Make your own crocheted table cloth & runnerApril 07 Issue #48 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $5.95 CANADA $8.50 CAD. UK £3.75 Charles & Maria Duncan share their stunning home with us Meet the Easter Barbie Cohn takes bonnet princess us to visit Slick Rick behind bars The Perfectly Imperfect Contest winners are revealed
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Welcome 60 I’m a “get it done” kind of girl. I like Projects making my “to do” list and get great joy out of crossing the items off my 34 Dress up your list. I guess it’s really a feeling of table accomplishment that does it for me. My dad was the same way even up to the Crochet a mini table end of his life. runner and table cloth with Marianne Colijn. Before he became ill, Dad’s list would include a variety of carpentry 40 Bunny butt cake items along with home and property improvements. And Mom always had Sandra Palesch brings us a running Honey Do list for him with all the things she wanted fun food project. done. Dad was constantly busy working on some project or improvement. And once completed, he’d cross it off his list. 44 Easter bonnets Toward the end of Dad’s life, his lists would have items such as: galore wash hair, shave, read emails. And he would still place a black line through the items. Although weak and sick, the lists still gave him Robin Stewart gets a sense of completion and accomplishment. us skipping down the It’s this accomplishment mentality that makes me who I am. A street on Easter morning. legacy, if you will. However, I realized recently that in certain areas of my life, this isn’t the case. 53 Fairy decorations While working on my current miniature project, I got to a place where I was sort of done, but not quite. I was done with JM Leotti shows off her the structure. I was done with the roofing and painting. But with sculpting talent. the all the fun touches, I was dawdling. I wanted to find the right items. I wanted to put my personal touch on my personal project. 60 Overstuffed and And it was with this last project that I realized that this is the comfy reason I love miniatures. I don’t have to cross anything off my list. In fact, it doesn’t even Make these great chairs have to go on my list. I can linger. I can spend elaborate amounts with Joyce Mori. of time in hobby shops and at dealers’ tables hoping for that perfect treasure to find me. I guess it’s the mindset of letting go 21 and letting things happen. And oh, it just feels so good. Maybe my dad, as a flight instructor and pilot, found this freedom when he flew. I remember him telling me that he felt it was a whole other world up there. I’m not a pilot but my world, my whole other world, can be found in my miniatures and other hobbies. If Dad was still alive, I’m sure he’d understand. Along with the lecture about working so hard, he’d also tell me that sometimes, you don’t need to cross it off your list. May your month be full of things that don’t need to go on your list.
Contents Make your own crocheted tablecloth & runner 12 82 April 07 Issue #48 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $5.95 CANADA $8.50 CAD. UK £3.75 Charles & Maria Duncan share their stunning home with us Meet the Easter Barbie Cohn takes bonnet princess us to visit Slick Rick behind bars The Perfectly Imperfect Contest winners are revealed 21 The Duncan house Cover visual B *USE*.indd 1 14/2/07 09:22:02 Joyce Dean visits the American Miniaturist amazing house of John and Marie Duncan. 68132 250th Ave. 66 And the winner is… Kasson, MN 55944 Tel: 507 634 3143 Find out who won the Adult Fax: 507 634 7691 contest. Toll Free: 1 866 606 6587 E-mail: [email protected] 78 Details in 3-D UK: AM, Ancient Lights, Joyce Mori shares more details 19 River Road, Arundel, of Pat Terrell’s Paris West Sussex, BN18 9EY. street scene. Tel: 01903 884988 Fax: 01903 885514 Regulars Editor: Kelly Rud 7 Itty bits Email: [email protected] Snuggled up Find out AM’s latest and 90 Customer Service: Knit an adorable little afghan greatest Margo Jacobson for your dollhouse nursery. contests. Email: [email protected] Flower fairies 30 Mini mail Advertising Sales: Colette Eaglehouse Even fairies deserve to be Learn what mini others Email: [email protected] dressed properly. are thinking. Designer: Lisa Blann82 A touch of spring 48 Show dates Contributors: Knit an adorable playsuit for Make your travel Cheryl Ashelin, Nikki Bosley, your dollhouse baby. arrangements now Barbie Cohn, Marianne Colijn, to attend these Joyce Dean, Janice Leotti, Joyce Mori,88 All framed up upcoming shows. Sandra Palesch, Robin Stewart, Alice Walker, Jill Weisz. Cheryl Ashelin shares her 85 Snippets ideas to change your average Issue 48 frame into something special. Great cut outs for your Easter April 2007 project.90 Weird science Published by Ashdown Inc. 98 Last word Jill Weisz introduces us to Subscription rates: what orrerys are and teaches Alice Walker has the last word 1 Year (12 issues) $59. us how to make one. about how the hobby found her. Canada $75 (US funds); UK £40;Features Europe E95; Rest of world £74. On the cover: Charles and Marie12 Parole violations Duncan’s fantastic dollhouse. Two year (24 issues) $112 Barbie Cohn introduces us to Canada $147 (US funds); UK £75; Slick Rick and his jail cell. Europe E180; Rest of world £145. American Miniaturist is published monthly at American Miniaturist, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944. Subscription price is $59. Periodicals postage paid at Kasson MN and additional mailing offices. USPS 021- 053 Postmaster: Send address corrections to American Miniaturist, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. All material submitted to the magazine is accepted on the basis that copyright in the work will be vested in the Publisher who assumes all rights worldwide, in all forms and media. Submitted materials cannot be returned unless accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope. In any event the publisher can accept no responsibility for loss or damage to contributions. Material is accepted solely on the basis that the author accepts the assessment of the Publisher as to its commercial value. All material submitted to the magazine is subject to editing. © Ashdown Inc. American Miniaturist 5
Enchanting miniature Kits are complete with all materialskits for your doll house and full instructionsLadies’ Fan Set Stamp Album Mini Magazines War Time Docs Bathrobe set CPC02 CPC03 CPC04 CPC05 CPC11 $6.95 $6.95 $6.95 $6.95 $8.95Study set Deluxe Perfume Baby Gift Basket Boxed Lingerie set Deluxe Baby CPC06 Gift set CPC08p CPC09 Gift Box $6.95 $8.95 $8.95 CPC07 $8.95 CPC21b $14.95Ladies set Wedding Memories Sewing Basket Single Quilt set Deluxe Hat Box & CPC12 Box CPC141 CPC19 Bags Set $10.95 $10.95 $14.95 CPC13 $10.95 CPC20 $14.95To order - call Toll Free at 866 606 6587 or 507 634 3143 Fax: 507 634 7691 or go to our web site: www.americanminiaturist.com6 American Miniaturist
AM’s news page is devoted to keeping busy miniaturists up to speed. Please submit items of mini interest to: [email protected] or: American Miniaturist - Itty bits, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944.Website of the monthA brand new way of getting the you asking, “Is this TV or is this myinformation that you as a hobbyist PC?”craves is now available with Craft-Club Surf on over and check out theIP-TV. This cutting edge medium brings hottest trend in new technology foryou great projects for miniatures as well our hobby. Visit within the next 30as card making, scrap booking, beading days and receive a great introductoryand much more. And all delivered via the membership price when you join!Internet direct to your PC. You will be surprised at Craft-Club TV, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson MNthe excellent material and full screen capabilities. 55944 Toll free: 1-866-606-6587The technology behind Craft-Club TV will have Email: usoffi[email protected] www.craft-club.tvMiniaturists: Take and what you collect; how much Count theA Survey, Qualify time and money you invest, and pooches contestFor Prizes what resources you value. This information will help the Trust In Issue 46, we issued the The National Miniatures Trust better serve your interests. It challenge for our readers invites you to take a brief also will help the Trust describe to see how many pooches informational survey, available the miniatures community more were in Christine Verstraete’s at this Web address: http:// effectively to the media and wonderful dog catcher’s www.surveymonkey.com/ public, to foster knowledge and retirement home. We were s.asp?u=715223152101. As appreciation of the miniaturist’s amazed at the response and a thank-you, participants who art. also were a bit surprised with complete the survey may enter the varying answers. Some a random drawing for valuable This survey will be available folks counted the number of prizes, including subscriptions to online through April 10, 2007. dogs in the actual article while miniatures magazines and copies Persons under 18 should have a others counted the dogs inTohfisthisesuHea’srrsytaSrmleitthtebrocookmTehse Art parent or guardian’s permission the article and accompanyingtoofuMs farkoimngSFaurarnRitounrecoineM. Sinhiaeture. to take the survey. All individual project. Since this was all inwill TbheereTcruesivtinisgaanfounrn-iptruorfiet responses to this survey will be good fun, we did a randomkoitrgfraonmizuatsioans eastthaabnlikshyeodu ifnor kept confidential; responses will drawing for both types ofta2k0in0g3tthoeetnimriechtoanwdriteexpuas.nd the be reported as a composite and answers. mWineialtouvreestochoemamr furonmity.oYuor ur no individual’s responses will beresaudrveersy sroesmpuocnhsethsawt eilal chhelp the identified. The lucky winner is ShirleyisTsruues,twceresaetleecat doentealieletdtepr oanrtdrait of D. Riggs of Hedgesville,setonddaiyts’samutinhioartuarsepseecinatlhturesaiats. ts. For more information about the WV. Shirley will beWThhoekTnruoswtsw, manatysbetoyokunowwillhow you survey, call or email Trust Program receiving her very ownbbeeocuatmnexitnmvoolvnethd’swwitihnnmeirn! iatures, Manager Julie Christensen at hound dog compliments 616-447-3319 or of everyone on the AM [email protected]. team. Congratulations, Shirley! American Miniaturist 7
showdatesMuseum happenings We always advise checking The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and times and dates before Toys has a new exhibit that will be running until traveling. We wouldn’t want May 31, 2007. The exhibit called Women at Work, who in creaytoinug taowdhroilveen5ew00stmyleileofsdtooll amaking explores different roles of women during the turn also becamsehobuwsintehsastw’somcaenn.cTehlleesde.turn of of the last century. century home-based cottage industry factories One part of the exhibit details the daily lives were where women employed other women to of women like the ones who lived and worked in make dolls that were safe and soft for children Denver’s historic Pearce McAllister Cottage, in to play with and easy for parents to clean. Come which the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls explore the work of Martha Chase, Grace Storey and Toys is housed. Come learn about the work Putnam and Rose O’Neil as well as a selection of of maids as well as the lady of the house. traditional folk dolls. The second part of the exhibit zeroes in on Come celebrate women’s contributions and US women doll makers from the time period of learn about Denver history and doll making. The 1880-1930. The exhibit celebrates these women museum hours are Tues-Sat 10 to 4; Sun 1 to 4; closed Mon and major holidays. The admission cost is: Adults $5, seniors (62) and children (5-16) $4, under 5 free.Passions Chugga choo chooIn January’s issue of AM, we presented you with the Joanne Root of St. Albert, AlbertaPassions Contest. We asked you to tell your story of how is this month’s lucky winner ofyou fell in love with miniatures and how this passion has our Whistle Stop contest. Joanneaffected your life. Thank you to everyone that participated correctly answered the triviain this contest. We were amazed at all the great entries. question in Issue 46. She willWe will be sharing these with our readers over the next be receiving a copy of Frankfew months and each published winner will be receiving a Bruno’s soundtrack CD.mini gift from us. Congratulations, Joanne! This month Alice Walker’s story is getting the limelight. As you may recall, Frank Bruno fromYou can find her delightful tale on page 98. So grab a cup www.whistlestopusa.org has teamed up withof coffee, move the cat out of the sunny spot on the sofa us to give away CDs that contain originaland curl up for a good read. soundtrack recordings from the television series Whistle Stop. To have a chance at Breaking news winning the soundtrack CD, all you need to do is answer Frank’s trivia question below. AM is now available in a digital format and can be Simply mail your entry to Whistle Stop delivered direct each month to your email address. Contest-Issue 48, American Miniaturist, This new format is wonderful for those of you that 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944 want to keep your mailed copies in collectible or fax to 507-634-7691. No email entries, condition or for those of you who simply want the please. The deadline for this month’s contest option of a digital. is April 12, 2007. Call us today to start your I-Mag subscription. By Question # 3: How many times is the the way, we offer great package rates for subscribers American Miniaturist logo displayed, on the that want to upgrade to this format when renewing a free video clip “Mostly Miniatures” located, current subscription. on the video page of the Whistle Stop, USA website: www.whistlestopusa.org ? American Miniaturist, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944. Call toll free: 1-866-606-65878 American Miniaturist
On exhibit ittybits Show DatesIf you are heading into the St. Paul Mini mash/ Minneapolis area, you will wantto plan a visit to The American In February’s issue, weSwedish Institute. Until May 13, asked our readers to2007 the Institute is showcasing unscramble the phrase:the exhibit called Small Worlds: hwo od I evol heet? Etl emInterior Design in Miniature. tuonc het aswy?This exhibit features ninecompletely furnished dollhouses Germaine Bohlman offrom the collection of Stockholm Oklahoma City, OK wasartist and writer Yvette Wadsted. the lucky winning entryPrimarily from the 1950s, ‘60s, with the correct answer of:and ‘70s, they serve as a timeline “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” Germaine will beof home and furniture styles and receiving a darling Heidi Ott baby. Congratulations, Germaine!colors. Lundby, Sweden’s world-renowned dollhouse company, has Given the time of year and the overwhelming responsesalso provided two contemporary to last issue’s scramble, we are doing it again. So get yourdollhouses from its most recent thinking caps on and unscramble this one for a chance to winseries. a great prize: For further information, please Plria thah utp a tripsi fo tuoyh ni vretengihy.contact The American Swedish – William ShakespeareInstitute at 612-871-4907. Mail your entry to Mini Mash – Issue 48, American Miniaturist, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944 or fax to 507-634-7691. No email entries please. The deadline for this contest is April 12, 2007.Where’s HenryThe master of disguise is at it again. If you could hear his mumblings aroundthe office, you would hear Henry say, “I’m a bunny. I’m a bunny. I’m a bunny…really I am!” And yes, he’s been hop, hop, hopping around, too. Now it’s upto you to find the funny, bunny boy. Where might he be hiding this time? To add your event to the ShowIn Issue 46, Jacqueline Glasser of East Windsor, NJ located our Dates calendar, please submithappy Henry hound. He was sitting by the Victorian washstand on page the following information: Event88. Jacqueline will be receiving a little bunny of her very own with our location (city, state and countryIf you would like to enter the Where’s Henry contest, simply locate wTahe Victoriname of event, location, hours,compliments. if outside the US), dates of event,Hpheonnrye innutmhibsemr, oanntdh’esamisdasridulaMMNteeawoNiaodn:ianddiWen5aglrimdetn5huase9easrnsiier4isl.desn4tCe’,stdAnho6otHpuer8rrrrisee1efiwlancsa31ixtrn,2yn2pnetoo,l–e2net2rt5e5aIr0swi0s0ew0set7isul7hi.l-t.eMwh6rAe34iayvlcl4oei8elbu.-,i,ye7vrAKoe6neuma9aanrse1mtsepre.oinercrTinet,zarh,edayne.dindtroess, shstandB aniaSaa-2nldse5Alfhnmo0mlddirtsihmoestyiwsrAnaoiicontvguianeso.rcn.nalf,oie.MrsK.eeutSaisipknsnsuaagsioanobcrttdenjoueS,ricchmsiMtosoltatniw,[email protected] whydaaotnasoouEhdluVlrnhsmcivjoctoheaatuyonrtdsyordaeeiado.ynwdwoiunintrhg 004FEB07_p088-091.indd 88 ptolhapopiwn,gupItaatorhitwehtpsnwreohcitohydshattae1hhihsideenRwspte8oeceoesio.uctdaeutaggi.fh1thTgmronesneoTswfps7hneohuemvtnchapiaouateedfsreete1henamnssterdwetlnrai5ieshodiafmcebftnotias,ttoepultuesrahapdtosnpbsu,ercnorbscetyoeucpdnailtwbtlocaneduvo,eertahdteristwaeaeihnrtiaibraaaotiihhyntnfrisihnantlvnoaonndycuileatwltgmgiytecriridioavtrnhnlnemaanwhdaeydevrfogrelg,wm.soseotisoaosasnhmerwtHrrewalotshsstabfuv’eeuphttttomahroeewehehnevabasbuc-uowdnreraintwlraloeesnalaulrelatsijedyssodnnnauttstfhvibeooresvodggltiheioheghsermnv,arwfenoesn,egotvitnhnomibraaereeaertynntdsenenh.ddedrcdesea-nodfShow dates are listed chronologically and limited to two pages. 12/22/2006 10:41:08 PM American Miniaturist 9
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CIMTA is a trade association made up of Cottage Industry Handcrafters who bring quality merchandise to retail miniatures shops. VISIT O R CO NTACT CIMTA’S SUPPO RTING MEMBERS TO FIND CIMTA HANDCRAFTED MINIATURES.L illiput's WASHING TO N Patty’s Petite Treasures L ittle O bsessions MANU FACTU RER CANADA Virginia Beach Commack Apama International Torrance Fiddly-Bits Miniatures [email protected] www.littleobsessions. CAL IFO RNIA Mississauga com Hansson Inc [email protected] Woodinville WASHING TO N Mainly Minis, Inc. Santa Clara Craftables G randma Hollys House/ Tupper L ake 408-733-9988 Spruce G rove, ABModern Miniature Magic [email protected] Island Artisans www. KL Hobbies lubarnes@telusplanet. East Sound dollhouseminiatures.net Novato Crafter’s DelightSan Diego MAIL O RDER 360-376-4032 Memory L ane Miniatures 415-883-2054 Sherwood Parkmodernminimagic@ What I Do O swego 780-417-2286 Vancouver www. 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Houseworks, L td www.silverfoxcreations.Miniature Market Marian Newman O ld Saybrook rosemeadminiatures.com Atlanta com 860-510-0818 770-448-6596 The L ittle DollhouseJacksonville Miniatures TEXAS Company FLO RIDA Kerbey L ane Miniatures INDIANA Toronto 904-343-3691 Demi-tasse and Raggedy D's Miniatures Austin Foltz Distributing 416-489-7180 G ainesville http://stores.ebay.com/ Indianapolis The Miniature Winkel Pam Nussbaum Dinnerware www.raggedyds.com kerbey-lane-miniatures 317-299-3214 Saskatoon, SK 306-931-0084L oxahatchee Seal Beach G EO RG IA U TAH MASSACHU SETTS Mountain Miniatures Daffodil Miniatures Dollhouse Miniature561-791-4869 562-626-8370 L ula Salt L ake City Magazine www.mountainminiatures. www.daffodilminiatures. B oston com com 1-800-437-5828 Enchanted Miniature IO WA G EO RG IA MASSACHU SETTS Shoppe MINNESO TA The Side Door Draper Cir-Kit Concepts The Wild O rchid Hobby Builder's Supply West Yarmouth www. 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Slick Rick awaits parole Barbie Cohn details how a unique doll by artisan Pearl Jordan inspired her to think ‘outside the box’ for a one-of-a-kind project12 American Miniaturist
I’ve always been curious about the Feature catalyst that inspires the creation of unique miniature scenes, and I’m How manyoften amazed when I find out how the wedding, holidaysimplest item can spark an artisan’screativity. or new baby scenes can be In my case, a wheelchair purchased done? I wantedyears ago was eventually engulfed by a to try somethingfour story hospital with an elevator I’m really different. So,still struggling to complete, a rustic cider I built a prison cellpress began a tumbledown moonshiner’scabin (American Miniaturist Jan/Feb instead. LEFT: Slick Rick behind bars… at least for a time. 2003), and a dog barking at a pumpkin ABOVE: Barbie Cohn. in an autumn scene led to a series of BELOW: Pearl’s husband four seasons all featuring a playful pup was the inspirational or two. beauty behind the creation of Slick Rick.. Because I have some fine dolls in my collection, it would stand to reason that for each one purchased I should have had a place in mind. I bought most of them because I just couldn’t leave them, so, I adopted them. Many went into existing scenes, enhancing reality or adding whimsy. A few are still waiting for their homes to be built. Most of the time when I obtain a doll, it usually fits in somewhere. The case of Slick Rick was different. It’s always a pleasure to find IGMA artisan Pearl Jordan at a miniature show. For the last ten years I’ve been amazed at her detailed, realistically sculpted “little people”, as she refers to her wee folk. Their clothing is especially fascinating and realistic. Last year Pearl introduced me to Slick Rick. He was too charismatic, and he was beckoning! “Slick is a very unique figure that I made for my very first show,” explained Pearl. “I thought I’d never sell him because no one would ‘get’ him. I found American Miniaturist 13
How To that to be untrue. I’ve made many, all a bit different but the same theme. “Rick was based on a real fellow who would come through my neighborhood and he would have items that were stolen inside his coat. There were guys similar to him on the corners in downtown Chicago selling stolen goods...white, black, Latino. It was a fact. Though I’m not in that environment anymore, I’m sure it’s still going on.” Slick Rick was perfectly real to me, too. I had been buttonholed by these “vendors” to buy their knock-off Prada shoes and Rolex watches for $29 in places like New York, Las Vegas, New Orleans and Mexico. Fast-talking salesmen, these “vendors” appear out of nowhere, so full of charm. It’s almost like a street show. I planned to build a city street corner for Rick, but hadn’t even begun when I was asked to do a “sample” scene in an 14 American Miniaturist
Feature8” x 10” box depicting a “celebration.” The prison walls were dressed stone OPPOSITE PAGE,Everything that came to my mind had molded plastic from Model Builders LEFT: Have I got a dealbeen done so often. How many wedding, Supply which I washed with watered for you…holiday or new baby scenes can be black acrylic. I then painted the walls OPPOSITE PAGE,done? I wanted to try something really with swirls of grays, whites and taupe. BELOW: Barbiedifferent. So, I built a prison cell instead. I made the cot from pieces of balsa “distressed and dirtied up” the prison cell to give an authentic feel to Slick’s current situation. THIS PAGE, LEFT: Barbie aged the fabric by soaking it in strong fabric and glued bits of pillow stuffing to the outside of the pillow to make it look like it was coming apart. THIS PAGE, BELOW How many more items can Slick fit under that coat of his? From videos, books, magazines, necklaces and rings, Slick has it all. American Miniaturist 15
How To These “vendors” painted aluminum. I aged a piece of appear out of “ticking” fabric for the mattress and pillow by soaking the finished pieces nowhere, so full in strong tea, then placing them on a of charm. It’s cookie sheet in an oven on low heat almost like a until they scorched a bit. street show I glued tiny bits of cotton at the pillow 16 American Miniaturist seams so it looked as though it was
Feature wasn’t enough space to make LEFT: Anything you might the horizontals wide enough need? Slick Rick can take while still yielding access to the care of you. front opening box. I painted BELOW: The cell’s dowels along with thin, flat window shows the promise lengths of wood. My uncle, of being free one day. whose help I enlisted, usedcoming apart. The chain was attached to a drill press after markingthe bed, and to an eye screwed into the carefully each space betweenwall. The sink behind Rick’s left arm is bars. He taped togethermade from a restaurant jelly tub which many strips of wood andI cut in half. There was so little depth to drilled through as one.the box that there was no room for Rick Many of the pieces wouldand a full sink! split, but he got three perfect horizontal pieces. I then slipped each bar through The bars were a challenge. There the center braced top and bottom with the other two horizontals. I repainted a brass Williams lockset from Houseworks and fastened it to the bars. You may be asking yourself, “What’s the celebration?” I like to imagine that the celebration is Rick’s parole date! He has been studying the law, has made copious notes on his legal pad, has been reading his Bible, and together with his charm, good looks and charisma, he has convinced the Parole Board that he has earned his release! Charges of selling without a permit have been dropped and Rick is all set to hit the streets again. In these times of “politically correct” concerns, I worried that perhaps Rick’s predicament would be mistakenly stamped a racist statement. I called Pearl who discussed it with her husband, and both of them agreed that trouble comes in every shape, gender, age and ethnicity. They felt no one should feel offended. At the Tom Bishop International Show 2006 in Chicago in April, I stopped at Pearl’s table. She wasn’t there, and I was dismayed to learn she is having serious health problems and had taken a short break to rest. In her place was a fine American Miniaturist 17
How To 18 American Miniaturist
Featurelooking soft-spoken African American Oh my stars! It’sman with a bald head and an earring Slick Rick in thein his ear. I thought “Oh my stars! It’sSlick Rick in the flesh and he’s manning flesh and he’sPearl’s booth! “ manning Pearl’s When Pearl returned she introduced booth!me to her slender, handsome husbandand admitted, “Well, Rick’s physical ABOVE: Slick has made hischaracteristics were sort of based on my notes and is preparing for hishusband’s.” parole hearing. LEFT: Slick marks off the I thought he looked just like him! It days until he hopes to bewas wonderful. back on the street working his game. This whole experience gave me a tasteof reality with a whole lot of fun fantasy. American Miniaturist 19I appreciate all the artistic spirit Pearlallows into her creations. It’s with this appreciation that I wishthe best for Pearl. I send my love andprayers for her complete recovery. I hopethat she will continue to capture thespark of reality in her ‘Little People’ andshare with us for a long, long time! AM
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A house Feature Joyce Dean that dazzles pays a visit to one of the largest dollhouses in England she has everphotographed,an experience that she stillloves recallingRIGHT: The beautifulGeorgian exterior of12 Montpellier Terrace. American Miniaturist 21
How To it can be viewed from all sides. They started researching theirABOVE: The proud owners Meeting Charles and Mariaof 12 Montpellier Terrace, Duncan was a magical project back in 2000 when they soonCharles and Maria Duncan. experience. As I walked discovered the world of miniatureTheir project so far has taken through their home to a large room off houses. At that time they had no ideaover six years with the house their dining room, I was confronted by how sophisticated miniatures weremainly complete. an incredible Georgian style mansion and were amazed at the skills of the that stands in the center of the room, so artisans that were involved in creating the miniature furniture, lighting, cast ironwork and furnishings that can be found around the world. After searching through the ready-made houses and kits available, they decided that the only way they would get the house they wanted was to build it themselves. So without any previous experience in working in miniature they began the house which at the time of our rst visit was known as 12 Belgravia, and although an impressive address, the area has been re-named, and the house is now 12 Montpellier Terrace, which is much more in keeping with the family’s status. 22 American Miniaturist
Feature Initially, there were mistakes made but ABOVE: Each of the landing BELOW: The GrandCharles and Marie learned very quickly. hallways are light and airy marbled entrance hallwayThey found they could appreciate with connecting doors to with its staircase that sweepsthe problems the professionals must other parts of the house. upwards to the next floor.overcome. They both had many skills Maria is responsible for mostthat had developed over the years which of the decoration throughoutcame in very handy when undergoing the house and has perfectedthis project. the art of producing the beautiful marbling effect that Charles took on the job of wiring the has been used on the floors,house, a job that has grown enormously walls and ceilings of theas each section has been added. Each hallways. Each piece of theaddition has always been under the staircase was carefully cut towatchful eye of Maria who has brought fit exactly in place, Maria thenher air and skill for decoration, color marbled the sections beforeand style to the project. John Watkins set about designing his wrought iron Since the house is a properly planned banisters. Each section againbuilding, this house takes up all of was specially made as thethe space in one of their rooms. The staircase coils around. JohnDuncans wanted it to function like a has even included the initialreal house so you can actually go from ‘M’ into the design on theroom to room, and up and down the first landing. The large ornatestairs to each oor. There are actual gold picture, mirror, and thecorridors and stairways connecting the Louis XV gilt torcheres are made by John Hodgson. The chandeliers are by Ray Storey. All the doors and corridors leading from the hallways connect to other rooms in the house. American Miniaturist 23
How To front to the back two! Do you think we should be worried – even from the about global warming?” servants’ part of the house. The The house has been constructed so that it can be taken apart. This was the nished house only way to build it and should it ever has seven oors, have to be moved each oor separates to stands over 6 enable it to go through a doorway. ½ feet high, is approximately 5 After our initial visit the house has ½ feet wide and undergone a total transformation. Many almost 5 feet rooms have been nished and many deep. pieces of furniture have been replaced.ABOVE: The Drawing Room There aresituated on the second floor. thirty roomsThe carpet has been hand- to illuminatestitched by Marjorie Garner. plus hallways,RIGHT: The dining room landings andon the ground floor. The seven staircasesgold ornate tables and large for a total ofpictures also the Blackamoor 270 light bulbs.Boy with its gilt, faux ebony When askedand trompe l’oeil malachite how many lights were there in the houseembellishment are by John as there appeared to be one or two,Hodgson; the large marble Charles replied: “No, we don’t do one orfireplace and plaster columnsare by Sue Cook; the tableset with a Georgian dinnerservice by Stokesay Warewith the glassware by GerdFelka; the silver tureens,cake strands and Epernayare by Simply Silver; thebasic chandelier by RayStorey, has been adornedwith Swarovski crystals byMaria. The dining chairs areby David Booth. The Frenchconsole table after the styleof Nicolas Pineau with greenreal marble top is by JohnHodgson; the silverware bySimply Silver. 24 American Miniaturist
FeatureCupboards and shelves are now lled house has been on the dining table for ABOVE: The green andwith accessories, and in some cases the past four years. white sitting room haswhole rooms have changed color as an Arabian feel with thewell as shape. Maria has carried out During this time the work has also furniture and fireplaceher magic and has created beautiful spread to the kitchen table, and the painted the same colour assettings for special pieces of furniture other dining room table. “The house was the walls. Each ornate pieceor collections of porcelain. This is the chaotic. If people were coming I would of decoration has beenreason why the main section of the have to clear everything away. I’m so carefully picked out in gold. pleased it’s done – just to have my house The beautiful large cabinet is made by Rohit Khana from India. Both Maria and Charles fell in love with their exquisite work and now have a number of pieces of their furniture. LEFT: The study on the first floor has wooden panelled walls, a beautiful handmade carpet and the fireplace is now dark green marble. The pictures have now been replaced with paintings by Angela Daniel, as the man of the house has a naval background the paintings of Nelson and his ship The Victory have a special meaning. Cabinets have been filled and the desk replaced with one by Welland Miniature Furniture. American Miniaturist 25
How ToABOVE: The library is a new back,” said Maria. “Although I could still from the made-over wooden ones Mariaaddition to the house, it was go on changing things, I could still swap rst used in the rooms, with resin onesto have held a collection of things until my dying day.”blue and white porcelain at which have been gilded and upholsteredone time, but now the lemon The basic décor is the same to the to match the décor. Some of the chairsand pale gold theme gives original because to change that would have been made by John Hodgson.the room a calm ambience. have been a very dif cult job. WhenRay Storey made all of the Charles and Maria were originally Charles and Maria have visited many13 individual lights, one for decorating the ceilings, the house had to fairs and exhibitions including one ineach of the pillars and two be upside down. This is the easiest way Paris where they met Elisabeth Causeretchandeliers – it must have to construct beautiful ceilings and many Bettler whose hand-thrown porcelainbeen a nightmare for Charles other dollhouses have been decorated in pots can now be found on many ofto wire each one in place. this way. the shelves. The list of craftspeopleThe books that fill the built-in reads like a Who’s Who, as every piecebookcases are beautifully Although the original décor may still throughout the house has been carefullybound and trimmed in gold. be in place, there have been a lot of chosen and only when they were bothThe attention to detail in this changes and additions. Many of the happy, has it been included.room is overwhelming, with paintings throughout the house are byMaria again working her Angela Daniel, they discovered her at The biggest and most magni centmagic on the upholstery of the Cheltenham exhibition, and fell in addition must be the grand entrancethe chairs love with her work. Angela copies Old hallway with its marbled oor and Masters, like The Blue Boy by Thomas elegant sweeping staircase that takes Gainsborough. You can see her work you up into the upper hallway. Both in the library. Chairs have changed, halls have marbled ooring and wall panels created by Maria. Having 26 American Miniaturist
Featureperfected her technique she set about ABOVE & LEFT: Themaking the staircase that took many Music Room with its unusualhours of measuring. Each piece had to green colored walls andbe made to t and sweep in the right furnishings. The furnituredirection since the staircase makes its is by John Hodgson.. Byway from oor to landing and then on putting the columns into theagain. Both Maria and Charles knew room and creating a corridorthat they wanted John Watkins to make the room has been giventhe ironwork for the banisters and a different perspective. “Inhandrails. But it took John nine months many big houses this wouldbefore he was able to take on the work have been blocked off to cutafter an accident in his workshop. Maria out the draughts,” explainedexplained, “I was absolutely over the Maria. The paintings in themoon, when he rang to say he would heavy gold frames are bylike to do it.” John Hodgson; the musical instruments including the Some of miniatures nest artisan’s harpsichord are by Touch ofwork can be found in this house. Like Class. The very large carpetthe sewing box by David Lee; brass beds has again been made by theirby Meadowcraft; silverware by Simply friend Marjorie Garner – “SheSilver, Royal Tunbridge Wells and Mike sits in front of the televisionSparrow; paino and cello by Touch and just stitches them,” addedof Class; furniture by Rohit Khanna, Maria, when asked how long it took to make.American Miniaturist 27
How To on shelves that can only be seen from this angle.ABOVE: The house now has Welland Miniature Furniture and David Even the staircase whentwo bathrooms – one with Booth. Linens by Pilar Royo; plasterwork viewed from other anglesthe suite by Anne Shepley, by Sue Cook; the list goes on and on. is an amazing feat ofthis comes complete with engineering on Johnall the plumbing. Even the Peeping through the windows you Watkins’s part. Not onlyceilings have been decorated are transported into a magical miniature does it sweep up butwith transfers to match. Again world. Maria even has porcelain pieces then also coils round.Marjorie Garner has been The height of the roomsbusy and stitched the carpets. was designed so that anBELOW: The second elaborate staircase couldbathroom with its pale green be incorporated. Johnpanelled walls and a water has even included Maria’sheater for constant hot water. initial into the design. When asked if they were happy with the house, Charles said, “We are. And often before we go to bed at night, we come in and put the lights on and have a look around. Even if you have seen it a hundred times you want to see it over and over again.” AM Although Icould still go onchanging things,I could still swap things until my dying day. 28 American Miniaturist
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minimail AM is your magazine, and we want to hear from you. Write to: MiniMail, American Miniaturist, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944. Or [email protected]. Letters may be edited if necessary. This issue’s star letter comes Imagine my surprise when I turned Ruler’s rule to us from Sara Roncone. She the page and there was MY house! will be receiving a furniture Awesome! I wrote to the owner and Dear AM, kit from us as a thank you for she answered my questions. How taking the time to write us. great is that! Recently a reader who had received your Dollhouse We love to hear from our I’m on disability and try to watch Club packet suggested that she readers so much that each my pennies, but your magazine is the would love to have a ruler that issue, we select one letter and best of my dollar I’ve ever bought. more clearly measured 1/12 scale. send its author a special treat. I even gave a subscription as a I have had such a ruler for many Who knows, maybe you will Christmas gift. years and it is very helpful. I would be our next month’s winner! copy it for you but it is commercially Remember you can’t win, if Keep up the great work! produced and most probably you don’t write us. copy-righted. So, I will send you the Sara Roncone company name and you can contactA happy, grateful reader Hedgesville, WV them. It also helps that the ruler is printed on transparent material.Dear AM, Reader comments and Thank you so much for suggestions Jo Anne Ehlert a wonderful magazine! Buford, GA Dear AM,I enjoy it so much. I live in the I enjoy your magazine. Editor’s note: We were unable topanhandle of West Virginia – I especially like all the find a company that produces thealmost heaven. ruler Jo Anne mentions above. IfUnfortunately, different projects anyone has any contact details forthe dollhouse to make. I’m a Colonial Craftsmen of Baltimore,stores are member of the MD, please let us know.virtually nil. I Dollhouse Clubwould need to but I don’t have Contact details, please?go to Maryland, the internet. AreVirginia, or there things that Dear AM,Pennsylvania, I’m missing outand quite a on? Is there a I have been getting yourdistance, so way for people in the club to getyour magazine things mailed to them that would be magazine from my cousinis a real blessing. found on the internet? for nearly a year now. I am enjoying You have wonderful articles with I think it would be fun and more ofgreat pictures. I’ve gotten so many a challenge if you would make Henry it very much.ideas! I love that you show how to smaller. He is too easy to find.do projects step-by-step. I’m so I collect antique toy kitchenproud of myself when I accomplish Elaine Froilanda project – thank you! My problem Stewartville, MN items which I sometimes mix withnow is that I don’t have enoughtime to do all the things I want to. Editor’s note: I encourage items I make MMaakkee ddiiffffeerreenntt hhaatt ssttyylleess wwiitthh tthheessee ggrreeaatt hhooww--ttoossBut then who does? everyone to check out the on-line myself or club. If you don’t have internet I was really excited last year access at home, please remember ones that are Issue #46 www.americanminiaturist.com CANADAP$8r.5i0cCeAD$. U5K.£93.575when you featured a dollhouse that public libraries around the well made bythe same as mine. I got it at a sale, USA allow their patrons to use the contemporary MowankeV&ictdorreiasns ydooullrFebruary07completed (although somewhat internet and computers. Also, mini-makers.upside-down) and had no idea Henry wants Elaine to know thatwhat name or brand it was. he’ll try to be a bit more sneaky in I have 15 old upcoming issues! kitchens to date. WBBttoorriiilyynnlooggyuuoaarruddttoooobuullellcchhhhmoooouuyffssmeeeelleeinggaai-nnvccaeelentine? Can you please furnish me with the SSttiittcchh aa ddaarrlliinngg ppiillllooww ffoorr yyoouurr ffaavvoorriittee ppaall address and Ȁ ! \"\"! ##$#% 12/17/2006 1:17:53 PM 004FEB07_p001_4.indd 1 phone number of miniaturist, Barry Harris whose antique kitchen30 American Miniaturist
minimail Show Datesitems are pictured on page 24 of trimming. Were they also crafted by top. The rubber band should beFebruary 2007 issue? Thank you Dana or were they purchased? small enough (or double it) tofor your help. create tension. Keep the paper I will be looking for the answers clip on top of the tape and now Jane S. Owens in an upcoming AM issue as I’m you can pull the tape and it won’t Topsham, ME sure other readers have the same go wild and unroll all over the questions. place.Editor’s note: We try to providethese details whenever possible. Thanks for all you do for us mini The gals at the Retreat thoughtBarry’s phone number in the UK hobbyists! this was a wonderful idea so Iis: 001441472 399009 and his thought I should pass it along.mailing address is: 3 Meadow Sharon WeaverDrive, Binbrook, Market Rasen, Farmington, NM Thank you for a very enjoyableLincs LN8 6DA, England. magazine. Editor’s note: Dana Sippel-BurtonThe Victorian lady was the author of the article and Beverly Moon my sincerest apologies to readers Cartersville, GeorgiaDear AM, and to Dana for the mix up. The I have a couple of other questions that Sharon Club card winner? questions regarding asked are answered by Dana Sippel-Burton. She explains, “The Dear AM,‘The Victorian Lady and Her black velvet and fur trim are aUnmentionables’ article on pages misprint. The velvet flowers were I have no idea40-43 of Issue 46. purchased at a miniature show - sometime in the last 20 years whether or not MEMBERSHIP NUMBER First of all, on page 5 you that I’ve been attending (hence no I am a winner of youridentify Dana Sippel-Burton as the additional info). The under bodiceartisan of the Victorian-dressed was originally an excess piece of contest (probably not) VÕLV>À`MEMBER SINCEdoll on the front cover. However, petticoat which I glued to the front since I cannot find myon page 40 the of doll. And then I realized that the Cfk^i\`ir_\`^oa+fkaa .artisan is identified dress bodice entirely covered itas Dana Stewart. up, so it was a wasted step (with dollhouse club member card. I
ruil adv beurs voor AM (half).qxp 29-9-2006 14:28 Page 1New! Chrysnbon® Now in 11 M23A-2R4C-2H5PoArpnpheemnhuisstadCandy Dishes & Beverage Sets sparkling 2007 colors!25 years! With special activities and… presents for all the visitors! AvailableDistributed by from FREE! Open on Friday between 5 p.m. and 9 miniature ctahaalletdBapdneloaraaergumtsuitsceiefeisupswlaaionntfthds p.m. (admission with dealers pre-ordered tickets worldwide. only!), on Saturday between 10.30 a.m.51133--335533-3-3393090wwww.dweews.ddeeliegshdtse.lciogmhts.com and 5.30 p.m. and on Sundaybetween 10.30 A FULL SCALE a.m. and 4.30 p.m. HOBBY SHOP For more information, call: +31-(0)610402824 Everything for your dollhouse needs including furniture, or visit www.arnhem-accessories, kits, landscape supplies, building components poppenhuisstad.com wallpaper, flooring and electrical supplies. APInternational SPECIAL ORDERS WELCOME! information www.danseys.com Open daily 10 am - 9 pm 741 N. Nellis Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89110-5384 (702) 453-7223 #-’’! \"’’& 2)/(! ’1’- 3 &+**(!+0.’ ,0-%($.’& SceneA Scene B projects. Scene C$27OOrrddOeerrrotdwneeor sfacoersne£et9of.o0fr05£4sc.9e5nes Scene DOrder tfohureorenfolfyor r££1131.0.000 Scene EOrderOrdpelur sa$ll3f.5iv0eshfoiprp£in1g5&.0h0an*dling To order call: US - 507 634 3143 or UK - 01903 884988 or visit www.dollshouseworld.comPleasWe aodrdld£1w.9i5deposshtaigpepainndgp&ackhaaginngdloinnegach order*UK ordeUrsKonloy.rders please add £1.95FaaddoddrAU£lE5Sl4.u0.ao00dr0t.doha$pne3der.0R0ioen,srfttodeorefrEWnrusaroorptplidoleenaasleoarddder€s4£.50.00083424 American Miniaturist
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A touch of eleganceMarianne Colijn shares two great crochet patterns so wemake a lovely table cloth and table runnerI designed this pattern to make a table become an easy and flexible pattern and I cloth to fit the round table in my hope you will find useful. collection. The diameter of the table istwo inches. I checked with some friends Tools and materialsand it seems to be a common size fortables. But when I was working on the l Crochet hook in 0.60 size –pattern I decided to do it in such a way that closest US equivalent is a numberI could easily make the table cloth bigger 15 or 16 hookor smaller to suit other tables withouthaving to design another pattern. So it has l DMC no. 0.80 tatting thread (fil a dentelles) l F ine needle to weave in the thread tails34 American Miniaturist
QMUAIKCEK! Decorate with fairies JM Leotti shows us how to release the fairy within by sculpting our very own delightful creatures I n many folk tales “fairies” or “nature 1. C ondition the clay by softening it in your spirits” are believed to inhabit flowers and plants. Therefore fairy sightings hands. This will be easy, as these little are believed to be more prevalent in spring pieces are tiny. Use about ¼” of clay when all of nature is alive. You, too, can join for the head and wings. The rest of the in the fairy fun by decorating your dollhouse pieces will be even smaller. If you are with these delightful creatures! Here’s how mixing red and white to make pink, do to make your very own fairy. this now. Be sure to do all of your work on the ceramic tile as these pieces are Tools and materials so small, you do not want to risk ruining your fairy while moving it into the oven. ● Ceramic tile If you want, make several fairies at a ● Fimo clay: Tropical Green (or any time! green), Yellow, Pink (or mix red and TI P! white), Black, Flesh ● A crylic paint: Pearl White, Pearl Make sure the ears stick out, as Pink, Cadmium Red this adds to the fairy’s magical ● Matte sealer ● Thin brush appearance! ● Toothpick ● Needle tool or straight pin ● Xacto blade or razor blade ● Miniature terracotta pot (optional) ● Tacky Glue (optional)40 American Miniaturist
How to2. With your pink clay, make two ¼” 5. Now roll a very thin snake of black. teardrop shapes. These will be your Cut two tiny pieces of black and roll wings. These pieces can be smaller into balls. These will be the eyes. depending on where you are going With your toothpick or straight pin, to place your little fairy. With your place them onto the face and press toothpick, drag the point into the clay them lightly with your finger to flatten to make veins in the wings. them out.3. On your tile, make a “V” with the 6. Roll a thin snake of flesh colored clay. wings. Roll a ¼” piece of flesh Cut a tiny piece off and roll it into colored clay into a ball. Place the ball a ball. This will be the nose. With into it at the bottom of the “V” and your toothpick or straight pin, place flatten it to make a head. the nose onto the face and press to flatten slightly.4. Take two small pieces of flesh colored 7. Now we are going to make the mouth. clay and shape them into teardrops. Draw whatever kind of mouth you Place them on either side of the head. want! You can draw a smile or simply These will be the ears. With your poke the clay with your toothpick or toothpick or straight pin, very lightly straight pin to make a little hole. draw the whirls of the ears. If you are unsure how to do this, you can consult an anatomy book or just poke a little hole into the ear. American Miniaturist 41
TI P! 8. Take a tiny piece of yellow and roll a 11. Roll a thin snake of pink. Cut tiny If you wish to snake. This will be the hair. Place pieces from the snake and roll them make the fairy around the head, but make sure the into balls. Place the balls onto her leaf terracotta pot, ears stick out, as this adds to the crown, to create a crown of flowers. follow the same fairy’s magical appearance. Press them lightly onto the leaves with instructions, but your toothpick or straight pin. Use thework directly on 9. Drag your straight pin through the point to create flower centers.the pot instead of on the ceramic yellow to make strands of hair. 12. You are now ready to bake your fairy. tile. Use tackyglue to glue your 10. Flatten out a small piece of green. With Place the tile into the oven and bake. unbaked pieces Because these fairies are so small, place in place so they your craft blade or razor, cut tiny triangles them into a cold oven and bring them of green. These will be her leaf crown. up to the manufacturer’s suggested don’t move You can also make a queen’s crown out temperature. Then turn the oven offwhile you work. of any color you want, and later paint it and let them sit for no longer than two gold! (See my terracotta pot.) Place the minutes. Remove the tile with an oven When you are tiny leaves around her head. mitt and let cool. Do not remove fairy finished, bake from the tile, as we still have work to do! the terracotta pot in the oven 13. Using your thin brush, paint the lips, using the sametechnique above. nose and cheeks of the fairy. I use When the piece watered down Cadmium Red, but youis cool, paint and can use any color that suits you. Paint the wings with the Pearl Pink and Pearl seal. White paint. Seal with the matte sealer To remove your fairy from the ceramic tile, gently slip a razor blade underneath taking care not to lift up to quickly as the thin clay can crack. 14. Your fairy is finished! You can these enchanting creatures to decorate shelves, cribs, doors, above the fireplace, terracotta pots—the list is endless! Use your imagination and have fun. AM42 American Miniaturist
thedollhouseclub.comPPaa iinntt yyoo uurr ooww nn ff ll oo rr aa ll mmoo tt iiff ssMarch 07 Issue #47 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $5.95 CANADA $8.50 CAD. UK £3.75Crocheta prettydoilyCwmCaaahhkkkiisseeekkaeeyystep intoKathy’sthe sunshine Ban thosewith r uth’s winter bluesmodern Cottage by makinga dobe spring flowers Be charmed by a delightful Irish homeReachȀ!\"\"!##$#% over 100,000 004MAR07_p001b.indd 11/18/2007 6:03:05 PMminiaturists onlinewith our new iMagAmerican Miniaturist is proud to unveil You can even link athe new iMag. Now thousands of video clip to your adminiaturists around the world canview issues of the US’s favorite Hyperlink to yourminiatures magazine online. They can own websiteflick through the pages easily 24 hoursa day. American Miniaturist 43For advertisers in American Miniaturistthat means the US’s top sellingmagazine has suddenly added manythousands more readers from aroundthe world.And even better, all existingadvertisers can now link their site totheir online advert in the AmericanMiniaturist iMag.Thousands of new customers are justa click away for as little as $20.Call Colette on 507 634 3143 oremail [email protected]
Princess of the Easter bonnets Robin Stewart shares her delightful Easter memory and her fun and easy technique for making Easter bonnets.TOP: Easter basket with I couldn’t have been more than five orthe chocolate bunny can six years old at the time. And I can’tbe found in AM Issue 36 quite remember whether or not I actuallyRIGHT: All dressed up saw the movie, or perhaps my Dad playedand ready for EasterSunday. the soundtrack album. He was big onBELOW:The little soundtrack albums.princess, Robin with hermother as they make their But the main thing I can rememberway on Easter morning. is the song and skipping down the sidewalk in my shiny, black patent leather baby doll shoes. With my dainty, The bonnet made me so happy I would lace trimmed white gloves, I proudly carried sing out loud as I proudly marched along to my matching shiny, black purse filled the beat of my own private drummer, “Oh with chocolate balls and jelly beans (and I could write a sonnet…about my Easter tissues). But best of all, I remember my bonnet…with all my frills upon it…in the elaborately adorned Easter bonnet! Easter parade!” The fact that I didn’t know the words didn’t really matter. What was a sonnet? At the time, I didn’t know. Who cared! It was my theme song, my Easter anthem. I was princess of the Easter bonnets, and no one could convince me of any other fact! Actually to this day, I still don’t know the correct words. There’s something about Fifth Avenue...oh well…happy Easter!44 American Miniaturist
How to Tools and materials 5. Cut out a square piece of fabric aboutl Card stock paper the same size as brim.l Tacky gluel Thin white cotton fabric 6. Unfold the cardboard and apply gluel Circle templatel Dolls head or hat form (any round to both inner sides. Place the fabric in between and close the fold. object that’s the shape of a dolls head) 7. Now, while the glue is still wet, placel Exacto blade and small scissorsl Acrylic paint in your choice of hat the hat cutout on top of the dolls head colors or hat form to form the shape of the hat.l Ribbons, bows, feathers, tiny beads, and/or any other embellishments you’d like to use on your hat1. Fold your card stock in half. (We’re going to use the folded edge)2. Decide which size circle you will use for your hat brim. Use the dolls head or the hat form to judge which circle to use for the hat opening.3. Just below the fold, trace the outer circle for the brim. Then trace the inner circle directly in the middle of the outer circle. Now this is not an exact science, but if you’re having trouble “eye balling” the center of the bigger circle, lightly drawn an X through the large circle to divide the circle into four even sections. This will help you to evenly judge the center hole.4. Use your exacto blade to cut into the 8. Remove the form and squeeze the rim center circle to get a starting place for to make sure it’s all stuck together. Let your scissors to fit in and cut out the the form dry. Once it’s all dry, cut out inner hole. the round brim. 9. Paint the hat in your desired color and add your own personal touch with embellishments. AM Happy Easter! American Miniaturist 45
touchAn indulgent Kit by The Craft Pack Company Cheryl Ashelin reviews the Bathrobe Set Skill Level: Easy which is one of the fun kits Price: $8.95 that comes from The Craft Pack Company E njoy a luxurious 46 American Miniaturist bubble bath and then wrap yourself in this comfy robe. The kit contains materials to make a bathrobe, pair of slippers and a wash bag. All you need to complete them is a bottle of tacky glue and a pair scissors. Read through the instructions before beginning. They are pretty straightforward and easy to understand, but I did find myself reading through them a couple of times before I started simply because the instructions were in paragraph form rather than broken down into numbered steps. Begin by cutting out the patterns. Then trace them onto the felt and finally cut the felt pieces. The felt in the kit I used was creased when I opened it, but the creases came out as the project progressed and no folds or creases can be seen in the final project. Tools and materials ● Kit ● Tacky glue ● Scissors
Robe Kit review When you begin the robe, make sure you follow the 6. Add the belt.instructions to fold over each side before applying theribbon to make sure it folds correctly. To complete the There was plentyrobe: of ribbon in my kit. You can use a little extra here so it’s easier to tie the bow. Trim off the ends.1. Glue a strip of ribbon Slippers to each side of the robe ● Once the pieces are section. Glue it to the side cut, apply a strip of that will show when folded. glue to the straight edge of the slipper 2. Fold over the tabs. front. Glue the curved edge to the sole. Hold3. Add a strip of ribbon to the for a bit to let dry. pockets and glue to them to Wash bag the front of the robe. ● The wash bag is completed 4. Fold over the similar to the slippers. One thing I did slightly different sleeve pieces was to glue the short edges and glue to of the wash bag side together the back of the first. I then applied glue to robe. the edge of the bag bottom. Hold until the glue begins to5. Add hanging loop. (If I were to do this project dry. Lastly, tie a bit of ribbon around the top of the bag. again, I would put the loop on before I folded over the sides.) If you would like to order this kit or the other offered by The Craft Pack Company, please contact Craft Club at 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944 or call toll free at 1-866-606-6587 or www.craft-club.com American Miniaturist 47
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