AMN152

Enjoy a gallery of miniature art that’s full of Christmas spirit!December 15 Issue #152 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $7.95 CANADA $10.95 CAD. UK £ 5.25 PROJECTS • Christmas stocking • Shop counter • A winter sled • Snow and icicles • A little sweater • Mini cream can • Djembe drumSpreading holiday cheer Aminibakeryby Roxanne Fern

Alessio MiniaturesThe New Standard in Miniatures Windows • Doors • Roofing • Fancy Trim-work NEW Doors and Windows (Custom Windows Avail.)#826 Garden Shed NEW Asphalt Laser Trim & CedarFlooring Shingles We now have 11 colors! See your local miniature shop and ask for the best! For a dealer near you go to: www.ministores.org www.AlessioMiniatures.com 631-673-62772 American Miniaturist

Dollhouse Land Artistry in Miniatures See you at the Southern California & Chicago International Shows (949) 496-9841 [email protected] Visit Us on Facebook 27134A Paseo Espada, Suite 304 San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Molly Cromwell Presents... TRAVEL EUROPE WITH KINDRED SPIRITS CHRISTMAS MARKETS ALONG THE DANUBE DECEMBER 1 ~ 9, 2015 Cruising Nuremberg to Vienna ~ Lots of Miniatures! Plus, onboard mini miniatures show * Regensburg * Passau * Melk * Make your deposit today with Grand Circle Lines: 800-597-2452 Press Extension 2 to reserve your trip with Molly’s Group: Code is G5 20068 ENGLAND MAY 8 ~ 16, 2016 London ~ The Cotswolds ~ 2 Days at Kensington Dolls House Festival Please send name and address for a printed brochure. Deposit required with balance due by March 1, 2016. All questions and deposits for this trip come directly to Molly: 703.978.5353 or [email protected] THE RIVIERAS: FRANCE * ITALY & THE ISLES JULY 30 ~ AUGUST 14, 2016 Optional Pre-Cruise Trip to Aix en Provence Cannes * Nice * Portofino * Cinque Terre * Santa Margherita * Florence & more Call Grand Circle Number above ~ Group Code G6 20068 CALIFORNIA TOUR OCTOBER ~ 2016 Private Collections ~ Miniature Shops ~ 2 Days at The Good Sam Show The 2015 trip SOLD OUT so reserve your spot early!Info: Ruth at grouchAyblleqauretsotioo@nsaaonld.cdoemposoirts4fo0r8-th9i9s7tr-1ip0c0o4me dhirtetcpt:ly//gtooModosllaym. showcase.miniature.net httpF://ogroomdosaremisnhfoowr.mblaotgisopno:[email protected]/•GPohoodnSea:m(S7h0o3w) 9ca7s8e-O53fM53iniatures www.mollycromwell.com American Miniaturist 3





min imail AM is your magazine, and we want to hear from 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 because she liked boy’s toys like me a dollhouse, but it never cars and trains. happened.This month’s star letter was She said she did all sorts ofwritten by Leilani Bonilla I would see my mom and dadWho shared a touching story. things to it so that her parents cry on the holidays and neverWe truly love to share your would throw it away and she understood why. I didn’t knowprojects and letters with wouldn’t have to see it any more. I why Santa would not read myour readers, and it means so cried because I felt so sad for that letters. Until one day I told mymuch to us that you take the dollhouse and because I knew aunt about it. I asked her whytime to write! To thank Leilani there were probably other little if I am a good little girl and dofor her wonderful letter, we girls out there who, like me, would all that’s asked of me why Santawill be sending her a very have loved to be able to have a doesn’t read my letters.special project DVD. Please dollhouse. This girl didn’t know how blessed she was, but I did. She tried to comfort mekeep your letters coming. I said, “You are so lucky, and told me it’s not because he doesn’t read your lettersWe love learning about a dollhouse is what I have and he certainly does love you and would bring you thatyou and your projects and always wanted ever since I can dollhouse in a flash if he could. She explained that mom andhearing your comments remember.” She replied, “Well, too dad need to work extra hard to put food on the table and keepand ideas. We always look bad you can’t have one because a roof over our heads, and with you are poor, but I can!” And with that Santa also helps, but thereforward to reading your that she stuck her tongue out and are so many other little girls and pushed me out of her way. I just boys who don’t even have thatthoughtful letters! so Santa works extra hard to help them too. stood there in shock because we were not brought up that way. She said to keep writing SantaA letter to Santa You see, at our house we could and to thank him for all the goodLast year Amanda only afford food on the table he does throughout the yearsPhillips’ article about and a roof over our heads and and you will see that when youher mother and her sometimes my least expect it, you will havedollhouse, in issue Mercedes Spencer adds country style to her Christmas house. parents had to that dollhouse. One day you will understand!AM140, reminded me of choose one orhow I dreamed of having the other. So I kept writing and thankinga dollhouse as a child. December 14 Issue #140 www.americanminiaturist.com CANADAP$9r.2i5cCeAD$. U6K.£94.525 I would Santa, then once I grew up andOne of my classmates had my own children I totallyalways talked about her PROJECTS write letters to understood. I understood what it • Knitted baby outfit Santa and put was like to have my children go • Miniature camera without and I understood why • Holiday pillows my parents cried. They had always • Sofa bed & futon wanted me to have that special • Paper pottery gift, but just couldn’t afford it— • Mini handbag just as I couldn’t afford it.dollhouse. I wanted to them under After my aunt passed awaysee it so badly because I my bed as she left me a shoebox and in itwished I had one. I would we couldn’t a letter reminding me of all thedream of fairies flying afford a tree. I i htaround gathering tiny A delicious holiday! begged Santawthings and decorating it. Treats for Santa made by Jen Tuttle for a dollhouse pso iursaetT.i V no On show-and-tell day 140_cover.indd 1 10/23/14 10:25 AM ni hs because I had d lo l ni D Fshe came with photos of her been a very good little girl, I wasdollhouse. It was amazing. I extra good at home and in school,asked her about it and with a did my homework early, made thesnobby tone she said she had bed, and helped mom clean andnever wanted it and didn’t know sweep just so Santa would see Iwhy anyone would give it to her was being good and maybe bring6 American Miniaturist

min imail Rooms from a dollhouse that Leilani and her grandchildren have named the “Happy House”. It was rescued and renovated with love.letters I had sent to Santa all box is for you. Take it and treasure Halloween is just different fromthose years. There was also a it because it was made especially the rest. Many of my mini friendscard from Santa that read, for you—for all the years and all don’t like Halloween, but I love the tears, for all the waiting and for the fall colors, textures, and all “My dear child, being such a good little girl and a the characters that come out of I read every one of your spectacular human being. Santa the wood work.letters and saw how good a is so very grateful to have had youlittle girl you have always been, quietly working there by his side This issue had a lot of how-I had no doubt about that. I doing good deeds for others. Stay to’s and lots of ideas. Lovedhope you forgave me for all strong, move forward, and continue them all. I look forward tothose years you thought I didn’t doing good things for others. I will receiving this magazine everyread your letters, nor cared, but always be here for you as I have month. Keep up the great work!I did. It’s just that there were so always been and forever will be.many other little children much Vicki Dukesworse off than you and your With all my love, Santa!” Grand Ledge, MIfamily who I needed to tend to. You see, I finally got that I knew you barely had food dollhouse! And I am forever Fran Moore uses lessons from a master to make Cobweb Cottageto eat and that sometimes you grateful to my dear auntie andhad to live on the street and Santa. Waiting pays off! October 15 Issue #150 www.americanminiaturist.comwore hand-me-down clothes I love you auntie! I love youand shoes with cardboard and Santa! Thank you! CANADA $1P0.r95icCAeD.$U7K £.95.255newspaper on the inside tocover the holes. I knew how Leilani Bonilla •PROJECTScold you were in the winter Bronx, NY • WCaitrcahm’sehl aatpplesbecause you didn’t have a coat; •••••MAKMMinitonictnuiihqicsesuuecnepaincrmceaaacbikrrpireonouswermtspkinI knew how much your mom October Highlightsand dad had to be away from The October issue of American Witches on the town STihlkreeeJlaonvaesly-Slacdhileosesbsyerhome in order to work just to Miniaturist was the best yet! I 04OC15_p001.indd 1be able to afford the little bit loved the mouse in the pumpkin,they could. I was there, I was so cute. I plan to make one 8/27/15 12:36 PMalways there! just like it. Making Halloween If you look inside the closet miniatures are my favorite as Facebook Twitter Blog: A Smallyou will find a huge box. That well as Christmas, but some how World’s Big Buzz American Miniaturist 7

Christmas stockingMake a miniholiday stockingJanet Granger shares her techniquefor making a dollhouse needlepointChristmas stocking using her kit.M iniature needlepoint allow it to be mounted in a card Tools & materials: Christmas stockings are mount, to make stitching easier. simple to make, and The thread used on this count of l 40 count silk gauzeare ideal for adding that personal silk gauze is a very fine Rayon silk. l Very fine Rayon silk intouch to your festive dollhouse A suitably fine needle is includedscene or room-setting. Hang in the kit, along with a clear color preferred colorsthem up at the fireplace or at block chart to count from, and a l Tapestry needlethe end of the bed on Christmas piece of Ultrasuede to back the l A piece of UltrasuedeEve, one for each child, and wait miniature stocking with. Detailed l Scissorsto see if Santa fills them with instructions are included in the kit l Glue stickgoodies during the night! to make these. When completed, l Pencil they measure just 1.4 inches high The miniature needlepoint altogether. if you are right-handed, and overChristmas stocking kit design your right shoulder if you arefeatured in this article is called Extra tools to help left-handed so that you are not“Candle”, and is to be stitched As this count of silk gauze is quite working in your own shadow).using 40 count silk gauze. It is small, you may find it helpful to If you are using a pale shade toone of a range that I produce. The use some kind of magnifying stitch with, it will be helpful tokits contain a piece of silk gauze lens. There are several on the place a piece of plain dark fabricwith enough spare border area to market, which are discussed in the (such as a pillowcase) across your Basic Equipment tutorial on my lap, as it makes the holes of the website. Lighting, I find, is even silk gauze show up clearer against more important than a magnifier, the dark background. when working on the smaller counts of fabric. Natural daylight is best, but if you want to stitch in artificial light, make sure that the light is shining straight down onto the silk gauze from above (over you left shoulder8 American Miniaturist

Christmas stockingStep 1: Before you begin manageable, dampen each Assemble the stockingstitching, make a card mount for strand just before threading Step 5: Trim the gauze to athe gauze. your needle by having a piece of quarter of an inch all round the damp cotton wool to hand and stitching. This will make it much easier to running each separate strandwork on, and help to keep your across it just before starting to Cut the unworked gauze atstitch tension even. stitch, and it will be much easier intervals of about a quarter of an to stitch with. inch around the curved edges of Cut a piece of stiff card 3 ¾” the stocking, being careful notx 4”, with an aperture of 2” x 2 Step 3: Begin each length by to cut into the stitching itself,½”. Fix the gauze to the card knotting one end, taking the then fold the unworked gauze towith masking tape along all four needle from the front to the the back all the way around theedges, as tautly as possible (see back, about half an inch away stocking, creasing it with yourthe mounting silk gauze tutorial from where you intend to nail to get a sharp edge, andon my website for further details). start stitching, then stitching making sure no unworked gauze toward the knot, securing the is showing. Cutting the gauze at underlying thread as you go, intervals makes it easy to get the and then cutting off the knot gauze to lie flat when folded under. when you reach it. This is called the “waste knot method”.Step 2: The thread colors for Step 4: Finish each length bythe stocking kits are pre-sorted running the needle under a fewonto a thread organizer. Using threads on the back. When thetent stitch as indicated in the stitching is complete, removediagram, select the relevant it from the card mount, andcolor thread and start the design press it if necessary using a dryin the center. iron, pulling the fabric gently if necessary to get it dead square. Remember that one square onthe chart equals one stitch, andalways use a “stabbing” motion,not a “sewing” one. Rayon silkcomes as 6 strand lengths.Use one of these strands inthe needle. Rayon silk can be“bouncy”. To make it more American Miniaturist 9

Christmas stocking is finished), make a loop stitch about 1/8” and 1/8” down from the side and top at the back of the stocking (furthest from the toe), and long enough to slip over the hook or bed-end that you intend to hang it on. Finish off securely with a couple of tiny back stitches.Step 6: Cut out the card Step 9: Unpeel the card templatetemplate provided (exactly on and discard it, then cut aroundthe line, not outside it). the pencilled shape, using sharp scissors.Step 7: Temporarily stick it to the Step 10: If you plan to “hang up“ Step 11: Using a length ofsmooth side of the Ultrasuede the stocking when it is finished Rayon silk in the same shadefabric, with the toe of the (at a fireplace or bed-end, for as the background stitches oftemplate facing to the left, using instance), make a small loop for the stocking, and starting atPritt Stick or a similar glue stick. this purpose now, by taking a the top corner furthest from single strand of the Rayon silk in the toe, catch down the seamStep 8: Draw carefully around a color which coordinates with allowance of the gauze with athe shape onto the fabric with a the design you have stitched few oversewing stitches alongsharp pencil. (not necessarily a color that the top only. Do not finish off this coordinates with the color of the length of thread yet.10 American Miniaturist Ultrasuede, as the Ultrasuede will hardly be seen on the finished stocking), threading a sharp sewing needle and making a good double knot in the end of the thread. Starting with the knot on the smooth side of the Ultrasuede (that is, the side that will be the inside of the stocking when it

Christmas stockingStep 12: Now place the by stitching the very last GET IN TOUCHUltrasuede and the stitched “oversewing” stitch twice in thestocking shape together, wrong same place, and then poking Janet Granger Designssides facing, with the right side of the needle down inside thethe needlepoint nearest you, and stocking, wiggling it backwards Rose Cottage, Leek Road,stitch around the edge of the and forwards slightly, so that it Waterhousesstocking shape with the same catches in the unworked gauze Staffordshire ST10 3JSlength of thread, oversewing border several times on its way Englandthe two pieces together with down, for about three quarterstiny stitches (preferably, make a of an inch. Poke it out through Email: [email protected] into every second or third the Ultrasuede side, pull the co.ukhole of the gauze around the thread taut and cut the thread Web: www.janetgranger.edge of the design, one hole in close to the Ultrasuede. The tiny co.ukfrom the edge). end of the thread will disappear Blog: http://janetgranger. back inside the stocking, making wordpress.com “Favor” the needlepoint side – a neat finish. Remember to Facebook: https://that is, slightly push the folded leave the top horizontal edge www.facebook.com/needlepoint edge out from the unstitched! janetgrangerdesignsUltrasuede so that as you make Etsy: https://www.your stitches they are slightly at Your miniature stocking is now etsy.com/uk/shop/an angle, making the edge of ready to be put out on Christmas DollhouseEmbroideryUltrasuede more hidden. If you Eve and is ready for Santa to fill Pinterest: http://need to start a new length of with presents! www.pinterest.com/rayon silk as you are oversewing janetembroideryaround the edge, finish off theold length and start the newlength by anchoring the threadends in the unworked gauzeborder.Step 13: Make sure that thehanging loop is kept out of theway as you finish off oversewingthe front and back together.Finish off securely when youreach the second top corner, American Miniaturist 11

Mini word playWMIoNrIdATpUlaRyISfTorS Take Mandy Groves’ challenge and suggest what the best collective noun would be for a group of miniaturists.What do you call a I mean, why should fish otherwise “sticky” situation. group of miniatur- swim together in a school? I Perhaps the soldiers lull the ists? No it’s not a had no idea that fish had anyjoke, I’m being deadly seri- inclination towards getting enemy into thinking that theyous. Everyone else seems to themselves an education. are unarmed, by disguisinghave a collective noun except And why should a group of their bayonets as trees andfor us. It’s not as if we don’t bayonets be called a grove? wandering around with theirhang around together. I thought that a grove was hands in their pockets whis- a group of trees. I appreci- tling nonchalantly. Then, just I’ve asked a few people ate that from a distance, a as the enemy relaxes, thinkinghere in England for their opin- that the bayonets are nothingions and some of the answers “Some groups even have more than a group of trees,have been interesting. My more than one group our boys “let ’em have it”.mum came up with “a chat- name. Owls may roosttering of miniaturists,” which famously in ‘parliaments’ Some groups even haveseems fitting, although her but they can also be more than one group name.husband’s contribution of “a grouped in ‘wisdoms’.” Owls may roost famously inboredom of miniaturists” was “parliaments” but they cannot quite so welcome. group of bayonets stuck in also be grouped in “wis- the ground, could loosely doms”. I’ve noticed that a Other groups often have resemble a group of trees, but lot of birds have cool nounsnames that refer to their I would have thought that of assemblage. For instance,nature, such as “a paddling the army had better things crows come in “murders”,of ducks” and “an army of to do with their bayonets eagles are said to be in aants”. Bees come in swarms than arrange them in tree like “convocation”, lapwings flyand hares group together in formations–unless of course, in a “deceit” and a group ofleaps; all nice, clear defini- it’s a strategy to introduce larks are an “exaltation”.tions of the kind of behavior an element of surprise in anthat we would expect from I’m not happy with “a clut-these groups. However, there ter of cats”. I’m a big cat loverare many collective nouns and to suggest that cats couldthat don’t seem to make any possibly “clutter” up onessense at all. home is unthinkable. I would have thought that a “cuddle”12 American Miniaturist

Mini word playof cats was a truer representa- Having considered the main were “a self-satisfaction oftion of their nature although, attributes to a good noun of miniaturists”.looking at my armchair, a assemblage, I propose that we“clawing” of cats would be choose something relevant, Miniaturists may group to-equally appropriate. I’m rather factually correct, and possibly gether in “a talent”, “an inge-pleased to find that a group of witty or amusing. nuity”, or “creativity”. At clubwriters is called “a worship”. night, miniaturists could beLike I said, it’s so important Having discovered that a said to be grouped togetherto choose a collective noun group of collective nouns is in “a gossip” or a “giggle”.that is obviously reflective of referred to, as a “collective” Depending on the task inthe true worth of the group in I think it would be advanta- hand they might be describedquestion. geous to steer away from any- as “a precision” or “an exact- thing dull. It’s also important ment”. Finally, not forgetting So where does that leave us? to consider that miniaturists those of you out there with aI’ve spent ages surfing the net may be many different things little less dexterity (you knowand it appears that there is no at different times. who you are) “a daub” or “anoun of assemblage for minia- stickiness”.turists. I found out that For example, during aa group of prisoners is called recent workshop where we So I’ll leave you all to have“a pity”, that seamstresses made bead bags, we miniatur- a think about an appropriategroup together in a “scolding”, ists could have been de- noun of assemblage for wethat undertakers, when they scribed as a “concentration”. miniaturists. Don’t allow thosehave a get together, can be When we dropped the beads around you to put you off withreferred to as an unction, but on the floor we were “an their oh so funny suggestions,nothing about miniaturists. exasperation” (also useful to such as “a tedium of minia- describe miniaturists who cut turists”. Don’t let those poor Don’t try telling me that up all the cereal boxes leaving unenlightened folk wear youminiaturists don’t have a col- you to guess at the contents down. Just remind them thatlective noun because they’re of the little bags on the cup- there’s not much worse thannot an officially recognized board shelf). After we had being “an unimagination ofgroup. Unicorns are mythical made our little bead bags, we nonminiaturists.” AMcreatures and yet they get tohang around in “a blessing”.Therefore, I propose that weall get together and decide onan official noun of assemblagefor miniaturists. As instigatorof this task, I reserve the rightto elect, adopt, and implementany noun of assemblage that Iadjudge suitable to representthe aforementioned group.Or in layman’s terms–it’s myidea, so I get to decide!Right: Soraya Merino’s miniatureSmiling Princess collection. American Miniaturist 13

subscription offerMaggie Rudy uses her passion for miniatures to build Mouseland Beautiful Reutter Porcelain giftsSeptember 15 Issue #149 www.americanminiaturist.com CANADA $1P0.r9i5cCeAD.$U7K .£95.525 FREE when you subscribe!PROJECTS••••••SCCKPMchriehtoiitcncochakihocemeelcnnrteaocacscoasoadombroooripniineleystsAn English cottage Madewithlove 7/29/15 1:15 PM You save on the Subscribe to the print edition of by Kammy Hill iMag and TV channel American Miniaturist for one year and we’ll give you the darling04ST15_p001.indd 1 Porcelain Cruet Set.When you subscribe to the print version, Subscribe for two years and weyou qualify for big savings on the American will send you the beautiful DresdenMiniaturist iMag digital library. Bathroom Set.With the iMag you will be able to read all the Take advantage of extra savings bycurrent magazines on your computer, plus subscribing for three years and we’llyou get access to back issues of American send you BOTH gifts for FREE!Miniaturist in the iMag library. Receive eachnew issue as soon as it’s ready. Subscribe today.Also, don’t miss dollshouse.tv! * It’s easy online or call the AMIt’s like having a workshop in your home. office toll free at 1-866-606-6587.You can watch programs 24 hours a dayvia the internet on your computer or on yourmobile device. 3easy ways to subscribe l Online at www.AmericanMiniaturist.com l Call toll free in the US at 1-866-606-6587 or 507-634-3143 UK +44 (0)1903 884988 l By mail using the form on the right

1 year gift 2 year giftGet both of theseBeautiful Reutter Porcelain All gifts subject to change.sets for F RE E AM ON THE TABLET AND PHONE:with a three year subscription and save even more! AM magazine is now available to read on your favorite device, including the iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Samsung Galaxy Tab. Gift Subscriptions make Buy the latest issue anywhere in the world at a fraction of the cost of the paper edition. a GREAT present for your Download your FREE App today. Simply search for favorite miniaturist! Y‘oAum’lelrgiceatn: M1 iyneiaaturroisft tMhaegpazriinnet’eidn vtheersAipopnle App store or Android1Myeaarkreot.f access to the iMag*One, two & three year subscription prices: 1 year of access to Dollshouse.TV1, 2CE&uar3noaypdeeaa::$r$1s7u35b6s//c$$r1i2p35t59io//n$$1p39r2i0c0esRU:eKURUs:SeKt$*s:o9t:£f2$7Wo7/9fo6$.W9r.19l9d8o9:0/r$/l£d/1$1$*41428*464:3/.09$.$9912939//50£$1.2/980$9953./.599$09926EC0ua.r9no9apde/a:$€(3C17CA12A0D..:)99:$99$11/42€012*.1919U.9/K9$:2/$3€1135.07919*.9/9$E3U3:0$.29091* ROW: $213* Save the postage, subscribe online at www.AmericanMiniaturist.comFirst Name Last Name I want to subscribe/renewAddress to American Miniaturist! 1 year ($76.99) 2 years ($143.99) (US Funds Only) (US Funds Only) 3 years ($205.99) (US Funds Only) Dollshouse TV Dollshouse TV 1 year 1 year ($49.99) with sub ($25.99)City State Zip iMag 1 year ($45.99) iMag 1 year / CVV2 with sub ($39.99)Country Telephone BEST BUY BUNDLE Magazine, iMag and TV for 1 year ($142.99)E-mail This is a gift subscriptionPlease debit my Mastercard / Visa / Amex / Discover Expires From:_________________________Card no. USA: UK: Return this form to: Return this form to: I do not wish to auto renew with the card listed above. Check enclosed payable to American Miniaturist American Miniaturist American Miniaturist 68132 250th Avenue PO Box 2258*US Currency Rates for USA Subscribers **US Currency Rates for ROW Subscribers Kasson, MN 55944 Pulborough Or call us today: RH20 9BA 1.866.606.6587 Great Britain Outside US: 507-634-3143 Or call us today: +44 (0)1903 884988

Shop counterA choice ofmini countersShopkeeper’s delight is to mix and matchwith these versatile miniature countersthat are designed by Keith Walker.F or this project I used a ramin wood to 45mm in width Tools & materials: mini router to create the and to your own required length. edge molding, but an Using a mini router, or file, shape l 15 or 19mm plywood alternative construction would the front edge and sides of the (length to suit) be to file a radius or angle to three pieces, as in the drawing. the edge. The wood I have used l 50mm x 6mm ramin before and can be purchased at Step 2: Cut out the ply to a wood (length to suit) DIY stores; Ramin. It can easily width of 35mm and to your be stained and also looks good chosen length, minus 5mm at l Perspex (plastic faux in its natural color. each end. Glue the ply to the glass) bottom section and leave to dry. There are three designs of l Acetate shop counter; a stand-alone l Mini router where the top, middle, and l Medium grade file bottom protrude wider than the l Sandpaper 240# sides, a corner unit, and a long l PVA glue flat counter designed for use l Super Glue with the corner section. Please note that the long, flat counter Step 3: Next, cut out the sides is made in the same way as the and angle one side from 40mm stand-alone counter. The only to 30mm, then file a groove on difference is that the front is the angled side for the Perspex shaped and not the sides. To make the long counter follow the stand-alone instructions, making it the length of your choice and keeping the sides flush.Stand-alone counterStep 1: Cut out the bottom,middle and top sections out of16 American Miniaturist

front to fit in. Make two strips the Shop counterlength of the angle side 6mmwide and 2mm thick. This will into the place between thehold the Perspex front in place. two sides. Sand the front facesGlue into position. smooth in preparation for the Perspex.Step 4: I made a setting block toposition the ends correctly. Gluethe sides to the bottom thenclamp into place. Step 6: For the back of the shelf cut a 12mm wide strip and slotStep 5: Cut a strip 6mm wide Step 7: Cut a piece of Perspex tothat will fit between the side fit inside the front slots and slidestrips, apply glue and slide into this into place.position. Step 8: An old desk diary came in handy as a piece of covering for the inside shelf and a glue stick is ideal to use as adhesive as it allows a little time to position the cover accurately. American Miniaturist 17

Shop counter waste pieces from the outside diameter to use later. Router or file the front edge to suit. Step 11: Cut the ply on a similar radius at a width of 35mm from back to front and glue the bottom and middle in place.Step 9: Finally, slot the Perspex Step 12: Next cut out the sidesinto the front of the counter and glue into place. As shown,and add a small amount of PVA cut a thin strip from your wasteglue to the top of the sides to piece. This will makekeep it in position. I used brown the bottom formahogany wood stain to give an keeping the Perspexold fashioned look, alternatively in position. Youyou could paint clear Danish oil should now havefor a natural look. a slot on each side and a recess at theCorner unit shelf for the PerspexStep 10: Cut out the three to fit into.quadrants from the sizes givenon the drawing. Save one of the Tip: When constructing your unit, take care not to scratch, or get varnish on your Perspex as this may cause permanent damage.18 American Miniaturist

Step 13: Cut a Shop countersmall segment to Perspex template, cut length to suit the corner unitfit inside the backand glue this intoposition. Don’tglue the topon yet. Use thetemplate to cutout the Perspex ordraw two radiuses 130and 170mm, bend and slot intoplace. Finally, glue on the top.Step 14: Again, I finished the unit When constructingwith Danish oil for a natural finish your unit, take carebut do take care not to get any not to scratch, or geton the Perspex. varnish on your Perspex as this may cause permanent damage. 130mm rad 170mm radNow you have a beautiful shopcounter unit to adorn yourminiature shop and hold manytiny items for display. AM American Miniaturist 19

Wheelsright’s workshopPTIMreEseSrGvOinNgEBY We don’t see many wheelsright’s workshops in this day and age; you might say their role has come full circle.Some miniature settings are so good that you could almost close your eyesand listen to the sounds oftimes past. Sit back and takein the sounds of the villagewheelwright as he goes abouthis daily routine. You can almost hear theringing of the smith’s hammeras he forces the hot metal intoshape. The rhythm of horseshoofs pounding on the roadand the click clacking of thecarts newly laden with goods“Take heart that this bygone trade is perfectlypreserved in miniature.”just unloaded from moored seasoned and ready to put to Above: The scene is set just as itbarges and a high pitched use in making and repairing would be in real life, back in time.screeching of badly oiled car- wagons, carts and wheelbar-riage wheels; a sure sign that rows including of course the all smaller carpentry jobs, such asthe Wheelwright’s skills would important wheel. a new handle for the baker’ssoon be needed. paddle or a plough for the local Perhaps he has an appren- farmer. The wheelwright has chosen tice somewhere who takes onthe right oak, elm and ash forthe day’s jobs from his store,where it sits until it is properly20 American Miniaturist

Wheelsright’s workshop Being a village wheelwright Graham Wood of Little spent on this commissionwas a respectable job and a tra- Homes of England, is known in when it was finished, althoughditional craft industry that stood the hobby for his architecturally he happily admitted that heat the centre of village life. authentic work and attention wanted the best–and he got it. to detail; the brickwork and The workshop and forge are beams of the workshop are What a pity a wheelwright’scluttered with the parapherna- testament to this. Graham also workshop is not a commonlia of the wheelwrights’ trade, made the hayrick outside of the sight today, but then again,including distinctive treadle-op- workshop, but the tools, work can you think of anything weerated grindstones and lathes, a bench and spinning wheel aretyring plate, used for setting the by Ray Cunnel.“This kind of workshop The tip-cart, plough, black-is a sheer delight for smith’s bellows and lathe areany miniaturist who by Geoff Lewis while Jimcan get themselves lost Watt made the thatchingin the nitty gritty of tools for the haystack.interesting tools.“ Like other commit- ted collectors, Ianiron hops round wooden wagon could have had awheels, blacksmiths’ hearths, luxury holidaywith hand-powered bellows, for two withtool racks, clamps, vices, gas the moneylamps, and wheel components, he mustincluding rim pieces, spokes haveand hubs. This kind of workshop is asheer delight for any miniaturistwho can get themselves lost ininteresting tools.Wheel of fortune A beautiful rustic building, evenThe quality of workmanship the bottom of the doors showand detail in this Wheelwright’s the ware-and-tear of time.workshop (below and right)is mind-blowing and involvedseveral top makers working incollaboration to achieve. Enthu-siast Ian Titman had the piecemade to recreate a rural settingbased on the country estate hegrew up on in Windlesham andelements from the Museum ofRural Life at Reading. American Miniaturist 21

Wheelsright’s workshopRight: Two men are busy at workwith the tools of the trade. Such agreat way to preserve history.all use that needs woodenwheels? At least in miniaturethe wheelwright is preservedfor all to remember and if youclose your eyes and listen, youcan just hear the ringing of thehammer. AM22 American Miniaturist

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A first room boxAFIRSgTrAaTnTdEMPTJane Dater was inspired by anotherminiaturist to create her very ownroom box with a Christmas theme.~Photography by Jane and Philip DaterIbelieve I’ve loved minia- 50’s one, with the furniture first attempts, but soon after tures ever since my aunt printed on the walls. I’m sure I wanted to build rooms that gave me a tiny plastic baby I found it highly unsatisfacto- were a bit more complex. I doll that was dressed in lace. ry, although I did have some studied the room boxes by I began building rooms out of blocky wooden furniture and miniaturist Robert Off so that shoeboxes and apple crates a plastic family with their I could understand how he and anything I could get clothing molded on. created the rooms with angled my hands on. I saved jelly walls. containers from restaurants After a career as a regis- for baby bathtubs and, on tered nurse, I rediscovered I found a copy of Brooke vacation, I spent hours in miniatures. I found some Tucker’s Golden Christmas: the woods building houses wonderful books with in- out of twigs. My only of- structions on how to build Top: Miniaturist Jane Dater. ficial dollhouse was a metal miniature rooms and furnish Below: The room in full view. Jane them. I was happy with my learned how to use a circluar saw to cut the wood for the room box.24 American Miniaturist

A first room box side of the room. The finished room box includes a lid to cover everything, which can be propped up if needed. Before I papered the ceiling in the dining room, I drilled a grid of nine holes in the area where I thought the chande- lier would be installed. Then it was quite simple to poke a straight pin down from the top when I had finished the diningBuilding a Miniature Master- Above: The coffee table made from “The living room flowspiece. I was so excited when illustration board, a picture frame’s back to the dining roomI first started and I had no glass, and spindles holds a Fabergé through two columns.idea how much work would flower by Eugene Kupjack and a Three steps lead up tobe involved. The actual nativity scene purchased at a show. the platform whereconstruction of the room box Below: The party guests may be the Christmas tree andrequired that I cut huge pieces tempted to eat dessert first! gifts wait for Christmasof plywood with my circular morning.”saw, which was fairly nerve- gave access to the back of theracking. illustration board walls and room and knew where the made electrification easier. chandelier should go. Once the pieces could be cut The top of the box could beon the table saw, I was much used to hold a power strip for When the box was fin-more comfortable. The most some lights and a copper tape ished and covered with oakimportant thing I learned from strip for lights on the other veneer, the fun part began.the box From Brooke’s instructions,construc- I learned to cut the varioustion was walls from illustration board.to put a Highly detailed instructionshingeddoor in American Miniaturist 25each sideand inthe back.The doors

A first room box Left: A cozy spot to enjoy a glass of wine and some Christmas cookies.and patterns helped me make dining room mantel by attach- made the lamps on thethe two sets of shelves around ing cardstock lampshades to living room mantel.the fireplaces. My husband electrified candlesticks. I alsocut the plastic for the shelf The three windowsinserts with a laser. I made the on the platform werefireplace in the living room; built according tothe one in the dining room is Brooke’s instructions,by Lawbre. with the wood being cut on a mullion mak- One of the most satisfy- er. The rounded topsing parts of this project was of the windows weremaking the marble tiles on cut, very carefully,the platform by the windows. from layers of posterAfter gluing marble paper board. The sceneto poster board, I cut it into outside the windowsstrips and then into squares is a picture of Centralwith a wonderful device called Park that I found on“The Chopper.” the Internet. I placed landscaping bushes outside The Christmas tree and the the windows and sprinkledwreath over the dining roomfireplace were made fromkits. I made the lamps on theRight: The scene behind thewindows is Central Park in winter—stark trees in a snowy landscape.26 American Miniaturist

A first room boxthem with powdered snow. Left: This liquor cart The two armless chairs The curtains were con- was fun to make were kits and I made the sofa once Jane discovered by extending Kris Compas’sstructed using patterns and the small gears pattern for an upholsteredinstructions from two books: that could become armchair. The gold side tablesDollhouse Décor wheels. were made from pre-cutand The Big squares and circles from theBook of a Min- designed the two craft store, as well as parts ofiature House. chairs at the front dollhouse banisters.Although I had of the room boxleftover silk using the photos I could not find anything likefrom the living of Brooke’s chairs the glass-topped coffee tableroom furniture, as a reference. For shown in Brooke’s photos. AtI chose to make the upholstery on one of the craft stores, I foundthe curtains the chairs, I sized a picture frame which had afrom soft, and printed a rug 2\" by 3\" piece of glass and Isubtly striped design on white designed the table around this.cotton I found cotton fabric. I I used illustration board forin a quilt shop. printed the same the top and bottom pieces and design on a piece of white vel- spindles as the legs. When it came veteen for the living room rug,time to make to which I glued black velvet Below: The chandelier was thethe furniture, ribbon as a border. finishing touch in the dining room.I had to getcreative be-cause I couldn’tfind what Iwanted in theretail market. I American Miniaturist 27

A first room box Left: The banquet table is being prepared; soon the guests will arrive. The liquor cart was fun to pensive dangly earrings. with foam. I was terrified thatmake; the wheels are from a I made the demilune table I would hang the chandeliercraft store. I had found a small and it would come crashingbag of gears and two became with pre-cut circles (that I cut down. I used a wooden buttonfront wheels for the cart, in half) and staircase spin- and secured the chandelierwhich I made out of basswood dles. The tiny fleur-de-lis on chain’s jump hook throughand painted gold. the front was a charm. The one hole. I threaded the chan- Christmas presents are blocks delier wire through the second Most of the decorative items of wood covered in paper or hole. Leaving the chandelieron the living room shelves are cardstock. nestled in its protective box,things that I have collected over I glued the wooden button tothe years. The framed pictures The dining room table is the ceiling and then put smallin the dining room were images boxes under the oatmeal boxthat I downloaded from the “The actual construction so there was no weight pull-Internet. I made the frames and of the room box required ing down on the chain as thepainted them gold. The table in that I cut huge pieces of glue dried. The next morn-the front of the box between the plywood with my circular ing I removed the boxes andtwo chairs was made from an- saw, which was fairly flipped the switch to light theother downloaded image, which nerve-racking.” chandelier. The chandelierI printed and then wrapped was the last step in the pro-around a section of dowel. The just a simple box shape cov- cess and was truly the icingtop and bottom of the table ered with white silk pleated in on the cake. It always thrillswere pre-cut wooden pieces. a Pretty Pleater and some gor- me when I can get miniature geous lace that I picked up at lights to work properly. My big splurge for the room the Good Sam show last year.was a Fabergé flower by Eu- I learned so much from do-gene Kupjack. I was thrilled to To hang the chandelier I ing this project and I am eter-be able to see the original at a used the packaging that the nally grateful to Brooke Tuckerspecial Fabergé exhibit in Las chandelier came in, something for writing the book. At thisVegas. The rhinestone picture like an oatmeal box padded point, I feel confident that Iframes came from a set of inex- can design and build my own rooms and I have ideas for several future projects dancing in my head. AM GET IN TOUCH After the Fashion by Jane Dater Shop: www.afterthefashion. etsy.com Email: [email protected] American Miniaturist

Winter sledA snowy daymini projectMake your winter scene complete and addan old fashion 1:12-scale sled to rest onyour porch! Pricilia will show you how.A fter making a few dark paint gets into the gouges. Tools & materials: prototypes I finally came Put to the side. up with a solution for l Rust colored stock papermaking a miniature snow sled. l WoodThis is a weathered one, but have l Craft paintssome fun making snow sleds of l Yes! Pasteall colors! l Scissors l Craft knifeStep 1: Cut out the pattern wood l Wood gluepieces using a craft knife. l Ruler l PencilStep 2: Sand all edges to be Step 4: Use tracing paper to l Clothes pinssmooth. If you would like a transfer the templates for the l Graph paperweathered wood effect, then blades and seat brackets to a l Toothpicksuse a small pair of scissors to run heavy card stock paper and cut l Blue tapegouges into the grain. out the shapes. l Paintbrush Step 7: Use bracket stencil you have made to cut out four Step 5: Glue two pieces of rust colored card stock paper together so that the rust color is on both the front and the back. I prefer to use Yes! Paste for this.Step 3: Paint all the wood pieces Step 6: Put your heavy card stockwith Barnwood, Folk Art paint paper with the blade holds cutand let dry. Sand lightly and then out on top of the rust coloredUse a wash of black so that the paper and mark the lines with a pencil and then cut out. American Miniaturist 29

Winter sled front front cut 2 under brace cut 2 cut 4 Sled templatebrackets. Mark a center line on small dot of wood glue using a bendthe back of all of the brackets toothpick.with a pencil. Step 10: Once dry, put a smallStep 8: I preferred to use graph dab of wood glue on both sidespaper to help me line up my of the pieces of wood, fold-downpieces. Tack down two brackets the brackets and clamp withon graph paper using blue tape clothes pins.or another type of tape thatcomes off easily. Line up your Step 12: Glue the bracket barssmall painted pieces of wood under the sleigh.from end to end in the center ofthe brackets.Step 9: Glue them down with a Step 11: Once dry, take the clothes pins off of the brackets and use a scrap piece of thick paper to center on the brackets and then pinch them so the paper folds.30 American Miniaturist

Winter sledStep 13: Make the marks on blades off at an angle if neededyour’s blades where the brackets and glue onto the wood. Let dry.will fit using the template. Step 19: Glue the two side railsStep 14: Fold the tips at the end onto the sled.of the blade as shown on thetemplate.Step 15: Test fit one blade and Step 21: Use rust colormake adjustments by snipping paint to touch up thethe brackets if needed. edges and back sides of paper. To bypass this step use paper that is colored front and back.Step 16: Glue in one blade and Step 20: Slip a strip of rust paper Decorate your sleigh withthen glue in the other. under the front and glue it and evergreens or a wreath and make then lay the other piece of wood it festive for the season! AM on the two rails and glue the strip of paper over it and onto See more of Pricilia’s minis at the seat as shown. TresPetite on Etsy.Step 17: Slip the front piece ofwood under the two bent frontblades.Step 18: Snip the tip off the American Miniaturist 31

Alice’s tea partyAMINtIoTpEsyA-PtAuRrvTyY Come and join us and take a seat for the miniature Alice in Wonderland Mad Hatter’s tea party by Kelly Murdie.This year marks 150 years Liddell children out on row- Top: Miniature replicas of the since Lewis Carroll’s ing trips and on one potion and magical cookies that book, Alice’s Adven- afternoon in July made Alice grow tall and small.tures in Wonderland was first 1862 Carroll Above: What an amazing table full ofpublished. Whether you’ve invented the everything needed for a tea party.read the book, seen the 1951 basic story-Disney animated adaptation, line and told handwritten manuscript of theor Tim Burton’s 2010 film, it to Alice, story, which was then pub-most of us are familiar with who asked him lished as Alice’s Adventuresthe story and its characters. to write it down in Wonderland a year later to much acclaim and worldwide Lewis Carroll was the pen for her. In November success. It remains one of thename for Charles Lutwidge 1864 he presented her with a best loved works of children’sDodgson, born in 1832 inCheshire, England. During histime at college, Carroll wasclose friends with the collegedean, Henry Liddell, his wifeLorina, and their children,Lorina, Edith, and Alice Lid-dell. It is widely believed tobe the Liddell children,particularly Alicewho influencedCarroll to writehis most famousworks: Alice’sAdventures InWonderland andThrough The Look-ing Glass. He would often take the32 American Miniaturist

Alice’s tea partyliterature to this day. fairy tale of a young girl who appealed to me. I loved its My first experience with fell down a rabbit hole into nonsensical plot and quirky a topsy-turvy world where characters, particularly theAlice was watching the Disney nothing made sense reallyfilm as a child. This whimsical Above: The Chesire Cat cake is surely the main attraction at this fabulous miniature tea party! American Miniaturist 33

Alice’s tea partyRight: The unbirthday cake iscovered in pink roses and thechocolate cake with strawberries.Mad Hatter, March Hare, table runner. I then scattered around the cake. I made theand Cheshire Cat. The Mad some playing cards over the grinning Cheshire Cat onHatter’s tea party scene in par- tablecloth in a nod toticular was my favorite of all. the scene in the top of the cake, film where Alice and formed Watching the film as a girl first meets the a black andI imagined how amazing it Queen of Hearts white tiledwould be to find myself in and the Playing floor- styleWonderland and sharing tea Cards. design aroundwith the Mad Hatter, so when its base. I thenI designed my own version of The focal pointthe Mad Hatter’s tea party in of the table is my added a Queen of1:12 scale miniature, I tried “Painting the Roses Hearts playing card toto imagine it again through a Red” cake, which the front of the cake.child’s eyes. was inspired by the I also made some match- scene where the ing cupcakes to go with the I didn’t work from any Playing Cards “Painting the Roses Red”plans or drawings, as most of paint the white theme and some Cheshiremy ideas were in my head. I roses red for fear Cat-themed cupcakes, whichdidn’t want things to match, of the Queen of I made using colors inspiredso cups, saucers, teapots, and Hearts chopping off by the cat’s striped pink andplates would need to be from their heads! I designeddifferent tea sets. I wanted to “I didn’t work from anybring elements of a traditional the three-tiered cake with plans or drawings, asBritish afternoon tea together green piped icing, which had most of my ideas were inwith a mixture of more mod- the appearance of a topiary my head. “ern tastes and elements from rosebush. I then added rosesthe film itself. To begin, Imade a longbanquet table.When it cameto choosing atable- clothI tried a fewdifferentfabrics untilI found one Iwas happy with. Thebold colors fitted well withthe Queen of Hearts theme. Iused a cream- colored squareof fabric with sewn lace for a34 American Miniaturist

Alice’s tea partypurple fur. colors and gave it a delicate, I was sure to include them. I sourced the beautiful glass decoratively piped look for the There are fourteen biscuits guest of honor— (cookies) in total, eight heart-tiered cake stand, and made Alice. There are even some shaped and six circular, eachsome pastel colored maca- little blown out candles at the with a separate design androons, fruit scones, chocolate color scheme.eclairs, strawberry cream base! Next, I made atarts and tuna finger large plate of jam When Alice drank the potionsandwiches. tarts with pastry she shrunk to ten inches high, hearts on top. which enabled her to enter the “A very Merry When I wasUnbirthday to thinking of a “I’m sure Alice wouldyou!” sang the quirky theme happily take a seat atMad Hatter and for some nov- this table, but she’d haveMarch Hare elty biscuits, to drink some of theto Alice at the I immediately shrinking potion first!”tea party in thought ofthe film; the red and white beautiful garden located onterm “unbirth- spotted toadstools. the other side of the tiny door.day” referring to Although Alice did not find theany day which is not the Who could forget the magical shrinking potion at therecipient’s birthday. I wanted smoking caterpillar sitting tea party she did remark that itto create a special cake for upon the toadstool in Wonder- had a wonderful flavor, whichthe occasion so I chose pastel land? was a mixture of cherry tart,Below: Kelly has outdid herself The “Eat Me” biscuits and custard, pineapple, roastwith this magnificent and vibrant “Drink Me” potion are memo- turkey, toffee, and hotrendition of a magical scene. rable items from the book so buttered toast. So what better place to have it than at the food table! I had so much fun making this miniature scene, which I began in spring and finished in summer 2015. It was challenging as it is my largest project to date, but it really allowed me to let my imagina- tion run wild! I’m sure Alice would happily take a seat at this table, but she’d have to drink some of the shrinking potion first! AM American Miniaturist 35

Holiday shopAWEWshIoLpLpGinOg Christmas is here and it’s time to decorate and find the perfect gifts. Gabriele Layne has made a miniature place for both!If you are familiar with her favorite miniature artists, She has also added garlands Gabriele’s work you know but Gabriele also has hours with red ribbons and bows that she loves making shops of fun making her own small along the wall and across the in miniature. We have seen pieces. shelves. A string of printed holi- many shops from her in the day cards were hung with joy. past, such as bakeries, floral This festive room box shops, clock shops, a party measures 20\" wide x 10\" deep Below: Gabriele’s Christmas shop store, and so many more. For x 9\" tall and was constructed shown in full. This mini project is this wonderful December is- with angled walls to create an full of sparkle and holiday spirit! sue of AM Gabriele is sharing open showcase for all of her Christmas shop in 1:12 the items. The floor was scale with us! pieced together using one-inch squares that“Originally from she cut out from woodGermany, Gabriele veneer. The floor squaresalways adds a little were glued down alter-something from her nating the wood grainhome country.” pattern to give a patch- work effect. This industrious miniaturist has filled every corner with The walls have an an amazing assortment of tiny assortment of wreaths treasures she has collected that were made using over the years. Originally from various materials. One Germany, Gabriele always is made from paper pine adds a little something from strands that were wired her home country. Many of and shaped into circles and the items in this Christmas then decorated with minia- shop were made by some of ture ornaments. Another is a brush wreath with white36 American Miniaturist paint to give it a dusted snow look before clay cook- ies were added.

Holiday shopLeft: Gabriele’s specialty is shownhere in that every space is filledwith something extra special. On the left side of the shop,just below the wreaths, are afew children’s toys, a basketof holiday ornaments, boxesof decorative bulbs, and awooden box of holiday mail.Sitting on a wooden stepstool is a glorious gingerbreadhouse! The first shelf on the far lefthas an assortment of candiesdisplayed in dishes, bowls,baskets, and a jar. A beautifulspun glass basket and footedcandy dish were also filledwith colorful candies. Goldand silver bowls that weremade from jewelry findingsare filled with oranges andmore delicious holiday American Miniaturist 37

Holiday shop Above and left: The items on the shelves are a greatsweets. Up on the very top example of what canof the shelf are a gingerbread be created with jewelryman and woman leaning findings and beads.against a small mug filled withlollipops that were made by Germany and are someElaine Langley. To the right of Gabriele’s favoriteof those swirly lollipops are miniatures. Some of thea Santa tea set and a plate of other small figurineswrapped gingerbreads and were collected over thecookies. years. She took much time and patience to As we continue to stroll to make a good number ofthe right we are presented Advent wreaths to fillwith a very large shelf on the the shelves. She usedback wall, which is stocked tiny brads that have awith wood figurines that are star shape to hold thebeautifully hand-painted. four candles that wereThese were originally on a made from real wax.bracelet that Gabriele found inan antique shop. The candle holders arefrom the Erzgebirge region of38 American Miniaturist

Many toys fill the bottom Holiday shopshelf including a SnoopyHallmark ornament with a Left: A few laser cut woodChristmas tree that sits on miniatures sit on the shelf.the floor. A print of a ginger- Below: A very small manger scenebread house was folded and complete with the baby Jesus.then covered with glitter. Thatalong with other folded boxes customary to place these in awith Christmas motifs were window at Christmastime andmade by Gabriele using her they are normally used to holdcomputer. candles. For safety reasons, electric lights are used instead. On the far right of theholiday shop is another shelf The Advent calendar shethat is filled with boxes of made on her computer actu-ornaments. Schwipbogen, ally has a few doors that open.traditional German wood cut- The countdown to Christmasout ornaments are displayed has begun! Wall ornamentson the top of the shelf. It was American Miniaturist 39

Holiday shopRight: So many decoratively wrappedpresents with perfect tiny bows.surround the display shelf and pieces and then draped with will need for the holidays—there are also a few Santa- fabric. The one on the left has from decorations to gifts—youthemed Coca-Cola advertise- a Christmas tree topped with a can find here. Getting into thements. The small wall shelf gold angel and both tables are Christmas spirit is easy whileholds wonderful hand-painted overflowing with gingerbread browsing through a lovelyobjects including a Santa and houses, gift boxes, candy, and Christmas shop like this one!an elf made by Karen Mark-land.   cookies. Sur- Gabriele leaves us with rounding the ta- this message, “The Christmas Just under that small shelf bles are shopping season is the time to use theon the floor is a nativity scene bags of wrapping creative talents that we havethat can be used as a mini paper, boxes of to add holiday cheer to ouryard decoration. It was made tree decorations, dollhouse. What fun it is tousing miniature nativity dolls, wrapped presents transform a miniature liv-a wood base covered with fine that are ready to ing and/or dining room intogravel, moss, and straw. For be picked up, and a festive place for the littlethe finishing touch, a baby Je- a doll in a box. residents to celebrate!sus was added. The wood shel-ter for the manger was made If you happen So have some fun collect-from scrap pieces of wood. to be five inches ing special mini items that are tall then this is available in your favorite craft Both beautiful display tables the place to shop. store or on the Internet. Orwere made using paper tube Everything you even better, get inspired and make your own decorations Left: A 1:12-scale or a delicious feast to display gingerbread house on the dining room table. that is fully decorated The satisfaction from having and adorned is the made your own little pieces is centerpiece on this priceless.” AM Christmas table.40 American Miniaturist

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The Annual Miniature ConventionMCONiVnEiaNtTuIrOesN Betty’s Bay in South Africa has beautiful scenery as well as something special for the avid miniaturist. By Ray Gerber.Nestled at the foot of There are many reasons brainchild of Isa Lindstrom, the Kogelberg on the to visit Betty’s Bay, but for who lives in Betty’s Bay, and Southern Cape Coast miniature enthusiasts there is Sue Farmer from Cape Town.of South Africa is the charm- one special reason—the An- The convention is now in itsing village of Betty’s Bay. It is nual Miniature Convention, sixth year and is growing inhome to Stony Point, a sanc- held in Septem-tuary for a breeding colony ber, which isof black-footed penguins and springtime inthe Harold Porter National Africa.Botanical Garden where onecan see more than 1600 dif- The Annualferent fynbos plants. Miniature Con- vention is theRight: Edwardian dressing table mirror by Elga Koster.Below: Elga shown teaching the mirror table workshop.Below right: Betsie, a student, and teacher, Elga Koster.42 American Miniaturist

The Annual Miniature Conventionpopularity. Based loosely on rican Miniature Convention Above: A scenic photo of thethe successful International provides an opportunity for beautiful Betty’s Bay, someGuild of Miniature Artisan miniaturists of all skill levels welcoming vistors, the South(IGMA) school in Castine, to attend classes, gain new African flowering plant, Protea.Maine, USA, the South Af- skills, and share their knowl- Below: A remarkibaly realistic cottage scene by Sandy Bernstein. American Miniaturist 43

The Annual Miniature Conventionedge. Many of the teachers international standards, the Left: A miniature table of plentyin 2015 have attended the quality of wares on sale is made by Sandy Bernstein.school in Castine, among high and sets the tone for a Above: An apple pie preparationthem distinguished IGMA wonderful week. table, also made by Sandy Bernstein.Artisans and Fellows. The format of the conven- “The Annual Miniature The week of miniature fun tion will be familiar to the Convention is thestarts on a Saturday when the Castine alumni: Sunday kicks brainchild of Isaannual Cape Town Miniature off with a social get-together Lindstrom, who livesFair is held in a hall in the and barbecue. Monday morn- in Betty’s Bay, and Sueleafy suburb of Rhondebosch, ing classes start early Farmer from Cape Town.”Cape Town. While small by and continue till 6 p.m. Groups their own accommodationAbove: The talented Diane Yunnie. are small and in one of the manyRight: This 1:12-scale hatbox with intimate, al- charming B&Bs intwo beautiful dolls tucked inside lowing time and around Betty’swas made by Diane Yunnie. for even Bay, Hangklip, and beginners Pringle Bay.44 American Miniaturist to get up The class of to steam and 2015 included produce ex- for the first time cellent work a U.S. visitor to take from the state home. Tasty of Washington, lunches Ruth Moe, who and dinners commented on are included the enthusiasm in the course and dedication fee, but students of all the par- need to arrange ticipants, students, and teachers. Ruth also found time to sell

The Annual Miniature Convention Left: Barbara Brear shown teaching her mini photograph album workshop. Below left: A mini book made by Barbara Brear. Below: Miniaturist’s Ruth Mo and Isa Lindstrom. Bottom: Curious visitors on opening night.some of her fine miniature There is alsogoods at the Cape Town Min- an eveningiature Fair. program ar- ranged for those who were not exhausted by hard work on tiny things, including a sale of miniatures on the opening night and an auc- tion of donated work which allowed the convention to award scholar- ships to deserving miniatur- ists from Southern Africa who would not normally beAbove: Lovley 1:12-scale hat boxesmade by Belinda McWilliams. American Miniaturist 45

The Annual Miniature Convention Left: The Betty Bay show brought in many visitors and who knows how many young ones were struck by cupid’s miniature arrow! Below: These tiny wicker chairs were made by Ann Sturrock and the class was taught by Isa Lindstrom.able to afford attendance at how to make a 1:12-scale “The tired, but happy,the school. In 2015 two such photo album with protector attendees all agreed atbursaries were awarded to pages and mini the end of the week thatdeserving artists. images. Betty’s Bay is beautiful year round, but for the While each class is spe- Another popular class was miniaturists, it is a must-cial, mention must be made run by Lyndsey Cox, a veteri- do in September!”of Barbara Brear, an IGMA nary surgeon by trade whoFellow renowned for herexceptionally fine miniature Below right: An espaliered lemonbooks. She taught a group tree made by Sandy Bernstein. This realistic 1:12-scale gun was made by Nissie Vermeulen.46 American Miniaturist

The Annual Miniature Convention appropriately taught her class to make the splendid rocking horse shown in the illustra- tions. Elga Koster, who was a bur- sary student at IGMA’s school in Castine, Maine, is now passing on her know-how to others and she ran three classes that included hinge- making and how to make a grand Edwardian dressing table mirror.Above: Miniature jars of preserved peaches,onions, and oranges were made by ErikaGross. She also taught a preserves workshop.Right: One of the workshop projects from theclass taught by Lyndsey Cox. A quick trip to the websites of the Miniature Convention and the Miniaturia Guild of Cape Town will put readers in touch with both the Cape Town Guild and the conven- tion. The tired, but happy, at- tendees all agreed at the end of the week that Betty’s Bay is beautiful year round, but for the miniaturists, it is a must- do in September! AM Left: This beautiful dress form and precious miniature doll were both made by Erna Stubbs. American Miniaturist 47

Christmas vignetteAFORvCiHgnReISttTeMAS Gabriele Layne was inspired by the joyous holidays and worked like a little elf to make the shelf that completes her collection.Although the Christmas foil-wrapped Santas are theme has been done by Georgia Marfels and repeatedly in my minia- the lollipops are by Elaineture world, it always seems to Langley. A wreath print wasentice me over and over again. cut out to frame a pic- ture of Santa. A little This 1:12-scale vignette shelf red bell, a jar, silverwas created with some special dish of candies, and apieces that I had hidden away bag of cookies were alsoin a box for quite some time. placed carefully on theOn the top of the shelf there shelf.are lollipops and picks, a pa-per cut-out gingerbread house, My favorite itema toy soldier, and an angel on the second shelf ismade from crystal beads. the little green and red house that has the tiny On the first shelf is a plate elves and Santa. Onfilled with goodies, such as the right side are papercookies, nuts, gingerbread, cut-out Santas that Iand candies. Plates like won in a raffle. Theythese were left in our home look just perfect besideby “Nikolaus” (St.Nick) on my gift box filled withDecember 6th when I was wrapped chocolate bars.growing up. Of course, it was A Christmas plate andmother that put together these gingerbread hearts adorntasty treats, as we found out the back wall and a smallwhen we got older. I kept the candy dish sits on displaytradition up with my son and in the front.he enjoyed it for many years. On the middle shelf The Santa boot filled with there are Christmas deco-treats and the package of rations, tiny trees, a sleigh,decorated chocolates are mini Santa, gingerbreadby Lieselotte Konopka, the48 American Miniaturist

Christmas vignette Left: Each shelf has little items that represent Christmas for Gabriele. men, and jars with red and green candies placed beside plates of cookies. The last two shelves on the bottom are filled with cards, Christmas gift boxes, orna- ments, a cross-stitch pillow, a red teddy bear holding a choc- olate bar, and a book. Candy canes in a cone are decorating the front of the shelf and the right and left sides have large Mrs. Santa and Santa cut-outs. This was a unique project to complete my shelf for the month of December and now I have all twelve months that can be displayed for me to enjoy all year round!AMWhat projects have you been inspired to create?We would love to see the results of your finished miniature projects youhave made using AM tutorials. Please send us a few pictures of yourfinished piece so that we can share them with our readers. Send your photos to Inspired to Create, American Miniaturist, 68132 250thAvenue, Kasson, MN 55944. You may also send your entries via email [email protected]. Please be sure to include your name, address,phone number, and email address. We can’t wait to see your results! American Miniaturist 49