its own

container as instructed. When liquid, pour into the terra-cotta pot to within a few millimeters of the rim. Leave until almost set.

Step 13: Leave the “water” to set completely. If you wish, you can make tiny Fimo fish to swim in the water feature. Add the water in layers and insert the fish between the layers. Now you have a wonderful addition to your miniature collection made by you! DHM

Become a DHM contributor Tell us your story Do you love making miniatures and/or miniature scenes? Do you have an interesting life story connected to the art of miniatures? If so, then we want to hear from you! Send in your story (no more than 750 words, please!) and some photos to be considered for publication. Keep us in the loop Are you a member of a miniature group, charity, or show? Or do you know of an upcoming event or mini-terrific ne s story? Keep us in the loop by sharing it with us! Teach us If you have a passion for teaching miniatures, or dollhouse tips, tricks, and techniques, then we’d love to hear from you. Share your work with us Are you looking for a way to share your mini work with others? We are always accepting submissions for miniatures in many forms. Send in your ideas and projects for consideration. How to submit We want to hear from all miniaturists, and those who have a passion for this wonderful art form. Do you want to be a part of our next fun, fresh, and fabulous issue? Email your ideas, contributions, and questions to [email protected]. For more information and submission guidelines, visit http://www.dhminiatures.com/ getinvolved.html We look forward to you joining the Dollhouse Miniatures team! Please do not send original transparencies, negatives or irreplaceable prints for review purposes. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) if you wish to have your materials returned.

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FEATURE

Mini food with max appeal IGMA Fellow Erzsébet Bodzás combines her beautifully handmade food and pottery into stunning 1:12-scale still life masterpieces. By Pam North

T

here are two things to know about Hungarian artist Erzsébet Bodzás: (1) it’s a good thing that dollhouse dolls don’t eat, or there would have to be a new pudgy prototype, and (2) a dieting collector of miniatures probably will have trouble sticking to a food plan. The reason for both of these assertions is that faux delicacies made by Bodzás are incredibly realistic, and make the mouth water despite their small size and the fact that they aren’t edible. She uses them in clever food-related still life scenes in 1:12 scale. Bodzás shared how she got hooked on miniatures. “About ten years ago, I wanted a dollhouse for my daughters as a Christmas present. The dollhouses on the market weren’t to my taste and were much too

expensive for my budget, so I decided to make one myself. I searched the Internet for inspiration, and found a whole world I hadn’t known about. I was so fascinated by the tiny furniture, food and other items that looked so real, and I was glued to the screen for days. The dollhouse was ready for Christmas, but it was just the beginning of my exciting journey into the miniature world.”

Bodzás was a landscape architect before the births of her three daughters, but her career was forced to come to a halt because the required overtime and strict deadlines interfered with raising her children. It was time to start over in a more family-friendly career. What initially had been a hobby became a full-time job that she could manage at home, and she always could be there for her family. It was a dream; she was her own boss, arranging her schedule and doing what she liked best - making miniatures. Her architectural studies helped her make the transition. TOP: Quince and grapes with a cooked pie. Quince is an ancient fruit, found in Roman cooking and grown across Turkey and southeast Asia. It’s completely inedible when raw. Once the quince is cooked, it’s soft and tender. You eat the fruit like this, pour it over yogurt, or bake it into a tart. LEFT: Still life with fruit and beautiful pottery. Erzsébet’s favorite tool is her lathe. She uses it frequently to make her miniature pottery.

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TOP LEFT: Still life with an assortment of cheese. She has been making still life scenes for a year and is in love with the process. ABOVE: Still life showing a fruit galette. LEFT: Still life with 1:12scale cherries. BELOW: Still life with bread, eggs, and handmade mini pottery.

“I have training in drawing, and I know about wood structures, but the one thing I most benefit from is my CAD skill. My furniture, kitchen accessories, and room boxes are born on screen at first.” Her family supports her enthusiastically. “My husband is my most honest critic and my tool supplier. My daughters are happy to be able to borrow everything from my workroom, and leftover materials land in their hands, too. My mother is my biggest fan, and very proud of me, for my talent and my courage to change my carrier to something so nontraditional.

Whatever your job is, it’s always a challenge to handle all your roles simultaneously. I’ve always been a maximalist, as you can see in my creations, but I had to learn not to be one as a mother and a wife. Maybe my house is not up for a magazine photo at every hour of the day, but we try to not stress over it. We also have a rule about miniature making; I’m not allowed to work after six in the afternoon, or on weekends.” Like many artists, she has a workspace of her own. “In one word, it’s chaos. It might seem that one wouldn’t need much space for making miniature food, but I have shelves, drawers, and boxes full of different materials and power tools, and long work tables without a single empty spot on them. Once a month, when the work gets impossible because of the mess, I clear everything away. My most valuable tools that I couldn’t live without are toothpicks, since I use buckets of them, but my sweetheart is my lathe tool.” She cited scale as her biggest difficulty in working with miniatures. “It’s not enough to make something overall in the needed scale, you have to make every detail of it exactly in the right size. It’s really hard to achieve the D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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FEATURE

ABOVE: Still life display of zucchini and tomatoes. Erzsébet loves still life photos, especially in rustic, country style. RIGHT: Still life with persimmons. Persimmons are a fruit that is most often grown in warm, dry climates. The persimmon originated from Japan and is the country’s national fruit.

correct thickness of thin parts. Sometimes there is just no way to fabricate something in 1:12 when it’s really delicate even in real size. You could make the most breathtaking cake or roast chicken, then all your work fails when you put them onto a bulky plate.” Bodzás seeks inspiration in various venues. “The Internet is my best friend. There are so many fantastic gastronomy sites that I visit regularly. I also love still life photos, especially in rustic, country-style.” Bodzás sells her work primarily on Etsy, and her price range is between $2 for individual cookies, and $200 or more for detailed three-dimensional still life scenes. Some creations she has chosen to keep. “I have some room boxes I made for exhibitions, and they are part of my slowly growing collection that I display on the wall of our living room. I hope they remain in my family forever.” Bodzás elaborated RIGHT: A beautiful 1:12-scale still life featuring plums.

LEFT: A still life with bread, cheese, mushrooms, and pears.

on what she loves most about miniatures. “I can make everything I want. I’m a designer, a painter, a sculptor, a carpenter, and a cook, all at the same time. I feel like I live many different lives, and I can live out my dreams without consequences.” The future of miniatures intrigues her. “I believe in the need for real art, for handmade items. I know 3D printers can create everything in perfect scale in endless numbers, and mass production can serve the average hobbyist, but serious collectors always search for high-quality, original pieces.” Bodzás view of her own future is simple for now. “I’ve been making still life scenes for a year, and I fell in love with that venue. It’s great creating the parts for them, and then arranging them into a unique, colorful scene. I’ll stay on this road for a while. I have some great ideas for new room boxes; one of them is an old attic with abandoned objects, dust, and cobwebs.” DHM

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Happily Ever After 20609 Gordon Park Square, Suite 110, Ashburn, VA 20147 703-777-1869

Karen Aird’s Dollhouse Shop Now Open at a NEW Location

Specializing in Handcrafted Miniatures 24 West Oak Street Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 (908) 766-3777 n

Open: Tuesday - Saturday 10am – 4pm and also open by appointment. Open all the time on-line: www.happily-ever-after.biz

CHELSEA LANE

DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES Palo, Iowa | 319-851-4611

www.KarensDollhouse.com Handley House 670 page full color catalogue $42.00 per copy Send inquiries to: P.O. Box 262, 812 Iowa Street, Palo, IA 52324

MC and VISA accepted

INTERNATIONAL GUILD OF MINIATURE ARTISANS

CHICAGO 2017

Schedule of Events Gallery of the Guild

Displaying work for sale by IGMA Artisan and Fellow members not represented at the show.

Fingertip Fantasies Dollhouse Miniatures Shop 401 Main St • Clayton, DE 19938 Phone: (302) 653-8800

www.dollhouseminiatures.com [email protected]

IGMA Live Auction

Fri., April 21, 7:00 pm Buy beautiful miniatures; support IGMA educational and outreach programs.

Presentation: What is the Guild?

Sat., April 22, 5:30-6:30 pm Learn about IGMA and membership benefits.

PHOTOS: HEATHER ALMEDA

Now available in our shop: Rocky Mountain Dollhouses, made in the USA!

Enjoy these Guild Experiences at the Chicago International Show April 21-23, 2017.

Visit igma.org

© COPYRIGHT 2017 INTERNATIONAL GUILD OF MINIATURE ARTISANS

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1/6/17 10:37 AM

FEATURE

Astounding micro carvings Cindy Chinn turned an idea for a contest entry into a passionate outlet for her creativity as well as an inspirational art form for her fan base. By Cindy Chinn

M

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ART WHITTON

iniatures have always been a passion of mine. As far back as I can remember, I would make houses for my dolls and little things to put in them. Framed paintings for the walls or braided rugs for the floors. I would build elaborate scenes and take photos. This obsession grew more sophisticated as I got older. Though I create other works of art from bigger than life sculptures to 50’ murals, I always seem to come back to miniatures. There is an annual miniature show that I enter and in 2015 I wanted to do something different, something other than the typical micro painting that I always enter. I kept seeing photos of pencil carvings that other Artists were creating. Amazing micro carvings of inspiring detail haunted me. Every time I saw another one, I would say to myself, “I have to try that.” With the show deadline coming up, I decided that I would finally try my hand at it because lets face it, everyone enters little paintings or

TOP: Brilliant micro artist Cindy Chinn. ABOVE RIGHT: A micro carving of a lead pencil Easter bunny painted to look like a chocolate candy bunny. RIGHT: An assortment of highly detailed canine carvings.

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FEATURE LEFT: This tractor titled “Beast” is bursting out of a carpenter pencil. BELOW LEFT: The vintage carpenter pencil shown in full length.

LEFT: A beforeand after sequence showing the progress of a locomotive carved from a pencil. BELOW: A very close up photo showing the carving process of a train engine. Cindy works her craft knife in amazing ways.

to use a carpenters pencil because the lead was wider. After successfully finishing the shoe I wanted to do a design that was more complicated. One that had a lot of detail and intrigue. I spent some time looking at the carpenter pencil and asking it what it wanted to be, the end of the pencil looked like a tunnel to me. Trains come out of tunnels. Therefore, I must carve a train! Another element that I wanted in my design was something in the middle of the pencil, so I added a trestle. With a design in mind and a pencil in hand I jumped right into the project. There are a few things that I learned along the way, like graphite is fragile and unforgiving. My first carvings were created using a craft knife and a needle. Since then I have

‘

After careful consideration, I chose to use a carpenters pencil because the lead was wider.

’

drawings. I wanted to enter something that no one else would. I had decided that my first graphite carving would be a shoe, similar to the classic wooden shoe carving but with a twist, a high top tennis shoe. I also carve wood, so using that knowledge gave me a comfortable starting point. After careful consideration, I chose D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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1/27/17 10:46 AM

FEATURE started making my own tools by reshaping small screwdrivers and awls. I file them to the desired shape then sand and buff them smooth. Micro carving, in any material, is somewhat new to me. I have sculpted many things in clay and wax. Carving has a very different set of rules because you are “taking away” as opposed

‘

LEFT: A custom micro carving of Buster!

You have to be light handed when scribing your image into the lead because sometimes it is very difficult remove a bad line and maintain the detail of your piece.

to “adding”. Take away too much and you are forced to redesign or start your project over. This couldn’t be any truer with graphite and when you are working in a such a small scale, taking away too much could just be a slight scrape in the wrong place. Graphite is also rather soft, so it is easy to scar. You have to be light handed when scribing your image into the lead because sometimes it is very difficult to remove a bad line and main-

’

tain the detail of your piece. When I first started on this Pencil Adventure I didn’t want to invest in anything so I used what I had, a carpenter pencil from the shop, a craft knife from the studio, a sewing needle for the fine lines, and a magnifying lamp that I had on my layout table. I would work on it a bit, then take a micro shot, look at it on the computer then decide that I could make it look better and work on it some more. My biggest challenge in pencil carving was always not being able to see clearly what I was carving. My first purchase was a $60 5x diopter (which is a 2.5x magnification) magnifying lamp. I’ve tried goggles and glasses but I have never found a pair that worked well for me. And the working depth is always an issue with magnification. A lot of the higher magnifying glasses require that the piece be 2” from the lens and there is no room for tools. As I continued to think that

ABOVE: A peace sign carved from the lead of a pencil. RIGHT: A colorful display of blooming flowers in pots. Cindy hand-carved the wood for these as well as the lead. 36 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

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1/27/17 10:46 AM

FEATURE

You can see how much fun Cindy has coming up with fantastic scenarios to enhance her carving skills.

I needed to get closer to my work, my second purchase was a $115 floor standing 10x diopter magnifying lamp. It worked better and I was getting cleaner detail with less back and forth from the computer to the carving. I now own a 90x diopter (or 45x magnification) trinocular. The difference between a trinocular and a binocular microscope is that the trinocular has a 3rd port where you can add a camera to allow you to have a live feed or take photos. The only problem with that is

that you can’t look through the scope and have the live feed both be in focus at the same time. I need to find a way to fix that! To make the best of both worlds, I took the microscope and mounted it to my floor standing magnifying lamp and switch between the two depending on where I am in the project. A lot of the “carving the basic shape” is done using the lamp and for the “detail”, I use the microscope. There is a tremendous difference in the detail that

ABOVE: A magnificent micro carving of a dirt bike on a bright green carpenter pencil. RIGHT: The first sculpt Cindy attempted was a high-top sneaker carved from lead. Here you can see it through her magnifier.

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FEATURE

ABOVE AND LEFT: These elephants were made for the Epiphany Elephant Museum.

LEFT: A step-by-step diagram showing the steps to create these masterpieces.

walking through the grass for the Epiphany Elephant Museum and a family of giraffes on the Serengeti that now live in a Florida Zoo. I enjoy the variety of themes and at times it can be quite challenging to carve something new. I am able to get now and I couldn’t be happier with the magnification of the microscope which has a working depth of about 4”. Since those first pencils that I made for the miniature show in May of 2015, my original train went viral and I have had many commissions of a variety of subjects which include, a cement mixer, a baseball mitt, tractors, dirt bikes, and the popular Pet Portrait series. I have also carved 15 more trains, with or without cabooses, with one making a stop at the Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum. Elephants

There are lessons to be learned at every turn, like elephants have really thin trunks, you already know that but when you actually start carving and try to get things proportionate, you are reminded quickly just how dense

‘

I have also carved 15 more trains, with or without cabooses, with one making a stop at the Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum.

’

RIGHT: This micro carving Cindy made of a family of giraffes roaming on the Serengeti now lives in a Florida zoo.

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FEATURE

TOP: Cindy’s magnifying lamp and trinocular. LEFT, ABOVE AND BELOW: This fun micro scene shows a carpenter’s pencil with a saw carved from the lead being serviced by two micro carpenters!

graphite pencils are or are not. I have learned that when you carve a micro giraffe from graphite, it is best to use an HB lead, if you use a #2 lead you will

be carving it again because redesigning the giraffe to have 3 legs just doesn’t work. I am a Recycle Artist at heart and because of this when it came time to house my new carved creations I designed custom pencil cases from scrap wood in my shop. This takes more time than if I were to use clean lumberyard planks, but then they wouldn’t have the same unique look if I did. I use a standard glass vase turned on end for the cover and I can get them in different heights to accommodate all types of pencils. The combination of all of these repurposed items only adds to character of the artwork. Most of my projects are commissioned and I look forward to what challenges the next year will bring. DHM D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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The Miniature Show

April 20th–22nd, 2017

Lucy

Askew

See my collection of antique mirrors at Chicago

www.jgetzan.com

Cea’s Garden

[email protected]

www.lucyaskew.co.uk

The Miniature Show

A Preview of the Celebration of Artisans of Miniatures The Second Annual Miniature Show is gearing up for another year of not-to-miss events in Chicago, April 20-22, 2017, at the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg. This year’s event features over twice as many artists as the first annual show, with many new artists from across the world and over one hundred more artisans represented by the Swan House Suite. Starting at an earlier time this year, Preview Day will be

on Thursday, April 20, 2017 from Noon to 6pm with a new Luncheon buffet from 11:30am to 3:30pm. A Preview Day admission ticket includes an invitation to the lunch buffet with a ticket for a drink of your choice, a three-day pass for the entire show including Friday afternoon’s Happy Hour, and early buying privileges. You will also be able to partake in a special signing event for Sally Sexton

Kalmback’s book, Mrs. Thorne’s World of Miniatures. Get in line bright an early Friday morning because you won’t want to miss the first full day of this Celebration of Miniatures, from 11am to 6pm. Take a break from shopping Friday afternoon from 3 to 4pm for Happy Hour with your fellow miniaturists. Not only will you have the choice of a complimentary glass of champagne or other

Mullybrook Miniatures

Joan Wheatley’s Creations

mullybrookminiatures.co.uk

www.joansweetrees.com joansweetrees @charter.net

Creative 12th scale miniatures using Polymer & Silver Art Clays

Anabela Miniaturas

email: [email protected] etsy.com/es/shop/ANABELAMINIATURES

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1/30/17 9:48 AM

April 20th–22nd, 2017

The Miniature Show

Italian Handmade Miniatures

www.cinen.it

www.galebantock.co.uk

Gale Elena Bantock

Thursday, April 20 through Saturday, April 22, 2017 Hyatt Regency Schaumburg Preview Thursday from Noon to 6pm Friday Show from 11am to 6pm with Happy Hour from 3 to 4pm Saturday Show from 10am to 3pm beverage (for preview or two-day ticket holders) but you will also have the opportunity to enjoy artisan demonstrations and a variety of desserts and chocolates. The artisan demonstrations will be set up throughout the room with desserts and chocolates available at each of the tables. Six artisans will demonstrate their specialities in miniature. The Show continues on Saturday from 10am to 3pm.

Throughout the three days, don’t forget to check out The Miniature Art Prize entries from artists all over the world. Each show attendee will get a chance to vote for their favorite entree. Before the show festivities begin, you may consider registering for one of many workshops held between Monday, April 17 and Wednesday, April 19. The workshops range in variety from miniature dolls to min-

iature clothing and textiles to miniature andBantock more. Galescenes Elena Hundreds of artisans, deliThe Show tie-in cous food,Miniature art demonstrations, workshops, awards and so much more will greet you [email protected] at this year’s Celebration of Artisans Miniatures. Come +44of7973 284338 and enjoy the shopping, the atmosphere, and the comraderie with fellow miniature enthusiasts and artisans.

Atelier 1:12

DOMINIQUE ROCHE

DOMINO

TEL: +33 6 87 80 85 86

www.atelier1-12.ch

[email protected] D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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ad

The Miniature Show April 20th–22nd, 2017 Chicago, IL

Thursday (Preview), Friday, and Saturday Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, 1800 E. Golf Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173 These fine artisans and businesses from around the world will be showcasing their work at The Miniature Show

Table # 07 - A Little Something For Everyone (Bill & Sarah West) 04 - A Touch of The Past (Shirlee Cornwell) 78 - Anabela Miniatures (Ana Garcia) 85 - Anna Ryasnova Needle Felted Miniatures 49 - Arjen Spinhoven 64 - Art of Mini (Janny Warnaar) 03 - Artistic Florals (Arlene Finkelstein) 74 - Atelier 1:12 (Martin Senschmic) 80 - Brady Stichery (Cheryl Brady) 26 - Candace Liddy Bronzes (Candace Liddy) 67 - Carla Gaustad 57 - Carme Ferrandiz 23 - Cea’s Garden (Christina O’Neill) 40 - Chrisminiatures (Christina) 82 - Cinen (Carlotta Rossi) 79 - Cutist Things (Elissa Gillespie) A - Dollhouse Miniatures/American Miniaturist (Sara Vix) 36 - Domek Pod Kloszem (Gosia Suchodolska) 60 - Dominique Autin 24 - Domino (Dominique Roche) 50 - E. Elsner v. Gronow 88 - EBB Tide (Pam Friend-Gwinn) 52 - Erna Meyer 59 - Francine Coyon 29 - Gale Elena Bantock 90 - Gallery Art-Mini (Nuria Torrente) 25 - Gibson Girl (Jean Gibson)

58 - Grain de Sable (Christin Voirin) 70 - Hart’s Desire Miniatures (Gail Hart) 55 - Hairy Potter’s Pottery (Craig Roberts) 51 - Herman Straeten 83 - Images of Santa Claus (Lindy Evans) 48B - Ingrid Auer - Germany 02 - Inma Miniaturas (Inmaculada Fernández) 86 - Jane Harrop 28 - Jim Pounder Sculptures 48A - Joachim Kuehner 77 - Joan Wheatley’s Creations 93 - Jose Gomez 47 - Judy Orr Miniatures 05 - J. Getzan (Jason & Jacqueline Getzan) 27 - Kerry’s Kreations (Kerry Kesseher) 61 - Lady Hamilton (Judi Hamilton) 73 - Laurent Seigle-Dias 42 - Lighting Bug Ltd.(Jim & Linda Orleff) 38 - Little Stuff Miniatures (Martyna Zalewska) 92 - Lola Del Villar 22 - Looking Glass Miniatures (Jennifer Hatt) 16 - Lucy Askew 84 - Mantero Miniatures 56 - Mercedes Monllor 10 - Michael Walton 91 - Miniaturas Ily (Maria J.Cejudo) 35 - Minifanaberia (Dorota Mateuslak) 37 - Minimania by Ania (Anna Wybranowska) 13 - Minis 2 You (Marie & Michael Creutz) 81 - Mullybrook Miniatures

72 - Nathalie Dollsnmini (Nathalie Mori) 45 - O’Meara Sterling (Stephan & Amy O’Meara) 69 - Pat Kay Toys & Doll’s 09 - Paul Lim 43 - Penny Thomson 75 - Petits Bonheurs (Michelle Lebouteiller) 76 - Piamini (Serge Augastin Piacentino) 94 - PQF 19 - Robin Betterley’s Miniatures (Shawn & Robin Betterley) 66 - Rue De Suze (Susan Perry Hinkle) 15 - Sally Meekins 31 - Scarletts-Zauberhafte (Manuela Herbst) 18 - Shadow Box (Bette Jo Chudy) 12 - SDK Miniatures (Susan Karajas) 39 - Small Seller of Dreams (Marta Szyfer-Dopadlik) 08 - Small Time (Keith & Julie Bougourd) 44 - St. Leger (Lawrence & Angela St. Leger) 68 - Tadpoles (Tanis Law) 53 - Teapots & More (Ines Ilorente de Lara) 206 - The English Kitchen/The Sweetest Art (Lesley Burgess) 01 - Tiny Ceramics (Horst & Rita Krueger) 14 - Tiny Towne Hawaii (Janet Uyetake) 34 - Two Green Thumbs (Janit Culvo) 41 - Valerie Anne Casson 62 - Vegas Airs (Diane Zaumito) 89 - Wren Song Miniatures (Anne Gerdes*)

PLUS the creations of over 100 additional artisans will be on sale in the Swan House Suite Table # 159 - A Novel Idea 106 - Acquisto Silver 162 - Alex Meiklejohn 100 - Alexander International 127 - Alice Gegers 128 - Alice Zinn 107 - Alamuden Ferrandiz 126 - Amanda Skinner 101 - Anne Dalton 160 - Annette Shaw 161 - Arthur Werner 102 - Beate 163 - Carabosse Dolls 176 - Carol Spence 108 - Cherl Warder 185 - Chris Sparrow 103 - Christopher Whitford China 104 - Christopher Whitford Paintings 105 - CJ’s

177 - Clive Brooker 109 - Colin Roberson 129 - Collette Gunter 110 - Country Contrast 130 - Country Treasures 164 - Danielle Designs 111 - Danny Shotton 173 - Dateman Books 112 - David Ward 174 - Delph 187 - Dominique Levy 186 - Don Henry 165 - Et Cetra 195 - Ethel Hicks 166 - Francesca Vernucio 175 - Fine Designs 131 - Gael 178 - George Chapman 113 - Gerd Felka 179 - Grandma’s of Norway

168 - Haga Ichiyo 180 - Hans Meier 170 - Harry Smith 114 - Henry Bart 169 - Herbillion 194 - Ingrid Sikkink 190 - ItsyBitsy 133 - Jacqueline’s 198 - Jan Grygiel 196 - Janet Reyburn 188 - Jenny Kelm 115 - Jim Irish 192 - Joele Ariel 116 - Johannes Landman 191 - Joseph Addotta 134 - Judy Travis 193 - Kath Knox 135 - Kathleen Larson 171 - Le Chateau Interiors 117 - Les Chinoiserie 172 - Linda Lemke

197 - Linda McBreen 203 - Lorraine Scuderi 136 - Marie Petrik 204 - Marie-France Beglan 119 - Marie Pauline Hostyn 205 - Maritza Moran 121 - Maryvonne Herholtz 199 - Maureen Thomas 200 - McBay 118 - Michael Mortimer 154 - Mike Sparrow 157 - Miniatura Magazine 201 - Montserrat Folch 122 - Nantasy Fantasy 155 - Neil Carter 137 - Nelly Noorel 140 - Ni-Glo 156 - Paola Ojeda 184 - Paris Renfrow 149 - Pascale Gainier 139 - Paul Briggs

150 - Paul Salterelli 158 - Pedrete 206 - Prestige Leather 153 - Renee Isabelle 183 - Richard Stacey 151 - Robert Dawson 147 - Robert Ward 148 - S.Gustavian 182 - Sir Thomas Thumb 123 - Taller Targioni 124 - Tarbena 143 - The Mad Hatter 125 - Tricia Street 142 - Truly Scrumptious 146 - Ursula Strumer 202 - Veronique Cornish 181 - Victoria Fasken 145 - Vince Stapleton 152 - Vonas 144 - Wendy Smale

www.theminiatureshow.com [email protected] Greg Madl

PO Box 187

West Olive, MI 49460

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1/25/17 2:56 PM

April 20th–22nd, 2017

The Miniature Show

Hairy Potter’s Pottery Craig T. Roberts

minis2you

email: [email protected] ESTY: hairypotterspottery

Gibson Girl

Beautiful Needlework and Volker Arnold original Small Scale, Laser-cut Kits

(144th, 288, 450 and 1000 scale) crochet • tatting • needlelace • bobbin lace in 1/12 scale and smaller

Jean Gibson | Email: [email protected]

D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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1/25/17 2:57 PM

The Miniature Show

April 20th–22nd, 2017

Lady Hamilton M I N I AT U R E S

Eclectic Finds for Garden and Home 720-879-1820

[email protected]

www.ladyhamiltonminiatures.com

Unique Miniatures you won’t find anywhere else

Wren Song Miniatures

w w w. w re n s o n g m i n i a t u re s . c o m

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1/30/17 9:19 AM

April 20th–22nd, 2017

Cutest Things

LLC

The Miniature Show

Artistic Florals

Big Treasures in Miniature

ARLENE FINKELSTEIN 631-242-7546 [email protected] n

Everything You Need for Your Doll’s Home Your Certified Bespaq Dealer Custom Creations & Home Renovations Estate Services Available

Shop & Follow Us on Facebook / Cutest Things LLC Email: [email protected] For Personal Service Call: 602-695-7223

Brady Stitchery

Miniatures in Stitchery

[email protected] • (502) 899-7064 Louisville, Kentucky • USA

From the Workshop of Michael Walton fine furniture • roomboxes • restoration

PO Box 556, Feather Falls, California 95940

www.AFAIRYWALK.com

Call: 773-259-5493

michaelwalton.com D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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1/30/17 9:20 AM

The Miniature Show

April 20th–22nd, 2017

Valerie Anne Casson Ceramics - Toys - Painted Furniture

Web - www.valeriecasson.com Email - [email protected] Tel 0033(0) 494 78 77 52

Images of Santa Claus

Hand made 1/12th scale Cabbage Ware, Novelty Teapots, Blue & White Delft.

859-582-2065 www.lindyevans.com

Etsy SallyMeekinsCeramics www.sallymeekinsceramics.co.uk

Lindy Evans

!

By Sally Meekins Ceramics

Trillium in 3 scales!

EW

Laser-Cut Leaves and Flowers

N

1/4” plant $14 kit $4.50

1/2” plant $14 kit $6

1” plant $16; kit $7.50

Plants, kits, and furniture in 1/144th, 1/120th, 1/4”, 1/2” and 1” scales. Over 750 kits available. Pricelist LSASE and include scale. Susan Karatjas 810 Balmoral Court, Moon Township, PA 15108 www.sdkminiatures.com | 724-388-2901

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1/30/17 9:22 AM

April 20th–22nd, 2017

PIAMINI 3 rue du moulin F - 28800 BULLAINVILLE (FRANCE)

The Miniature Show

L & A St. Leger High Quality Dollshouse Miniatures & Miniature Automata for the Discerning Collector

FOR THE BEST SILVER IN MINIATURES See us in Chicago

Tel: 01308 424709 Email: [email protected]

omearasterling.com

17 Stuart Way, Bridport, Dorset, UK, DT6 4AU

Carla Gaustad

for enchanting things

Handmade 1/12

Shows only or By Appointment

(949) 768-5636 24912 Canyon Rim Place Lake Forest California 92630

Candace M. Liddy Bronzes and Stampede Resin Castings “Wells Fargo” Stagecoach 1:24 scale completely authentically detailed. Dimensions: 37” long x 12” tall X 9” deep. Handmade horses, harness, people and equipment. For sale to the discriminating collector. Specializing in fine art collectibles, hyper realistic miniature horses and animals in many scales in cast bronze and resin. Contact for full details and pricing. Many more photos can be seen at: Candaceliddybronzes.com, under ‘other pieces for sale’. Phone: 612-952-3025 | Email: [email protected]

candaceliddybronzes.com | Archival pieces at candaceliddy.homestead.com

D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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1/30/17 9:22 AM

The Miniature Show

Laurent Seigle-Dias | MODEL MAKER

miroudjim.wixsite.com/ laurent-seigle-dias

Jim Pounder Sculptures Lady ‘13, 1 3/8”

Tiny Towne Hawaii Janet Uyetake

IGMA Fellow since 2001

2013

©

Limited Edition piece in sterling silver with a 3mm black pearl.

See you in Chicago! April 20-22, 2017

808-354-0152 [email protected]

Small Seller of Dreams Marta Szyfer

Sailor’s Valentine

Pam Friend Gwinn [email protected]

Carme Ferrándiz

Sewing accessories • Handmade crocheted & patchwork bedspreads

Email: [email protected]

Mercedes Monllor

Handmade furniture Original designs & reproductions

miniaturasfiliagulla.blogspot.com.es | www.monimon.com

A little SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Sarah and Bill West 7152 S. Platte Canyon Dr Littleton, CO 80128 Native American and Southwestern Miniatures. Custom Adobe Houses

303.979.0625 [email protected]

Bette Jo Chudy • [email protected]

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1/17/17 10:27 AM

The Miniature Show

The Miniature Show Special Events

Preview

Your Passport to the World of Miniatures

Happy Hour

Preview ticket required

Thursday, April 20th Noon to 6pm

Friday, April 21st 3 to 4pm

$25 Ticket Includes: Luncheon buffet (11:30am-3:30pm) Glass of wine or beverage of your choice Early buying privileges 3-Day Pass, including Friday afternoon Happy Hour Dealers from around the world! Mrs.Thorne’s World of Miniature Book Signing Event: Sally Sexton Kalmback will be at The Miniature show on Thursday April 20th signing her book: Mrs. Thorne’s World of Miniatures.

Enjoy artisan demonstrations with a complimentary glass of champagne. Enjoy a little decadence! Lavish desserts & chocolates will be served at artisan tables throughout the room. Drawings for chances to win over $1000 in gift certificates and prizes (must be present to win, and gift certificates must be redeemed at the show)

Limited number of tickets available. Tickets will not be sold at the door.

To purchase your ticket go to

www.theminiatureshow.com

Miniature Art Prize To be adjudicated by American Miniaturist Magazine MAP® is an independently organized international miniature art competition for 1/12th scale, 1/24th scale (half-inch scale), 1/48th scale (quarter-scale) and 1/144th scale. From April 20-22, 2017, miniature art from around the world will be exhibited at the Hyatt Regency, 1800 E. Golf Road in Schaumburg, IL 60173. Each person coming to the exhibition will be able to vote for “Best in Show.” Voting will be at Preview on Thursday, April 21st and Friday, April 22nd. Winners will be announced Saturday morning.

Swan House Miniatures Prize

Best in Show – Artist will receive a Swan House Miniatures Prize of $2000.00 Second Prize – Artist will receive a Swan House Miniatures Prize of $700.00 Third Prize – Artist will receive a Swan House Miniatures Prize of $300.00 Fourth Prize – Feature article in Dollhouse Miniatures Magazine

For more information email Greg Madl at [email protected] Image credit: Freepik.com

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bigBUZZ

n DHM’s Big Buzz section is the place to check out contests, products, news, and views. Are you celebrating a milestone? Do you have a great product or kit to share? Do you know of a great website? Use these pages to spread the big buzz to other miniaturists like you! Please submit items of interest to: DHM, Big Buzz, PO Box 219, Kasson, MN 55944. Or email [email protected].

Flower cookies giveaway

Elf door giveaway

Jen Tuttle is donating this 1:12-scale plate of flower cookies to giveaway! Send your entry to Flower cookies giveaway DHM56, PO Box 219, Kasson, MN 55944. You may also send your entries via email to [email protected]. Please be sure to include your name and address. The deadline for this contest is Friday March 3, 2017. See more of Jen Tuttle’s work at http://stores.ebay.com/ Miniholiday-Dollhouse-Miniatures

Hobby Builders Supply/miniatures.com is donating these miniature Elf door kits to giveaway! Send your entry to Elf door #1 or Elf door #2 giveaway DHM56, PO Box 219, Kasson, MN 55944. You may also send your entries via email to auralea@ashdown. co.uk. Please be sure to include your name and address. The deadline for this contest is Friday March 3, 2017.

Highlights contest

A little reminder. Please remember to add all of the information in your contest entries so you can be considered for the giveaway drawings!

Highlights contest winner We would love to know what your favorite highlights were in this issue of DHM. You could win these 1:12-scale pieces of metal ivy! All it takes is a small paragraph for our random drawing! Send your entry to DHM56 Highlights contest, PO Box 219, Kasson, MN 55944. You may also send your entries via email to auralea@ashdown. co.uk. Please be sure to include your name and address. The deadline for this contest is Friday March 3, 2017.

In our last issue of DHM We asked what your favorite highlights were. We have randomly selected Helen Seidel of Altoona, PA to be our winner for this Highlights contest. Congratulations Helen! We will be sending her a 1:12scale pewter tankard set!

We are always in search of tutorials on any miniature topic. If you have something you would like to share with us and our readers please email auralea@ ashdown.co.uk and you may get published!

Elf door #1

Elf door #2

Pumpkin pie giveaway winner

In our last issue of DHM, Jen Tuttle donated a 1:12scale pumpkin pie to giveaway! We have randomly selected Nina Peery of Goshen, IN to be our winner for this 1:12-scale Pumpkin pie giveaway contest! Congratulations Nina!

The great little nut hunt

Snickers was found on page 73 sitting on the pretty bed in DHM issue 55 (January/February 2017). This month, our random winner was Jackie Sweetser, who correctly found Snickers. As a thank you for the correct answer, we are sending a special mini gift that will hopefully help her find inspiration for any upcoming projects. We hope you enjoy this mini gift! But oh no! Snickers can’t sit still for long, and in this issue he’s run off to find another new hiding place for his special acorn!

If you happen to find him please write and let us know of his location, along with sending in your name, address, email address, and phone number to “Little Nut Hunt – Issue 56,” Dollhouse Miniatures,

PO Box 219 68132 250th Ave. Kasson, MN 55944 or email auralea@ashdown. co.uk. The deadline for finding Snickers is Friday March 3, 2017. Good luck!

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yourLETTERS Star Letter winner

This month, our Star Letter winner is Dana Espinosa, who is enjoying each issue of Dollhouse Miniatures while she is recuperating. From all of us, Get well quick Dana! Keep those letters coming, readers. We appreciate your comments, ideas, and suggestions, and your kind letters warm our hearts every day.



Star Letter

My Dollhouse Miniatures (DHM54) arrived today. It is a little treasure I look for in my mail! This month I am especially pleased to read it. I fell off a ladder while trimming branches recently. The result is a concussion, broken leg, back (had surgery), neck, nose, and foot. There is little I can do but read and work a bit on refurbishing my granddaughters dollhouse. While reading I found Snickers by the cozy little fireplace on page 81. The name of the corresponding article is “Decorate with mini garland”.

Dana Espinosa Winterville, NC 

Book giveaway winner

Thank you for the wonderful book, The Biggest Smallest Christmas Present! Just love it! I’ve always enjoyed books about dolls and dollhouses. Some of my favorites are: Hitty, Her First Hundred Years, Little Plum, The Dollhouse Caper, Big Susan, and Floating Island. Some of these are probably out of print. Mine will be passed on to granddaughters who like Grandma’s “mini stuff”!  The article on Saks display in DHM54 was terrific, but I enjoy them all! Time to take out my Christmas house and wish you all a great holiday season. Many thanks for this special gift.



 Write to DHM, PO Box 219,

Kasson, MN 55944 or email [email protected]. Letters may be edited, if necessary.

Show success

The American Museum of Miniatures fundraiser, Miniature Mayfest, ended in 2005, leaving the Dallas metroplex without a miniature show, exceptional classes, and exhibits. So Texas Miniature Showcase began life after a partnership was formed with Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity and the first show was May, 2007. 2017 will mark an 11 year run and well over $250,000 has been donated to Habitat. We have had exceptional dealers, incredible workshops, and exciting exhibits over the years. It has been an all volunteer effort, with many lasting friendships formed. I thank everyone who has made this possible, volunteers, dealers, teachers, and magazine staff. Memories are made of this…

Dani Muckleroy Chairman, Texas Miniature Showcas



Thank you

I want to thank you at Dollhouse Miniatures magazine for the wonderful, “cookie mold”. It will be a great addition to my kitchen room box. Thanks again and happy holidays!

Tammy Braas-Hill San Francisco, CA 

Grateful winner

I just want to thank you for selecting me as the winner of the “Christmas cookies giveaway” from Dollhouse Miniatures. Jen Tuttle did a wonderful job in creating the perfect accessory for my mini kitchen for the holidays. The perfect present!

  Kathleen Sanns Loudon, TN

Joyce Beytien Hutchinson, MN D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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FEATURE

Brush strokes in miniature

Fine arts painter, tattoo artist, and permanent makeup artist rolled into one, Joachim Kuehner has embraced the Baroque period to display his talents. By Deb Weissler

A

s a child when asked the question what he wanted to become when he grew up, Joachim emphatically stated, “When I am great I will be a painter”. Many cautioned that he was heading down the path of “breadless art”; a career with little if any monetary rewards, but that didn’t stop him from embracing the profession of porcelain painter. At sixteen his fine arts education at Porzellan-Manufaktur Ludwigsburg Germany led to a thirty-five year career as a painter, instructor of other porcelain painters, designer, and

head of the painting department. His successful career was only the beginning. Through the years Joachim mastered acrylic painting on canvas, portraiture, logo design and painting, and trompe l’oeil. In 2011 he finally fulfilled his dream of becoming an independent artist. But it was a year ago that Joachim discovered the world of 1:12 scale and it was here he could combine both passions— porcelain painting and fine art painting. Breadless art indeed! “The baroque motifs of

small floral arrangements, pastoral landscapes, birds, and various other period motifs exerted a great fascination on me,” Joachim says. “The TOP: The talented German artist Joachim Kuehner. BELOW LEFT: Four oil paintings based on paintings from the 18th century. BELOW: Portrait of a lady based on a painting by Élisabeth Vigée-Lebrun. This piece is oil on wood and measures 2” x 1.75”.

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FEATURE

TOP: Replica of Angels Playing Violin by Bouguereau. Oil on wood, 3.25” x 2.37”. RIGHT: Two Peacocks is Joachim’s own composition. Oil on cardboard, 3.25” x 2.8”. BELOW: Replica of Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer. Oil on wood, 2.16” x 1.6”.

immersion in a past epoch and the lively discussions with other artists resulted in the continuation of a craft that can hardly be found today in our modern times.”

‘

The immersion in a past epoch and the lively discussions with other artists resulted in the continuation of a craft is can hardly be found today in our modern times.

’

For the past several years, Joachim has devoted his time to painting on canvas. The vast color palette and the endless subject possibilities drove his artistic desires to create color moods and the fancies of heaven. To create a three-dimensional realm using two-dimensional substrates and by applying light and shadow in just the right way connected the visible world with his artist’s eye to create exquisite paintings, both large and small. Along with his fine art, Joachim has become a talented tattoo and D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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FEATURE LEFT: Venice, replication of a painting by Giovanni Antonio Canal (“Canaletto”). Oil on cardboard, 3.9” x 2.9”. BELOW: Historic flowers, Joachim’s own composition. Oil on cardboard, 2.5” x 1.8”.

permanent body artist, an unusual amalgam of talents that feeds his artist soul. The attention to detail in his tiny world can be traced back to his long-time professional experience as a porcelain painter. “It was not so

much the specialty of porcelain making that interested me but rather the skillful application of paintings of the 18th and 19th centuries that attracted me,” Joachim explains. “Because of it I was LEFT: Replication of Louise, Queen of Prussia by Josef Grassi. Oil on wood 1” in diameter. BELOW: Two Peacocks is Joachim’s own composition. Oil on cardboard, 3.25” x 2.8”.

constantly striving for knowledge that enabled me to achieve maximum creative processes.” Over the years Joachim has been honored with commissions for several full-size porcelain pieces for the Duke of Württemberg and several

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FEATURE

‘ large landscape paintings for the Sultan of Oman. But it is his miniature paintings that now create his greatest challenges. “The smaller the piece the bigger your tools sometimes,” Joachim laughs. “Some of my paintings have been done under a stereo

ABOVE: Replica of The Love Letter by François Boucher. Oil on wood, 2.24” x 2.16”. ABOVE RIGHT: This beautiful still life is Joachim’s own composition. Oil on cardboard, 2.31” x 1.75”. BELOW: Some pieces from Joachim’s last collection. Each porcelain piece is unique and handpainted by Joachim with stunning detail.

Over the years Joachim has been honored with commissions for several full-size porcelain pieces for the Duke of Württemberg and several large landscape paintings for the Sultan of Oman.

’

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FEATURE RIGHT: Joachim in his “nest” hand-painting his miniature porcelain masterpieces.

microscope that makes a painting brush hair look like a tree branch!” His brushes are his most valuable asset when painting in miniature, changing them out often to maintain proper scale. He has recently added a kiln to fire his miniature porcelain inspired by the colonial period of 19th century Europe.

‘

His brushes are his most valuable asset when painting in miniature, changing them out often to maintain proper scale.

’

“We are constantly surrounded by a spatial world, countless printed pictures such as advertising, magazines, and so forth. But think back to a time when pictures were not mass produced and people

RIGHT: 1:12-scale porcelain canister with hand-painted birds and accented in burnished gold. 1” tall. BELOW: A 1:12-scale tea service for four with hand-painted purple flowers and burnished gold.

RIGHT AND BELOW: Porcelain vases with lids. Each has an elaborate seascape handpainted on them and are accented with burnished gold. Each are approximately 1.37” tall.

relied on paintings and sculpture to view the worlds around them artistically. This is precisely why the paintings and sculptures of the past are so valuable to us today.” His painting studio resides in the attic of his home that his close friends refer to as

RIGHT: Vase with lid and colorful flowers, burnished gold. 1.5” tall.

his nest. “I like it when they refer to it that way because then I feel like an eagle,” Joachim smiles. He finds pleasure in sharing his art at various miniature shows throughout Germany, at the Chicago Miniature Show, and displays his work on his Facebook page. Perhaps history will kindly remember him as great, but Joachim can state emphatically that he is indeed a painter! DHM

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Spring SHOWCASE Spring has sprung in this fabulous DHM showcase. Enjoy the colorful miniature delights full of love and wonder! Phyllis Grandt Nishimori - California

Phyllis shows her love for spring flowers and romance with this incredible 1:48-scale kit. “Welcome to Fairy Land! Rapunzel in her tower is #8 in this series. This fun little scene features Rapunzel waiting in her tower room, while Prince Charming is using her braid to aid his climb up to see her. The tower room is made from our plastic components, with textured chipboard forming the tower’s stone work. Plenty of fun details add dimension to the display, including the Prince’s steed munching on the grass as the two lovers do their thing.”

ABOVE: Everything you need to create the project as shown in the photo is included, except for the picture frame which we suggest you use for a base. The finished project measures 5” x 7”.

“Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair, so that I may climb thy golden stair.”

LEFT: Our easy to follow instructions lead you through the steps, and we also supply various hints for working with our materials.

GET IN TOUCH Grandt Line • Phyllis Nishimori Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.grandtline.com Phone: 925-671-0143

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Ruth Stewart - Montana

This beautiful piece is titled, Easter Egg House. The egg is the size of a goose egg and has a 1:48-scale carrot table inside with a two-tier cake on top. The egg is 3D printed and painted with chalk paints. Ruth’s silicone mold was used for the three-dimensional chocolate bunnies and the lace is intricately laser cut antique lace. The roses are handmade 1:48-scale roses. 

Bridget McCarty - California

“Below is a four-inch wide piece inspired by the stories of Beatrix Potter. The characters are carefully sculpted with polymer clay and have wire armature. All of the fur used is artificial. I love making each pair of eyes for the characters. Each character looks more lifelike with this technique.”

ABOVE: A handmade storybook scene of a filled swan carrying charming Beatrix Potter characters down a quiet river. A little mouse girl looks over the edge for fish. This is a 4” tall miniature scene. 

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Dominique Autin - France

This half-inch-scale Easter shop is filled with spring magic with a vintage style. Every tiny space has a special treasure to represent this colorful time of year. This shop is made of wood and paper. Dominique has also made a little spring fairy sitting on mushrooms under a glass dome. The Easter bunny candy containers shown below were handmade from plaster, fiber, polymer clay, and wood. The heads are removable and they are filled with tiny Easter eggs in a variety of colors. These fun miniature pieces were inspired by antique German Easter candy containers.

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PROJECT

a cozy Easter FOR BABY

These mini babies look sweet in their Easter playsuits. They also have a snuggly toy rabbit and a toy chick made by Rebecca Smith-Keary. By Rebecca Smith-Keary

A

s it’s Easter I have designed a themed playsuit suitable for a boy or girl circa 1930 to the present day. The main part of the outfit is made in one piece, the sleeves being knitted in at the appropriate time. This reduces seams and makes the garment less bulky. The playsuit looks attractive left plain but I have included instructions for a

rabbit face pocket and chick motif, which can be sewn on the front.

Please note

1. When working the ss sections, k the 1st and last st of the p rows to give a firm edge. 2. When cutting thread after arms, 1st leg, left back and front, secure the loose

YOU’LLneed u Size 20 knitting needles or hat pins u No. 80 crochet cotton Fil a dentelles u Safety pins

u Red crayon

u 2mm silk ribbon

u Po-pom for rabbit tail Abbreviations K = knit p = pearl st = stitch tog = together dec = decrease by knitting two stitches together inc = increase by knitting into the front and back of the stitch yf = make a stitch by bringing thread forward and over the needle ss = stocking stitch ie alternate rows of k and p sl = slip stitch from one needle to the other psso = pass slipped stitch over C & T = cut the cotton a few inches from the knitting and thread through the remaining sts using a needle. Pull up tightly and fasten off.

end with a couple of sts but still leaving a long tail. This can be used to sew up the garment. 60 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

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PROJECT Playsuit

This suit will fit a Heidi Ott baby Sleeve (make 2) • Cast on 12 sts and work 2 rows in (k1, p1) rib. • Work 12 rows in ss, increasing 1 st at each end of the 5th and 9th rows. • Row 15: Cast off 2 sts, k to end. • Row 16: Cast off 2 sts, p to end. • Row 17: Sl, k, psso, k to last 2 sts, k2 tog. • Row 18: P. [10 sts] • Cut thread and transfer sts to safety pin.

Leg

•

Cast on 16 sts and work 4 rows in (k1, p1)rib • Row 5: (k1, inc) to end. [24 sts] • Rows 6 to 20: work 15 rows in ss starting with a p row. • Cut thread and repeat for the second leg but do not cut thread after 2nd leg.

Body

• Row 21 to 30: Knit right across the two legs and work a further 9 rows in ss. • Row 31: Cast on 2 sts at start of row and k to end. • Row 32 to 40: work 9 rows in ss starting with a p row, k the 1st and last st on each p row. • Row 41: K13, cast off 2sts, k22, cast off 2 sts, k11. Left back: • Row 42: k2, p9 • Row 43: Sl, k, psso, k9. • Row 44: K2, p8 [10sts] • Cut thread & re-join to front, wrong side facing. Front: • Row 42: P22. • Row 43: Sl, k, psso, k18, k2tog. • Row 44: P [20 sts] • Cut thread & re-join to right front, wrong side facing. Right back: • Row 42: P11, k2. • Row 43: K11, k2tog. • Row 44: P10, k2. [12 sts] Now the sleeves are knitted in — make sure that they are the right way round. After knitting the right back, transfer the first sleeve to the left hand needle and knit

the playsuit and work a little eye in black and a few sts for a beak in red or orange. • Make a tiny bow in silk ribbon and fix in place on the chick’s neck.

Rabbit face Pocket

that and the front. Transfer the second sleeve to the left hand needle and knit those sts followed by the left back.

• Row 45: [ Right back ] K2, ( k2tog, k1) 3 times, k1, • [Sleeve] (k1, k2tog) 3 times, k1. [front]: K1, ( k2tog, k1 ) 6 times, k1. [ Sleeve] ( K1, k2tog ) 3 times, k1. [left back] (k2tog, k1) twice, k2tog, yf, k2tog. [43 sts] • Rows 46 to 48: K 3 rows. • Row 49: K2, (k2tog, k1) to last 2 st, k2 [30 sts]. • Row 50: K. • Row 51: K1, (k2tog) to last 3 sts, k1, yf, k2tog. • Cast off. • Sew the sleeve seams as far as the shaping, then sew the shaped section to the armhole of the body. • Sew the inside leg seams, then the back as far as the increase. Tuck the wider section behind the other side and stitch in place. Make 2 buttons by cutting tiny circles (2 or 3 mm in diameter) from a polythene milk bottle. Place the disc on a cork and make 2 holes with the knitting pin. Sew in place. • Sew a pom-pom to the back of the playsuit for a tail if decorating with the rabbit face pocket.

This is in reverse ss. • Cast on 9 sts and p 3 rows. • Now work 4 rows in ss starting with a k row. Work a further 5 rows in ss, decreasing at each end of the k rows until 3 sts remain. • Cast off. Work a nose at the bottom of the face and two eyes.

Ears (make 2)

• Cast on 4 sts and work 10 rows in ss. K the 1st and last st on each p row. Moisten the tip of the crayon and lightly color the inside of the ear (reverse ss) Sew the ears to the front of the playsuit, leaving the top half loose. Sew the pocket to the playsuit covering the cast on edges of the ears.

Chick motif

• Cast on 8 sts and k 6 rows. Inc at start of row 7 and end of row 8. • Now cast off 6 sts and k to end of row. K a further 5 rows on the remaining 4 sts. C & T. Run a row of sts across the chick’s neck and gather up. • Sew the chick in place on the front of D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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PROJECT Toy Rabbit

This is quick and easy to make.

Legs

•

st.

Cast on 5 sts and inc in each

• Work 9 rows in ss. Cut thread and repeat for 2nd leg, but do not cut thread. Body and head

• K right across the two legs and work further 19 rows in ss starting with a p row. • Next row: (k2 tog) to end. C & T. • Sew up the legs, stuff and sew the back seam. Run a thread about half way down & gather up to separate the head & body. • Work a few sts in black for face.

• Cast on 8 sts and work 10 rows in ss. C & T. Sew up side seams, stuffing as you sew. Fix to sides of body. • Finish with a silk ribbon tied around the neck and a pom-pom tail.

Ears (make 2)

Tiny chick

•

Cast on 4 sts and work 8 rows in ss. K the 1st & last st on each p row to give a form edge. • Moisten the tip of the crayon & color the reverse side of the ears; fix to head with pink side facing.

Arms (make 2)

This is based on a pattern that we used to make for playgroup spring fairs etc. when the children were small. The chick was filled with a crème egg. This miniature version is made with approx half the number of sts and rows of the

original, and I like to make a little Fimo egg to pop inside. • Work in garter st throughout Cast on 16 sts and k 6 rows. • Inc at each end of the next 2 rows. Cast off 6 sts at the beginning of the next 2 rows [8 sts remaining]. • Work 6 rows on these sts, then C & T tightly and sew up the seam at the back of the head. • Stuff the head, and work the eyes in black thread. • Make a beak by working several sts through a small loop. • Gather up under the head and sew along the back and the vertical seam. Secure a Fimo egg inside the body with a few sts, ensuring that the egg can still be seen. If preferred the body can be stuffed, but the chick stands up better with the egg inside. • Tie a little bow of silk ribbon around the chick’s neck. DHM

Have you seen the latest issues of

If not, you are missing out! American Miniaturist is America’s favorite miniatures magazine to hit the nation and after over 10 years it’s still the country’s favorite. Our passionate editorial team is comprised of dedicated miniaturists who ensure each issue is full of wonderful projects and inspiring features. We bring you the best how-tos and ideas, and you’ll find plenty to inspire you whether you’re just starting out in this wonderful mini world or you’re an experienced miniaturist. Become a subscriber today! Order online at www.americanminiaturist.com American Miniaturist 68132 250th Ave. Kasson, MN 55944 Phone: 507-634-3143 Toll Free: 1-866-606-6587 www.americanminiaturist.com “Where little things matter.” These are just a few of our past features: From top left: AM166 Susanna Alberti, AM166 our new tutorial series 62 Dby O LDANA, L H O U SAM164 E M I N I AJo T UBevilacqua, RES Dolls and AM165 Kristin Castenschiold.

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1 2 mm 10 20 30 40

DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES - cut outs

Inches

Photocopies of this cut outs page may be made for personal use only.

Vet posters and sign in 1:12 scale and 1:24 scale.

ruler.indd 1

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The Largest Complete Dollhouse Store On The East Coast of Florida!

The TOY BOX

419 Brevard Avenue Historical Cocoa Village Florida 32922 Phone: 321-632-2411 E-mail: [email protected] www.thetoyboxstore.com

New Owners Jim & Linda Butts

A Full Line of Dollhouses, Miniatures and Accessories in 1” Scale Also Carry Some 1/2”, 1/4” and 144” Scale Building Material, Electrical Supplies, Landscaping Materials, Full Service Shop, Build and Repair Dollhouses • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Open Tuesday through Saturday 10am to 5pm

37th Annual Dollhouse Miniatures Show & Sale

Mini Les Bois presents its 37th Annual Show and Sale at the Best Western Vista Inn at the Airport 2645 Airport Way, Boise, Idaho

Saturday April 29, 2017, 10am – 5pm Sunday April 30, 2017, Noon – 5pm ADMISSION: adults $5 / children 5-12 $2 FREE PARKING • DOOR PRIZES • RAFFLES

For information please call or email Bobbi Hargett • 208 377-9154 • [email protected]

If you’d like to see DHM magazines in your area please encourage your favorite shops to call and order at: 1-866-606-6587

storelistings

These fine miniature stores carry Dollhouse Miniatures. Visit your local shop today! ARIZONA

FLORIDA

Theresa’s Dolls & Gifts 5908 Eastside Hwy. Florence, MT 59833

CALIFORNIA

The Toy Box 419 Brevard Ave. Cocoa, FL 32922-7901

NEW HAMPSHIRE

The Mini Time Machine Museum 4455 E. Camp Lowell Dr. Tucson, AZ 85712 Miniature Cottage Shop 1260 Main St. Morro Bay, CA 93442-2008 Ms. Peggie’s Place 5063 Cass St. San Diego, CA 92109 My Dolls House 1218 El Prado Ave Torrance, CA 90501 The Hobby Co of SF 5150 Geary Blvd. San Francisco, CA 94118-2816

CONNECTICUT

Time Machine Hobby LLC 71 Hilliard St. Manchester, CT 06040-3001

DELAWARE

Fingertip Fantasies, Inc 401 Main St. Clayton, DE 19938

Ron’s Miniature Shop Inc 751 W Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32804-7343

GEORGIA

Miniature Designs, Inc 3555 Lawrenceville Hwy Lawrenceville, GA 30044

ILLINOIS

Tom Thumb Hobby & Crafts 6001 Gross Point Rd Niles, IL 60714

MICHIGAN

Miniature Makers’ Workshop 28120 Woodward Ave. Royal Oak, MI 48067 Wee Dollhouse Shop 140 South River Ave Holland, MI 49423

MONTANA

The Treasure Chest 1612 Benton Ave. Missoula, MT 59801-7818

VIRGINIA

Bits ‘N Pieces of Ghent 400 West Olney Rd Norfolk, VA 23507

Earth & Tree Miniatures 276 Rt 101 #1 Amherst, NH 03031-1732

WASHINGTON

NEW YORK

CJN Miniatures 9675 Firdale Ave Edmonds, WA 98020

Niagara Model & Train Dist Inc 3366 Union Rd. Buffalo, NY 14225-5110

OHIO

Dolls and Minis 8068 Columbia Road Olmsted Falls, OH 44138

Darlene’s Unique Shoppe 511 117th Ave E. Edgewood, WA 98372-1286

CANADA

Craftables Box 3333, 15 Beechmont Crescent, Spruce Gove, AB T7X 3A6

PENNSYLVANIA

Lynlott Miniatures 223 Commercial Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15215-3054

SOUTH CAROLINA

Memories, Gifts & Antiques 1670 Folly Road Charleston, SC 29412

storelistings If you’d like to see DHM magazines in your area please encourage your favorite shops to call and order at: 1-866-606-6587

D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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PROJECT

a bag for many OCCASIONS This versatile bag has many uses and was devised by Sue Winter. Make a beach bag to get a jump start on your summer scenes! By Sue Winter

S

ue originally made this beach bag as a club project, but it proved such a popular idea and easy to adapt for other themes, that she thought DHM readers might like it too. Why not use different materials and vary the contents to get a different look and make a bag for all reasons.

Sunshade

Sunglasses

These are made from florist’s wire that was bent into shape around a kebab stick. Then fill in the lens with Tacky Glue and when dry, paint them black.

Beach bag Step 1: Fold a small hem around the

square of the main bag and glue down.

The sunshade is simply a toothpick and a circle of fabric trimmed with braid, decorated with two small beads for the handle.

YOU’LLneed u Bag: Aida or similar 2 3/4” x 1 3/4” u Handles: strip 6” x 1/2”

u Bag ends: thin white card triangles (1/2”)

u Two small pieces of Aida for covering the triangles

u Glue

u Scissors

Step 3: Glue the base of the triangle to

the center sides of the main bag and leave to dry.

Step 1: Cut a circle of fabric about 3”

across. Trim the outer edge of circle with braid.

Step 2: Pierce a hole in the center of the fabric shade with the toothpick and wrap the fabric around the toothpick as if the shade is closed.

Step 3: Wind a length of sewing cotton

around it and tie off. Glue beads to end of the stick to form handle.

Towel

Fine toweling is not very easy to find. I used a face cloth with the pile trimmed off and then I drew stripes with a felt pen.

Step 2: Glue a triangle of card stock onto a slightly larger triangle of material and fold/glue the sides over, leaving the bottom “hem” free. Step 4: Fold the sides of the bag to meet with the sides of the triangles and glue in position.

Step 5: Cut the 1/2” strip in half then

trim to required size for handles and glue in place. Allow to dry then fill the bag with your desired contents.

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PROJECT Continue until the straw is full. Use a thin strip of paper for a label and two pins for knitting needles.

Shopping bag

Again the bag is made as above and filled with whatever goodies you have on hand. I used a couple of small packets and a French stick made from polymer clay.

Basic handbag

Follow these simple steps to make a basic handbag design. I had some scraps of material samples, so I thought I’d have a go at making a handbag.

The template is suitable for a medium to large handbag size. If you want something smaller, like a little clutch bag, just modify the template size and follow the same theory. All we need now is Babycham, disco lights and a couple of bars of “I was made for dancin”. Come on girls...

Step 1: Copy the template and draw it onto card stock.

Step 2: Cut out the shape and score in the fold lines.

Step 3: Glue the card shape onto your material.

Step 4: Allow a margin of If you want a small motif on your bag it may be easier to embroider it during stage one.

1/4” all around your template

and cut out.

Step 5: Cut the corners off so when folded along score lines the bag fits together neatly.

Step 6: Fold the 1/4” margin

to the inside and glue in place.

Step 7: Cover the inside with lining if required.

Other variations Knitting bag

I used cotton fabric for the main bag and made it as above. To make the balls of wool, get a drinking straw and cut to 1/2”. Take some 1-ply wool and thread a long length of wool onto a needle, through the center of a straw, over the outside and back through the center.

Step 8: Fold the front and back of the bag to meet with the side panels and glue in place.

Step 9: To make a handle cut a strip of material to the length you require. Fold in half longways and glue.

Step 10: Glue the strap ends to the inside/under flap of the bag. You can also use chain. Step 11: To finish, glue on

a little bead to the front of the bag to act as a clasp. Enjoy making and filling your stylish miniature bags and purses! DHM

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PROJECT

a comfy mini COMFORTER

Auralea Krieger shares a quick and easy way to give shape to your miniature comforter. You will be able to make or unmake your miniature bed! By Auralea Krieger

L

YOU’LLneed

ast winter I made a pair of unmade beds for my Santa cottage. I wanted the comforters to be folded open and the bed to have a “slept-in” look. I remembered years ago someone told me they put tinfoil in their mini pillows to give them shape so I thought I would try it in a comforter. I like this idea because I can choose to have the bed made or unmade without having to use glue or sewn sections.

Step 1: Measure your bed to determine

the size you want for your comforter. Add about 1/4” around all sides for a sewing allowance. Be sure to remember which side is the foot of the comforter.

u Material

u Wadding u Tinfoil

u Scissors

u Needle and thread u Sewing Machine

Step 5: Gently fold it in on both sides Step 4: Cut a strip of tinfoil the width of

your comforter and fold in half. Then trim that piece to the length of your comforter.

and slip it into the comforter. Open it up inside with your fingers.

Step 6: Cut some wadding the exact

same size. Don’t cut it any smaller because you want it to fill the edges nicely. Even a tiny bit bigger is good.

Tip

Think about having two different colors on each side incase you will be folding it open. This could also be fun if you want an everyday side and maybe a Christmas or Halloween side, depending on your favorite season. Step 2: Start sewing from the foot end of the comforter leaving about a 2” hole in the center.

Step 3: Turn it right side out.

Step 7: My wadding was peeled away

so I have a flat side and a puffy side. I put the puffy side up and the smooth side on

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PROJECT top of the foil. Slip it in the same way you did the foil. Keep the wadding side under the part of the quilt you want to be fluffy. If you are making a reversible you can use a thinner sheet of wadding on both sides.

Step 8: Sew up the hole at the foot of the comforter.

Step 9: You can sew a pattern on your comforter using a sewing machine.

LEFT: Comforter shown on a child’s bed. Sheets and pillow case were printed on white cotton using an ink jet printer. See tutorial in DHM052 July/ August 2016. BELOW: Photo of the college student’s attic room in my Kinfeld (still a work in progress). This one has a sewn 1/2” frame and then two lines vertically. See more of the Kinfeld at http://thekinfelddollhouse.blogspot.com

may not get that fluffy comforter feel. 2. The pattern you sew on your quilt: The more areas you sew, the stiffer your comforter will be. Consider more layers of foil if you want this effect. 3. The size of your comforter: The larger the comforter the further it will hang over the sides of the bed. You want the thinnest and most flexible fabric you can find. If you think it needs it then try using more foil layers. Also, I find washing new fabric first helps take some of the starch out. Do some experimenting and see what happens. DHM

Step 10: Place the comforter on your mini bed and shape it over the sides. A lot of things will determine the type of shape and fold you will get. 1. The thickness of your fabric and wadding: The thinner the better. You may decide to use felt because it is thin but you

ABOVE AND LEFT: These are the beds in Santa’s cottage. The quilted pattern was a frame and three vertical lines. Add a sleeping kitten to make your comforter feel extra cozy!

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backIssues Recent issues: KEN BYERS SHARES HIS NEWEST EXTRAORDINARY MINIATURES. May / June 15 ISSUE 45

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THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL

Price US $7.95 Canada $10.95 CAD

In this issue Storybook tower Fanciful hats Mini desserts Timeless wigs Historic minis And more...

A Grand Entryway

May/Jun ’15, issue 45

Jul/Aug ’15, issue 46

Prepare yourself to be amazed and inspired with this issue of Dollhouse Miniatures. You will find so much to enjoy, including:

Your journey through this issue will be full of adventure as you meander through Tuscan-style kitchens, tiny houses, and more:

• Rik Pierce’s Rapunzel Tower • Inspirational Food Artisans • Miniature Art Gallery

• Kammy Hill’s Kitchen • A Family Farmhouse • Maritza’s Furnishings

Julie

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September / October 15 ISSUE 47

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THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL

Price US $7.95 Canada $10.95

Inspired by theAlcázar By Ron Hubble and Judy Taylor

Sept/Oct ’15, issue 47 Be filled with awe and renew your passion for miniatures through the projects and features in this issue, such as: • Autumn Fun Projects • Amazing Artist Features • Wizard of Oz Room Box

Create this beautiful grand entrance along with Jo Bevilacqua

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KARIN EDDINS-LAMBERT SHARES HER MINI-MASTERPIECE November / December 15 ISSUE 48

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THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL

Price US $7.95 Canada $10.95

PROJECTS Mercedes Spencer celebrates by

Decorating with cheer

Chest of drawers Stylish mini dessert Christmas stocking Holiday centerpiece Festive rug and pillows A bag for traveling Yule log sled

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Nov/Dec ’15, issue 48 This issue has wonderful projects and inspirational features for you to enjoy as we welcome the holiday season, including:

ROBERT OFF’S SMALL ROOMS SET A MOOD AND TELL A STORY. March / April 16 ISSUE 50

dhminiatures.com

THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL

PROJECTS

Vintage car cross-stitch Kitchen cabinetry Tea-time cozy Easter pillows Narrow kitchen table Rainy day puddles

Price US $7.95 Canada $10.95

Storybook miniatures Scene by Rik Pierce.

• home Holiday Centerpiece sweet HOME •MODERNE Christmas Showcase • Mini Dessert DHM50_Cover.indd 1

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Mar/Apr ’16, issue 50

May/Jun ’16, issue 51

Let yourself grow as an artist or enthusiast with this issue of Dollhouse Miniatures. Check out projects and articles, including:

You are in for a treat with this festive springtime issue! Be inspired by projects and articles of all kinds, including:

• Rik Pierce • Robert Off • Nybelwyck Hall

• Mini Flower Shop • Realistic Mini Pets • Wartime Kitchen

1/26/16 11:04 AM

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THE MINIATURE SHOW WAS A TRUE CELEBRATION OF ARTISANS July / August 16 ISSUE 52

dhminiatures.com

THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL

Price US $7.95 Canada $10.95

PROJECTS Mini veggies Watering Can Printing on fabric Bathroom basin Wartime kitchen Wicker table Chimney topper

Jul/Aug ’16, issue 52 Looking for a new project or something to inspire you? Look no further than the latest issue of Dollhouse Miniatures:

ELISE GILLESPIE MAKES PUPPET THEATERS AND VIGNETTES. November / December 16 ISSUE 54

dhminiatures.com

THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL

PROJECTS IN THIS ISSUE Beaded pumpkin • Cottage bed • Miniature manger • Festive packages • Checker board table • Dining room table • Holiday garland • And more...

• Tuscan Style Patio • Weaving Wicker • Printing on Fabric

Outdoor living in Tuscan style

Nostalgic style

Scene by Kammy Hill

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Price US $9.95 Canada $15.95

Nov/Dec ’16, issue 54 All is merry and bright in this holiday issue of Dollhouse Miniatures:

January / February 17 ISSUE 55

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THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL

Price US $9.95 Canada $15.95

PROJECTS

• Lovely cookies • A writing desk • Sweet mini pillows • Shabby chic curtains • A mini mailbox • Stylish lantern • Roof shingles

• A Mini Display at Saks • Holiday Packages • Make a Cozy Cottage Bed • Christmas Roombox

Jan/Feb ’17, issue 55 Keep cozy indoors while reading this winter issue filled with projects, articles, tips, and more: • Miniature Antiques • West 42nd St NYC Diorama • Miniature Treehouses

The age of elegance

By Ferd Sobol

Room box by Janny and Simon Warnaar

5/24/16 5:15 PM

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THE GOOD SAM SHOWCASE OF MINIATURES HIGHLIGHTS

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calendarlistings

LET US KNOW ABOUT A SHOW! Email: [email protected] Phone: (507) 634-3143 or (866) 606-6587 Dollhouse Miniatures, PO Box 219 Kasson, MN 55944

February 11 Culver City, CA The 31st Annual Miniatures West Miniature Fantasy Show and Sale will take place February 11 at the Courtyard by Marriott, 6333 Bristol Parkway, Culver City, CA 90230. Admission $7.00 adults, $3.00 children under 12. Free exhibit room. Workshops on Sunday, February 12. General and dealer information: Nancy Branch (310)454-2054, email [email protected]. Visit our website at miniatureswest.com

Hills, OH 44094. This is an eastern suburb, just off I-271 & I-90 (use the local lanes of I-271, not the Express). Admission: $5, children 4-12 $2, under 4 free. Raffles. Customer Appreciation Gifts. Lunch and snacks are available at the show for your convenience! Show benefits Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital. For more information, please contact: Rosemary at [email protected] or 440-729-6464 or Wendy at [email protected] or 330-655-2350. www.clevelandminiatureshow.org

February 18 Randolph, ME The Augusta, Maine Whitefield Lions Club 31st Annual Model Railroad & Miniature Dollhouse Show will be held on February 18 from 10:00am to 3:30pm. National Guard Armory, Western Ave. Adults $5, under 12 free, family $10. Operating layouts, miniature displays. Contact: Steven P. Laundrie, 50 Fairview Ave., Randolph, ME 04346 Tel: 207-582-1410 Email: [email protected] March 4-5 Arnhem, Netherlands Join Molly Cromwell and kindred spirits, March 2-10, with two days at the Netherlands Dollhouse Show in Arnhem show and visiting the historic Baby Houses and other major sites in the Netherlands. Contact Molly at 703 200 5341 or mollycromwell@ aol.com March 4-5 Seattle, WA The Seattle Miniature Show will be held March 4-5 at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton, 16500 Southcenter Pkwy, Tukwila, WA (near Seattle Tacoma International Airport). Doors open at 10am. Adults $7, under 12 Free. Exhibits, classes, door prizes, and more! Discounted $6 parking and handicap accessible. Discount $99 rate on 2-room guest suite if booked by February 17, 2017. For more details, visit www.SeattleMiniatureShow.com or email [email protected] March 11 Boca Raton, FL Les Petits Collecteurs of South Florida will hold their Dollhouse Miniatures Show and Sale on Saturday, March 11, 2017 from 9:00am to 3:30pm at the Boca Raton Community Center, 150 N.W. Crawford Blvd., Boca Raton, Florida 33432. Admission is: Adults - $5.00, Under 12 - $2.00. There will be many fine dealers, a large exhibit room with the theme, ‘It Takes a Village,’ free Make It and Take It Demos, raffles, and lunch facilities. Pre-registered workshops will be held on Friday, March 10, 2017. We Support Kids in Distress and AVDA. Our website is http.//sites.google.com/site/ lespetitsclub. You can also contact risko@bellsouth. net March 25-26 New Castle, DE The First State Mini Club of Delaware 40th annual Show and Sale will be held on Sunday, March 26, with two workshops planned for Saturday, March 25 at the Clarion Hotel “The Belle”, 1612 N. DuPont Hwy, New Castle, DE 19720. The Show will be

from 10am to 4pm. Admission $5 adults, $2.50 children, $4.50 Seniors. Dollhouse and miniatures exhibits, quality vendors and artisans, door prizes, free parking, no sales tax. Near the Delaware Memorial Bridge, exit to Rt 13 N off I-295. Please no baby strollers. Partial proceeds to charity. www. firststateminiclub.org April 20-22 Chicago, IL THE MINIATURE SHOW, Hyatt Regency Schaumburg Thursday Afternoon Preview Tickets: $25 Friday entry fee (includes Happy Hour): $8, Saturday entry fee: $5. FREE airport shuttle to and from the airport. Stay at the Hyatt for less money and take the free shuttle between our show and the show at The Marriott. Hotel is conveniently located across from the Woodfield Mall and room rates $99. Hotel provides free parking. For more information go to: www.theminiatureshow.com April 30 Boise, ID 37th Annual Mini Les Bois Miniature Show and Sale. Best Western Vista Inn at the Airport, 2645 Airport Way, Boise, Idaho 83705. Saturday April 29, 2017 10am - 5pm Sunday April 30, 2017 noon - 5pm Admission: Adults $5 Children 5-12 $2 Vendors, displays, door prizes and Raffles. No strollers please. We are a non profit club that each year contributes to local charities. For more information call Bobbi Hargett 208-377-9154 or email [email protected] May 5-6 Dallas, TX The 2017 Texas Miniature Showcase will be held May 5-6, 2017. Preview is on Friday from 6 to 9pm. $18 advanced or $20 at the door.Proceeds benefit Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity. Badge is good for both days. Saturday, May 6 from 10am to 5pm. Adults $8, CHildren $4. No strollers, please. Adult classes and children classes see website for more details. Auction on Saturday at 7pm in the Waterfront Ballroom with proceeds benefitting Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity. Elegante’ Hotel and Suites (www.mcmelegantedallas.com), 2330 W. Northwest Highway @ I-35, Dallas, TX 75220. Call 877-351-4477. May 12-13 England Kensington Dolls House Festival, a Molly Cromwell Presents Tour. In addition to the show, visit Windsor Castle & Queen Mary’s Dollshouse, optional Highclere Palace tour and event, cruise to Hampton Court Palace, visit workshops of Robert Dawson and Kevin Mulvany and Suzie Rogers, Karon Cunningham’s shop, Penshurst Place and much more. Deposits due now. Call Molly Cromwell 703-200-5341. [email protected] May 21 Willoughby HIlls, OH The 2017 Greater Cleveland Dollhouse & Miniature Show & Sale will take place SUnday, May 21 from 10am to 4pm at the Willoughby Hills Community Center, 35400 Chardon Rd. (Rte. 6) Willoughby

June 3-4 Sturbridge, MA The Sturbridge Dollhouse Miniatures Festival will be held Saturday, June 3 and 4, 2017 at the Host Hotel on Cedar Lake, 366 Main St/Rte 20, Sturbridge, MA. Pre-registered Workshops on Friday & Saturday a.m. Saturday Pre-Registered Preview from 5-8pm. $18 includes early sales and weekend admission. Sunday, Sales Room open 10am to 4pm. $7 Adults, $4 Children. Reserve your room now: 508-347-7393. Pre-registrations: Molly Cromwell, 44421 Adare Manor Square, Ashburn, VA 20147, [email protected]. View on www. mollycromwell.com June 9-10 Kansas City, MO The Kansas City, Missouri Dollhouse and Miniature Show will be June 9-10, 2017 at the Summit Lodge No. 263, 2409 SW M 291 HWY, Lees Summit, MO 64082 ** New Location ** Show hours are Friday, 4pm to 8pm and Saturday, 10am to 4pm. Admission is $5. Classes both days. Check miniatureshows.com, email: tdminiatures@ sbcglobal.net or call Teresa at 314-277-2601 for more information. June 25 Lakeland, FL The Lakeland Miniature Guild will present their 32nd Annual Dollhouse and Miniatures Show and Sale on Sunday, June 25 from 10am to 4pm at The Hilton Garden Inn, 3839 Don Emerson Drive, Lakeland, FL 33811 (Located at the Lakeland Linder Regional Airport), 863-647-0066. Admission: $6 Adults, $1 Children ages 6-12. Free parking. Artisans, dealers, miniature enthusiasts, shopping table for children, children’s workshops, and more. There will be a drawing for a dollhouse with proceeds benefitting the Troxel Shelter for Women and Children at Lighthouse Ministries. Workshops are available on Friday, June 23 and Saturday, June 24. A special Show Preview will be held on Saturday, June 24 from 5pm to 8pm. For show information: Pat Gazie 407-733-7988 disniedoll@ aol.com July 8 Wilmington, OH The 2nd Annual Holiday Happenings Dollhouse and Miniature Show and Sale - July 8 from 10am to 4pm at First Christian Church, 120 Columbus Street, Wilmington, OH 45177. Contact Dorothy Henry, Hickory Grove Studio Promotions at 937-382-0506 or [email protected] about Holiday Exhibits, Booth Space and Sales.

D ODLOLLHL O UUSSEE M ATTUURRE E HO M II N N II A SS

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PROJECT

stitch a classic RUG DESIGN The talented Sue Bakker has designed this beautiful petit point rug. Use her pattern to cross-stitch your own for a 1:12-scale room.

T

his exquisite petit point rug is worked in an ancient traditional “gul” pattern, which was particularly popular in the nineteenth century. The carpet has been designed by Sue Bakker for experienced

needlewomen, and will make a rug approximately 4 1/2” by 7” worked on 22-thread canvas. The rug is stitched in DMC stranded cotton (embroidery floss) in black, blue, gold and white on a red background, although

you may prefer to use brighter shades. Work the rug on an 8” by 10” canvas in a frame. Use three strands of thread throughout, begin in the center of the pattern and work outward. Work the details of the central panel first in half cross-stitch, then work the background in diagonal tent stitch. When the central panel is complete, remove the work from the frame, count the number of holes/stitches required for the border, and fold the canvas under at the outside edge, lining up the holes and trimming the canvas edge to meet the inner edge of the border on the underside. Bind the folded edge of the rug with satin stitch and work the border through both layers of canvas using half cross stitch for the details and diagonal tent stitch for the background as for the central panel. Make fringes at both short ends of the rug with Surrey stitch or simple knots. Press the rug between two clean cloths, but do not wash it.

LEFT: The Knitting Lady - from The Dolls’ House Needlecrafts book, published by David & Charles. The book includes patterns for making the shawl, lacy cape, bless this house sampler, Turkoman rug, hooded cloak, umbrella and shopping basket. Photo by Jonathon Bosley. 72 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

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PROJECT

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PROJECT

a dollhouse for A DOLLHOUSE

Take the leap and give a 1:144-scale dollhouse a quick make over. If you truly love minis these are a perfect addition to your 1:12-scale dollhouse. By T. A. Gozeski

I

have always wanted to have a tiny dollhouse for my one twelfth scale dollhouse. I could never decide on one I really liked. But recently I found a line of 1:144 scale sold online that I think are very special. I chose the style here and purchased it unfinished so I could truly make it my own. I loved that it also came with the table for it to sit on. I began with the table, a lovely piece by itself, which has a removable drawer. I went over each surface with a flexible micro sanding pad. I then stained the table and drawer with craft gel stain in maple. I used a small brush to apply, then a soft cloth and cotton swabs to wipe away any excess. Once dry, I applied one coat of craft interior gloss varnish. With the dollhouse I found it was easier to begin by staining the inside surfaces first, again using a small brush, and a soft cloth and cotton swabs for wiping. Once dry, I began staining the outside surfaces, one section at a time, except for the roof and chimneys. I decided then to add a second coat on the outer sides, so it would be darker. For the roof and chimneys I used craft metallic paints. I chose antique copper for the roof sections and finials, and autumn copper for the chimneys. I also added the antique copper to the doorway, window trims and the two round embellishments at

the top. I also chose to wait until the inside and treatments were done to apply the varnish. For the three arched window panels I found scrapbook holographic stickers I could use to have colors shine through. I measured and cut the small curved pieces to fit. These stickers were silver holographic on the sticky side. I peeled each off of the backing and placed in position sticky side down and pressed and smoothed. These shine through nicely. I then measured and

YOU’LLneed u 1:144-scale dollhouse

u Flexible micro sanding pad u Craft gel stain

u Small paint brush u Soft cloth

u Cotton swabs

u Craft interior gloss varnish u Craft metallic paints

u Scrapbook holographic stickers u Brown card stock u Toothpick

u Craft glue u Tweezers

cut brown card stock for each to cover the inside surface and applied them with glue. Once this was done, I applied the craft interior gloss varnish to all outside surfaces. For the tiny rooms inside I chose tiny

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PROJECT

quarter scale wallpapers and trims. I measured and cut each piece and applied one at a time with white glue, being sure to press and smooth from the center out to all edges. I found that using a toothpick to apply glue where I wanted, and, using tweezers to put in place, made it much easier and more accurate. The blunt end of the tweezers is good for the pressing. Next was the furniture; I am so glad that someone makes quarter scale metal furniture pieces! They are very inexpensive. I enjoyed selecting furniture pieces for each room, and also two kitties. I was a little worried about painting such tiny things at first. But I was pleasantly surprised that it was not that hard and I ended up enjoying that, too. The keys for me were to have good lighting, a fine tip paint brush and patience. I laid out each piece on wax paper with a place mat underneath which made it easy to move when necessary. I then chose all of the craft paint colors I wanted to use from my collection. With this many pieces to paint, I found that doing one color at a time where needed made the process go smoother, and I did not have to clean the brush as often. Craft paints dry quickly, so by the time I’ve applied several of them, the earlier ones are dry. All pieces needed a second coat, both to fully cover and to get any nooks or crannies missed. Once all pieces were fully painted and dry, I gave each a coat of craft interior satin finish varnish. It was quite fun and satisfying to see them transform from tiny simple pieces of metal. For wall pictures and more accents I turned to greeting card and stationary catalogs for tiny prints. I cut them out and applied to card stock with white glue. Once dry, I trimmed around the edges of each.

Then I also cut out tiny vase prints and backed with card stock, too, to use as planters for the doorway and the balcony. I used dollhouse prints for some of the rugs. For the others I used both quarter scale and twelfth scale laser cut paper doilies. Two quarter scale doilies were used in the bedroom and dining rooms as rugs. I then measured and cut sections from the twelfth scale doilies to fit for each window valance and the door panels. I glued each in place with my indispensable white glue. I think they look quite delicate.

Once the windows were done the most fun of all was to fill each tiny room and decorate. I again applied glue to each piece one at a time with a toothpick, placed in position with my tweezers. The white craft glue gave me time to adjust and press. For the final touches I used a few seed beads for vases, and faux greenery and faux color mix, and tiny dried flower buds to fill them and the outside planters. The added wisps of color do make it more homey. And, of course, the two tiny cats; the white one, Lily, in the bedroom and the black one, Angus, in the sewing room. I truly enjoyed trying some new, tinier things that tested me; I learned much along the way. The challenge was so very worth it, for I love my first ever tiny house that has a special place in my dollhouse! I hope that it may encourage some of you to try it yourself. Imagine and create! DHM

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FEATURE

The history of underwear

Let’s have a revealing look at the history of ladies’ underwear so that every detail in your project will be accurate even if it’s covered up!

U

nderwear has come a long way since the humble loincloth! Early known fashions moved from the boned bodice of the ancient Minoan ladies in 1600 BC through to the first bra and brief set seen on a 4th century mosaic in Sicily. By the late 14th century, European women were wearing linen smocks, or shifts, that were a forerunner of the Victorian chemise. A new garment was also introduced; a stiff linen under-bodice called a “cotte”, which roughly translated means a “rib-sticking garment”. It certainly doesn’t sound comfortable! In the 15th century the underbodice had another name; it was known as a “body” or more correctly “a pair of bodies”, since it was made in two pieces that fastened at the back and front. The period of the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars began with a higher, “raised” waistline, with the emphasis placed on the bosom. The Neo-Classical movement in art, which made much of Grecian statues and the lines of their silhouettes, influenced the main garments. A rounded bosom and full figure were considered the ideal. In 1793, The Times stated that the fashion of

LEFT: These three lovely ladies are showing off their fashionable undergarments.

The French versions, with wide leg openings, are still known today as French knickers. The immediate ancestors of the bra were robustly made Victorian whaleboned corsets, which were engineered to aid what was considered the epitome of perfect womanhood – the hour-glass figure. A young New York

dressing was to appear “prominent”, and accordingly false bosoms of wadding, also affectionately known as “bosom friends” were employed by the less well endowed! The first pair of “knickers” appeared on the scene in 19th Century as pantaloons. Called drawers because they “draw on” or “draw up” the legs, they were attached individually to a deep waistband, which fastened at the back. By the late 1870s “knickers” became commonplace, which were usually a closed gusset undergarment.

‘

The revival of the bosom in the 1930s meant that the underwear, or “foundation” business began to boom.

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debutante, Mary Phelps Jacobs, patented the first bra. In 1913 Mary was preparing to go to a dance; she hated the restrictive, heavy evening corsets of her time and, with the help of two handkerchiefs, pink baby ribbon and her French maid, she designed what

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FEATURE

ABOVE: Underwear is not only designed to be practical, it is also invariably pretty.

the modern world would recognize as a bra. The First World War dealt the corset a fatal blow when the U.S. War Industries Board called on women to stop buying corsets in 1917, because of the metal wires used in their manufacture. These pleas freed up some 28,000 tons of metal! Maybe because of this, after

the war, everything went flat! Brassieres or “Bandeaux” as they were often called at this time, became nothing more than strips of lacy material with ribbon straps. Short-cropped hair, no bosom, and no waist were the symbols of the 1920s emancipated woman. The revival of the bosom in the 1930s meant that the underwear, or “foundation” business began to

boom. Warner Brothers, the huge American company, introduced cup sizes in 1935, finally realizing that women were different shapes as well as different sizes. They brought in the “Alphabet Bra” which had four “cup” sizes-A, B, C and D. Double D came along a little later and double A later still. Some of the most engaging, amusing and extraordinary bras come from the late 1940s and 50s. With the resurgence of the film industry, and its glamorous and shapely actresses, the bra continued to develop and reached huge success in the 1950s. This was the heyday of the upholstered bra, enabling women to boast enviable cleavage enhanced by the fashionable whirlpool-stitched bras of the era. The 1960s and 70s saw a change in attitude and a more liberal approach to underwear, while developments in technology and fabrics during the 80s and 90s brought more intricate designs to the mass market, and now, there is underwear to suit every style and every occasion. DHM D O L L H O U S E M I N I AT U R E S

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Dollhouse Miniatures 1/4 page ad 3 1/2” x 4 5/8”

IN A NUTSHELL

Hodge-Podge in Cluttersville Miniaturists Romaine Hoffman’s mini Hodge-Podge in Cluttersville was based on her latest children’s literature creation.

A

By Romaine Hoffman

s a children’s author and miniaturist, my challenge after writing my new book, Welcome Home, was to visually represent the story text from eight-year-old Emily’s perspective. The setting is an antique store. Emily is the narrator. When Emily begrudgingly walks through a country antique store for the first time with her parents, she can’t understand how so much clutter could be outside on the store’s parking lot and inside on the shelves and on the floor. Emily appropriately refers to this unfamiliar place as “HodgePodge”. Its location is Cluttersville. Her Grandma wouldn’t believe the mess in this store; therefore, she decides to ask Grandma for help to build a miniature model. Emily realizes that if Grandma empties her hobby closet, thousands of items could be mixed together as hodge-podge. With Grandma to the rescue, Emily can

easily complete a new corner store kit; however, the four-page direction guide, discourages Emily before she starts. Grandma’s ‘easypeasy’ attitude encourages Emily to help build, paint, and wallpaper their store. To keep the country, literary setting in the story, Grandma and Emily choose red brick wallpaper for the three-sided exterior. Trim paints for the windows and molding are: cottage red, hunter green, and cream. Exterior woodwork

TOP: Romiane with her husband, George. LEFT: Romaine’s granddaughter, Grace.

is purposely lightly painted to appear worn, or kept bare to give it an old, crude appearance. The store name, not posted according to Emily’s description in the story, but Emily and Grandma crookedly place wooden, unpainted letters, (H-OD-G-E –P-O-D-G-E), above the front door. The “glass” store windows and rooftop could not be permanently positioned, to avoid photography glare. Emily and Grandma also enjoy replicating the lot. Emily expresses to Grandma, “Everything you own, dear Grandma,” and Grandma obliges. Removed from her hobby closet and borLEFT: The window is perfect for peeking inside the shop to see the many treasures.

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IN A NUTSHELL

ABOVE: A small dollhouse sits on a table in Romaine’s 1:12-scale antique shop.

rowed from her former house builds, Grandma’s old refrigerator, stove, church organ, broken furniture, leftover roof tiles, toys, unpainted doors, shutters, and wagons, crates, and dog cage, all mixed together, were placed as “clutter” on the gray-painted, parking lot wood. The more clutter they add, the more laughs they enjoy. The store’s interior, green/red/ white plaid wallpaper, chair rail molding, and cream walls above, add welcomed neatness to cluttered shelves, walls, and floor space. Although barely visible because of all the clutter, the floor was a wooden sheet. Ladies hats, old shoes, luggage, musical instruments, old-style television, model trains, phonograph, and

books, fit inside their model store. Mission accomplished! They stepped back, admired their work, and officially name their store, HodgePodge. The address - Cluttersville, USA. I am the “Grandma” who enjoyed combining the authoring of WELCOME HOME, with the mini building of Emily’s antique experience. The subject of Emily‘s Family Day experience is also the subject of her own journal story, WELCOME HOME, created as a keepsake for an unlikely friend. That miniature replica of her subject item, hidden among the store’s interior floor clutter, is

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They stepped back, admired their work, and officially na their store, HodgePodge.

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BELOW LEFT: Every corner of the shop is filled with small treasures. BELOW RIGHT: A vintage style doll with a tiny teddy bear.

ABOVE: Lots of vintage and modern pieces were collected for this miniature project.

placed for you to discover, just as Emily discovered it in the antique store. From looking at this article’s photographs, you, too, may discover who or what is “welcomed home”. I hope you enjoy your hobby of miniatures, and combine your interests, whenever possible. Although it may be a challenge, it is a rewarding experience. DHM

GET IN TOUCH Romaine Hoffman [email protected] Phone: (516) 783-9842 Create Space, Publisher TITLE: Welcome Home

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Texas Miniature

Showcase

PREVIEW FRIDAY MAY 5, 2017 6-9:30 p.m. $18 ($20 at the door) Visit with friends and enjoy light hors d’oeuvres & cash bar 5-6 p.m. PREVIEW FRIDAY MAY 5, 2017 6-9:30 p.m. $18 ($20 at the door) Early shopping 9-10 on Saturday. badge good for both days Visit with friends and enjoy light hors d’oeuvres & cash bar 5-6 p.m. Proceeds benefit Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity Early shopping 9-10 on Saturday. badge good for both days Proceeds benefit Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity

GENERAL ADMISSION: Saturday May 6, 10a.m.-5p.m. Adults $8 Children $4 GENERAL ADMISSION: Saturday May 6, 10a.m.-5p.m. Adults $8

Children $4

CLASSES: Before and After the Show. Pre-registration Required. CLASSES: Before and After the Show. Pre-registration Required. CHILDREN’S CLASSES Saturday May 5, 2017 10-12 noon and 2-4. Free with general admission. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED. CHILDREN’S CLASSES Saturday May 5, 2017

10-12 noon and 2-4. Free with general admission. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED.

ELEGANTE’ HOTEL 2330 W. Northwest Highway @ I-35, Dallas 75220 ELEGANTE’ HOTELfor 2330 Northwest Highway @ I-35, Dallas 75220 1-877-351-4477 $95 W. Rate before 4/20/2017 1-877-351-4477 for $95 Rate before 4/20/2017

AUCTION: Sat. May 5, 7p.m. Waterfront Ball Room AUCTION: MayAREA 5, 7p.m. Waterfront Ball Room proceeds benefitSat. DALLAS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY proceeds benefit DALLAS AREA HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

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Dani Muckleroy, Chairman 972-217-5005 for information 972-217-5005 for information Dani Muckleroy, Chairman Dani Muckleroy, Chairman

1/11/17 2:10 PM

Dollhouses, Trains & More 300 Entrada Drive Novato, CA 94949 415-883-0388 Larrianne’s Small Wonders 3457 Telegraph Road Ventura, CA 93003 805-289-1508

Miniature Makers’ Workshop

In the Spotlight

Ms Peggies Place 5063 Cass Street San Diego, CA 92109 858-483-2621

Ron’s Miniature Shop 751 West Colonial Drive Orlando, FL 32804 407-841-9333 The Toy Box 419 Brevard Avenue In Historic Cocoa Village Cocoa, Florida 32922 321-632-2411 Miniature Designs 3555 Lawrenceville Hwy Lawrenceville, GA 30044 770-923-8500 Dollhouse Dreams 820 Ave G Fort Madison, IA 52627 319-372-0599 Tom Thumb Hobby & Crafts 6001 W Gross Point Road Niles, IL 60714 847-869-9575 Jeepers Miniatures 69 West Washington Street Morgantown, IN 46160 812-597-4346 Great Lakes Hobby & Toy 43055 Van Dyke Sterling Heights, MI 48314 586-254-1600

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Pat’s Village Miniatures 18518 W Outer Dr Dearborn, MI 48128 313-359-0400

St. Louis, MO 63126 314-729-7077 Linda’s “Wee Manor” 1401 N Lake Park Blvd #70 Carolina Beach, NC 28428 910-859-0088 Circus Dollhouse 445 Route 23 South Pompton Plains, NJ 07444

Norm’s Dollhouse 7300 S. Colorado Blvd Centennial, CO 80122 303-290-0049

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248-549-0633

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973-839-7990 The Dollhouse Factory 157 Main Street Lebanon, NJ 08833

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IAGARA HOBBY & CRAFT MART is a full line hobby store focusing on products that you and your family can grow with...not grow out of. Located in the Town of Cheektowaga, New York, it actually began in 1945 in Binghamton, NY. They are proud to have one of the largest selections of trains in all scales, die cast collectibles, dollhouses, plastic models, science kits, rockets, cars, and much more for children, parents and grand-parents in the Western area of New York. One of the main attractions is the multi-level interactive N, HO, O and G scale train layout with a closed circuit camera and color monitors with a LIVE video feed from railroad tracks in rear of store. The dollhouse and miniature department of the store is probably the most complete and largest in Western New York. There is an impressive inventory of Houseworks products, furniture, accessories, electrical components, wood and other products representing the miniature industry. If you can’t find what you want, they will order it for you. An awesome display of ten built-up dollhouses is a must see with six being fully furnished and electrified including the Bostonian (see below) valued at more than $10,000.00 USD.

908-236-6404 Niagara Hobby & Craft Mart 3366 Union Road Buffalo, NY 14225 716-681-1666 Miniature Cottage 410 East Iris Drive Nashville, TN 37204 615-298-2872 The Little Dollhouse Co. 612 Mount Pleasant Road Toronto, Ontario M4S 2M8, Canada 416-489-7180

There are slot car tracks, drag strip and Pinewood Derby Test Track for families to interact. The classroom hosts daily table top gaming with monthly tournaments and free children’s events. Throughout the year many tour the rare, fully restored, 1949 Red Caboose in the parking lot.

Toad Hall Toys 54 Arthur Street Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 1G7, Canada

NIAGARA HOBBY & CRAFT MART is located at 3366 Union Road (at Walden Ave.), Cheektowaga, New York. 10 minutes from Buffalo and airport, 30 minutes from Niagara Falls and ½ mile from Walden Galleria. Hours Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm. Call 716-681-1666 for directions or visit the internet : www.niagarahobby.com. A must see for the whole family.

Large display of Houseworks products

204-956-2195

2388 Pleasantdale Road, Atlanta, GA 30340 770-448-6596 Fax 770-448-3350 www.houseworksltd.com Email: [email protected]

1/6/17 10:35 AM 1/11/17 2:13 PM