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Deb Jackson has a passion for scientific and medical vintage tools.

June 14 Issue #134 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $6.95


CANADA $9.25 CAD. UK £4.25

PROJECTS
• Shabby chic mirror
• Mini dungarees
• Produce cart
• Lace nightgown
• Rum baba
• Teapot bird nest
• Miniature grapes

Beach souvenirs
V ith
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Do nsp

Shannon Kindred turns memories into keepsakes.


di
Fin

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2 American Miniaturist

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Dollhouse Land Artistry in Miniatures
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Get a 10% discount with code: AMM10*


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American Miniaturist 3

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Contents
Deb Jackson has a passion for scientific and medical vintage tools.

June 14 Issue #134 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $6.95


CANADA $9.25 CAD. UK £4.25

PROJECTS
• Shabby chic mirror
• Mini dungarees
• Produce cart
• Lace nightgown
• Rum baba
• Teapot bird nest
• Miniature grapes

Regulars Features
6 Mini mail 16 Miniature furniture
Beach souvenirs We love to hear from our Ron Seibert uses no plans
V ith
se n w
ou tio
.T
llh ira

to build wood furniture.


Do sp

Shannon Kindred turns memories into keepsakes.

readers and share their


d in
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words on these pages. 19


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American Miniaturist Celebrating men


68132 250th Avenue
Kasson, MN 55944
72 Itty bits Talented miniature artists
The latest news and notes celebrate Father’s Day.
Phone: (507) 634-3143
Fax: (507) 634-7691 in the mini world, and our 24 Upholstered furniture
Toll Free: 1-866-606-6587 newest contest winners. Kris Compas makes creative
Email: info@americanminiaturist.com
UK: AM, Unit 5E, Park Farm 85 Snippets miniature furniture.
Chichester Road, Arundel,
West Sussex, BN18 0AG. Cut out your very own 32 Auto repair shop
Tel: 01903 884988 art, seed packs, cards and Frank Layne showcases his
Fax: 01903 885514 wedding items. classic car collection.
Publisher:
Kelly Johnson 88 Show dates 37 Seaside cloches
Email: kelly@ashdown.co.uk
Mark your calendars Shannon Kindred preserves
Editor:
Auralea Krieger
and plan to attend these tiny sea treasures in creative
Email: auralea@ashdown.co.uk shows around the country. miniature cloches.
Advertising & Marketing:
Sara Vix 
On the cover: Scene by 40 Vintage tools
Email: sara@ashdown.co.uk
Shannon Kindred
Deb Jackson makes
Customer Service:
Email: usoffice@ashdown.co.uk miniature medical and
Distribution: scientific tools.
Fran Johnson
Email: uswarehouse@ashdown.co.uk 44 Miniature food
Designer: Laura Prats is a master at
Auralea Krieger
making tiny treats.
Ad designer:
Ann Pavlish 52 Wood turning Gallery
Contributors: Part two of the wonderful
Natalia Antonelli, Marianne Colijn , Kris Compas,
Sharon Doddroe, Deb Jackson, Felma Jackson, wood turners gallery.
Shannon Kindred, Frank & Gabriele Layne, Alisa
& Bear Limvere, Gil Mena, Danielle Muller, Eva 61 Wedding gowns
Perendreu, Amanda Phillips, Laura Prats, Martha
Puff, Nancy & AJ Quinby, Ron Seibert, Maria Jose Felma Jackson’s makes
Santos, Maurice Sauve, Nancy Summers, Celia beautiful wedding gowns.
Thomas, Rob Tukham, Gert & Ans Vogels, Dave
Williams, and Diana Yate
66 Japanese room box
Issue 134 Eva Perendreu took on the
June 2014 challenge of making a
Published by Ashdown Broadcasting Japanese style room box.
Subscription rates:
1 Year (12 issues) $65 74 Baking for baby
Canada $75 (US funds); UK £59; Natalia Antonelli combines a
Europe $136 (US); Rest of world $148 (US).
2 Year (24 issues) $120 modern baby shower and an
Canada $135 (US funds); UK £115; old-fashion Italian baptism.
Europe $259 (US); Rest of world $290 (US).

American Miniaturist (USPS# 021-053 ISSN #


80 Baby boutique
14778203) is published monthly at 68132 250th
Ave., Kasson, MN 55944. Subscription price is
Gabriele Layne’s shows her
$65.00. Periodicals postage paid at Kasson, MN, and
additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address
Bambino Baby Boutique.
corrections to American Miniaturist, 68132 250th
Ave., Kasson, MN 55944 90 Man rooms
All material submitted to the magazine is accepted on the basis that
copyright will be vested in the Publisher who assumes all rights worldwide, Danielle Muller shares the
in all forms and media. This means American Miniaturist owns the rights
to the instructions and photographs that we publish. The work may be
published in the magazine, our i-Mag, ebooks, CDs and bookzines as well as
two rooms for men in her
on Dollshouse.TV. You continue to own the copyright for the design and are
free to teach and sell your work. All that we ask is that you wait a minimum Grosvenor’s Hall dollhouse.
of 6 months after the publication of the issue before teaching the design or
selling your own instructions. We don’t allow you to re-publish the design
featured in other books or magazines without prior consent.

AM134_Contents_p004-005.indd 4 4/25/14 4:48 PM


Welcome
This June issue is jam packed with so many
talented artists. Summer is here and I couldn’t
Projects be happier and to make it even better, this is the
month we celebrate our fathers!
10 A war hero’s attic I remember the first time I saw my father as
Celia Thomas filled this someone more than just a dad. I was a little girl
little room with a cluster of at the time and I was spending the afternoon at
nostalgic mementos. his office sitting on the couch with my dolls and
27 A shabby chic mirror I noticed two walls were covered with awards
Follow along with miniaturist for his achievements. He was a brilliant scientific
Kris Compas and create this
charming little antique mirror.
engineer and the lead man at his company, but he
was much more than that to me.
34 Mini dungarees Yes, I was amazed when I realized all of those
If you need a hard working
man around the house, here plaques were awards, but what really made an
is a work outfit for him! impression on me that day was how everyone
47 A fresh produce cart had such respect and love for him. He treated
Diana Yate shares some everyone with the utmost respect and kindness.
creative construction tips on He was humble, but confident and his laugh
making this cart. could be heard throughout the building. He was
65 Mini nightgown always quick with a joke.
A tiny nighty made from lace His brilliance even touched my first dollhouse
is easy to make. Follow along
with Felma Jackson.
when he made the perfect mini curtain rods,
using only a cleverly bent clothes hanger and two
77 Mini rum baba small holes drilled into the wall. It was the specific
Natalia Antonelli shares her
technique on how to make a tension that held it in
delicious Italian rum baba. place, no glue needed!
92 A place for birds My dad was and still is
Marianne Colijn has found a a hero in my eyes. So to
way to turn a miniature all the fathers out there,
teapot into a tiny nest. I wish you a wonderful
97 Miniature grapes Father’s Day!
Amanda Phillips shows how
fun and easy it is to make
miniature grapes!

AM134_Contents_p004-005.indd 5 4/25/14 4:48 PM


AM is your magazine, and we want to hear from

minimail
you. Write to: MiniMail, American Miniaturist, 68132
250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944. Or email: auralea@
ashdown.co.uk. Letters may be edited if necessary.

Star letter power and collapses. I would


This month’s Star Letter was appreciate any help you can
written by Irina Saarenmäki give me.
who wrote in to share her Pat Bryant
thoughts about the March Tulsa, Oklahoma
issue of AM. We truly love
Jo Bevilacqua ‘s response:
to share your projects and
Snow text was used for that
letters with our readers, and
project. You can find it usually
it means so much to us that
at the craft store in the paint
you take the time to write! To department. If you can’t find it, I
thank Irina for her wonderful have mixed fine white sand with
letter, we will be sending her spackling and added a little white
a Sweets & Eats Project CD to acrylic paint to it.
help get her started on food I’ve just recently got my new
for her new house. Please house and I hope I’ll dare to try
keep your letters coming. We to make my own version of that
love learning about you and beautiful sparkling chandelier by
your projects and hearing Caroline Dupuis.
your comments and ideas. Thank you once again for
We always look forward to your fabulous and inspiring
reading your thoughtful magazine! Sure would love to
letters! see more scenes and other kind
of crafts from Harry Potter, Wind
In The Willow, and especially
Star letter Brambly Hedge them.
What a happy I LOVE mice - so it would be
day to receive your more than fantastic to get a
wonderful magazine once pattern for a 1:12 scale mouse
again! Keep up the good work!
LOVED the Lesia Lenex
cupcake instruction in (AM131) Irina Saarenmäki
as well as the toast instructions Finland
from Amanda Phillips. And her
instructions for the salad were Making snow
a treat! I really love American
Miniaturist. I was
especially pleased with the
article on Jo Bevilacqua in the
February issue (AM130). Her Arthur contest winner
winter garden scenes were Good morning Auralea
exquisite. I have a question and the rest of the
about them. How did she make group! Your letter and DVD
the snow? I have tried using came at a most appropriate
the spray that comes out of a time. As we were trying to
can, but when it dries it turns to overcome the latest round of

6 American Miniaturist

AM134_MiniMail_p006-007.indd 6 4/25/14 4:49 PM


minimail
snow and cold the mail arrived.
I laid it aside to finish up the
chores before I allowed myself
the luxury of hopefully finding
something mini-related. Lo
and behold the prized white
envelope! I breathlessly tore
into it and found a delight to
keep me busy for many hours.
I love searching for Arthur
as I have ten grand dogs
myself. The subject of the
DVD, handbags, is also
appropriate seeing that I have
seven granddaughters. I see
lots of those lying around on
my chairs!
Thanks again for my “end of
winter” surprise and keep up Caroline Dupuis
showcases a beau
the good work. tiful miniature butt
erfly cottage. Good enough to eat
I was very touched by
Joann Conaway Natalia Antonelli’s story
in the April issue (AM132). What
February 14

Bridgeville, DE Issue #130


www.americanmi
niaturist.com
Price $6.95
CANADA $9.25
CAD.

a blessing to have such talent


UK £4.25

PROJECTS
• Valentines shop
run through generations of your
Valentines contest winner • Steampunk hat
• Mini slippers
• Ping pong light
family! It is also very nice to see
I was so elated when I • Turkey sandwich
• Ice cream waffl
s

es
how she cherishes her family
received my winnings and Italian heritage.
from the February Valentine I must say her wonderful
Heart contest. They are miniature Italian food made me
beautiful! A ro mantic brocan hungry and I suggested to my
Although, when I received te style
Susanne Idun
Mørch shows
her personal touch husband that we visit a local
h

my issue of American Italian restaurant the evening


.T wit
se n
ou tio
V
llh ira
Do sp
in

Miniaturist and read that I was after reading through this issue
130_cover.indd
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1
Fin

12/18/13 4:32

the only one with the correct of AM.


PM

guess, I about dropped off my were the playing cards, I also enjoyed all of the Easter
chair. What a feeling to know but another and very important candy and sweet treats that
worldwide I was the only one! reason was that I just lost my were in the spring gallery, I
Well, you know I have been beloved cat Gabby and seeing may be on a diet for the spring,
spreading that news just about that Gabriele was the artist it was but I can always enjoy looking
everywhere I destiny to me. And here we are. at sweets in miniature, zero
can. I want to thank you so very, very calories!
Just much for my winning heart
a quick boxes they will be cherished Emma Campbell
background forever in the Boston, MA
about how most loving of
much this ways just as
contest felt like Valentine’s Day
a winner for me is meant to be.
when I submitted it. First,
I just looked at the picture Gina Brege Facebook Twitter Blog: A Small
of the hearts and knew they Elba, NY World’s Big Buzz

American Miniaturist 7

AM134_MiniMail_p006-007.indd 7 4/25/14 4:49 PM


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005JAN14_p025.indd 25 20/11/2013 18:46

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American Miniaturist 9

004JUN_p009.indd 9 4/24/14 11:09 AM


Mini memories

A war hero’s
miniature attic
Celia Thomas filled this little room with
a cluster of nostalgic mementos with
reference to the two world wars.

T
he aim of this project was mementos from the 1930s/40s. slightly aged water jug, gas mask
to create an old, neglected Many of the printed items box, gramophone records, and
attic room with a feeling have been scanned on the War Illustrated magazines.
of nostalgia with reference to the computer from my own family
two world wars. The room is full of photos, documents and books
Tools & materials:
and scaled down.
If you can do this l Raw umber acrylic paint
your project is that l Small paintbrush
bit more special for l Plain white paper towel
you, or the person
you are giving it to
for an anniversary, How to age an object
birthday or perhaps Step 1: Mix the paint with a
retirement present. considerable amount of water.
If you do not Cover the object and dab with
have the facility to paper towel to remove excess
do this then you paint, leaving just enough to give
can find photos in a slightly aged and dirty look.
magazines, catalogs,
and advertising Step 2: On items, such as boxes,
leaflets. I also used you might like to add a little more
some of the items paint to creases and corners.
that I sell in my
miniature business Creating books
such as the 1930s The book covers were made by
Bakelite Wireless, scanning full size books and then
1930s Electric Fire, reduced them in size and printing
Left: An old, neglected them on card. The leather Bible is
attic room with a simply made from a rectangular
feeling of nostalgia. piece of leather and a piece of

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Mini memories

wood ¼” depth, cut so that it is with a craft knife gives a more


slightly smaller than the leather Tip: Half fill the cardboard battered look.
cover. Glue with PVA and edge all boxes with twisted up tissue The box on the shelf has been
paper before piling your
the way around with gold marker filled with 1930s/40s song sheets
objects on top, to give the
pen, including the wooden insert, that were scanned from a book
illusion of a full box.
to give a grand finish. I also cut a and reduced. I overlapped some
small piece of narrow red ribbon to give a more random look. The
and sandwiched this in place the prisoner of war camp at the box on top of the suitcase has
between the front cover and the end of the First World War, and a been filled with 1930s magazines.
wood. letter from the King at the end of On top of the wooden chest is
the Second World War for services a box filled with school exercise
Wooden boxes rendered to the Home Guard. books, a school report, and a
These are simply made from scrap The medals were copied from my school certificate that were all
pieces of wood strip and finished dad’s wartime medals and made scanned from the real thing,
with acrylic paint. Sand well to out of card, colored in with gel reduced to scale and printed on
give an old look. The wooden box pens and aged slightly with raw quality paper. I gently rubbed
on the shelf has been filled with umber paint. the exercise books with pencil,
scanned family photos that were Family photographs have been particularly around edges, and
reduced in size. The wooden box scanned and reduced in size and smudged with my finger to give
on top of the chest has been filled printed on matt photographic it a dirtier look. I also rubbed my
with old letters that were cut out paper. To make the large photo fingernail over all the edges to
of a magazine and some 1940 frame I used a strip of picture rough them up.
postcards. frame, cut to size using a miter On top of that is a box filled
The box on the floor contains block and painted with Paynes with broken items such as a
wartime printed items, such as grey acrylic, which is a soft black. saucepan that has a hole in it, a
identity cards and ration books. The photo was glued on thin card broken toaster, and a misshapen
Some personal documents were and the frame glued on top using 1930s clock. Between the chair
scanned and reduced to scale, PVA glue, taking care not to get and the chest is a box filled with
such as my grandfather’s letter any on the photo. old boxed games. These were
from the King on his release from The metal oval picture frame, made out of card and the front
that you can just about see, has covers were scanned from a book
been bought and painted in black and then glued onto the lids.
enamel paint. The photo was
stuck on card that was cut to fit Tools & materials:
the frame and then very carefully,
with a minimum amount of glue, l Leather from an old
stuck to the back of the frame. glove
l Wood for top half
Old boxes ¼” x 2” x 1½”
l Wood for bottom half
The cardboard boxes were made
½” x 2” x 1½”
from an assortment of colored
l Leather for top half
card and old file covers and made
3” x 3½”
to look scruffy by rubbing a pencil l Leather for bottom half
over the edges and rubbing a 3½” x 4”
finger over the top. Scratching

American Miniaturist 11

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Mini memories

12 American Miniaturist

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Mini memories

Vintage Suitcase half of the case by two tiny pins.


Step 1: Stick the wooden The two catches were broken
block onto the middle of the off a piece of old jewelry and
corresponding leather. Cut along glued into place with PVA glue
dotted lines as shown. then touched up with a little raw
umber acrylic paint.
Step 2: The sections should now
look like diagram shown below. Step 7: The four corners were
also touched with raw umber
Step 3: Glue short ends to block paint and to age the case further
as shown one at a time, then trim a craft knife was dragged along all
along the dotted lines at each the corners and edges. To finish, I
end. Fold flaps down then glue. cut some old luggage labels and
stuck them on with PVA glue. of water then dried the material
Step 4: Glue long ends to block on the radiator between coats.
as shown, one at a time then trim Making the RAF jacket It took six coats of paint before I
along dotted lines at each end. The RAF jacket, which was based reached the desired shade.
Fold flaps down then glue. on my dad’s real old navigator’s Measuring the real jacket as
wartime uniform, was quite a guide I cut out the parts and
Step 5: The top and bottom difficult to make. I tried to be as reduced them to scale. I sewed
halves should now look like accurate as possible when making the basic structure of the jacket
diagram below. Stick both halves the ribbons and medals, in order and set in the sleeves, however,
together, weigh down with heavy to be authentic. It is tiny details the other details such as the collar
book or clamp whilst glue dries. like this that if wrong, could spoil and pockets I glued in with PVA
a whole scene. glue.
Step 6: The handle was made I painted the material (an old The Flight Lieutenant ribbons
from a long piece of the inside pair of my daughter’s denim on the cuffs of the sleeves were
seam of the glove cut 3/4” in shorts) with a very weak wash of made out of a narrow strip of
length, secured onto the lower raw umber acrylic paint and lots white ribbon painted in black
acrylic paint (as I couldn’t get
black ribbon).
Using a light blue gel pen and
a steady hand I drew a line down
the middle. The ribbons were
then fixed into place with PVA
glue. The ribbon on the top of
the jacket was made out of white
ribbon colored in with gel pens.
The winged badge was made
in black felt and the emblem
drawn with gel pens. The buttons
were made from tiny blobs of
PVA glue dropped onto tin foil
from a cocktail stick and left
overnight to dry. The next day

American Miniaturist 13

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Mini memories

I scratched them off carefully,


painted them in gold enamel
paint, and then stuck them into
place with PVA glue.

Tools & materials:

Cut out the following pieces:


l Main piece, 2¼” x 1¼”
l Two sides, ¾” x ½”
l One pocket, ½” x ¾”
l Strap, 4” x 1/16”

Leather Satchel
This was made from a piece of
dark brown leather and then
glued with PVA.

Step 1: Fold the sides in half.


Make sure that the crease of the knife along all edges aged the
fold is on the outer side of each entire satchel a little.
side of the satchel. Glue only the
back half of the sides to fit one Ideas for other items
end of the main piece as shown. The photograph album was
Fold the main piece in half along made from a rectangular piece
the dotted lines. of colored card and black paper.
I stitched them together starting
Step 2: Glue the other half of at the top of the spine working
the sides to the back of the main downwards. I scanned some
piece, so now you should have a family photos and glued them on
basic satchel shape. two of the pages. Then using a
fine white gel pen, created some
Step 3: Glue the pocket to the miniature writing under each
front and the strap to each side photo.
of the satchel inside, where I scanned the front cover of a
shown. First World War newspaper from
a book and then reduced it to
Step 4: Fold the flap, dab a little scale and folded it to look like a
glue to keep it together. Cut small newspaper.
straps out of the scraps of leather, I made the cobwebs from
as shown, and glue in place. tiny pieces of lint I got from the
Make two wire buckles with small tumble dryer filter. I managed to
lengths of 5-amp fuse wire. Shape tease it out and then stuck it into
it with pliers or tweezers, and then place using a cocktail stick and
glue it in place. Running a craft minute specks of PVA glue. AM

14 American Miniaturist

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American Miniaturist 15

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Miniature furniture

A man who
needs no plan
Ron Seibert enjoys using his retired math
teacher skills instead of actual plans to
build quality miniature wood furniture.

W
hat happens to a world of miniature furniture. building it from scratch with
model railroader In 1982, I stumbled onto no plans. I think that being a
who scratch built miniatures. I was at my bar- retired math teacher has been
around twenty miniature bers, who worked out of her a big help with this technique.
buildings in seventeen years, home. She had a collection of I have a 10’ x 12’ room in
but never even had the miniatures that were made by the basement that is solely
trains running? I sold my her mother-in-law, who was a for my miniatures and it is
trains and happily found the wholesaler. very messy. Usually when I’m
I visited the moth- working on miniatures, I run
er-in-law to see more back and forth to the com-
and I really liked puter while the glue or paint
what I saw. After that, dries on a current project. My
I jumped right into the hobby table saw is the most
hobby. My wife is my valuable tool for my chosen
biggest fan and I think hobby.
she likes my hobby The first piece that I built
because it keeps me at directly from a photo was
home. a 1:12 scale pool table. The
Since my beginning pieces that I had made before
in miniatures, I this were either from plans or
have made around based on full size pieces.
300 pieces of fur- Knowing that I needed
niture, with 1 out of a pool table for my game
4 being upholstered. room, I went to the local store
One method that I that sold them and found
particularly enjoy is an advertisement that had a
finding a photo of a photograph of one that I liked.
piece that I like and I took the pamphlet with me
Left: This beautiful 1:12 and told the man that I’d think
scale kitchen hutch cabinet about it. Little did he know
is charmingly rustic. that I was thinking about a

16 American Miniaturist

AM134_Ron_Furnitur_Feature_p016-018.indd 16 4/24/14 12:08 PM


Miniature furniture

Left: This handmade Hoosier


cabinet is complete with the
combination flour-bin/sifter.

developed some expertise at


making furniture from kits
and/or from direct measure-
ment of the full-sized piece.
I am a member of Mil-
waukee Miniatures Club and
recently my club wanted to do
a project with a kitchen hutch
cabinet. It was my responsibil-
ity to come up with a design
and make the kits. I found
some photos and proceeded
to build samples for the club
members to see. I planned on
the piece to be 7’ tall, with the
lower section 3’ off the floor.
I established my ratio for
working from the picture and
built the samples. I choose not
to draw plans when I build
like this. I have the expertise,
but not the patience for draw-
ing. And yes, that means that
sometimes I have to do some
aspects of the piece more than
once, but not to often.
Frequently, I sit at my work-
bench for a while and just
think about how to do it. After
a particular problem is solved,
I proceed, although sometimes
miniature version! aspects of the table, which I that does not happen until the
I chose to build my version needed to build the piece. next day.
as a 4’ x 8’ table. The photo- At this point, some of you The ladies in our club (13
graph would not be the exact math-challenged people are of them; I’m the only male)
measurements that I wanted, thinking, “What did he say?” decided which piece they
so I had to measure the long Building in this manner is would like the workshop to be
side of the table in the photo not for everyone. First, you based on. When I taught the
and relate that length to 8’ in need to be good with junior class, some of them kit-bashed
order to get a ratio. With that high school math skills. and made minor changes to
ratio, I could measure other Second, you need to have the piece.

American Miniaturist 17

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Miniature furniture

from plans in a
Above: Ron saw a photo of a ladies Sometimes I build a piece magazine or is built
vanity and proceeded to create it because I like it and know I following a full sized example.
only from a photograph.
would enjoy the process, even For settings, I do rooms and
Right: This unpainted, open-shelf if I know I have no current use vignettes. But mostly I make a
cupboard shows the beauty of the for it. That is how it was with lot of furniture out of wood.
wood grain in it’s clean design. my Hoosier cabinet. This technique is not for
I decided that I wanted to everyone, but if you have the
Ten years ago there was a build one, so I looked at many building expertise and the
picture of a ladies vanity in pictures online until I found math skills, it can be very
one of the magazines. The one that I liked. rewarding.
tilting mirror and the drawers Building in this manner is The satisfaction of a job
with inlaid edges looked like it only about 5% of what I do. well done is what I love most
would be fun to try. I deter- Most of my furniture comes about miniatures. AM
mined one dimension,
set the ratio, and made
the piece with work-
ing drawers. I tease the
ladies in our club about
the “froufrou” they like
to make, and that this is
my one concession to that
style. But it started with a
piece of furniture, not the
accessories.
Right: Ron’s miniature pool
table room won Best of Show
at the Iowa State Fair.

18 American Miniaturist

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Mini man scenes

Celebrating men
in miniature
These talented miniature artists share
their male influenced scenes to celebrate
Father’s Day. By Sharon Doddroe.
~Photography by Kim McKisson

C
ommemorating the
men in your life can be
as simple as creating a
scene depicting your subject’s
favorite hobby. These room
boxes and vignettes pay trib-
ute to times gone by, but many
of these leisurely pursuits are
still popular—albeit in a more
modern form.

Nancy Summers
The 1992 movie Toys star-
ring Robin Williams may not
have been a huge success, but
Nancy Summers’ miniature
furniture certainly took center
stage on the big screen in the
minds of miniaturists. She cre-
ated a sofa, six chairs and two
tables for the movie. While her
creations have been immortal-
ized on film, her biggest fans
are her grandchildren, who all
receive a miniature on their

Right: Sitting at the desk checking


stocks and sipping scotch. The
wheels on this chair by Nancy
Summers make it easy to reach for
ticker tape without even getting up.
Map of the UK by Caren Garfen.

American Miniaturist 19

AM134_Sharon Artists Man Feature_p019-0021.indd 19 4/24/14 12:17 PM


Mini man scenes

Left: Someone can’t wait to get out


on the links. Nancy’s beautifully
worn golf bag and shoes appear to
be ready on a moment’s notice.

Guard during World War II. AJ


is well known for his Victorian
miniature accessories.

Rob Tukham
Rob likes taking the road less
traveled, creating pieces not
normally seen in the miniature
world. “I have always liked the
beautiful designs from the East
and from Scandinavia,” says
Rob. “They look at first glance
to be so simple, but their el-
egance is in the detail.”
Detail is indeed the key
to Rob Tukham’s art—many
of his decorative pieces take
shape on the lathe once he
sees the organic beauty of the
materials. Rob also works with
exotic woods, stone and acryl-
ics from his Vancouver Island
birthdays. That in itself could make amazing handcrafted studio. While decorative items
be considered a job—Nancy miniatures like scientific and are his specialty, some of his
is a grandmother of ten and medical tools, weaponry, musi- favorite pieces evolved from
great-grandmother of seven. cal instruments and recreation- requests he initially thought
The Midwestern artisan has al items for over three decades. he could not make. After the
been creating custom minia- A troughton, if you didn’t idea “fermented,” says Rob, he
tures for close to 40 years and know, is a wizardry tool. was able to make the Hardy fly
gets most of her ideas from Nancy describes it as an orrery, rod or the lava lamp the client
magazines and full-size furni- an instrument illustrating the commissioned. “The smile on
ture. Her most beloved pieces motion of the planets and their their faces is my reward.”
to date are a round Katherine moon around the sun. Nancy
the Great bed and a Medieval- specializes in making dolls, but Maria Jose Santos
era bed. also favors nautical items. Beautifully expressive and
Many of her maritime cre- expertly created porcelain dolls
Nancy & AJ Quinby ations, such as uniforms and are synonymous with the name
Need a one-inch-scale tattoo charting tools, are modeled af- Maria Jose Santos. The Spanish
gun? A WWII gas mask? How ter items in her father’s collec- artisan has been creating her
about a troughton? These two tion. He served as a U.S. Coast trademark character dolls for

20 American Miniaturist

AM134_Sharon Artists Man Feature_p019-0021.indd 20 4/24/14 12:17 PM


Mini man scenes

Left: Billiard
tables look so
much more
beautiful in
vintage form,
don’t they? This
pool cues and
stand are by Rob
Tukham.

in national
dress. Her
work is exhib-
ited worldwide
in the Puppen-
hausmuseum
of Basel
(Switzerland),
El Mundo de
las Muñecas
almost 15 years, foregoing a sories—all based on original in Tenerife (Spain) and the
planned career as a lawyer patterns. Maria is also well Kathleen Browning Miniatures
specializing in urban plan- known for creating ballerinas Collection in the Kentucky
ning. in original ballet costumes as Gateway Museum Center
Maria’s interest in fashion well as one-twelfth-scale dolls (USA). AM
history and cos-
tume design adds a
personal flair to her
period dolls, which
are all named.
Their costumes are
hand sewn using
silk, organdy, and
fine cotton trimmed
with handmade
ornamental acces-

Right: A comfy leather


chair, a cup of coffee
and the morning
newspaper. Maria Jose
Santos’s “Morgan” is
ready to start the day
in stylish country attire
complete with leather
shoes. Rooster vase by
Le Chateau Interiors.
Robe by Larianne.

American Miniaturist 21

AM134_Sharon Artists Man Feature_p019-0021.indd 21 4/24/14 12:17 PM


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Upholstered furniture

Small furniture
with big style
The talented, Kris Compas, is overflowing
with creativity and it shows in her
impeccable mini upholstered furniture.

F
or nearly twenty years I “You have to be creative the materials and then transfer
have been making minia- that into miniatures. I have
tures. I’ve liked minia- when you still have no special training, just trial
tures since I was a child and children at home and you and error by discovering what
still have my minis from that want to have miniatures works and what doesn’t.
time. I had to put miniatures Not only do I have general
on hold when I got married as your hobby. “ craft skills, I also have some
and then had my three chil- background in woodwork-
dren. Along with sewing and along the way. That’s the way ing. My husband has been a
knitting on a Passap knitting it was with me as well. We cabinetmaker for forty years
machine I also enjoyed mak- use the skills we have learned and I have been his helper for
ing crafts with my children as along with the knowledge of thirty-three of those years.
they grew up.
When the kids got older
I went back to miniatures.
Good miniatures are expen-
sive, so I began to make
them for myself. You
have to be creative
when you still have
children at home and
you want to have minia-
tures as your hobby. So
most of the miniatures I
make are made from card
stock and mat board be-
cause these materials are
inexpensive and easy to find.
I think that most miniatur- Above: This 1:12 scale chair
ists begin with lots of differ- set has a fun tropical feel
ent hobbies, gathering skills with the wicker rattan accents.

24 American Miniaturist

AM134_Kris CompasFeature_p024-026.indd 24 4/24/14 10:30 AM


Upholstered furniture

Left: A beautiful red and gold couch


with modern Asian characteristics.

napping on the table, as well.


About the same time I
started my blog, I also started
selling my miniature up-
holstered furniture. I love
making upholstered furniture.
I wanted to make that more
than I wanted to make a room
box to put it in!
most of the I make many styles of furni-
time the table is ture from different eras. I want
so filled up you can’t my work to be one-of-a-kind,
see its yellow top! When so I buy small amounts of cot-
I am working on a tutorial I ton fabric, usually only 1/3 of a
generally have many different yard. You may see your fabric
I am blessed with a wonder- materials all out at once, again, but not on your
ful husband who enjoys my piece of furniture.
miniatures; not only has he
helped me with construction
advice along the way, he also
gave up his mudroom for my
workroom.
I have lots of wonderful
tools packed into a small
space, but the most important
tool is my magnifying light.
Without that I couldn’t do
miniatures. I work at a big 6’ that leaves about a one foot
by 3’ table that my husband square space to work in. It
made for me. My table saw doesn’t help that most of the
is at the end of the table and time I have one of my cats I love looking through full
size catalogs of acces-
sories and furniture,
that’s where I get

Above: A fun, modern


couch and chair set. This
set includes two chairs.

Left: This sitting room set


has a classy modern touch.
Complete with four silk
throw cushions.

American Miniaturist 25

AM134_Kris CompasFeature_p024-026.indd 25 4/24/14 10:30 AM


Upholstered furniture

Left: Red, gold, and bloggerville! If I or anyone


black stripes showcase has a question I put it up and
this stately love seat. it’s answered quickly. Just a
short while back I was having
ders anymore. My computer problems and I put
furniture sets, out a “help wanted” and the
which include problem was taken care of.
a sofa and With my children now
a chair, are grown and out of the house
offered at I have all the time in the world
$50.00. I also to make miniatures as long as
have individ- I’m not helping my husband.
ual pieces that We live on five acres and
sell for less. I he grows a big
make the wooden garden so
most of my ideas. I also hunt legs by cutting or turning and our
for used home decorating they are doweled into the bot-
books and books on antique tom of the furniture.
furniture; all sorts of resources I don’t belong to any
are available within them. groups. I do have
Sometimes I will see some- a friend, Mary,
thing that I just can’t wait to who makes
start to draft a pattern for. I minis with me
think that’s my favorite time, when we can get
drafting the pattern and seeing together; she lives
Above: This chaise
it all come together to look about an hour
lounge chair has a
like the full size version. I sell away. touch of spring in the
my furniture through CDHM I live about an hour yellow floral fabric.
and I try to keep my inven- from St. Louis, MO on the
tory filled with many different east side of the Mississippi summers are busy. We have
pieces. I don’t take custom or- River in Illinois. You could chickens, ducks, four cats, and
Below: This miniature living
say writing the blog is my a standard size donkey named
room set is fresh and funky! club. I always tell my follow- Casper, that “works” for us.
A great addition to a modern ers that they are the best in My husband has been suc-
dollhouse. cessfully training him to pull
logs for our winter supply of
wood. Someday, I want to
have Casper take me into
town pulling his cart. I
imagine we will have
matching straw hats!
I do hope you enjoy
my tutorials that Ameri-
can Miniaturist will now
be publishing monthly. AM

26 American Miniaturist

AM134_Kris CompasFeature_p024-026.indd 26 4/24/14 10:30 AM


Antique mirror

A shabby chic
mini mirror
Follow along with miniaturist, Kris Compas
and create this charming little antique
mirror for your miniature collection.

I
was in Chicago cat-sitting for things you could do with this Tools & materials:
my daughter and son-in-law. pattern, not only mirrors, but
Katie, my daughter, had this great grandpa might look nice in l Glue stick
beautiful mirror in her bathroom the frame too. l Mat board
and I thought it would make a l Ruler
good miniature. Step 1: Use glue stick to glue the l Pencil
Katie told me that it is called paper patterns onto mat board. l Card stock
an Abraham Lincoln mirror. l Plain paper
Lincoln popularized beards so Step 2: Put a new blade in your l Tacky Glue
much that men needed small craft knife and cut the patterns l Yellow wood glue
mirrors to keep them trimmed apart. To begin cutting make a l 220-grit sandpaper
properly. light cut first, adding pressure l 180-grit sandpaper
l Bunka
Her mirror measures about 12” with each consecutive cut.
l Scissors
by 15”. That proved a little small
l Craft knife
for me, so I enlarged it just a bit. Step 3: Cut out frame A first. Try
l Stylus
My finished miniature is 1 ¼” wide to keep your blade straight up
l Paper leaf punches
by 1 5/8” tall. There are so many and down so you won’t get a l Dimensional fabric paint
l Krylon’s clear satin
l Krylon’s clear gloss
A l Ivory, brown and silver
B paint
l Paintbrushes
l Tweezers
l Poster frame acrylic

beveled edge. I cut the center


first. Don’t discard the center; we
will use that for a pattern to cut
the mirror.

American Miniaturist 27

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Antique mirror

the outside edge of the mirror.


This is important, or the pieces
won’t match up. If you don’t feel
comfortable doing this, please
cut the frame out with your blade
straight up and down. You can
discard the center of this frame.

Guess where Katie went while I


cat-sat. Step 8: Place the frame front
side up on a scrap peice of card
Step 4: Cut the outside line and stock. Make sure your pencil
now you have frame A cut out. is sharp; a sharp pencil makes
Set this aside for now. a closer line to the edge you
are tracing. Trace all of the way
Step 6: I am beginning to cut the around the frame.
outside line of frame B. My blade
is slanting towards the inside of
the frame.

Step 5: To cut frame B out, I


tipped my blade. This will make a
bevel and make the time sanding
the edges round shorter. I am
starting with the inside line again Have you guessed where Katie
and my blade is tipped toward went, yet?
Step 7: Frame B is now cut. Turn
frame B over and you will see the Step 9: Use your ruler to measure
beveled edges. I used 180-grit from the inside line. In this
sandpaper to finish rounding off picture I measured 1/16” away, but
the edges. I smoothed out the I trimmed this down to almost
surface with 220-grit sandpaper. 1/32”. The size of this lip is up to

I try to keep the frame flat on the you. You can add embellishments
tabletop so I don’t bend it. I’ve to it and if you do you might
got the frame sanded round. want it to be 1/16” wide.

28 American Miniaturist

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Antique mirror

width you need, so if you want to


change it please feel free to.

Step 15: Here are the two pieces,


the frame and it’s back painted
with ivory colored paint. Paint
two coats, sanding between
router) that allows another piece the dry coats with 220-grit
to fit into it. This space will allow sandpaper.
Step 10: Cut out the card stock the mirror to fit without sticking
frame. out of the back. Using 220-grit
sandpaper. I sanded the outside
edge of the frame and then
rounding it a bit more to merge
with frame A. Try to keep the
frame on the flat surface of your
tabletop.

Step 13: Set this new assembly


onto a scrap of card stock. Trace Step 16: Katie’s mirror was old
around the outside of the frame. and it was blotchy silver and
you could barely see yourself. I
Step 11: I used yellow liked that effect. Sometimes in
carpenter’s glue to glue the card miniature settings real mirrors
stock frame to the back of frame can be distracting, my opinion
B. Shown here from the front. only. So I tried to re-create this
effect and I am pleased with it.
You can use what you like, but
remember your space in the back
is 1/16” deep, so whatever you put
in there has to be 1/16” thick.
I like to use acrylic from poster
Step 14: Measure out from the frames. You can buy them in many
traced line 1/32”. This can be any sizes. The acrylic is 1/16” thick. I also
use this for my “glass” in cabinets
and windows in dollhouses.
Step 12: I used yellow wood
glue, to glue frame A to the back Step 17: Use the center piece
of the frame B assembly. Ideally you saved from cutting frame A.
the outside edges should match Trace around this pattern.
up. What we have created with
frame A is a “rabbet”, not a soft Step 18: The acrylic has a plastic
furry animal, but a cut (usually cover on both sides. I carefully
made with a machine called a cut on the traced line with my
shaper or a power tool called a craft knife a few times, scoring

American Miniaturist 29

Am134_KricMirrorTutorial_p027-031.indd 29 4/25/14 4:56 PM


Antique mirror

Step 21: Have you been painting Step 24: Let the leaves and balls
the frame and sanding smooth dry before using them. I am
with 220-grit sandpaper? Paint asked, “Why wet the paper?” One,
and sand until you are satisfied you can get a deeper impression
with the surface. when the paper is wet; Two, the
You could do a lot of things for paper will keep its shape when dry.
embellishment. Look in furniture
catalogs at accessories for ideas. Step 25: I have painted and
Embroidery floss twisted back on sanded my frame and I think I’m
its self makes a great accent. Tiny done. I glued 3 balls at the top
charms or parts of jewelry can be and 2 in each corner using Tacky
glued on the frame. Glue.

Step 22: Katie’s mirror has little


ball-shapes on it. To make these
all the same size I used an 1/8”
hole punch. I punched a few
circles and soaked them in a
a deep line. After I’ve scored my bowl of water. Let the paper
line, I use scissors to cut the piece change color. Carefully roll the
out, then trimed where needed. paper circles into balls, don’t
squeeze too hard. I do find that if
Step 19: I used what I had I use paper for the balls they tend
on hand, Folk Art’s #506 Silver to stay glued. You will need 7 tiny Step 26: I glued 2 leaves on each
Anniversary for the paint. Peel off balls for the frame. side of the balls at the top and
one side of the plastic covering. only 1 leaf on each side of the
Dab silver paint onto the acrylic. Step 23: I have a large punch
that included ivy leaves. For
leaves, you can also use tiny
hearts. I punch the leaves out
and let them fall on a damp
paper towel. Let the leaves
absorb the water. Transfer the
leaves to a piece of craft foam
and shape with a small stylus. I
pressed into each lobe of the leaf.

Step 20: With the paint side


down, press the acrylic onto
white paper, I just used computer
paper. Press it down to seal it.
Turn the paper over and run your
finger over the back of the acrylic
to seal the whole thing. Set aside
to dry.

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Antique mirror

balls in the corner. Now I think I around the edge and put the Step 34: I’ve painted the new
need some Bunka for filler. mirror in it will still be protected addition ivory. I will spray this
and we will be able to pull the with Krylon’s clear gloss and give
Step 27: After the glue is dry I rest of the plastic off when we the edge a dirty wash to match
painted the whole thing ivory. If are done. the rest of the frame. Once
you want a little cracking at spots dry, spray the entire thing with
smear a little Tacky Glue in the Krylon’s clear satin.
spots where you want the cracks.
Step 35: I have used my
Step 28: I used Krylon’s clear gloss tweezers to pull up an edge of
to coat the frame. Let this dry. the plastic. Continue to pull the
plastic completely off of the
Step 29: To make my mirror.
embellishment stand out and to
also imply that the frame is old, I
am going to apply a dirty wash. Step 31: Place the mirror into the
I used lots of acrylic thinner and frame, but don’t glue the mirror
two old stiff brushes. I dabbed in. Glue the back onto the frame
the wash on with one brush using yellow wood glue.
and dabbed it off with the other.
Wipe the “dabbing off” brush Step 32: Now I am going to try
frequently to keep it clean. Here’s something new, use dimensional
a closer look at the frame after it’s fabric paint to blend the card
be given a dirty wash. stock back to the frame. This Here it is all finished and ready
is usually done with a piece of to hang! I hope you had fun. You
molding called cove. Any brand never know where you will be
will do. I used the nozzle on the inspired. I found inspiration at my
bottle to apply the paint. daughter’s Chicago home. Have
fun, expand on it, and make it
better. Keep making minis! AM

Step 30: In this picture I am


holding the mirror with its edge
towards you. I’ve pulled a little
of the plastic covering off. I want
you to pull a little of the plastic Step 33: After I apply the paint
covering off around the edge I use my finger to wipe off the
and trim that little bit off. I want extra paint. I wiped from the top
to put the mirror in the frame, of the frame downward to the
but I still have some painting to card stock. Let this dry. It will P.S. There is a hint on my table
do and I don’t want the mirror shrink and you will have to apply about where Katie went, she
ruined. If we trim a little off another layer. brought home a souvenir for me.

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Auto shop

Frank’s auto
repair shop
Frank Layne, with a little help from
Gabriele Layne, found a great way to
showcase part of his classic car collection.

I
t was never hard for me to different sizes with over one Four of the models in
find a Father’s Day gift. I hundred and twenty vehicles half-inch scale have found
would just ask myself, what that include some pick-up a special place in a two bay
could make a man’s eyes trucks, delivery vans, trucks, auto repair shop, which he
light up and put a smile on several VW’s, VW buses, and built. In the left bay is a 57
his face? Classic cars from the even some golf carts, he has Chevy Corvette. In the other
1950’s, 60’s or 70’s does it for models of other cars he once bay there are two cars placed
my husband, Frank, who has drove. This includes a 62 on a four-post garage lift, a 67
been a collector of model cars Chevy Impala, 71 VW Beetle, red Mustang on top and a 74
for quite some time. and a 71 Mercedes 280SE. Gremlin on the bottom. On the
Not only does
he admire the clas-
sics, but he has
also owned sev-
eral of these sleek
automobiles that
were made in the
USA at the time of
the Auto-Industry
boom.
He drove a 51
Lincoln, 56 Buick
Special, a 64 Ponti-
ac Grand Prix, and
a 65 Buick Skylark
just to name a few.
In his small-
scale collection of
Right: Three of Franks
favorite automobiles
fill this mini garage.

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Auto shop

right of the lift is a 57 Chevy worn look and the floor was and a wonderful double tool
Bel Air Convertible that is re- done with textured spray cabinet were placed in the
paired and ready to be driven paint. auto repair shop.
out of the garage. Anything he could build Even a motor with a stand
The building is made of with wood such as work- was found and put in the back
plywood with a large framed benches, racks, shelves, of the shop. To complete the
window to the left and right ramps, and the four-post lift vignette some hand tools,
as well as a framed skylight were made and then other a bucket, trash can, jumper
on the top that lets in plenty accessories were purchased cables, car battery, wrench,
of light. The walls are painted at miniature shows and from flashlight, some spray paints,
with acrylic paints with a little catalogs. and an assortment of vintage
dry brushing to give them a Hydraulic jacks, air com- signs advertising oil and gas
pressors, battery chargers, were added.
Below: This sweet blue 57 Chevy welding tanks, a crawler, Two shop clocks that I made
Corvette with the hood popped is for him are on the wall.
going to purr like a kitten once it
The garage lights can be
leaves Franks garage.
turned on and are pow-
ered by two battery packs
placed on the back of the
building.
It is a wonderful way
to display the collection
and visitors always ad-
mire Frank’s auto shop. AM

Below: A compressor and two


welding tanks.

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Mini dungarees

A carpenters
dungarees
If you need a hard working man around
the house, here is a work outfit you can
make for him to help get the job done!

I
f you need a man about the Making the dungarees
Tools & materials:
house, Chip the carpenter, Step 1: Cut from the pattern as
is just the man for the job. l One adult 5 ½” doll indicated.
Follow along to make your own l Push mold NO:1
work clothes for your mini man. (Wise Woman) Step 2: Hem the top section all
l 100% cotton for shirt around.
Gluing seams and dungarees. Your
You can sew the seams if you choice of pattern/color Step 3: Hem the trousers at the
wish, but gluing is a quick an l Scrap of material for scarf waist and the trouser bottoms.
easy option. When gluing seams, l PVA Glue
run a thin line of glue along the l Scrap of wood Step 4: With the wrong sides
seams and join them. l Cocktail sticks together, join the center front
Place two pieces of material l Wigging and center back seams.
together between two sheets of l Yellow acrylic paint
non-stick baking paper and press Step 5: Open out and join the
with a warm iron. The seam is at inner leg seam.
its strongest when cold. You can Step 3: Fold back and glue a
use PVA, but UHU fabric glue is 1
/3” hem at the bottom of the Step 6: Turn through and fit to
also good. sleeves. the doll.
Check the pattern size for fit by
cutting out pieces in tissue first. Step 4: Turn up a further 1/2” and Step 7: Glue the top in place.
These trousers are a good fit on a then glue again. Do this with the Smear the back of a piece of
slim doll. right sides facing you. dungaree material with PVA glue.

Making the shirt Step 5: Sew or glue the Step 8: When dry, cut two
Step 1: Cut the fabric out from underarm and side seams with narrow straps and two pockets
the pattern given. the right sides together. from the material.

Step 2: Cut open along the Step 6: Turn through, then Step 9: Hem the pockets and
dotted line at the center front. overlap and glue the front edges. glue in place.

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Mini dungarees

The wigging
For wigging, use
embroidery thread,
viscose, mohair, or
theatrical plaited hair.
I used grey theatrical
hair which I made
flatter as it is very
wavy when undone. with PVA glue. Then cut a strip of
fabric approximately 1/2” wide on
Step 1: Cover the the cross, tapering the ends.
doll’s clothes in cling
film. Step 2: Tie around your doll’s
neck and hold it in place with
Step 2: Chop a small amount of glue.
wigging into pieces.
No. 2 pencil
Step 3: Apply the glue around Use a sliver of a cocktail stick. Just
the neck edge and sides of a sharpen one end and dip it into
doll, not forgetting the front of some yellow acrylic paint. Then
the ears. Press on the chopped glue to the top of his ear.
wigging.
A few accessories
Step 4: Glue some strips of Like every good carpenter, this
wigging across the head. fellow has a ruler in his back
pocket, which is actually a strip of
Step 5: Trim into a good shape white card, which I marked with
Step 10: Glue two small buttons (short back and sides) and give a measurements using a pencil. He
in place on the front of the quick blast of hairs pray. is also about to start work on a
dungaree straps. These can either length of wood, which is a simple
be cut from thick paper, beads, or Making the scarf scrap left over from another
buttons made from Fimo. Step 1: Seal a scrap of material project. AM

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Mini dungarees

36 American Miniaturist

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Seaside cloches

Seaside souvenirs
are treasured
Shannon Kindred cherishes tiny sea
treasures and preserves them by putting
them in creative miniature cloches.

A
s a child I always inside, I’m viewing my sur- The large cloche scenes
longed for a dollhouse, roundings through “miniature contained family ephemera,
but it wasn’t until age eyes”, and gleaning items that wedding, and holiday items
twenty-nine that my longtime can be repurposed for 1:12 that I wanted to preserve and
dream became a reality. My scale use. display.
husband and I visited Mott’s This perspective has come One day, whilst shopping, I
Miniatures at Knott’s Berry to fruition with my miniature came across some fairy garden
Farm in California and from sea treasures cloche displays. cloches at a gift shop and my
that day on I was determined Several years ago I started
to have a little house of my making real scale cloche Below: Three small cloches hold
own! I actually became the scenes for family and friends. starfish, shells, and a sea horse.
proud owner of one very large,
ever changing dollhouse.

Everywhere I go,
whether be it outside or
inside, I’m viewing my
surroundings through
“miniature eyes”, and
gleaning items that can
be repurposed for 1:12
scale use.
Since that day, twenty-two
years ago, I have come to
think in 1:12 scale almost
continuously. Everywhere I
go, whether be it outside or

American Miniaturist 37

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Seaside cloches

miniature eye envisioned all extra fine sand, tiny starfish, could work effectively for 1:12
sorts of magical little scenes. and sea horses. I was amazed scale. I’ve used other natural
I bought most of the shop- to find sea horses as small as elements in my cloches to
keeper’s stock that day! three quarters of an inch in resemble coral, driftwood, and
The ocean themed scenes length and I knew that size beach glass.
were inspired by a jar of tiny
seashells that were forever
in my craft drawer. I had
purchased them years earlier
because I was amazed by the
beautiful colors and detail in
the micro-mini shells.
I then began to search for
Below and right: Shannon has
discovered a marvelous way to
showcase the natural beauty of the
smallest seaside treasures.

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Seaside cloches

them evolve groups and organizations.


that sometimes Dollhouse magazines have
it’s hard to part been a tremendous inspira-
with any of tion and resource as well.
them! I am a late bloomer in the
When non- miniature realm and am still
miniaturist finding my way, but I am lov-
friends and ing the new connections and
co-workers friendships. AM
exclaimed
how much
they loved the GET IN TOUCH
mini cloches Studio One Twelve
and wanted to Shannon Kindred
purchase them,
I decided that Email: shannkin@att.net
Above: This miniature version of a
grape vine wreath is adorned with perhaps it was time to market Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.
tiny shells and a starfish. them online. com/shop/StudioOneTwelve
I have met
I also occasionally tuck a other miniature
tiny faux pearl into half an enthusiasts and
“oyster” shell for fun. I have artisans through
very recently acquired even the internet and
smaller sea treasures and have have recently
managed to locate even tinier become inter-
glass cloches and domes. ested in joining
These smaller sized displays other miniature
will require a little
more patience and
possibly some bifocals
for me, but they will
look darling in more
diminutive dollhouse
and room box dis-
plays.
I enjoy creating
these tiny scenes in
my spare time and it
brings me so much
satisfaction to see

Above right and right:


These little cloches are a
fantastic way to decorate
a mini seaside home or
even a shell shop.

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Scientific and medical tools

A passion for
vintage tools
With a passion for medical and scientific
tools, Deb Jackson creates the most
amazing miniature vintage replicas.

I “Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes.


have been creating minia-
tures my entire life. I think
that if tiny things fascinate a
Art is knowing which ones to keep.” ~Scott Adams
person the interest will never
go away and if you are lucky, actually delighted with the Some of my miniatures come
you get to either create them results. I am so very lucky to directly from my imagination;
or add them to your collection. be driven by this every day. these are the fantasy or fairy
I am completely
self-taught and have
been trading profes-
sionally for seven
years.
Anyone reading
this, who has the
desire to create, will
understand the com-
pulsion and the all
consuming concen-
tration and thought
that accompany the
process; likewise, the
immense satisfaction
that descends over
you when that final
point is reached.
The point when
not only is the work
finished, but you are

Right: Tudor medicine


preparation board.

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Scientific and medical tools

Right: A detailed handcrafted


microscope with objective lenses
and its wooden box.

Below: A three drawer box of dental


tools with a picture of the patron
saint of dentists, Saint Apollonia.

items, which I make up as I go


along, others are an interpreta-
tion of reality. That is what I
introduce to you here in this
first article showcasing my
creations.
The creative process can be
even more of a

challenge when
attempting to
recreate real-
ity. Without a
doubt, the fin-
ished piece has
to look like the
original and
the closer the
better. The need
to discover
and define
techniques to
achieve this can
be fraught with Above: A 1:12 scale handmade
frustration; on many occasions distressed human skull.

American Miniaturist 41

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Scientific and medical tools

Above: A beautifully crafted


1:12 scale Victorian moth
collector’s vignette.

Left: This 1:12 scale apothecary


box has a variety of vintage
pharmaceutical products, all in
tiny little bottles.

“Sometimes you just


have to wait for the
right materials to come
along and I find this
Sometimes you just have
to wait for the right materi-
frequently happens
a first attempt at something als to come along and I find while working on
new results in the abandon- this frequently happens while something else, it’s great
ment of a partially completed working on something else,
piece and some thoughtful time it’s great when the implication when the implication
away from the workbench. dawns on me. dawns on me.”
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Scientific and medical tools

I am drawn to medical and One of my favorite cus- of Anthonie Van Leeuwenhoek.


scientific items as I have an tomers, Linda Sullivan, has We have even going so far as
interest on the subject in a certainly challenged me over to kit out entire laboratories
historical context. the years. We’ve worked that were complete with furni-
I can be sitting listening to together on projects as diverse ture and equipment.
the radio (my work compan- as Downton Abbey to the In a recent email Linda said
ion) and a feature about some microscopes to me, “I don’t
obscure medical treatment will think there is
come on, which then sends anything you
me scurrying to the computer cannot recre-
to research photos to see if I ate”...so far so
can recreate what I just heard. good.
A great example of this would I am very much
be the vintage EKG machine looking forward
shown below. to sharing
more of my
creations
with
you
through
feature articles
in future issues
of American
Miniaturist. AM

Top: Various 1:12


scale microscopes.

Above: This little


wooden box is full
of a surgeon’s set of
tools.

Left: A vintage EKG


machine.

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Miniature food

A feast for
the mini eyes
Laura Prats is a master at making tiny
treats and little meals that will stir your
creativity as well as your appetite.

L “When I go to the
aura resides in Málaga,
Spain, which lies on the
Costa del Sol (Coast of
supermarket, for
the Sun) of the Mediterra- example, I look at all the
nean. America is her favorite food. The people look at
country and she hopes to live
in Essex County, NY one day. me in a way very rare,
She has always been inter- because I look at the food
ested in miniatures and still for several minutes and
cherishes her large collec-
tion of dollhouses, furniture, then I measure things
people, food, and pets from with a ruler!”
when she was just a little girl.
Laura started making min- and a wonderful addiction.
iatures in May of 2012. In the Finding inspiration is several minutes and then I
beginning, her family thought never a problem, she finds it measure things with a ruler!
it was only a hobby, but it everywhere she goes. “When But seriously, anything is an
soon turned into a passion I go to the supermarket, for inspiration to me, from books,
example, pictures on the Internet, to
I look at many things I see in real life.
all the For me, my world would
food. The be nothing without my small
people treasures. Now I realize that
look at my little world, for me, means
me in everything.”
a way
very rare, Above: A tiny, life-like pink and
yellow swirled lollypop, complete
because
with a plastic wrapper.
I look
at the Left: Two juicy watermelon just in
food for time for a yummy summer treat!

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Miniature food

ing Plasticine and so now my taught. She discovers her


childhood passion has become techniques through practice
an eternal passion.” and deduction as well as acute
Laura finds it very difficult observation. She feels that she
combining her home life and learns the most from her own
her miniature life. But she sets mistakes.
aside her free time exclusively “For miniatures, there are
for her miniatures. When she many ways to learn, such as
beings to create her miniature books or DVDs, but I think
art she likes to have a picture above all, personal progres-
of what she wants to recreate sion is essential. The books
sitting in front of her. teach you a base, but then you
If it is food she is making, must develop your own
Above: Assorted jelly beans that she prefers to have the personal style.
look sweet enough to eat. actual food to study
if possible. Once
Even though her family is her subject and
interested in her hobby, her tools are in
biggest fan is the furriest one. front of her,
“I think that my biggest fan, she sits in
and I say this very seriously, her chair and
is my doggy, Puka. I find she is ready to
cannot stop looking at me begin creating
when I’m doing miniature her mini master-
things. It’s amazing!” pieces.
Laura makes different doll- Her miniatures range
house miniatures, but mainly in price depending on the
she focuses on 1:12 scale complexity of the finished
food. Her workspace is a small product and the materials
area that she diligently tries to used. Laura sells her products Above: This tray of hot dog fixings is
keep organized and clean. online, in some miniature perfect for an outside barbecue!
We like to ask our artists fairs, and sometimes
Left: A fresh fish on ice is ready to
what their most favor- even on the be cooked up for a healthy meal.
ite tool is; Laura streets of Spain.
says, without She has Below: Four 1:12 scale fried eggs.
a doubt, that even created
her’s is her pieces for
needle tool. the mu-
“I love creativ- seum in her
ity and art, I’ve city. Some of her
always liked to do favorite minis that she
things with my hands. has made are the smallest
In fact, when I was a ones, such as raspberries and
child and played with my doll- baby shoes.
houses I created mini food us- Laura is completely self-

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Miniature food

Above: This little oven cooked turkey sitting in a bed


Above: A perfect roast ham for a of vegetables looks crispy and ready to be carved!
work every day
realistic miniature dinner table.
and is always
You just have to use your looking for bigger challenges. it’s something that will last
imagination and practice. Her future goals are to begin for centuries. I would also like
I am very much a perfec- sculpting babies, people, and to say that I will never leave
tionist and very demanding pets. She is also excited to this art form. I’m very young
of myself. Therefore, every take on making miniature and as I live my life, minia-
day I continue to develop new flowers. tures will always be present
techniques that will improve When asked what Laura in my heart. I hope to share
my results. I truly believe that thinks about the future of that with the world in every
it is never too late to keep miniatures she replied, “Min- creation that I make.” AM
learning.” iatures are very special to
She strives to improve her me, something so small
Below and right: A miniature pig
and yet so big, it’s some-
with stunning detail of it’s insides. thing people will always
A great addition for a butcher shop. appreciate. It’s art and

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Produce cart

Make a fresh
produce cart
Tom Pepper’s fruit and vegetable cart is
overflowing with fresh products. Diana Yate
shares some creative construction tips.

I
f you like making miniature score along the dotted lines and To make the handle
food you will love this project. cut where the lines are solid. Fold Step 1: cut a strip of foil ½” wide x
If are new to making fruits and on the scored lines and glue the 2¾” long.
vegetable this is a great way to side flaps inside the box.
practice your skills. When you have finished Step 2: Fold in three, lengthways
constructing it, paint a blue stripe and crease firmly. Bend the strips
Produce cart around the top edge of the box. 1” from each end and glue the
I made the cart following
instructions given in a book
by Venus and Martin Dodge.
However the wheels are smaller
than in the instructions and I
purchased them elsewhere.

Wooden boxes
The fruit and vegetable boxes
are made from thin balsa wood
and measure 1½” x 1” at the base
and ¼” deep at the sides. The
triangular strips in the corners are
made from headless matchsticks
cut with a craft knife and
smoothed with an emery board.
The tomato box is made from a
pattern by Kath Dalment in Dolls
House Details.

Mushroom punnet
Use the template given to make
the punnet from thin card. Lightly

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Produce cart

dotted lines and Accessories


cut along the The scales are white metal, which
solid lines. I painted red and green and
placed on top of a box made from
Step 3: Fold balsa wood. The price labels are
where you made from thin card edged with
scored and glue a red pen and prices marked in a
the side flaps fine pen in kilos as well as pounds.
inside the end Well we don’t want Tom to fall
sections. foul of the law do we?

handle across the width of the Fruit and vegetables Paper bags
punnet. The period is a modern street The paper bags are
market, so I have used fruit made from real brown
Step 3: Putting a piece of blue and vegetables that are now paper bag, with a
tissue paper underneath your available all year round, rather piece of cotton thread
Fimo mushrooms completes the than seasonal items like through the corner
look. pumpkins. All the fruit and and hung on the
vegetables are made from handle of the cart.
Banana box Fimo. Measure and copy the You could use a
Step 1: Use the template given real thing or use good cookery brown paper bag
for the banana box. book photos. There are plenty of or a patented one
books on the subject if you are if the design is to
Step 2: Again, score along the not familiar with making food. scale.

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Produce cart

Step 1: Cut the paper using the Tom Pepper The roll collar is a small piece
template. Tom Pepper is modeled from of cotton jersey material while
Fimo and his hair is grey bunka. the money bag is a length of blue
Step 2: Fold in half across the His trousers are made from a basic cotton folded and glued into
width at fold 1. trouser pattern in cotton. The top shape with a thin strip of leather
of an old sock has been used for to tie the bag around his waist.
Step 3: Fold flaps two and three his jumper. I took different parts of The cart and some spare boxes
over the bag and glue in place. the ribbing for the body and the are placed on a piece of thick
sleeves of the jumper, based on card, which was covered in a
Step 4: Use a needle and thread a jacket pattern, but cut slightly commercial grey, stone-paving
to make a loop through the bags smaller. paper.
at point four and hang them on I made the base to just fit the
the handle of the cart. size of the cart, but you could
make it bigger to allow room for
one or two customers buying
their fruit and vegetables from
Tom. AM

Left: Tom’s jumper has


been made from an
old sock

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Ms. Peggie’s Place


“I want this to be a feel good shop,”
says Michael Sue Nanos, owner of Ms
Peggie’s Place. All displays are unlocked
and touchable. The store’s atmosphere
is inviting, warm and friendly. Everything
is well organized and easy to shop.
You’ll find pricing for all budgets. Ms. Peggie’s Place
5063 Cass Street,
At 700 square feet, Ms Peggie’s Place San Diego, CA 92109
is the perfect size for ample inventory. Phone: 858-483-2621
You’ll find virtually anything and Hours: W-Th 5-8 / F 12-5 /
everything to build and complete the Sat 10-5 / Sun 11-5
miniature project of one’s dreams.

California • USA california • USA california • USA

Dollhouses, Trains & More


300 Entrada Dr Elegant Dollhouse Shellie’s Miniature Mania
Novato, CA 94949 1120 Fulton Avenue, 732 Laurel Street
Phone: 415- 883-0388 Sacremento, CA 95825 San Carlos, CA 94070
20 minutes North of San Francisco Phone: 916-484-0411 Phone: 650-593-4921
off Hwy 101 in Marin County Hours: M-Sat 10-6 / Sun 12-4 Email: shelliesminis@msn.com
Hours: M-F 10-6, S-S 10am-5pm www.elegantdollhouse.com Hours: Tue-Fri 10:30-5:30 / Sat 10:30-5
www.DollhousesTrainsandMore.com www.shelliesminis.com

Florida • USA ILLINOIS • USA INDIANA • USA

The Toy Box Tom Thumb Hobby & Crafts Jeepers Dollhouse Miniatures
419 Brevard Ave, 1026 Davis St Evanston, IL 60201 69 W Washington St,
Historical Cocoa Village Phone: 847-869-9575 Morgantown, IN 46160-0335
Phone: 321-632-2411 Email: tthc@sbcglobal.net Phone: 812-597-4346
Email: toybox@cfl.rr.com Hours: M-F 10-6 / Sat 10-5 / Sun 1-5 Hours: M-Sat 10-5
Hours: Tu-Sat 10-5 www.tomthumbcrafts.com www.jeepersminiatures.com

IOWA• USA MARYLAND • USA MINNESOTA • USA

Dollhouse Dreams
613 Ave G, Fort Madison, IA 52627 Forever Friends Little Enchantments
Phone: 319-372-0599 Dollhouses and Miniatures 5013 Ewing Ave S,
Toll Free: 877-875-6500 2105 Bishops Castle Drive Minneapolis, MN 55410
Email: dollhousedreams@gmail.com Olney, MD 20832 Phone: 612-746-4040
Hours: M-F 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Phone: 301-774-3037 Hours: Tu-F 10-7 / Sat 10-5
Sat 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Hours: Open most days/weekends Monday by appointment
www.dollhousedreams.com www.foreverfriendsminis.com/shop www.littleenchantments.com

50 American Miniaturist

004JUN14_p050-51.indd 50 4/16/14 1:59 PM


Spanning the Nation, from coast to coast, you’ll find a listing of shops in every state for your next traveling adventure! Whether it’s a day trip
or an extended vacation, take a road trip and venture out to visit these fine full service miniature shops to find your next miniature treasure.

NEW HAMPSHIRE • USA new jersey • USA new york • USA

AM_24 p92-p93.qxd 3/17/2005 10:09 AM Page 93

ate register
Earth & Tree Miniatures
276 Route 101 #1
Circus Dollhouse
445 Route 23 South
Chautauqua Miniatures & Dollhouses
5031 W. Lake RD Rt. 394 Call TOLL
Amherst, NH 03031
Phone: 603-673-8707
Pompton Plains, NJ 07444
Toll free: 877-402-3061
Mayville, NY 14757
Phone: 716-753-3100 1-866-606
Hours: M-Sat 10-5 / Sun 12-5
www.EarthAndTree.com
Email: circus5284@aol.com
www.circusdollhouse.com
Open seven days a week
www.chautauquaminiatures.com to ad
new york • USA ohio • USA OREGON • USA
Forever Friends OREGON
Dollhouses & Miniatures
The Magic of M
2105 Bishops Castle Drive Dots Doll House
Olney, Maryland 20832 In The Rocking House Mall MayFest
301-774-3037 1542 North Hi Way May 10-15
Forever_Friends@comcast.net
Lincoln City, OR 97367 • (541) 994 4647
A FULL SERVICE MINIATURE SHOP On the Beautiful Oregon Coast
Located in Olney, MD, a short drive from Columbia,
Crown Plaza Hotel A
Baltimore, Frederick, DC, and N. Virginia. hotdot325@hotmail.com
Closed Wed Oct thru Mar 15 Sponsored by the
Dollhouse Alley The Miniature
OPENCellar
EVERY THURSDAY 10-4 Dot’s Doll House Museum of Minia
3335-A Park Avenue, Wantagh, NY 11793 12652 WestCallGeauga
or e-mail forPlaza
other hours & directions InPENNSYLVANIA
The Rocking Horse Mall
Phone: (516) 308-7555 Chesterland, OH
Dollhouses 44024Furnishings & Accessories
& Kits
1542 North Hi Way 101 Lincoln City - For more info co
Email: Marianne@DollhouseAlley.com Phone:Wallpaper
440-729-6464
& Flooring Electrical Supplies, Lighting on the Beautiful Oregon Coast Kathy Russe
Hours: M, W, F 10-6 / Th 11-7 / Sat 11-4 Email: minicellar@sbcglobal.net
WE CONSTRUCT, PAINT, ELECTRIFY,
A-C’s994-4647
Phone: 97367 (541) Emporium
www.DollhouseAlley.com Hours: Tu-Sat 10-5
FINISH & RESTORE DOLLHOUSES of Miniatures
Email: hotdot325@hotmail.com katrussl@sbcgl
http://facebook.com/dollhousealley www.miniaturecellar.com “over 50 dollhouses
Hours: Closed Wednesdays
MISSOURI on display”
724-942-4120
VIRGINIA
Pennsylvania • USA Pennsylvania • USA texas • USA
Treasure Hill 1-800-777-2447
Miniatures from
Houses, Furniture, Building Materials,
PIT TSBURGH AREA’S ONE-ELEVEN PARK AVENUE FALLSCH
and Accessories
LARGEST MINIATURES SHOP
Hours: 10-5 Thursday, Friday, and PLEASANT VALLEY SHOPPES MIN
Saturday or by appointment 100 E. MC MURRAY RD. @ RT.19 N
4746 State Road J South, Fulton, MO 65251 MC MURRAY PA 15317
(Millersburg Area)
Ph. 573-642-8802 or 573-642-2502 FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE TO SHOP DURING
N.A.M.E. CONVENTION Co
My Doll House Inc.
NEW JERSEY
Lynlott Miniatures
SPECIALIZING IN HANDCRAFTED MINIATURES
Alamo Heights, 6000 Broadway St re
Fingertip Fantasies San Antonio, TX 78209

For rates and information visit: www.americanminiaturist.com


223 Commercial Avenue DOLLHOUSE
GINA’S
2985 Dutton Mill Rd, Aston, PA 19014
Pittsburgh, PA 15215 EXPRESS
TENNESSEE
Phone: 210-930-5363 Visit our web site @ http://w
Phone: 610-494-6401 Email: shop@mydollhouse.com
MINIATURE COTTAGE INC. Tennessee's oldest "The Dollho
Phone: 888-781-6445
All Dollhouse Supplies
Email: info@dollhouseminiatures.com
www.dollhousejunction.com
Hours: M-Sat
and largest 10-6, shop
miniature Sun by
410appointment
East Iris Drive Department S
Hours: W-F 10-6 / Sat 10-4 nniversary
1st year A Nashville,
Like us onTN 37204 615.298.2872 Monday-
Facebook (703) 237-00
www.dollhouseminiatures.com 176 Route 23 S. Hamburg, N.J. 07419
Saturday 10AM-5PM
www.mydollhouse.us Wed. - Sat. 10 - 5, S
Phone: 973-209-7900 Fax: 973-209-4984
www.dollhouseexpress.com TEXAS WISCONSIN
VERMONT • USA Virginia • USA Ontario • Canada
NEW YORK WHILE IN SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS -
Custom Cats
heavenly wonderland
crafts and miniatures
Visit "My Doll House"
at 6000 Broadway in Alamo Heights. and Stained
Hand crafted miniatures.
Dollhouses, Miniatures, & Collectibles. by Sue Veeder
210-930-5363
Doll house kits, furniture, IGMA Fellow
wallpaper, carpeting and
www.my-dollhouse.com
accessories.
Real Good Toys Happily Ever After Special discounts to Out of the Ordinary
Come Miniatures
and visit our
Dollhouse Factory Outlet 20609 Gordon Park Square, Ste. clubs
miniature 110 641 King St., E., Cambridge,
10 Quarry Street (Behind State Ashburn, VA 20147 and members ON N3Hwebsite and enjoy
3N7, Canada
Farm), Barre, VT 05641 Phone: 703-777-1869 Phone: 1-877-430-MINI(6464) 442 N Sherman Ave
Phone: 802-477-6464 Email: lori@happily-ever-after.biz
some of the great benefits
Email: minis@outoftheordinary.on.ca Madison, WI 53704
Visit us online at:
Hours: M-Sat 9-4 Hours: Tu-Sat 10-4 & by appointment
www.heavenlywonderlandcrafts.com Hours: Tu-F10-5 / Sat 10-4 (608)242-1600
www.americanminiaturist.com
www.realgoodtoys.com www.happily-ever-after.biz
Please call for hours at www.dollhouse-miniatures-canada.com
(718)-418-8080
Fax: (718)-715-8080
If you’re not listed in Miniaturist
American the STATE REGISTER
51 your business could
out.
Call toll free at 1-866-606-6587

American Mini
004JUN14_p050-51.indd 51 4/16/14 1:59 PM
Turning Gallery

The fine art of


wood turning
Part two of our wood turning gallery has
many more talented artists showing their
individual artistic style. By Martha Puff.

T
“ ”
he turners presented
here are leading minia- The lathe for me has opened a world of exploration
ture artisans and take into one of nature’s wonders, the tree.
pride in the originality of their
—Unknown
work. Their superb fine art
turnings demonstrate bold- Maurice Sauve from Arizona credibly talented Rob Tukham
ness of vision and technical designs graceful pieces with a of RJT Miniatures.
mastery. With imagination special presence. His extraor- With a great sense of his-
and ingenuity, these artists dinarily beautiful acrylic turn- tory, Gert and Ans Vogels from
use the lathe and other tech- ings come in a breathtaking the Netherlands create elegant,
niques to craft their distinctive rainbow of colors. exquisite, museum quality
turnings. Standing People Designs of turnings. They are passion-
Not afraid to pioneer, Gil Colorado is comprised of the ate about ornamental turning,
Mena’s turnings are decid- uber-talented husband and which is believed to have
edly fresh and state-of-the-art. wife team of Bear and Alisa originated in the latter part of
Most recently, he has created Limvere. Both are wonderfully the 15th century in Bavaria.
several money impregnated original and innovative artists. From England, Dave Williams,
resin turnings. How original And, you can always “expect Harvington Miniatures, is
is that! The highly respected the unexpected” from the in- never afraid to try something
new. This year, he will be
experimenting more on mixing
colored resin with wood.
All turnings shown here are
1:12 scale. AM

Top: “There’s Something on the


Horizon” from spalted maple. By
Alisa and Bear Limvere.

Left: Handcrafted bench with three


vases turned out of Palm Nuts. By
Rob Tukham.

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Turning Gallery

Gert and Ans Vogels, Vonas Miniaturen


Netherlands
“Working in 1:12 scale, I turn recycled old ivory and exotic woods
on a lathe. A professional goldsmith, my wife Ans, finishes the
pieces with gold and silver. The ivory pieces are miniature replicas
of turnings by the famous 16th century turners Georg Wecker and
Egidius Lobenigk. Their work is at the Das Grünes Gewölbe Museum, Our favorite material is
Germany and Rosenborg Castle, Denmark. Wecker and Lobenigk
recycled old ivory, which has
were usually attached to various European courts and also gave
a beautiful appearance. We
lessons in the art of turning to members of the royal family.”
also make turnings of wood-
-such as mahogany, ebony,
cocobolo, snakewood,
boxwood, rosewood,
and kingwood. Wood, in
combination with silver,
gives fine results. Most jars
are hollowed out and fitted
with a loose lid.
My turnings are so
finely detailed that the
wood turning tools from
the marketplace are not
sufficient. To provide the
finest details, I use dental
tools (special tool steel) to
obtain the right shape and
Above: Group of 1:12 cut surfaces.
scale turnings in various
exotic woods. One has
silver detail by Ans.

Left: Five beautiful


ivory vessels. Lidded
vessel with seated
girl, 36 mm (11/2”).

Right: This wonderfully


detailed chess table
stands at 57 mm
(21/4”) tall.

American Miniaturist 53

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Turning Gallery

Alisa and Bear Limvere, Standing People Designs


Elbert, Colorado
“We explore shapes, spaces, and finishes, using multiple sources
of inspiration and continually experimenting with new techniques
and designs. We have an extensive library of books and magazines
about pottery, full-sized wood turnings, sculptures, and historical
art. Also, we look to nature and our surroundings for inspiration.
We often see something and then try to figure out how to create it
in miniature.
We work in multiple scales. The majority of our work would fit in We love so many of the
1:12 scale, but we also create 1:24, 1:48, and slightly oversized exotic imports because of
work. With more of our customers moving to smaller their beauty and hardness.
scales, we are constantly challenging ourselves Among our favorite woods
to create the same quality and details in our are African Blackwood,
smaller pieces. We often have to create new Cocobolo, Tulipwood, and
tools or techniques to enable us to transform African Olive. We want to
our visions into miniature realities.”
continue to experiment,
Right: explore, and expand our
“Oak Leaf repertoire of work. There are
Greenman”. so many ideas that we just
Pyrography
haven’t had the time to try.
figure on hollow
form. American We love the ability to play
Elm, 1.2” diam. x and see what our customers
2.1” tall. respond to at shows.
Besides our lathes, of
course, a “must have” tool
Below: “Like a Circle in a Spiral” wall would be the Chris Stott
Above: Ornamental turning with hanging. Natural-edge turning with Narrow Parting Tool. It is
30 indexed cuts around the edge. concentric decorations and carved our workhorse for much
African Olive, 1.1” diam. x 0.2” tall. spiral work. Oregon Madrone Burl,
of our turnings. We also
1.6” tall x 1.8” wide x 0.2” thick.
have a number of tools that
Bear designed and created
Left: The that allow us to create
candlesticks special details and shapes.
are turned We always try to highlight
on 7 different
centers, the characteristics of the
and mirror material, the grain, color, and
each other. texture. One major challenge
Cocobolo working in wood is to ensure
(South
America). Each that something is left after
is 0.7” in diam. shaping it that small.
x 1.25” tall.

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Turning Gallery

Gil Mena,
Valencia, California
“I would describe my miniature turnings as tiny showpieces of the
natural beauty of wood in spherical form. While I work primarily
in 1:12 scale, I have turned pieces for room settings in 1:144
scale. Inspiration for my work comes from nature, books on wood
turning, and the Internet. My main goal in regard to wood turning
is to develop techniques that impart repetitive geometric carving
on the surface of my wood turnings.”

Above: A whimsical turning


sliced by a plane of wood.

Left: Mixed media turnings


of “ivorine” and burlwood
in segmented, round and
cylindrical form.

Above: This beautiful


turning consists of color
impregnated wood.

Left: Money impregnated resin turned


in the round and in vase form make
for an exquisite pair of vessels.

American Miniaturist 55

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Turning Gallery

My favorite woods are


walnut, rosewood, ebony
and various burlwoods. My
primary alternate material
is a synthetic substitute
for ivory and some highly
figured resin materials.
The x-acto blade is my
favorite tool. These I grind
down on a very fine sanding
disk to form extremely tiny
wood turning chisels that
work wonders on wood at
any scale.

Left: Three pieces showcasing the visual


texture of money impregnated resin in
turned and box form.

Dave Williams, Harvington Miniatures


England
“I would describe my miniature turnings as the result of what I
enjoy doing. Each time I turn on the lathe I get excited. Mainly,
I work in 1:12 scale, sometimes in 1:24, and very occasionally
in 1:48. My favorite subject matter is whatever is in my mind
when I turn on the lathe. I particularly enjoy creating the
“unusual”— such as magical pensieves and incense burners.
My one goal is to keep finding new ideas.”

Left: Perfume
bottles turned
from pure acrylic.
Tallest is about
1/2” high.

Right: Incense
burner, 17/8”
(45mm) tall.
Turned in
Coolibah Burl.

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Turning Gallery

My favorite materials
are exotic burls such as
amboyna and malee. I
am also experimenting
with impregnating woods
with colored resin. My
wife and I visit many old
stately homes and antique
shops. Sometimes I will see
something unusual and
make notes. Other times I
will see something and think
Left: Tobacco Jar and table are to myself, “I must make it.”
turned from a resin-injected piece The one tool, which is
of oak. About 21/2” tall from base to
top of lid on the jar. “a must” for me is a chisel,
which I made myself and is
about 2mm wide.

Left: These five bottles of spirits


are turned in solid transparent
acrylic. The tallest is 7/8” high.

Right: This
beautifully hand-
crafted spinning
wheel has 24
turned parts, and
is just over 2” tall.
It was made using
three different
types of exotic
fruitwood.

Above: This little honey pot


complete with a dipper is
turned in red mallee burl and
is 1/2” (12mm) tall.

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Turning Gallery

Maurice Sauve
Cupertino, California
“I do my turnings in high detail and use woods
from other countries. Mostly, I work in 1:12
scale. If the turning has a lid, it is hollowed
out to very thin walls. I do the majority of my
designs at night when I lay awake. I also find
inspiration in magazines, watching TV shows,
and shopping at malls. I consider turnings to
be an art form and hope buyers will pass them
down to future generations.”

Above: Red acrylic, ebony lids/bases. On Ironwood


table, square turning has Cocobolo lid/base. Vessel on
right has Ironwood lip/base.

Below: Yellow acrylic with black swirl. Left bowl:


Ironwood top/base. Front square turning: Ironwood
top. Mini Tower on right: Ebony lid/base post.
Above: Left: Can from China, 3cm stripes
glued together. Right: 1/8” square walnut
and maple pieces glued together.

Left: This vessel


is made of black
acyclic with gold
swirl.

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Turning Gallery

I like to work with


Ironwood from just over the
Mexican border. Ebony is a
good wood for lids and bases.
I use Ivory for some. I like to
work with Cocobolo for its
grain. I am particularly fond of
tight grain woods and use a
wax on my turnings to bring
out the grains and the color.
Above: These miniature I also use acrylic for many of
canisters as well a the my turnings.
vase are made from I make all of my tools. I
king wood.
get dentist tools and rework
them as they are made
from good steel. I also make
tools out of hardened nails
because they stay sharper
Right: This exquisite
bowl is a turning of longer, which helps as I detail
compressed wheat my turnings to a high degree.
straw.

Robert J. (“Rob”) Tukham, RJT Miniatures


British Columbia
“My turnings are eclectic in
nature and draw on a variety
of genres and time periods for
inspiration. Mostly, I work in
1:12 scale, but also do 1:24,
1:48, and some commission
work in “Barbie” scale. I find
inspiration everywhere, from
full size pieces I own or in shops.
I try to work in areas in which
other artists are not working,
but also try to produce pieces
that compliment other artists’
work. I endeavor to take risks Above: This rice bowl
and remain fresh in my work.” set is turned out of
boxwood, then finished
with red and black
Right: This beautiful lacquer. The chopsticks
formed vase is turned have been turned on the
out of Spalted Maple. lathe as well.

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Turning Gallery

After fifteen years of


miniature turning, it is
impossible for me to pick
favorite woods or alternate
materials. European
Boxwood is a lovely wood
to turn, but doesn’t have a
lot of character. Yellow cedar
burls have a great look, but
are difficult to acquire. The
art glass look requires a
Above: Rob’s take on “art glass” in an
variety of “plastic,” bought
assortment of pieces turned out of acrylic.
or hand cast. For the small-
scale pieces, aluminum
holds great detail and can
be finished in a variety of
ways. The palm nuts are fun
and every one is different.
When I was accepted to
teach at the Guild School,
I realized I would need a
tool set that matched what
I used. I needed something
that wasn’t cobbled out of
old drill bits and pieces of
tool steel. I developed a five-
piece tool set that I make
and use when teaching. I
find that I now use that set
Above: Inspired by Japan. Hand-carved and turned pieces using a
variety of hardwoods and burls. for 95% of my turning. These
tools are not small versions
of full size tools, but are
developed from the tools
that I made myself to turn
miniatures.

Left: These three lidded


vessels are turned out
of Boxwood and then
lacquered and covered
with gold leaf.

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Wedding gowns

A search for the


Perfect Dress
Felma Jackson’s mini creations were
inspired by the quest to find the perfect
wedding gown for her daughter.

M
y husband and I live roundings is what I created
in a small desert city in miniature.
in Southern Califor- Now I am in my mid six-
nia. We are both retired and ties and I enjoy attending
have the most fun when we clubs and belong to a few
take joyful walks exploring miniature groups.
nature in the surrounding Most nights, from 10 pm to
mountains with our seven 3 am, I can be found in my
and four year old grandsons.
After twenty years of
working for a major telecom-
munications company I was
offered an early retirement
package. I took the pack-

“When I was in my mid


forties, a whole new
world opened up for me
to explore, the world of Right: This elegant 1:12
scale wedding dress is
miniatures.” adorned with tiny pearls.

age and never looked back of miniatures. Loving


because it was around that it so much, I was mak-
time that I discovered I was a ing and shopping for
very creative person and was miniatures so fast that
good at making dolls. When I didn’t have the time
I was in my mid forties, a or patience to study
whole new world opened up any particular era.
for me to explore, the world What I saw in my sur-

American Miniaturist 61

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Wedding gowns

giving others tips tions from surgery haunt


that help to make me every day. Although I’ve
their miniature learned to live with it, I suffer
journey a celebra- from lymphedema in my right
tion. I also use the arm. I am right handed and
motivating com- will wear a special sleeve and
ments I receive to glove every day for the rest
push my creativity. of my life. The lymphedema
Above: Three little fashionable
purses made from silk and lace that As a breast cancer survivor is very painful at times and
perfectly match Felma’s gowns. of fourteen years, complica- limits my range of motion.

workshop making miniature


dresses as well as other min-
iatures.
Through my blog, my hope
is to encourage the miniature
hobby that I love so much by

Above and right: White silk, lace, and


soft ruffles create this dreamy gown
that any mini bride would love to wear.

62 American Miniaturist

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Wedding gowns

My husband built my work- Right and below: A black and


room to perfection for this white lace gown complete
disadvantage/advantage. with a matching posh hat that
is accented with feathers and
Everything I need to make
gems and a tiny handbag.
miniatures is at my fingertips.
Despite this condition, I feel
grateful and happy most days.
Making miniature wedding
gowns came into my life eight
years ago when my daughter
was shopping for her own
wedding gown. I watched
her try on so many that I
became enchanted with all
of the beautiful things that
are found in a bridal shop.

Her wedding gown was


the most beautiful lace
gown I had ever seen. I
thought finding a mother-
of-the-bride-dress to compli-
ment her gown would be a
snap. I was so happy when
a dress couldn’t be found for
me. It is called “caught up in
nuptial heaven!” On a hunt
with my friend we found the
perfect pattern and ivory lace
fabric. After finding a seam-
Left: A stunning low cut, long
sleeved wedding gown adorned
with crystals to add that extra
shimmer.

American Miniaturist 63

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Wedding gowns

Below and right: This off the a world helps to keep me


shoulder dress overflows healthy and enchanted.
with elegance and romance. I make dresses from the Vic-
It is beautifully made from a
torian era and as well as other
creamy silk material with a
delicate floral pattern. The tims in history. These wedding
perfect bow adds to the flow dresses are not from a particu-
of the gathered train. lar era except the one we are
living in, but in miniature, you
can make them anything you
want them to be.
I must thank my grandsons
for most of my inspiration.
J. Howard Collection, Jared
Collection, Mark Collection
and Mark J Collection are all
named for them. AM

Right and below: Tiny


embroidered accents and
a side bow add a touch
of sweetness to this slim
fitting lace wedding
gown. An ideal dress for
an outdoor ceremony.

“Making miniature-
wedding gowns came
into my life eight years
ago when my daughter
was shopping for a
wedding gown.”
stress, the perfect dress was
made!
Although wedding gowns on
mannequins are my favor- dresses, dresses on hangers,
ite miniatures to make, the suits on hangers, and a variety
enjoyment of making little girl of miniatures in a world within

64 American Miniaturist

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Mini nightgown

A frilly mini
nightgown
A tiny nighty made from lace is easy to
make. Follow along with Felma Jackson
and create your own little negligee.

Y
ou may just change your I used ¼” silk trim that I found at
Tools & materials:
life by taking the time fabric shop. AM
to make this miniature l Lace
project. What you can do with a l Sharp scissors
small piece of lace, cotton, silk, or l Trim
trim is amazing! l Your favorite fabric glue
Do you think the bride will l Toothpick
want to pack a nightgown for her l Ribbon
Honeymoon? Since I am a just-in- l Beads or flowers - optional
case type of person, I made her
one. You can make one too, in
just four easy steps. Step 3: Overlap the cut edges
by ¼” and use a toothpick to run
Step 1: Measure and then cut a a thin line of glue to seal the
piece of 4” by 3” lace material. edges.

Step 2: Fold the two cut edges Step 4: Use the trim of your
towards the center of the piece choice for around the waist and
of lace. This will become the the top of the dress. Accessorize
seam in the back of dress. with bows or beads and flowers.

American Miniaturist 65

AM134_Felma_Tutorial_p065.indd 65 4/24/14 9:52 AM


Japanese room box

A miniature
house warming
Eva Perendreu took on the challenge of
making a Japanese style room box for a
house warming present for her niece.

M
y beautiful niece,
Ainhoa, started a life
on her own a few
years ago in the beautiful city
of Barcelona, Spain. She was
absolutely thrilled to start
making decisions on how she
would decorate her first flat.
When I asked her how I could
help, she answered that she
would love it if I could make
a miniature Japanese room
box. I was absolutely sur-
prised and thought it was a
good challenge for me.

“I offered a SWAP to
all the miniaturists
around the world that
wanted to help me with
my Japanese/Oriental
miniature project.”
So through my blog site I
made a request. I offered a
SWAP to all the miniaturists
Right: Many of the items in this room
box came from other miniaturists
from all around the world.

66 American Miniaturist

AM134_Eva_Feature_p066-069.indd 66 4/24/14 9:41 AM


Japanese room box

around the world that wanted


to help me with my Japanese/
Oriental miniature project.
Sonya, Susanne, Susan (Sans),
Mª Carmen, Eva, Caterina,
Paky, and Yolanda answered
my call by sending me many
wonderful items: the sofa, the
table, food, decorative items,
the small geisha that is on the
floor, lamps, pictures, and the
gong as well as other items. So
this is a room box made from
friendship.
The room box was based
on two colors as you can see,
red and black. I painted the Above: Eva made the Japanese rice panels that are in the back of the room
box and made the rice panels box, which she opted to leave open to show the snowy Japanese garden.

A small origami paper


book along with a tiny
paper bird is just beside
the tray of food.
American Miniaturist 67

AM134_Eva_Feature_p066-069.indd 67 4/24/14 9:41 AM


Japanese room box

Left: Eva made the tiny


bonsai tree that sits atop
the little cabinet.

Below: A small pair of


traditional Japanese
wooden geta sandals
complete the theme.

On the right side,


you can see an orchid
that I made with a kit
from Templewood min-
iatures. The mask on
the upper of the wall
belongs to the Chinese
opera.
Beside the sofa,
there is a Zen garden
with candles and in
front of that are a pair
of Japanese shoes.
On the lower table
there are chopsticks, a
teapot, some sweets, a
bamboo tray, a bowl,
and an ikebana book.
On the floor there is
origami paper, and
very tiny origami bird.

on the back that have been left


open to show a snowy Japanese
garden. I built a step to go out
to the garden where I placed
the traditional Japanese winter
boots that my dear friend,
Susan, sent me from Singapore.
The floor looks much like a
carpet and two bookcases made
by myself are on the back at
both garden sides.

68 American Miniaturist

AM134_Eva_Feature_p066-069.indd 68 4/24/14 9:41 AM


Japanese room box

On the left
“The room box is framed
side of the
room box is a and has a glass front to
wonderful red protect it from dust.”
and black peice
of furniture I tional boxes with Japanese
bought. The food, vases, and other decora-
doors are open tive items lay around the rest
to show the red of the room.
drawers. I also wanted to add the
On top of small kokeshi doll in the
the drawers blue dress. The room box is
are a Buda framed and has a glass front
and a bonsai to protect it from dust. I
tree made by hope you like it as much as I
myself. The enjoyed making it and also as
Gong is also much as Ainhoa loved it! AM
wonderful
and it’s next Left: The finishing touches include an
to the book of orchid, various Japanese products,
Madam But- and a decorative paper lamp.
terfly opera
Below: This beautifully detailed
and a big dish. miniature room is such a wonderful
Books, tradi- addition to Ainhoa’s first home!

American Miniaturist 69

AM134_Eva_Feature_p066-069.indd 69 4/24/14 9:41 AM


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Miniaturist 71
AmericanMiniaturist
American 71

004JUN14_p071.indd 71 4/30/14 10:55 AM


AM’s news page is devoted to keeping busy miniaturists up
to speed. Please submit items of mini interest to auralea@
ashdown.co.uk or to American Miniaturist - Itty bits, 68132
250th Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944.

Nursery pillows Giveaway


Auralea Krieger has donated this little set of pillows with a whale
and sheep theme to giveaway. You can win this pillow set by
entering this contest! Send your entry to Nursery pillows Giveaway
issue –134 American Miniaturist, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN
55944, or fax them
to (507) 634-7691, or
email them to auralea@ Photo credit
ashdown.co.uk. Please
Kim McKisson was the
be sure to include your
photographer for the Savage
name, address, phone
& Sons article on page 16 in
number, and email
(AM133) May issue. Kim lives in
address. The deadline for
Kentucky and is a professional
this contest is Friday,
photographer as well as a
June 20, 2014.
water color artist. She will be
taking the time to share great
tips with our AM readers in an
article on how to photograph
miniatures later this year.
Where’s Arthur?
Arthur run off again!
was found Can you help us
on page 12 find him? He is
visiting Gabriele’s located somewhere
Easter stand in the on one of the pages of this
April issue (AM132)! magazine.
We have randomly Send your sighting to
selected Debra Elwood of Where’s Arthur? – Issue
Central Point, OR to be 132, American Miniaturist,
our winner for this month’s 68132 250th Ave., Kasson,
Where’s Arthur contest. MN 55944, or fax them
We will be sending her a to (507) 634-7691, or
Garden Furniture Project email them to auralea@
DVD for helping us find ashdown.co.uk. Please be
Full name listing
Arthur, that little rascal. We sure to include your name, In the article on page 42 of our
hope you enjoy this mini gift! address, phone number, April issue (AM132) the talented
But as you know Arthur and email address. The artist was listed as Lorrie
never sits still for too long deadline for this contest is Anderson. Her full name is
and we are afraid he has Friday, June 20 2014. actually Lorrie Plasko-Andersen.

72 American Miniaturist

AM134_IttyBits_p072-073.indd 72 4/30/14 12:46 PM


ittybits
Konnichiwa and Grüezi - 150 years of Japan and Switzerland
19 April 2014 – 5 October 2014
A special exhibition will take place at the Toy their predecessors
Worlds Museum Basle to celebrate the 150th and are captivating
anniversary of Japanese-Swiss diplomacy and with their many
friendship. delightful
The first documented reference in Switzerland expressions, which
to Japan dates from 1522. In 1864, Switzerland help us to learn,
finalized one of the first bilateral trade and understand and
friendship treaties with Japan, giving rise to a appreciate the
dynamic economic exchange. Japanese dolls.
The exhibition has been made possible with The contemporary
the cooperation of the Japanese Information ceramic objects
and Cultural Centre of the Japanese Embassy and decorations
in Berne, and the Japan Cultural Institute in including the
Cologne. lacquer ware
provide a fascinating insight into hundreds of
years of Japanese history. They are characterized
by both ancient traditions and modern
influences.
The Japanese tea ceremony ceramics are
famous in Japan and that is reflected by the
very high prices for objects made by recognized
potters. The craft is appreciated as much as
painting as in Japan no particular art form is
preferred.
The collection Contemporary Japanese
Crafts is part of the Japan Foundation Traveling
The sophisticated contemporary dolls Exhibitions.
originate from the traveling exhibition Dolls of Film presentations will give visitors to the
Japan – Shapes of Prayer, Embodiment of Love exhibition an insight into the unique artistic
and are provided by the Japan Cultural Institute manufacturing processes of Japanese dolls and
in Cologne. Japan looks back on a long and ceramic objects.
unique tradition of dolls, which is still alive today.
The dolls in the exhibition are in the tradition of Website: www.toy-worlds-museum-basle.ch

Name correction and a missed step.


The wonderful vegetable garden tutorial on page 48 of our
May issue (AM133) was by the talented Amanda Phillips. So
sorry for that oversight Amanda!
As it turns out, Amanda also wanted to add this to Step
9 in that tutorial - Bake the dirt covered TLS and clay for 15
minutes at the temperature suggested by manufacturer.
We also want to wish Amanda a speedy recovery!

American Miniaturist 73

AM134_IttyBits_p072-073.indd 73 4/30/14 12:46 PM


Baking for baby

Celebrating with
mini desserts
Natalia Antonelli combines a modern
baby shower and an old-fashion Italian
baptism party with delicious treats.

T
wo things food minia- could not miss the opportunity well as scrumptious trays filled
turists greatly love are to create a lovely setting that with traditional Italian pastries.
big parties and colorful represents the hope and joy a This vision reflects the past
foods. Every party needs a new life brings to this world. and the present. My country
wonderful variety of cakes, My inspiration comes from dif- with its old food specialties
pastries, and candies in fun ferent sources: family, national and the modern world glo-
festive colors to properly traditions, pastry shop de-
honor birthdays, weddings, lights, TV shows, magazines, Below: A fun party table with
Independence Day, Christmas and my own imagination. endless baby themed treats.
and so on. When I first thought of a
The birth of a baby boy baptism for a new born baby
or girl is one of the sweet- these thing came to mind; big
est, most delightful events to cakes in soft pink and light
celebrate in our real lives. blue, decorated with fondant
In my miniature world I teddy bears and little toys. As

74 American Miniaturist

AM134_Natalia_Babtism_Feature_p074-076.indd 74 4/10/14 9:57 AM


Baking for baby

empty cradle Above: This is one of the first tables


in the baby’s Natalia made and it’s inspired by
the theme of baptism for a boy.
Above: This pink clothed table was room, at least
made to celebrate the birth of a girl. not until the baby was actu- Below: On a silver tray, a mix of
ally born and safe at home. sfogliatelle and baba pastries.
balization, which allows us Our baptism party is a very
to expand our views, change private family reunion where given at teatime. In Italy we
our habits by importing and family members meet after the serve our traditional pastries
exporting foods and fashions to service and gives a present to and teatime cakes.
broaden our culture and enrich the new born to wish him or
our way of life. her good luck and to wel-
Very simply, we do not have come the little brother, sister,
“In my miniature world
baby showers here in Italy. It is cousin, or nephew into the I could not miss the
not a custom here because we family. opportunity to create
simply do not feel at ease giving Jewelry with small med-
a party before the baby is born. als with the baby’s name and
a lovely setting that
You could say we date of birth, a guardian represents the hope and
feel it maybe angel or a patron joy a new life brings to
bad luck. Saint on them,
“Let us embroidered this world.”
be sure baby’s
there outfit, bibs A few years ago we did
is a and knitted not even know what fondant
little shoes are was and our cakes were very
boy or the tradi- simple sponge-cake buns and
girl in the tional gifts that jam tarts. Each Italian region
room, then we will be kept for the has its own special foods and
can party all day!” babies entire life. the pastries from the South of
And talking about knocking Because the service usually Italy, especially from Campa-
on wood, only few decades ago takes place at the beginning nia and Sicily, are always pres-
parents did not even put the of the afternoon, the party is ent in every special occasion.

American Miniaturist 75

AM134_Natalia_Babtism_Feature_p074-076.indd 75 4/10/14 9:57 AM


Baking for baby

Left: These each other. We even use the


cakes hide the same tools and silicon molds.
gender of the In my miniature baptism
baby until you party I tried to combine both
cur into them modern and old fashion treats.
and see the
colored cream.
For example, on my miniature
baby shower party table I
Follow- added cupcakes and cakes that
ing this new would not be hard to find in a
trend, many contemporary pastry shop. For
cooks have the two big rectangular cakes,
started us- as well as the cupcakes, I
ing fondant chose two traditional American
to decorate recipes: a red velvet cake and
enormous a chocolate cake filled with
colorful cakes butter cream then covered with
and add light pink or light blue fondant
Sfogliatelle and baba come many kinds of ornaments. and cute fondant decorations.
from Neaples, while cannoli This makes baking a cake The two round sponge cakes
and cassata cake come from more similar to sculpting. Fon- are very similar to each other
Sicily. They are all rich, tasty, dant is handled and molded if you look at their outward
and scrumptious pastries made like our polymer clay and we appearance. The white fondant
with the most genuine miniaturists handle and mold and sugar flowers do not give
ingredients, such as polymer clay like you any clue about the baby’s
ricotta cheese, fondant. sex. Once you slice them, how-
marzipan, Reality and ever, the soft pink or light blue
essence of the miniature cream will reveal the secret.
orange world get In the end, whether you
blos- closer to- celebrate before or after the
soms, gether and baby’s birth with your family
and somehow or with friends, it is always go-
candied confound ing to be a sweet party! AM
fruit.
In the
last few
years, however,
something has changed.
A new baking phenomenon
has spread all over old Europe
and its name is cake design.
Above : Small, traditional Sicilian
cassata cakes topped with fruit.

Right: Even more delicious sweets


that truly look good enough to eat.

76 American Miniaturist

AM134_Natalia_Babtism_Feature_p074-076.indd 76 4/10/14 9:57 AM


Mini pastries

Make your own


mini rum baba
Natalia Antonelli shares her fun and easy
technique on how to make a miniature
version of delicious Italian rum baba.

E
ven though rum baba was Tools & materials:
invented in the middle of
the eighteen-century by
King Stanislao Leszczynski of
Poland, who added rum to the
traditional “kugelhupf” cake. This
pastry is now one of the most
famous desserts of Naples.
In this tutorial we are going Step 3: To achieve the proper
to make the classic version of effect, don’t blend the two too
the original Italian baba, a small much. Just roughly mix them, so
yeast cake in the shape of a that in the end some yellow clay
slightly tapered cylinder without will still show.
any whipped or pastry cream l Sunflower yellow
added. The name “baba” comes polymer clay Step 4: Roll several little balls of
from the book One Thousand l White polymer clay clay, all approximately 0.6mm in
and One Nights and one of its l Cognac polymer clay diameter.
protagonists, Alì Baba. l Single sided sharp blade
l Coarse sandpaper
Step 1: Mix together a 2:1 ratio l Needle
of sunflower yellow clay with l Light brown chalk pastel
white clay. l Dark brown chalk pastel
l Liquid polymer
l Clear gloss varnish
l Razor blade

Step 2: Now mix together the Step 5: Take each piece of clay
yellow clay you have obtained and stretch one end of it, gently
with cognac clay (2:1). squeezing it between you fingers,

American Miniaturist 77

AM134_Natalia_Baba_Tutorial_p077-079.indd 77 4/24/14 12:03 PM


Mini pastries

so that the top will remain round, sure to adjust the end every time
and plump. This is to achieve the you cut off the excess.
effect of a well-baked baba.

Step 6: Gently press your


fingernail around the round top
of the baba to make it even more
prominent. The top must be
rough, irregular, and bumpy, so
don’t bother trying to smooth it. Step 11: Mix some dark brown
Just leave it as it is. chalk powder with some light
Step 9: To emulate the texture brown chalk powder and use
of a real baba, take some coarse your fingertips to add the color
sandpaper and press it on the only on the top of the baba.
entire surface of the clay. Don’t press too much. Start by
using more of the lightest brown,
and then add the darkest brown
if it is still too light. We want the
baba to be well baked and not
overcooked or burnt!

Step 7: Using a single sided sharp


blade, cut off the pointed end and
make sure the bottom of the baba
always stays flat. If it gets pointed
again, you can cut off the excess Step 10: To accentuate the spongy
or press your fingernail onto the texture, use a needle and lightly
end to flatten it. press the tip of it on the clay to
leave tiny holes. Be gentle, we
don’t want to leave big holes.

Step 12: It’s time to add the


Step 8: Since we don’t want a rum! Take some liquid polymer
sharp cut, adjust the bottom to and add a drop of it just on the
make it look more natural. Be rounded top of the baba. You can

78 American Miniaturist

AM134_Natalia_Baba_Tutorial_p077-079.indd 78 4/24/14 12:03 PM


Mini pastries

add it directly from the bottle, or


use a cocktail stick to be more
precise.

Then add them to a miniature


pastry shop or on a miniature
party, or tea-time table.
Step 13: Put your pieces in the This tutorial is for individual
oven to harden. Bake at 220° F or servings, but if you have a proper
105° C and after 10 minutes take miniature mold you can give
them out. the clay a ring shape and make
it in the larger form of a bundt
cake as well, then fill the middle
hole with whipped cream and
Your rum baba are ready! candied fruit. AM
They look shiny
and delicious!

Once you have


several baba,
you can place
them on a tray
Step 14: Now to make them alone or with
shiny. Add a coat of clear gloss other types of
varnish all over, especially delicious Italian
focusing on the rounded pastries, such
top where you put the liquid as sfogliatelle or
polymer. cannoli.

American Miniaturist 79

AM134_Natalia_Baba_Tutorial_p077-079.indd 79 4/24/14 12:03 PM


Baby boutique

Teensy toys for


your wee one
Gabriele Layne’s Bambino Baby Boutique
is the place to go to find everything you
will need for your one-inch scale baby.

B
eing born in Germany small fascinated me, especially When I see my items that
and growing up there, I dollhouse furnishings and ac- were purchased there so many
was exposed to the tra- cessories. years ago they remind me of all
ditional environment of many For years I would read the the talented artisans and how
different handicrafts. In the miniature magazines that were excited I was to see every single
late 80’s I started collecting available overseas. I enjoyed at- display.
miniatures tending shows in Germany and Since 1992
because I also visited the Birmingham my love
everything Miniatura show in the U.K. for making

80 American Miniaturist

AM134_GabrieleBabyFeature_p080-084.indd 80 4/24/14 10:17 AM


Baby boutique

tiny objects has grown. For


some reason, making shops
and stores are the most intrigu-
ing for me. I guess it is because
so many things can be placed
inside them.

“For some reason, making


shops and stores are
the most intriguing for
me. I guess it is because
so many things can be
placed inside them.”

With a bachelor’s degree in


cartography (mapmaking) I
enjoy the detail of everything
being reduced in size.
I resided in Frankfurt am
Main, Germany until 1997 and
now my husband and I live
in Texas. Who would have
thought that all of those minia-
tures would travel all the way
to the USA packed in with our
household goods and not get
damaged or lost!
For nearly two years, my col-
lection of miniatures and room
boxes were tucked away in
moving boxes before they were I was so happy to find such to be able to retire and finally
finally unpacked. enthusiasm for this hobby that enjoy my passion for creating
Meeting other miniature is enjoyed by so many? miniatures more often.
collectors and artisans here, I The coming years were Having joined the minia-
have discovered that the love spent working ture club of San
for miniatures is contagious. in a corporate Antonio “Inching
environment on Along”, I attend
Left: Gabriele’s passion for a computer all their monthly
miniatures absolutely shows in this day, which left meetings and
wonderfully crafted baby boutique. very little time activities. I joined
Top right: Everything a new mother
for my hobby. NAME and the
would need can be found at the By 2010 I was Society of American
Bambino Baby Boutique! fortunate enough Miniaturists (SAM)

American Miniaturist 81

AM134_GabrieleBabyFeature_p080-084.indd 81 4/24/14 10:17 AM


Baby boutique

Left and below: The counter


on the boutique is filled
with miniature goodies like
powder, rattles, cards, books,
figurines, lollipops, a pink
plush bear, and a piggy bank!

shop for baby gifts with


a special touch. The soft
butter cream color of the
furnishings and the light
blue color of the wallpa-
per harmonize with the
pastel colored baby items.
The dark brown cabinet
is from an estate sale and
the beautiful hand-paint-
ed cabinet and dresser
were found tucked away
in a cabinet at an antique
store.
ily and friends Some of the items
this resulted for welcoming a newborn
with me par- into the world were created,
ticipating in others were purchased. From
a show called large items such as a bassinet,
“Schoene cradle, a round table with ac-
kleine Welt”, cessories, blankets, quilts, and
which I had pillows to smaller items such
last attended in as tiny shoes, and baby cloth-
1996. ing, a little bit of everything
While there, is available, even baby care
I met many products.
fellow artisans There are jars of cream, baby
from the past bottles, plates, and baskets
and was able of baby toiletries, as well as
to see minia- rubber ducks, and soaps for
tures made by bath time. Not to be forgotten,
here in Texas. This has opened many other talented artisans. of course, are also toys such as
up a whole new world for I have many plans for bears, dolls, a doll carriage and
making and collecting min- upcoming projects and I look cradle, alphabet blocks, rattles,
iatures as well as traveling to forward to every free moment, and a piggy bank.
shows where I can meet other which I can devote to this A Noah’s ark set complete
enthusiasts. pastime. with all the animals as well
During 2010-2012 I traveled Welcome to the Bambino as pull toys made of metal or
to Germany to visit my fam- Baby Boutique. It is a place to wood are for sale here. The

82 American Miniaturist

AM134_GabrieleBabyFeature_p080-084.indd 82 4/24/14 10:17 AM


Baby boutique

beautifully hand-painted pull previ-


toys were made by Karen ously
Markland. had
Some of the fancy boxes doors
were found in magazines or and
were printouts. Gift-wrap paper then I added woodturnings Above: A bath set with everything
and cards made it easy to for the legs, which raised it needed for babies first bath! Neatly
wrapped gift boxes in a dinosaur
complete a present for a baby up. The three-tier display
pattern with a pretty yellow bow!
shower. The gift shop is well on the top of the counter, to
stocked and inviting for all the right, is made from three took off of mechanical pencils.
customers including grandpar- round wooden discs that were They were so colorful and had
ents or mothers-to-be to come painted in different colors. This a little edge on the top making
in and browse. is where I put the small gnome. them look like the perfect jar.
To make the counter, I used The jars are beads and some A small flower from nail art,
an odd piece of furniture that are covers from erasers that I a tiny bow, gold metal findings,
and some teddy bear polymer
cane slices complete the tops
of these crème containers. The
little baby rattles were made
using a wax bead and a small
piece of a woodturning.
Different wood shapes were
wrapped with gift-wrap and
placed under the counter along
with purchased metal baby
shoes and a display gift box. In
the brown cabinet I took two
porcelain plates and glued on
a punched-out print and then
brushed on a glaze.
Left: The little bunnies that were
hand-painted on this tiny dresser
add a touch of whimsy.

American Miniaturist 83

AM134_GabrieleBabyFeature_p080-084.indd 83 4/24/14 10:17 AM


Baby boutique

Left: Such a great collection of


miniature figurines; dollies, kitty
cats, horses, and to top it all off a
remarkably tiny Noah’s ark set.

are mini copies of original


vintage English and German
full size books.
The black and white cow
is from a train display that
I placed on a strip of wood
and then added polymer clay
wheels to it and a piece of
string with a bead.
The baby baskets are em-
broidery cloth soaked in liquid
starch, which was then draped
over lotion lids to give them
their shape. When they were
dry I cut off the edges and
glued on fancy lace trim, then
filled them with baby items.
The large boxes by the
dresser are made from scrap-
book paper that I cut, scored,
and folded. Then they were
filled with rolls of gift-wrap,
Nada Christensen made the on. The pillows are stuffed baby blankets, and gift boxes.
porcelain painted dolls wearing with cotton balls. Framed playful prints are
colorful dresses, the teddy bear, A German artist friend of on the wall and a small black
the jointed doll, the bunny in mine, Wolfgang Michel, made and white dog is peeking
a jester’s suit, the doll in the several of the books and they around the corner of the front
cradle, and the kewpie dolls. open and are readable. These shelf. AM
She is a wonderful artisan that I
have known for several years.
The quilts, pillows, and the
wall décor, which I draped over
a toothpick with two wood
beads on the ends, are all com-
puter printouts on fabric with
the edges tucked under then the
backings were sewn or glued
Right: A pull-along moo-cow toy
made from a miniature train display
is such a creative addition to all of
the fun items in this baby shop.

84 American Miniaturist

AM134_GabrieleBabyFeature_p080-084.indd 84 4/24/14 10:17 AM


Images may be cut out or copied for personal use only Snippets

Asian inspired wall art Children’s drawings

Wedding photos and invitations Father’s Day cards

You are Invited

You are A
Invited Wedding

Vegetable seed packets Tiny birds for


the project
on page 92

American Miniaturist 85

AM134_Snippets_p085-860.indd 85 4/24/14 9:13 AM


AM134_Snippets_p085-860.indd 86 4/24/14 9:13 AM
Caroline Dupuis showcases a beautiful miniature butterfly cottage. Savor whimsical miniature cakes by Manuela Michieli
Build a deck and matching furniture for summer fun IGMA Artisan Lynda Ulmer’s accessories for elegant mini ladies

14
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us en
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Issue 128 Issue 129 Issue 131 Issue 132


• Santa Gift Shop • Coastal Harbor Cottages • Downton Abbey Kitchen • Nursery Accessories • Spring Gallery Feature • K. Browning Jewelry Shop
• Christmas Gallery • Shopping Street Scene • Showcase of Miniatures • Miniature Violets • Richard McMahan’s Art • G. Layne’s Perfume Shop
• Wine Cellar Project • Miniature Kitchen • Romantic Brocante Style • Ericka Van Horn • Flower/Garden Projects • Wood Turning Gallery

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004JUN14_p087.indd 87 4/23/14 11:32 AM


showdates
We always advise checking
times and dates before
traveling. We wouldn’t want
you to drive 500 miles to a
show that’s been canceled.

May 31-June 1 July 13 Clubs of North Carolina


Sturbridge, MA Fogelsville, PA will be hosting the First
Sturbridge Dollhouse The 37th Annual Dollhouse Annual Mooresville, NC
Miniatures Festival. and Miniatures Show and Dollhouse Exhibit and Sale.
Host Hotel on Cedar Sale, sponsored by the Lehigh South Iredell Lions Club,
Lake, 366 Main Street/ Valley Miniatures Club “Small 630 Brawley School Road,
Rte 20, Sturbridge, MA. on Scale.” The Holiday Inn, Mooresville, NC. The Lions
For directions and to Exit 49A off I-78 onto Rt. 100 Club is conveniently located
reserve your room at the South. First right on Penn just off Rt. 77 at exit 35 on
special show rate, call: Drive, then turn right. GPS Brawley School Road West
(508) 347-7393. Arrive at info: 7736 Adrienne Drive, just after the traffic light at
Boston Logan or Hartford/ Breinigsville, PA 18031. Phone: Williamson Road. Saturday,
Springfield airports. For (610) 391-1000. 9am – 3pm. Admission: $1.
additional information or Sunday, 10am – 4pm. Door prizes will be given
dealer contracts, contact: Admission: $5 adults ($4.50 hourly and there will be free
Molly Cromwell. Address: with coupon), $1 children classes for children hourly
2455 Crispin Court, under 12. Exhibits, free on the half hour. Dealer
Sarasota, FL 34235. Email: parking, food available. tables are $10, and space
mollycromwell@aol.com. Saturday, pre-registered, is limited so call early for a
Phone: (941) 371-3193. Web: pre-paid workshops held at reservation. Please contact:
www.mollycromwell.com. the show site. Free children’s Maria Cannizzaro, (704) 230-
class on Sunday. Show 0569 for reservations and any
June 14 proceeds benefit charities questions. Donations will be
Stockton, CA and educational endeavors. made to NAME and the Lions
Miniatures on the Waterfront. For show and workshop Club. Show your NAME card
University Plaza Waterfront information, contact: Jo at the door for a free gift.
Hotel, 110 W Fremont Street, Roseberry. Phone: (570) 620-
Stockton, CA 95202. University 0810. Email: jolen1@verizon. September 13-14
Waterfront Hotel Room Rates net. For show information, Portland, OR
are available at $99 per night. contact: Mary Breidinger. Exhibit Hall, DoubleTree Hotel
For reservations, call: 877-957- Phone: (610) 762-8370. Portland (at Lloyd Center), 1000
2378. Saturday, 10am – 4pm. Email: mbreiginger4547@ NE Multnomah St., Portland,
Admission: $6 at the door, gmail.com. For more show OR. Door Prizes; Workshops
$3 Children 12 and under. and workshop information for Children and Adults; Red,
For more information and to and to print a discount Blue & Green MAX rail stops
register as a vendor, call: Leslie coupon, visit website: www. at the door. Admission: $7;
Flint. Email: stocktonmarina@ lehighvalleyminiatures.com. children under 12 Free. For
aol.com. more information, contact: Pat
Phone: 209-462- July 26 Bennett. Email: PatBennett@
4200. Web: www. Mooresville, NC PortlandMiniatureShow.com.
miniaturesonthewaterfront.com. The Charlotte Area Dollhouse Phone: 503-362-6012 nights.

88 American Miniaturist

004JUN14_p088-89.indd 88 4/24/14 10:43 AM


September 21 Stratford Inn, 800 South donated to charity. For more
Edmonton, AB, Highway Drive, Fenton, MO. information, contact: Mary
Canada Friday, 4pm – 9pm. Saturday, Barrett. Email: artist1118@aol.
A show by the Miniature 10am – 4pm, Sunday 10am – com. Phone: (614) 792-2723.
Enthusiasts of Edmonton, a 3pm. Admission: $5 adult, $2
non-profit club. Executive children 5-15. The Gateway 2015
Royal Inn West Edmonton, Miniature Museum will be
10010 – 178 St., Edmonton, hosting exhibits and a silent March 7-8
AB, T5S 1T3, Canada. Sunday, auction. Free gifts for first Seattle, WA
10am – 4pm. Admission: 100 people each day. Special Seattle Miniature Show.
$5 ages 16 and over, $2 kids giveaways. Free raffle DoubleTree Suites by Hilton -
ages 6-15, free under 6. No for half-scale dollhouse kit Seattle Airport/Southcenter,
strollers please. For more and other items. Come enjoy 16500 Southcenter Parkway,
information, please contact: the world of miniatures Seattle, Washington (located
Maureen. Email: mheucher@ and be a kid again. For in Tukwila). Doors open both
shaw.ca. Phone: (780) more information, contact: days at 10am. Free parking!
418-5198. Website: www. Teresa Zwiener. Email: Handicap accessible. Food
camacdonald.com/MEE/ tdminiatures@sbcglobal.net. on location. Workshops.
ShowandSale.html. Phone: (314) 277-2601. Childrens’ classes - free.
Exhibits.
New website: http://
October 11–12 October 19 www.SeattleMiniatureShow.
San Jose, CA Winnipeg, MB, com. Contact: Pat Bennett.
39th annual Showcase Canada Phone: 503-362-6012
of Miniatures (Good Sam Miniature Enthusiasts of evenings & weekends.
Show) at Doubletree Hotel. Winnipeg Annual Show, Dakota Email: PatBennett@
Super workshops Friday Lawn Bowling Bldg., 1212 SeattleMiniatureShow.com.
(Oct. 10). Exhibits, children’s Dakota St., Winnipeg, Manitoba.
activities, auctions and Sunday, 10am – 4pm. For more To add your event to the
drawings. Sunday: Free information, please contact: American Miniaturist
Tools and Techniques. georginawood2011@gmail. Show Dates calendar for
2nd annual Good Sam com. a nominal fee, please
Academy of Miniatures,
contact Sara Vix.
9 classes following the November 15 Email:
show. For more info, please Columbus, OH sara@ashdown.co.uk.
contact: Barb Jones. Email: Columbus Miniature Phone: (507) 634-3143
northbaj@att.net. Phone: Society show. Bethel United Fax: (507) 634-7691
(408) 257-9385. Website: Methodist Church, 1220
http://goodsamshowcase. Bethel Road, Columbus, OH Mail:
miniature.net. 43220. Saturday, 10am – 4pm. Show Dates
Admission: $5 for adults, $2 American
October 17-19 for children under 12. No Miniaturist
Fenton, MO strollers, please. Free parking.
68132
St. Louis Dollhouse and
250th Ave
Food provided by TWIG.
Kasson,
Miniatures Show, previously Exhibits may or may not be
MN 55944
the Gateway Miniature Show. based on the theme. All profits

American Miniaturist 89

004JUN14_p088-89.indd 89 4/24/14 10:43 AM


Man rooms

A place for the


men to relax
This month Danielle Muller shares the two
rooms in her Grosvenor’s Hall dollhouse
that were made especially for the men.

J
une is the month to cel- as his friend’s, love to spend are the bar and the billiard
ebrate Father’s Day and time there while the women room.
I think all the father’s gather together upstairs. So let’s start with the bar.
out there deserve to have a When I built the house, In fact, the bar itself as well
day when we can show them I thought about what kind as the counter were made
how much we appreciate of rooms would be in the entirely from scratch. I always
them. basement. Of course, the first have a lot of leftover pieces
In my Grosvenor’s Hall one I made was the laundry when I’m working with wood
dollhouse there are two room. There is also a room and I never throw them away.
rooms that are very suitable down there for Emma, the As you can see, this is a
for the “men” of the house. daughter of the house. But good idea because there’s
They are both in the base- the two other rooms I am always something that you
ment and Michael, as well showing to you in this issue can make from those left over
pieces.
On the front
of the counter
there are recipes
of several well-
known drinks. I
thought it might
be a cute idea to
add those to the
bar scene.
I also made
a nice leather
chair to add
to the room.
Left: Danielle
made this little bar
and counter from
scratch.

90 American Miniaturist

AM134_Daniel pool room Feature.indd 90 4/24/14 9:26 AM


Man rooms

There’s even a little corner alone without the girls. Al- room. I added the carpet and
where the guys can play though, I must say, Stephanie the two resin leopard chairs,
darts. I added a television loves to play a little pool and which I had found a year
on top of the bar just in case she’s very good at it, which earlier on the Internet.
they want to watch the sports seems to be annoying for From there, I started paint-
channel and the bar is, of Michael. ing the furniture and discov-
course, well stocked with The furniture in this room ered the dark red, black, and
everything one might need. is from Eurominis. I used gold tones were just perfect.
The second room is where these unpainted pieces a It was really fun to make
the guys can play a little bil- lot in this house, because these two rooms and I would
liards. I thought since there although they are already love to dedicate them to all
was enough space in the assembled, being unpainted the fathers who either love to
house, why not add a second gives you more freedom for play billiards or enjoy a little
room for Michael and his your own decorating ideas. drink in the bar from time to
friends to spend some time I wanted to use darker time and especially to those
tones of wallpaper here, be- who are, like myself, minia-
Below: Danielle made all the cause tiny roses or feminine ture lovers.
curtains in the house and all the wallpapers wouldn’t have Happy Father’s Day to all
decorative bottles you see on the
been suitable for this sort of of you! AM
shelf in the back of the room.

American Miniaturist 91

AM134_Daniel pool room Feature.indd 91 4/24/14 9:26 AM


Bird nest

A tiny place for


birds to perch
Marianne Colijn has discovered a delightful
way to turn a miniature teapot into a tiny
nest for some fine feathered friends.

W
hen I saw a picture of Tools & materials:
a little bird building a
nest in an old teapot I l A teapot with a lid that
knew I had to try and make that can come off and has the
scene in miniature. I happened to usual tiny hole in it
have a brown teapot, so I started l Craft stick or scrap of
working on the project right away. wood
This is a project that is fun to do l Fine wire
and can add a little extra touch of l Paint to match your lid
whimsy to your scene or garden. I l Tiny bits of moss,
mounted the teapot on a piece of stretchable vine, or Step 4: Paint the wire to match
wood. The lid of the teapot is used lichen your teapot and leave it to dry.
l Flower foam, your choice
as a kind of porch to protect the
of color
birds against rain and the sun.
l Craft knife
l Tacky Glue
Step 1: Lets start by creating the l Optional - small picture
little porch using the lid. Thread of bird to decorate wood
fine wire through the hole in the l Mod Podge
lid and then twist it.

Step 5: Cut the wood to size. The


teapot looks best with the spout
pointing downwards and no
wood showing behind the spout.
Step 2: Thread the wires Step 3: Cross the wires around Place your teapot on top of the
crosswise through handle of the the handle and twist again until wood and check for size. Cut with
teapot. the lid stays firmly in place. the craft knife.

92 American Miniaturist

AM134_MarianneTutorial_p092-094.indd 92 4/9/14 10:15 AM


Bird nest

to find any birds that were small Step 4: Glue the clay shape to
enough I resorted to a little trick. the back of your bird using a little
Tacky Glue.
Tools & materials:
Step 5: When dry, gently rub
l Pictures or cut outs of over the picture so it shapes over
 tiny birds that fit the scale the clay shape and then you are
of your project.
done. Add one or more birds to
l Air-drying clay
your little teapot birdhouse using
l Tiny scissors
Step 6: Glue teapot to wood and Tacky Glue.
l Mod Podge
leave to dry.
l Paint brush
l Tacky Glue Second birdhouse
Step 7: Add a little bit of lichen, For the second version, I replaced
vine, or moss into the teapot for the wood shape with a little
nesting material. Step 1: Cut out the birds. Don’t wreath and omitted the porch.
loose them! See Snippits, page 93.
Step 8: Decorate with the flower Tools & materials:
foam, but use it very sparingly
or there will just be clumps of it, l A teapot with a lid that
which will not look good. Apply can come off and has the
usual tiny hole in it
glue and sprinkle foam on top.
l Wreath, I used a heart
shape
l Moss, lichen, stretchy
vine, and flower foam as
before
l Tacky Glue
l Optional - birds
Step 2: Paint the front and back
with Mod Podge to protect the
picture. Step 1: Decorate the wreath
using the moss, stretchy vine, and
Step 3: Make a little tear drop flower foam.
shape out of your clay that will fit
Step 9: Optional - Cut out a tiny behind the bird so you will not
picture to decoupage to the top see it from the front. Leave to dry.
of the wood shape. It just adds a
little extra. Glue the picture with
Mod Podge and add a layer of
Mod Podge on the top as well for
a nice finish.

Adding birds
I wanted to add some birds to
my tiny scene as well. Not being Step 2: Glue the teapot to the
very good with clay and unable wreath.

American Miniaturist 93

AM134_MarianneTutorial_p092-094.indd 93 4/9/14 10:15 AM


Bird nest

it is nice to give them Step 6: Glue


a little roof so they stay the tail of
dry. What better thing thread into
to use than the leftover the lid making
lid to create a little bird sure the ball
feeder? will hang
nicely. Leave
Step 1: Glue the hook to to dry. Add a
the lid as in the photo. little loop for
Use glue that is suitable hanging, using
for ceramics. brown thread.
It will look
very good
hanging from a branch. Now add
a bird!
Step 3: Build a little nest inside
the wreath using the lichen and If you do not have a teapot
moss. there are plenty of other things
you can use
Step 4: Add the birds if you like. Step 2: Glue moss and flowers to to make a
the lid. This will also help to keep fancy little
Tools & materials: the hook in place. Paint the hook birdhouse.
in a color to match the lid. In the
l Teapot lid Netherlands
l Tiny foam ball, or a bead where I
that will fit into the lid live, people
l Bits of cork or model often use an
railroad gravel
old wooden
l Tacky Glue
shoe and
l Mod Podge
the birds
l Fine white net or tulle
l A sizable hook from a
seem very
hook and loop closure Step 3: Paint the foam ball with happy
l Ceramics glue Tacky Glue and dip into gravel or about living
l Moss, etc for the teapot cork. Pat the gravel into the glue in them.
and wreath making sure the entire ball is I have even seen birds nesting in
l Paint to match teapot covered. Leave to dry. rubber boots!
l Sewing thread in white Other things you could have
and brown Step 4: Paint the ball with Mod fun with are an old flowerpot,
Podge. This will hold the gravel pieces of crockery like a coffee
into place even better. pot, a pitcher, or a jar. I used a
rather big sugar bowl for one of
Bird Feeder Step 5: Wrap the ball into net or mine and decorated it with a tiny
Now we have a leftover lid, but tulle and tie with white sewing wreath to make it look pretty. I
I found a use for that too. When thread. Cut off excess material, think the real birds in the garden
you hang suet balls in the garden but leave a little tail of thread. will be jealous now. AM

94 American Miniaturist

AM134_MarianneTutorial_p092-094.indd 94 4/9/14 10:15 AM


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Index
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cales PaPer Punches
0!0%205.#( advertisers index
in Plants, kits, and
144th, 1/4”, 1/2” and PAPER PUNCHES (not shown actual size) ARENE AND KATE’S......................95 ARTIST & DESIGNER....................95
n Karatjas
san@sdkminiatures.
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PAPER PUNCH
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and plants. CHELSEA LANE HOUSE OF the Waterfront.......................15
Some punches MINIATURES.....................................8 miniShapers................................95
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designed by Circus Dollhouse...................51 MOLLY CROMWELL......................15
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Hanky Panky. MS PEGGIE’S PLACE....................50
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ON A SMALLER SCALE.................15
seum of Complete color catalog $4.00 U.S./Foreign $7.50 pp.
DOLLHOUSE LAND.........................3
Hanky Panky Crafts PO Box 6 Blue Earth, OUT OF THE ORDINARY..............51
lls and Toys MN 56013
Phone: 507-526-3110 Fax: 507-526-5969 DOLLHOUSES PEARCE MINIATURES....................8
E-Mail: rhanke@bevcomm.net TRAINS & MORE............................50 REAL GOOD TOYS................51, 100
Web: hankypankycrafts.com
DOREEN SINNETT TINY DOLLS....8 RIK PIERCE
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! could be missing out. ELEGANT DOLLHOUSE (THE).....50 SHELLIE’S MINI MANIA.................50
4 • Sun 1-4 W
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DT.com 1-866-606-6587 BY BARBARA SABIA......................95
GRANDT LINE PRODUCTS............8
Kitchen laser cut SUTTON MINIATURES OR
HANDLEY HOUSE...........................9 MANHATTAN DOLLHOUSES........95
Kit $8.00 Completed kitchen $40.00
ADVERTISERS' INDEX
Include $2.25 for shipping HANKY PANKY CRAFTS...............96 TEC INNOVATIONS..........................9
...................................... 82 Plants,
Lolly’s kits, and furniture in 1/144th, 1/120th,
............................................................................. 69
HAPPILY EVER AFTER..................51 TEXAS MINIATURE
1/4”, 1/2” and 1” scales. Over 750 kits HOUSE OF CARON.......................95
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Miniature Pricelist LSASE and include scale.
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Miniature Memories
JEEPERS MINIATURES.................50 TEXAS TINY....................................95
useum.............................9 Susan.................................................
Karatjas, 26 Easy Street, 33
Indiana, PA 15701. KAREN CARY’S MINIATURES......95 THE MINIATURE CELLAR.............51
.........................................9 Miniature Scene Of York.......................................... 33
www.sdkminiatures.com
724-349-6371 KITZ!................................................95 THE TOY BOX................................50
niatures.........................9 Miniature Shop Directory.................................42-43
LITTLE ENCHANTMENTS.............51 TOM THUMB HOBBY & CRAFT....50
...................................... 75 Miniatures by Carolyn McVicker .......................... 33
LORI ANN POTTS Toy Worlds Museum Basel....2
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op................................. 69 What’s Next? Inc......................................................... 74
...................................... 33

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96 American
96 American Miniaturist
Miniaturist

004JUN14_p096.indd 96 4/30/14 10:50 AM


Miniature grapes

Make the fruits


of your labor
Amanda Phillips was determined to come
up with a simpler way to make miniature
grapes and here is how she did it!

G
rapes have always looked Step 1: Soften
like the most challenging all of the clay
miniature to make. They’re colors and
delicate and beautiful, and the make mixtures
prospect of creating something according to
with so much detail can seem the photo.
daunting. I knew I’d have to tackle Four different
this, so I put my brain to work and mixtures are
found an easier way. needed.
• 50% Translucent,
Tools & materials: 25% Red, 25%
Purple.
• 50% Translucent,
50% Red. Step 2: Make tiny grape shaped
• 50% Translucent, 25% Yellow, balls from each of the clay mix-
25% Green. tures. These will be your grapes
• 50% Translucent, 50% Green. and they should be about the
size of the
head of
a hairpin.
Bake the
grapes
according
l Red, Purple, Green, to the clay
Yellow and Translucent manu-
polymer clay facturer’s
l Translucent liquid Sculpey instructions.
l Real life grape stems Then allow
l A miniature bowl
the grapes
(optional)
to cool.

American Miniaturist 97

AM134_Amanda Grapes_Tutorial.indd 97 4/28/14 11:07 AM


Miniature grapes

Step 3: Break your grape stems


into small pieces.

Step 4: Pick up a small piece of


your grape stem and coat the
end in Translucent liquid Sculpey.
You may wish to use tweezers for
this step.

Your miniature grapes are now sizes, color mixtures, and stem
finished and can be displayed in materials to make even more
a fruit bowl or even in the hand beautiful fruit. You could even
of a doll. make enough grapes to make your
Step 5: Roll the coated grape Experiment with shapes, very own wine vineyard! AM
stem into a pile of finished
grapes. All your tiny grapes
should grab hold to make a
perfect grape stem.

Step 6: Carefully lay the bundles


of grapes on your baking tile or
tray. You can add more grapes/
liquid clay if needed. Bake for
approximately 10-15 minutes.

98 American Miniaturist

AM134_Amanda Grapes_Tutorial.indd 98 4/28/14 11:07 AM


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