AMN156

Enjoy Loredana Tonetti’s enchanting miniature teapots.April 16 Issue #156 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $7.95 CANADA $10.95 CAD. UK £ 5.25PROJECTS• Polymer clay food• Paper basket• Miniature shovel• Water transfer paper• Decanter stand• Using tea in minisR elax in a mini garden

Entertain in Style with Reutter Porcelain Available at your favorite miniature retailer! www.reutterporcelain.com MOLLY CROMWELL PRESENTS SHOWS & TOURS STURBRIDGE DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES FESTIVAL • JUNE 4 & 5, 2016 A show & sale featuring legends and newcomers from around the world. Sturbridge Host Hotel, 366 Main St/Rte 20 Sturbridge, Mass. Reserve your room today to secure the special show rate. Call: 508-347-7393 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! All questions and deposits for this trip come directly to Molly. TRAVEL EUROPE WITH KINDRED SPIRITS ** SOLD OUT ** ENGLAND • MAY 8 ~ 16, 2016 ** SOLD OUT ** 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 Make your deposit today with Grand Circle Lines: 1-800-597-2452 Press Extension 2, and mention this code when booking: G6-20068 CHRISTMAS MARKETS ALONG THE RHINE • NOVEMBER 27 ~ DECEMBER 13, 2016 Cruising Amsterdam to Basel ~ Lots of Miniatures Switzerland • France • Germany • The Netherlands Make your deposit today with Grand Circle Lines: 1-800-597-2452 Info: Ruth at grouPchreysbs eEaxrtetnosoi@ona2o,la.cnodmmeonrtio4n08th-i9s9c7o-d1e0w04hen bhototkpin:/g/:goGo6d-2s0a0m68showcase.miniature.net httpF://ogroomdosaremisnhfoowr.mblaotgisopno:[email protected]/•GPohoodnSea:m(S7h0o3w) 9ca7s8e-O53fM53iniatures www.mollycromwell.com2 American Miniaturist

Dollhouse Land Artistry in Miniatures See you at the Chicago International Show, NAME Nationals in Seattle, Denver Museum of Miniatures Fall Show, The Good Sam Show and in Philadelphia. (949) 496-9841 [email protected] Visit Us on Facebook 27134A Paseo Espada, Suite 304 San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Real Good Toys The To-Do List Heirloom Quality Dollhouses Of A Very Wise Miniaturist:Engineering the world’s best miniature homes Visit The Museum of Miniature Houses for over 40 years! 7 Rooms of beautiful m...iniatures (I can’t wait!) Save Time to Shop in the Museum Shop Miniature “finds”..a. t all price point Attend The Museum’s Attic Sale April 30, 2016. .B..argains galore! Attend the 16th Annual Dollhouse Miniatures Show & Sale September 16-17, 2016Many Choices! Sizes! Price levels! Years of Joy! 111 East Main St - Carmel, IN 46032 317-575-9466 10 Quarry St. - Barre, Vermont 05641802-479-2217 on the web: www.RealGoodToys.com Hours: Wed-Sat: 11am to 4pm - Sun 1pm-4pm Learn more at the Museum’s Website: www.museumofminiatures.org American Miniaturist 3

Enjoy Loredana Tonetti’s enchanting miniature teapots. ContentsApril 16 Issue #156 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $7.95 CANADA $10.95 CAD. UK £ 5.25PROJECTS• Polymer clay food• Paper basket• Miniature shovel• Water transfer paper• Decanter stand• Using tea in minis Regulars FeaturesR elax in a mini garden 6 Mini mail 10 Miniature animals 56 04AP16_p001.indd 1 2/24/16 10:45 AM 85 We love to hear from our Linda Fisher has learned American Miniaturist 88 readers and share their many lessons while68132 250th Avenue words on these pages. perfecting her art.Kasson, MN 55944 Itty bits 16 Folk furniturePhone: (507) 634-3143Toll Free: 1-866-606-6587 The latest news and notes 18 Ruth Pollock blendsFax: (507) 634-7691 in the mini world, and our warmth, tradition, andEmail: [email protected] newest contest winners. love in her miniatures.UK: AM, PO Box 2258 Pulbrough Snippets Artist showcaseRH20 9BA 24 Great Britain Cut out your very own Meet a few talented artists Tel: 01903 884988 labels, decorative paper, 31 who light up our world. and a scenic view.Publisher: Enchanted Bunny HillKelly Johnson Show dates Email: [email protected] Kammy has made a tinyEditor: Mark your calendars 36 fairy dwelling whereAuralea Krieger and plan to attend these bunnies are welcome.Email: [email protected] shows around the country. Advertising & Marketing: Romantic bedroomSara Vix On the cover: Scene byEmail: [email protected] 44 Elvira Galati has made a Susan Farnik little room full of love. Customer Service: Enchanting teapotsEmail: [email protected] Distribution: Loredana Tonetti has made Alex Schwemmer 53 a collection of teapotsEmail: [email protected]: The GarfielAuralea Krieger Ad designer: Sumaiya Mehreen enjoys Alison Smith 58 collecting miniatures from around the world.Contributors: Kris Compas, Linda Fisher, Brittany Fuller, Elvira Easter shelves Galati, Pat Goodall-McIntosh, T. A. Gozeski, DavidHartshorn, Kammy Hill, Gabriele Layne, Maria 69 Gabriele Layne celebrates Malmström, Sumaiya Mehreen, Ruth Pollock, the season through minis!Pricilia, Loredana Tonetti, Deb Weissler Spring gallery Issue 156 April 2016 Enjoy the wondrous talent 78 of various artists.Published by Ashdown BroadcastingSubscription rates: Fabergé eggs1 Year (12 issues) $76.99 USA Seven miniature artists haveCanada $121.99 CAD, UK £79.99 paid tribute to fanciful Europe €110.99, ROW $135.99 (US Funds) Fabergé eggs in miniature.2 Year (24 issues) $143.99 USA Inspirational gardensCanada $231.99 CAD, UK £146.99 Be inspired as you meanderEurope €211.99, ROW $260.99 (US Funds) through these sensational miniature gardens.American Miniaturist (USPS# 021-053 ISSN #14778203) is published monthly at 68132 250thAve., Kasson, MN 55944. Subscription price is$65.00. Periodicals postage paid at Kasson, MN, andadditional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send addresscorrections to American Miniaturist, 68132 250thAve., Kasson, MN 55944All material submitted to the magazine is accepted on the basis thatcopyright will be vested in the Publisher who assumes all rights worldwide,in all forms and media. This means American Miniaturist owns the rightsto the instructions and photographs that we publish. The work may bepublished in the magazine, our i-Mag, ebooks, CDs and bookzines as well ason Dollshouse.TV. You continue to own the copyright for the design and arefree to teach and sell your work. All that we ask is that you wait a minimumof 6 months after the publication of the issue before teaching the design orselling your own instructions. We don’t allow you to re-publish the designfeatured in other books or magazines without prior consent.

Projects Welcome 8 Decanter stand While laying out this issue I had a sudden memory of when I first laid my eyes on the Keep temptation at bay Easter bunny in the mall. I was very little and with a tantalizing project was most likely expecting a cute little bunny by David Hartshorn. with a pink nose that spoke to me.34 Water transfer paper Instead there was a very large bunny with a giant smooth white head and a white furry Pricilia shares the wonderful human body towering over me. I screamed and world of water transfer paper. ran away as fast as my little legs could take me.42 Miniature shovel I am not sure how you can prepare a child for that meeting or even explain why the Easter Maria Malmström is here to bunny looks the way it does. So from that day help you get ready for some on I only looked forward to the egg hunts and spring planting. colorful baskets full of candy!39 Using tea in minis This issue of American Miniaturist has a few fun tributes for Easter and also celebrates the Read up on a few tips about coming of Spring. I want to send out a big using tea to make dirt or to thank you to all the contributors that helped give fabric an antique look. to make this an issue to treasure. They have shared many tips and tricks as well as their74 Paper basket wonderful works of art. Kris Compas shares a simple I am certain that within these pages you will way to make a 1:12-scale come up with some new projects or even get basket using paper. ideas on things to add to existing ones.90 Polymer clay food If you have been a good little miniature maker and the Easter bunny pays you a visit, Pat Goodall-McIntosh shares I only hope he is small, cute, and has lots of how to get the most out of delicious treats for you! your polymer clay.97 Quick bake cake T. A. Gozeski shows us how to make a miniature cake using silicone molds.

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: auralea@ ashdown.co.uk. Letters may be edited if necessary. Star letter Letter from a contributor Valentine’s Day gift for her. This month’s star letter was Oh my goodness! What a Thank you and have a very written by Rhea Avery who wonderful surprise to discover happy Valentine’s Day. proved that tough guys can the art gallery I made for my like minis too. We truly love daughter’s 50th birthday in issue Mariana Wilkinson to share your projects and AM154 – and how very fitting letters with our readers, and that it appeared in the February Wellington, CO it means so much to us that you take the time to write! To issue. As Deb Enjoy smaller scale mini art from the 2015 Good Sam Show Giveaway winner thank Rhea for her wonderful Weissler so I wanted to say thank you to letter, we will be sending her appropriately Sandy Millar for donating the a very special project DVD. mentioned, assortment of Bunka threads Please keep your letters February 16 Issue #154 www.americanminiaturist.com CANADA $1P0.r9i5cCeAD.$U7K .£95.525 coming. We love learning about it does P•••••••VDVPRSFSiaewcertOilartcleegolroynaJorTutibtEraliepaenonCrakewnvgs’TfsnieiuedtewSshrecttnraaetitbaasubietnrhlaeeett for the giveaway in the you and your projects and represent a December issue, and to the hearing your comments lot of love. staff at American Miniaturist and ideas. We always look The article for drawing my name as the forward to reading your is excellent, winner. thoughtful letters! and the photos I’ve never seen such as well as the mycraBfteascuardeetomvy.icsiotm a large variety of colors,Star letter accompanying Swedish cottage by Lena Jangren. 1/4/16 3:47PM and the metallic ones are You just never know when you will be text are 04FE16_p001.indd 1 wonderful. I’ll be sharingable to share your love of perfectly complimentary. One them with my club members.miniatures. We are having some of the extra copies I am orderingremodeling done right now, to share is earmarked for my Barb Andersonand one of the rooms needing daughter – it will be the perfectattention is the one that holds Sheboygan, WIour ten dollhouses. I was completely amazedwhen the big, tough,contractors, who were there togive estimates, were fascinatedby the dollhouses, and asked totake pictures. One of them said“I can really appreciate all thehard work and detail you haveput into these, because I do thisin real-life scale.”  Of course, theyall got tours. Rhea Avery Albany, OR6 American Miniaturist

minimail February Highlights winner I have never entered in this giveaway before, but have been a subscriber for many years. I felt compelled to enter be forgotten the important bondWhere’s Arthur winner after reading the article, The Gift that a family has with their pets. Thank-you so much for the of Miniature Art, by Deb Weissler I admire the great works of artwonderful DVD on making in issue AM154. created by Mariana Wilkinson’sminiature delectable dishes. I am an amateur miniaturist daughter and Mariana’s and genealogist.  wonderful room box with its I always love trying to find Our family has careful attention toArthur and I have recently also had several the placement of thegotten interested in half-inch German Shepards. Laser cut staircase art works and thescale. It would be great if I This is a beautiful incredible lighting. could find others doing this way to celebrate Lstaasiercracsuetscale and learn where to find both the creating of This miniaturethings for that scale.   miniatures and the JltaeosfefshWr acirulketehsrtsisaoitnresmhaanpsdlachtreeaasatngeddenpaertroeocmuessplsylawotefiftehforeurds masterpiece will bond of a mother and be treasured, I Louise McCoskey daughter. And, not to TwwtsobrrctaiofaaWincneaycoutsrmmsdohyuhlieotTaaudrtyMrhgCtwomiotttcnwhuottahoyifhiutitDiuawtTolineditrhioeoGot.elssesianseehdleshedRgTcenauwerrmtrgprmpecsiinfeaeheaspaavtirufocorriareorlsnofiilailoaeeoeulioltleslsodllfenresfladnerhstqkuccnajnrempavDvoiwsctelymneipeeuhnltehterlereeutiapcol.eseonosaaihmdbeoricyelarrttosestrslrttucetteudulndp.cp,tnthfbieWisbetltisnMsthsubri,adynvnhowaataeeeiisgietaafpunivoatnttlyuaVcnitoltrlhensntsaorteaenieteieesosighreciesinttddiwseoeoircqccrset’,rwsemlastsdcrehoahhuftcsuoyestrrvoaaio1weresseeulsiasooonisilmwmserrc:tdrcrauhigp1uudieemlyskvtrrlteGdasa2realhaaolislahfiedveicmcyboarn-.twtnfadlteniaaa.o.eleeTtrhdttgwdur,pAteonlsrr.herulciircrhtooafyeeayiahaioulrsonlcskslsugsut.hoifitsyqinfRfth1looiehpufil:ioger1usserah2rotltpismthis-thvptos:reyiofacaaIdolsatctljpleuuerailecoeldscrpcynogntstuwprefn.teaotatleOotryttoridaiironponcaitecndnheaagdupsre#1tftfteaihi/o1esl.Ct8e.erpchs”DTaehirexpeheRoocee1pqwferf2oautosh”irorintrtmxihfesgee1sahnfor8tt”r am sure, by many Modesto, CA generations to 74 American Miniaturist come. 04MA16_p074-079.indd 74 Martha Armijo1/28/16 9:45AM Santa Fe, NM  An interest in laser cutting How generous of Jeff Wilkerson to share his knowledge of laser cutting. This is something I have been very curious about because my newest miniature project will require much fine detail. I also loved how he had his small scale of the former owner looking over him as he worked. Such fun! Beatrice McCarthy Franklin, TN Facebook Twitter Blog: A Small World’s Big Buzz American Miniaturist 7

Decanter standStore yourmini decantersKeep temptation at bay with a tantalizingproject by David Hartshorn and ahandsome addition to the sideboard.H ere is a miniature item with hunger and thirst. Tools & materials: with a mythological So here we have an antique l Wood of your choice background for you; 1.5mm thick Tantalus was the son of Zeus tantalus which, by an obvious l Hinges x2 and the king of Sipylos. He was analogy, is also the term for a l Handle x1 uniquely favored among mortals type of drinks decanter stand l Escutcheons (for locks) x2 and was invited to share the in which the bottle stoppers food of the gods. However, he are firmly clamped down by a Cutting List abused his position and was locked metal bar, as a means of Base 42 x 18mm punished by being “tantalized” preventing servants from stealing Back 32 x 12mm the master’s alcohol. Top 34 x 10mm Ends 27 x 11mm (x2) Doors 20 x 10mm (x2) Internal partition 11 x 10mm (x2) This simple accessory can be made using leftover wood of 1.5mm thickness and stained or decorated to your taste. Step 1: Using the templates provided, cut out all the pieces you need using a fine hand saw or a sharp knife. Step 2: Draw a scroll pattern on the back, sides, and doors,8 American Miniaturist

Decanter stand Step 4: Glue the back onto Last Word contest the center of the base first, leaving a 2mm gap and Do you have a miniature allow to set. story or project you would like to share with us? Each Step 5: Next, glue the ends month, we select one such and the two partitions, special story to publish on spacing them out equally. pages 97-98 in that issue of Make sure that the whole our magazine, and we want thing is vertical by using a to be able to feature your set square and glue the top special mini project in an in place. upcoming issue! Step 6: Attach the two Your special project will hinges, as shown in the inspire us as well as our diagram. To do this you will readers more than you know. need to cut a small groove We urge you to share your to allow for the thickness of own vision and creativity. the hinge. Tell us a little about you and the project you want Step 7: You can nail or to share, where you got the glue the hinge. Don’t use a inspiration, and how you hammer; a pair of pointed made it all came together. nose pliers are enough. If the nails penetrate the Please keep your other side of the wood stories around 500 words, you can file them flush accompanied by a few afterwards. pictures of you and your special project so that our Step 8: Attach the hinged readers can enjoy it as well. doors to the ends by the It could be your work on same methods. They should those two pages of a future just brush each other when AM issue! closed, otherwise sand to fit. Send your entry to Lastfollowing my template, or devise Step 9: When dry, apply Word writing contest,one of your own. two coats of varnish or American Miniaturist, 68132 French polish. Glue on the 250th Avenue, Kasson, MN lock and the top handle 55944. You may also send and place your decanters inside your entries via email to the box for safe keeping. [email protected]. Please be sure to includeStep 3: Carefully sand these If you want to add further your name, address, phonedown, finishing with fine decoration, try adding gold number, and email address.sandpaper. filigree. AM The deadline for our next Last Word writing contest is Monday, April 18, 2016. American Miniaturist 9

Miniature animalsLNEeVarEnRiSnTgOPS Linda Fisher has used every lesson learned during her journey to perfect her miniature works of art. By Deb Weissler.For miniature sculptor stenographer, she longed to wanted to share her fun with Linda Fisher, imitating return to her art, which she others and the miniature club life, by creating perfect just never seemed to have seemed the ideal solution. replicas of the real thing, is time for when she worked. what she loves most about She decided to spruce up “I met all kinds of artists, miniatures. an old farmhouse dollhouse some just starting out and stored up in the attic she had others very professional, each To accomplish her objec- once bought for her grand- with their own unique style. tive, she looks for inspira- daughter, going online to buy There was an excellent doll tion wherever she can find new furnishings for it. it—magazines, television, Top: This fluffy 1:12-scale t someone’s beloved pet–even “Tons of money later that has sparkling glass eyes and taxidermist photos! Linda is provided little satisfaction,” wonderfully long whiskers. Linda recalls, she eventually Below: A red fox with a realistic“A standing animal is expression of curiosity and wisdom.much simpler than one ina complicated pose suchas running, twisting, orturning.”enjoying her second career,thanks to her Stay at HomeMiniatures club she joinedonline several years ago. Like many of us who haveretired, Linda found thateven after cooking meals andhousework, there were toomany hours in the day left tofill. As a former secretary and10 American Miniaturist

maker, a mini Miniature animalsknitter and cloth-ing maker, room made a replica of herbox builders, and own house, inside andothers. Everyone out, that took her twohad something to years to complete.contribute fromwhich others could Eventually shelearn.” graduated to dolls before trying animal Membership making, which shewas confined to adored. She collectedthirty-five mem- so many a fellow clubbers worldwide member suggested sheand had a waiting try selling them onlist to join. Even- eBay. That first sale, atually Linda was baby polar bear, was anotified she was catalyst that made hereligible to join and give up dolls and con-a whole world of centrate exclusivelyart opened up for on animals.her. She tackled allkinds of projects: Eventually her salesmolding food of and demand for herpolymer clay, sculpts increased soweaving baskets, that she dropped outfashioning hats and of her club in ex-plants, and making change for sculptingfurniture. She even full time. A large ani- mal like her big catsAbove: This majestic can take several dayslion is magnifi ent in every detail. Linda has a wonderfultalent of adding a touch of magic to her miniature animals.Right and below: This leopard had green glass eyes and it’s furis covered in meticulously hand-painted spots. American Miniaturist 11

Miniature animalsto make. Sculpting, baking tures. Above: A wolf on the prowl within sections, carving, sanding, Entirely realistic coloring in its coat.joining, furring, and painting Left: This camel is ready for a longtakes days of painstaking self-taught, Lin- journey across the desert.work. da spends hours Below: Another furry feline waiting searching for just to get into mischief. It was made Her greatest difficulty—the the right pose, with realistic tabby stripes.size. “My eyes are aging,” facial expres-Linda laughs, “and I have to sion, and color Then the fine detailing begins, tones, printing carving and sanding until the“Linda advises new artists out photos and final form emerges. Snippetsjust beginning their illustrations to assist her as of wool are added, bit by bit,journey not to give up too she creates a rough sketch on keeping in mind the directionsoon, to keep at it, and paper. This is when proportion in which fur or hair shouldgradually they will see and size counts. “A standing lie. Once trimmed, Lindaresults. Art is, after all, animal is much simpler than adds color tones to cre-the joy of imitating life.” one in a complicated pose ate depth and realism. such as running, twisting, orwear not only reading glasses turning,” Linda explains. Eight years into sculpt-but two clip-on magnifying ing, Linda is still learningglasses as well.” None of this A wire armature forms thehas prevented her from creat- framework overing stunningly realistic crea- which clay is added, molded, and sculpted. Clay is added and subtracted as the shape takes place, Linda constant- ly envisioning the anatomy from all angles. Parts are baked in sections; the head first, followed by the body, and lastly the legs, followed by a final baking.12 American Miniaturist

Miniature animals Left: With every spot thoughtfully placed, this 1:12-scale cheetah is remarkably realistic.new techniques and refining using just four tools: an them stressful. Most clients Exacto knife, clay shaper, a have very definite, precon-her processes. Quite often it’s stylus, and a tiny tool called a ceived notions of what that spoon. It also enables her to animal should look like, andthrough trial and error; other view her sculpts from several it’s up to Linda to try and see perspectives. that animal through the cli-times through online tutorials. ent’s eyes. For the most part Occasionally Linda will she concentrates on her own“When I make something accept commissions but finds designs she then gives to deal- ers who sell them for her atand then afterwards see some miniature shows.flaws, that’s how I learn not to Although Linda has never been to a miniature showrepeat them with my next ani- herself, she has made last- ing friendships with othermal. An art critic once told me miniature sculptors who have shared tips and encourage-it takes an artist an average of ment. In addition to dealers, Linda markets her creationsten years to reach their peak. on eBay, where she will often start out selling her cats for aI’ve never forgotten that. Now, penny to encourage bidding, which it often does.eight years into sculpting, American Miniaturist 13by her prediction, I still haveroughly two years to go!”Since the family diningroom is rarely used anymore,Linda finds the large table aperfect work surface. Close tothe kitchen where she needs aRight: This handy wa-1:12-scale leopardwas made with ter source,a wonderful she createsexpression and wonderfullybright eyes. detailed creations

Miniature animals One year Linda had the Above: Two that people will continue toprivilege of working with playful fawns love miniatures. “A dozenminiature veteran Marcia running through years ago this started out asBackstrom, who was the forest. a hobby, not knowing whencreating a 1:12-scale Right: A mother it might end. All I can sayscene for their local Pitts- deer with her is I have not lost the love ofburgh’s Carnegie Museum fawn stop to rest. sculpting and creating art. Inof Natural History, a place fact, I am still in the learningthat used to terrorize Linda upon to use all process. There’s not a day thatwhen she was a child. Marcia her skills creat- goes by that I have not learnedwas commissioned to recreate ing a wounded something new.”a well-known desert diorama lioness lyingin which a camel-mounted on the ground, Linda advises new artistsArab was being attacked by while the male just beginning their journeytwo Barbary lions. lion lunged up not to give up too soon, to the camel’s keep at it, and gradually they“As Linda reflects back over side. It all had will see results. Art is, afterher journey, she hopes to balance seamlessly. all, the joy of imitating life. AMthat people will continueto love miniatures.” As Linda reflects back over her journey, she hopes Linda first created the cam-el, which she then mailed toMarcia, who needed it to posethe rider as he leaned over,dagger in hand, to fend off theattack. Then Linda was calledBelow: This fluffy ellow hasbright green glass eyes and mostdefini ely will rule the dollhouse!14 American Miniaturist

Doreen Sinnett Tiny Doll Molds Meow, meow, meow... See our 5½ “Arial” Our 3 little kittens have found their mittens! and our 2½f Joy! “Fairy Faye” molds! .com We have 90+s miniature dollhouse molds ranging in size mes from 1½” to 6” tall.f Joy! Also 4” & 6” tall Antique Repro molds.com & more Fairies! www.tinydolls.com (541) 659-9919 Real Good Toys Heirloom Quality DollhtohuesleaKsteistt#i3n4o8u5rTinhroeuerLFitatilreyKTiattleesnsSeries Many Cho10i4cQ/e2usa3!r/rS1yi5zSte.s-1!B0Pa:rr5rie1c,eVAelMermvoenlst!05Y6e4a1rsproifceJodyr!ight at only $45.00 plus shipping 802-479-2217 www.ReaOlGuro1o/4d\"Toscyasle.cpormoject kit includes all you'll need to create this sweet little cottage, with 3 kittens from Falcon Miniatures The project fits into your own 5\" x 7\" frame Grandt Line Products 1040 B Shary Court Concord, CA 94518 www.grandtline.com e-mail: [email protected] tel: (925) 671-0143 fax: 671-0806 teddytimbees arCOLLECTABLEBEARSANDOTHERFURRYFRIENDS Doreen Sinnett Tiny Doll Molds See our 5½ “Arial” and our 2½ “Fairy Faye” molds! We have 90+ miniature dollhouse molds ranging in size from 1½” to 6” tall. Also 4” & 6” tall Antique Repro molds & more Fairies! www.tinydolls.com (541) 659-9919 American Miniaturist 1/4 page ad 2 21/32” x 3 23/32” Internet Registry 7/8” x 2 21/32” 4/23/15 10:51 AM Road Trip Directory The wtoerdlDdd’yesalbleeearadLrinicsgotilmlnegacgtionarfzsoi.nrme afotiron: American Miniaturist 15 www.Te1Rd0eadQlyuGBaoreroyadrSTTtorieymesteDso.lclhoomuse Factory Store Barre, Vermont 05641B 802-477-6464

Folk furnitureRFOLedKiDscEovSIeGriNnSg There is an appealing blend of warmth, tradition, and loving care in every one of Ruth Pollock’s fabulous miniatures.Ruth Pollock was born in “I liked the colorful box of a Mexican kitchen just Argentina, has British details in folk furniture for fun and that mall project Nationality, but has and all the traditions and inspired a long affair with made Spain her home. For symbols involved in their miniatures. Ruth it’s a small world in decoration.” every sense of the word. Ruth is mainly known for sional photographer, Ruth and her beautifully hand-painted She discovered the minia- her husband made a room furniture based on European tures hobby while on a trip folk art of the 17th and 18th to San Francisco. At that time Century, when it was usual living in Mexico as a profes-Right: A finelydetailed Germanwardrobe circa1781.Far right: Anadaptationof a German“Reiterschrank”wardrobe circa1850.16 American Miniaturist

Folk furniturefor north European people to Left: This amazingly Montelimar Museum in Francedecorate their furniture and detailed wardrobe is and in Tokyo. Husband Bennyhouses with art. a German “Sauwald- makes all the furniture, which kesten” circa 1820. frees Ruth up to concentrate “I liked the colorful de- on painting in such a way thattails in folk furniture and all involved in their gives her pieces the look andthe traditions and symbols decoration,” said feel of antique furniture. Ruth. “When a cou-“When a couple got ple got married, the “I use water based paints,married, the groom groom would give gouache and watercolors, seal-would give his bride a his bride a ward- ing them with varnish, patina,wardrobe, bed, cradle, robe, bed, cradle, more varnish, and waxes,”and chest for their and chest for their explained Ruth. “Thus thenew house together, new house together, colors are strong and lasting,complete with their complete with their and they get the effect of annames and the date of names and the date aged piece of furniture.”their marriage in the of their marriage indecoration.” the decoration.” Patience is definitely a virtue as most pieces are decorated Her pieces have inside and out and each layer been sold to private of paint takes a long time to collections, and in dry. But every moment spent the Oban Mu- creating each piece is well seum of Scotland, worth it. Ruth has attended fairs in England, USA, Holland, Below: A gorgeous hand-painted Japan, France, Spain, and French 18th Century commode. Germany exhibiting her beauti- ful painted furniture. AM American Miniaturist 17

Artist showcaseLightingshowcase Meet a few of the talented miniature artists who bring the magic of lighting to our miniature worlds. Linda and Jim Orleff Linda and Jim Orleff’s miniature lighting business was started in 1976 by Isabel and Tom Thompson. In December of 2005 Linda and Jim became the proud owners of their mini shop that is based in Tennessee. Miniatures has been Linda’s hobby since 1979 when she built her first dollhouse in a oodworking class. Although Jim isn’t a miniature hobbyist, he enjoys the technical aspects of the hobby and being a business partner. Above: Elegant six-arm dark bronze chandelier with Swarovski crystal drops.   “Why lighting? We think lighting brings your miniature projects to life.” Below:  Wrought iron-look Tudor chandelier with four fat drippy candles.  Above: Two-arm brass Victorian Above: Our newest fi ture is agasolier.  (The vent caps help keep contemporary brass chandelier withthe ceiling from getting sooty) three of our signature bare bulbs. 18 American Miniaturist

Lighting showcase Francisco del Pozo ParésThis Spanish artist specializes in miniature recreations ofSpanish architecture from the late nineteenth and earlytwentieth centuries, in eclectic and Art Nouveau styles. Healso constructs accessories and furniture in order to give awarm atmosphere to his scenes. The most popular accessories he makes are bathrooms set,modern lamps, chairs, and garden accessories. Francisco has been making miniature art for the past tenyears. With a background in architecture he has a keen eyefor creating imaginative spaces and structures. He feels thatlighting can change the entire atmosphere of a room and hisbeautiful artistic lamps will do just that. Right: A shop window showing Francisco’s TMC, Arco, and the sixties style “mushroom” lamp in white plastic and metal.Based on the “Miniatures are an art, soSpanish manufacturer, they are a way to expressPujol, this pattern is your feelings and dreams.”named“retro”.Shown are a floo The Leucoslamp and table lamp. Sarasar floor lamp is based on the Italian manufacturer, Leucos. The original lamp shade is made of hundreds of murano glass pieces.Right: This floor lamp is made GET IN TOUCHfrom chrome and white opaline. Miniarquitect Francisco del Pozo Parés www.artmajeur.com/miniarquitect Etsy: miniarquitect Email: [email protected] American Miniaturist 19

Lighting showcase Peter Tucker“Residing in British Columbia, Canada, I’ve been makingminiatures full time since 1998. Lighting can makeor break miniature scenes and settings. It can drawattention to the most important aspects of the scene,add drama to the setting, and minimize weaknessesor defects. It can also set the mood and establish thetime of day. I enjoy miniatures because I can experiment withdesigns, materials, and techniques; and am constantlyincreasing my knowledge of full size design, art, andarchitecture. I can make things that no one else hasthought of making before, possibly with good reason.” Left: Fan Sconce, Above: Deco style table and floor lamp . The wall light has an lights are in the “skyscraper” deco style. LED light source. Right: This Sails Light Sculpture has a stone base and is about 3” (7.5cm) tall. Peter was focusing on the effect that could be created when multiple layers of the material overlaps.Right: FingersLight is a light/sculpture thatwas madewhile Peter wasexperimentingwith patterns andshadows createdby translucentmaterials. Thislight has an LEDlight source.20 American Miniaturist

Lighting showcase Tim KraftTim has been enjoying making miniatures forthe past twenty-fi e years and has a miniaturebusiness based in New Jersey. The personal sat-isfaction of completing a one-inch scale projectthat replicates a full scale one is what fuels hispassion for this art form. Making miniature lights is rewarding becauseTim knows that each one of his pieces that areadded to a scene and illuminated bring life to theowners miniature scene. Most evenings he can be found at his “neat”work bench working away on stock or perhaps aone-of-a-kind light for the next show. Above: This wonderful 1:12-scale lamp was made in an Arts and Crafts style.Above: A beautiful Left: Another Arts andchandelier with six lights Craft style lamp. This iswithin hand blown glass a 1:12-scale floor lamp.shades, a turned centerand decorated with American Miniaturist 21Swarovski crystals.Right: Tim also makescustom neon signs.

roadtripdirectorySTAR BUSINESS FLORIDA • USA JJ’S MINIATURES & 2ND CHANCE TREASURES - JJ’s Miniatures & FLORIDA 2nd Chance Treasures 8 S Main Ave, Lake Placid FL 33852 JJ’s Miniatures/2nd Chance Treasures is family-owned and Phone: 863-699-2401 operated. We are located in the Caladium Capitol of the world, [email protected] Lake Placid, Florida. Hours: Tue-Sat 9am - 3pm JJ’s offers a wide variety of dollhouses and accessories, CALIFORNIA • USA such as: furniture, wallpaper, lights, handmade food and more-mainly in 1” scale. We also offer an opportunity for non-miniaturists to shop at 2nd Chance Treasures, which carries a selection of dishes, décor, handmade items, gifts and children’s items. Stop in and see us soon!CALIFORNIA • USA CALIFORNIA • USAElegant Dollhouse Celebrating Shellie’s Miniature Mania Dollhouses, Trains & More 732 Laurel Street 300 Entrada Dr1120 Fulton Avenue, 36 Years San Carlos, CA 94070 Novato, CA 94949Sacramento, CA 95825 Phone: 650-593-4921 Phone: 415- 883-0388 Email: [email protected] 20 minutes North of San FranciscoPhone: 916-484-0411 Hours: Tue-Fri 10:30-5:30 / Sat 10:30-5 off Hwy 101 in Marin County www.shelliesminis.com Hours: M-F 10-6, S-S 10am-5pmHours: M-Sat 10-6 / Sun 12-4 www.DollhousesTrainsandMore.com DELAWARE • USAwww.elegantdollhouse.com FLORIDA • USACALIFORNIA • USAMs. Peggie’s Place Fingertip Fantasies The Toy Box5063 Cass Street, 401 Main Street, PO Box 544 419 Brevard Ave,San Diego, CA 92109 Clayton, DE 19938 Historical Cocoa VillagePhone: 858-483-2621 Phone: 302-653-8800 Phone: 321-632-2411Hours: W-Th 5-8 / F 12-5 / Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 10-5 / Sun 11-5 www.dollhouseminiatures.com Hours: Tu-Sat 10-5www.mspeggiesplace.com www.thetoyboxstore.com INDIANA • USA ILLINOIS • USA MARYLAND • USA Tom Thumb Hobby & Crafts Jeepers Dollhouse Miniatures Forever Friends 6001 Gross Point Rd. 69 W Washington St, Dollhouses and Miniatures Niles, IL 60714 Morgantown, IN 46160-0335 2105 Bishops Castle Drive Phone: 847-869-9575 Phone: 812-597-4346 Olney, MD 20832 Email: [email protected] Hours: T & Th 10-7, M-W-Sat 10-5 Phone: 301-774-3037 www.tomthumbcrafts.com www.jeepersminiatures.com Hours: Open most days/weekends www.foreverfriendsminis.com/shop22 American Miniaturist

NEW HAMPSHIRE • USA NEW YORK • USA NEW YORK • USAEarth & Tree Miniatures Chautauqua Miniatures & Dollhouses D. Thomas Fine Miniatures276 Route 101 #1 5031 W. Lake RD Rt. 394 Historic Hudson ValleyAmherst, NH 03031 Mayville, NY 14757 COLLECTIBLES * WORKSHOP * GALLERYPhone: 603-673-8707 Phone: 716-753-3100 579 Warburton Avenue Shop #6Hours: M-Sat 10-5 / Sun 12-5 Open seven days a week Hastings-On-Hudson NY 10706www.EarthAndTree.com www.chautauquaminiatures.com dthomasfineminiatures.com OHIO • USA OHIO • USA OREGON • USADolls and Minis The Miniature Cellar Dot’s Doll House8068 Columbia Road 12652 West Geauga Plaza In The Rocking Horse MallOlmsted Falls OH 44138 Chesterland, OH 44024 1542 North Hi Way 101 Lincoln City -Phone: (440) 647-1519 Phone: 440-729-6464 on the Beautiful Oregon CoastHours: Tue-Sat 10am-6pm Email: [email protected] Phone: (541) 994-4647www.dollsandminis.com Hours: Tu-Sat 10-5 Email: [email protected] www.miniaturecellar.com Hours: Closed Wednesdays TEXAS • USA VERMONT • USA VIRGINIA • USAMy Doll House Inc. Real Good Toys Happily Ever AfterAlamo Heights, 6000 Broadway St Dollhouse Factory Outlet 20609 Gordon Park Square, Ste. 110San Antonio, TX 78209 10 Quarry Street (Behind State Ashburn, VA 20147Phone: 210-930-5363 Farm), Barre, VT 05641 Phone: 703-777-1869Email: [email protected] Phone: 802-477-6464 Email: [email protected]: M-Sat 10-6, Sun by appointment Hours: Mon-Thurs 9-4 Fri 9-5 Hours: Tu-Sat 10-4 & by appointment www.realgoodtoys.com www.happily-ever-after.bizLike us on Facebookwww.mydollhouse.us Join in on the roadtrip! For a small investment each issue, your miniature business can be featured in our state-to-state directory!For rates and information visit: www.americanminiaturist.com Call 1-866-606-6587 or email [email protected] to add your business to the map today. American Miniaturist 23

Enchanted Bunny HillSLOoVmEeSbMunINnIyS Kammy has made a tiny fairy dwelling where bunnies are welcome to frolic amongst the flowers. By Brittany Fuller.Kammy Hill of Kammy’s stay-at-home mom now allows children are over 18 years old. Creations has loved her the time to pursue her Her youngest daughter Marissa miniatures since she was love of making and collecting is 16. Marissa likes to attend a little girl, and has collected miniatures. Three of her four her mother’s miniature group, throughout her life. “I started making Fairy and is her mother’s houses in 2012, after biggest fan. the passing of my younger sister,” says Although Marissa Kammy. “Originally isn’t the only one they were places for encouraging Kammy’s her to dwell in my work. The whole imagination. family stands behind the artist and her I also started mak- creations. “They all ing all different types encourage me with my of miniatures. From ideas and projects,” farmhouse tables, says Kammy. “They polymer clay food, give me constructive dreamy dressed criticism, and are very canopy beds, to chan- honest about what deliers. You name it; I they think.” have probably tried to make it mini.” Kammy didn’t start to try and make Kammy has been miniatures until she married for 22 years; was in her late 40’s. and was a real estate Four years ago Kammy agent before she be- made her first fairy came a stay-at-home house. She made three mother to her four children. She loves Left: The front of the the fact that being a Enchanted Bunny Hill. Right: A peek inside this24 American Miniaturist dreamy fairy house.

Enchanted Bunny Hill American Miniaturist 25

Enchanted Bunny Hillhouses since then, and sold Above: Kammy idea definitely morphed overthem all in her Etsy online combines her love time. I made this fairy housestore. of rabbits and in the bunny hallow because English cottages to I am a huge bunny fan. I have “I love my hobbies and my make this fantasy five of my own,” says Kammy.crafts. I try many things to see dwelling. “My favorite part is the openif I can make it. I am always Right: Two window with the pond outsidethinking of what I can try to butterflies a emake small,” says Kammy. flut ering about in“My family always see’s all my the kitchen.supplies all over the house.I am really running out of figuring out howroom.” the material came together The piece highlighted by and worked forKammy is called “Enchanted the first time. TheBunny Hill.” It was inspired artist claims that the wholeafter Kammy was mesmerized, purpose behind making theand fell in love with a magi- piece was to see if she could,cal fairy tree stump she saw and to conquer the challenge.on the Internet by Tori Squr.She made the fairy house in “I made this piece because Ia conventional manor, while love dreamy English cottages. I would love to live in one. The26 American Miniaturist

Enchanted Bunny Hillof it. The front made a polymer clay animal.porch is very in- I made most of what you seeviting. I love the myself. Although there mayFrench doors and be a few things I collected inthe fountain.” there, like the flower pot or plate. Constructing the struc- “The part that ture was the most challengingwas the most for me. Getting it all to line upfun to create was and making it stay togetherwhere the bunny was difficult.”burrows intothe trunk of the The structure was first madetree,” continues out of wood. Kammy then usedKammy. “It was paper mache, which turned outthe first time I to be the most difficult for her out of all the products she usedLeft and below: to create this piece. She thenThe bedroom made the; bunnies, bed, teacupis romantic and stacks, curtains, garland, rug,relaxing. Flowering floors, plants, and chandelier.vines and bright Kammy also repainted thegreen moss fill the dresser. The one potted purplemystical space. American Miniaturist 27

Enchanted Bunny Hill hydrangea in the piece was made by another artist. Other materials used to make the “Enchanted Bunny Hallow” include; carton, glue, polymer clay, and paint. “It’s hard to envision the finished product. At least it is for me,” confesses Kammy. “I don’t make drawings or sketches first. I fly by the seat of my pants per say. The ‘Enchanted Bunny Hallow’ is currently listed for sale in my Etsy store. Although it is listed for a very high price, mostly to ensure that no one will purchase it. It does bring a lot of traffic to my store.” Kammy continues to grow and appreciate the skill that goes into making miniatures. The artist plans to keep mak- ing miniatures as long as her hands and eyes cooperate. Min- Left and below left: This is Kammy’s favorite part of this lovely house. Left: Three bunnies are frolicking in a small area in the front garden.28 American Miniaturist

Enchanted Bunny Hill American Miniaturist 29

Enchanted Bunny Hill beautiful memories of her that will never die.”iature’s has also allowed her tomake a lot of great friends, and Currently Kammy is work-stay in touch with many men- ing on a patio, and her Tuscantors on Facebook where she kitchen. She is also makingdoes a lot of her socializing. miniature shadow boxes, fairy jewelry, and other collectibles.“Kammy continues togrow and appreciate “I really appreciate thethe skill that goes into work of miniaturists,” ex-making miniatures.” claims Kammy. “I wonder who thinks like me. I usually “I love the fact that I can never put dolls in my houses,create what I envision in my unless it is ‘Alice in Wonder-mind, a perfect place I can go land’, because I cannot imag-in my daydreaming,” explains ine myself in my houses.” AMKammy. “I recently attemptedfor the first time a polymer claysculpture of my Bunny Ninawho recently passed away. Iwanted to make her a part ofmy dwellings. When I look ather in my houses it brings meRight: A sweet crochet bunny sitsatop the lavishly dressed bed. Fuzzywhite slippers with roses werecarefully placed on a moss carpet.Below: Trellises, picket fences, andblooming vines make for magic!30 American Miniaturist

Romantic bedroomLINoTvHeEisAIR Spring has sprung. The birds are chirping and the bees are buzzing. Elvira Galati has made a little bedroom that is full of love.There are many ways time work. a romantic style that I enjoy. to celebrate the spring I have an online shop season and Italian What does your family thinkminiature artist Elvira Galati where I sell my creations. I of your creations?chose to make a delightful create furniture and acces- My family shows their supportroom box in 1:12 scale. We sories for dollhouses and cot- for my passion and my minia-hope you will enjoy all of her tages in shabby style. This iswonderful photographs as youget to know her though thislittle interview.When were you first in-troduced to the world ofminiatures?I was 16 years old when Ireceived my first miniatureas a gift. It was love immedi-ately. Since that day I dreamin miniature. I have to thankmy mother for that gift, andfor the love of miniatures Istill have to this day.What do you do for yourcareer?In the last years my passionfor miniatures became my fullRight: A romantic slice of red velvetcake with a white rose is displayedthoughtfully on a serving tray. American Miniaturist 31

Romantic bedroomture work every day. I What inspires your Above: The partially unrolledhave to specifically creative process? posters on the floor p y respect tothank my husband. I prefer to create many classic romantic movies.He always supports very realisticme and he encourages miniatures, and My creations are also inspiredme to make my little in doing so inspi- by special times of year suchcreations. My daugh- ration is all around as Christmas, Valentines, andter is my greatest fan. me. Experimenting the seasons. They also ariseHer dream is to shrink from the emotions and thedown to 1:12 in order with new materials small things that accompanyto go into my dollhous- and new techniques is my daily life.es. I get a lot of strength a must for me and I amfrom my loving family. forever searching for The bedroom new items and new ideas. This scene is dedicated to32 American Miniaturist

spring and to love. With tech- Romantic bedroomniques that were personallytested and refined over time. Left: Elvira did a wonderful job creating the decorative headboard“I am still refining my and staging the small table.skill in order to create Below: The mattress on the bed wasscenes that are realistic. made with care and detail.The aim for me is toalways have fun during fabrics and the color combina-the creative process.” tions of reds and white. My favorite part of this scene isI made all of the components the bed. I spent much timeof this fresh and romantic researching and buildingbedroom including; the bed, the structure, mattress, andbedside table, bench, books, sheets.pitchers, etc. It is a gradual What’s next for you and youraccumulation of ideas. I was creations?inspired by the color of the I am still refining my skill in order to create scenes that are realistic. The aim for me is to always have fun during the creative process. Moreover, my hope is that my creations are loved and cherished by miniature collectors. AM American Miniaturist 33

Water transfer paperUsing watertransfer paperPricilia shares the wonderful world ofwater transfer paper. Your miniatureprojects will never be the same!I f you have not use this Tip: If you can create the Tools & materials: medium before then welcome design so it fits the entire l Inkjet printer to the wonderful world of surface of your piece it will l Water transfer paper water transfers! look better because the l Scissors edges will not show around l White glue This is such a great way of the image. l Cup of water getting detailed artwork onto l Paintbrush different miniature items. l Varnish (water soluble) l TweezersStep 1: After preparing your Step 4: Dry fit it on the pieceartwork in the computer to the you’re adhering to so you are Step 6: Press the transfer papercorrect size you will need to flip it sure it fits properly. on top of the glue area, imageso that it is a mirror image. side down. Step 5: Water down Elmer’s glue and brush it onto the surface.Step 2: Print your image on thewater transfer paper using thepaper package directions.Step 3: Cut out your image from Step 7: Dip your paintbrush intothe water transfer paper to the water and cover the back of thesize you desire. paper from the center out.34 American Miniaturist

Water transfer paperStep 8: Press the paper down Tray template (1:12 scale)with your finger. End - cut 2Step 9: Pull one corner up witha pair of tweezers and slide offthe paper. You can also use only asliding method if your area is flat.Press with your finger and slowlyslide the paper until you can graba corner and then slide it off. Side - cut 2 Base - cut 1 Make your own tray: Glue sides to base sides. Glue ends to base end and sideStep 10: Run your finger over the ends. Let dry then sand corners andimage to press out any bubbles. edges. Fill in any gaps with white glue and then paint.Step 11: Seal with satin, matt, I chose to cover cream and whiteor gloss varnish. The paper will items in this tutorial, but theappear a bit shiny so coating beauty of water transfers is thatthe project with a varnish will you can cover colored items anddisguise the paper. the color will show through around your art work. AM See more of Pricilia’s work at TrèsPetite on Etsy. American Miniaturist 35

Enchanting teapotsEPnOjToyOFaTcEhAeerful Loredana Tonetti’s inspirations spring forth with a colorful collection of enchanting teapots. By Deb Weissler.The world of dollhouse 70km from Milan, Lory use, cold porcelain requires miniatures may not follows her dreams, creat- few specialized tools aside be as well known or ing cold porcelain teapots, from a set of basic sculptingwidespread in sunny Italy, pitchers, cakes, kitchen, and tools.but Lory has carved out her woodland delights that haveown niche as the person to captured the hearts of her “My cold porcelain is ago to for tiny teapot trea- many fans all over the world. homemade matter,” Lorysures. Whimsical, colorful,and infinitely charming, her Cold porcelain isn’t porce- Top: This little teapot shaped toteapots bring a smile, even lain at all; rather an inexpen- look like a tree trunk is housing aon the dreariest days. sive cornstarch-based clay small grey bunny. that air dries to a lustrous Below: Each teapot shows In a small village beside a finish that mimics the looks Loredana’s creative talent. Chickensjewel-like lake surrounded of fine porcelain. Simple to nesting on bird houses, caterpillarsby hills near Bergamo, some make at home and easy to and snails enjoying themselves as they slumber in roses and cabbage. Her imagination is a joy to witness.36 American Miniaturist

Enchanting teapotsexplains. “Once all the ingre- Lory’s teapots look like fine Above: If you are a miniaturist and adients are mixed together by beach-lover then these underwaterhand, it’s just a matter of let- bone china. It’s an art form teapots will tickle your fancy!ting it get cold before sculpt- Below left: A simple clay pot hasing; very simple and inex- this self-taught artist has truly turned into a fancy teapot with apensive.” If you prefer, cabbage planted inside.you can purchase mastered. Below: This blue polka-dot pot haspre-made cold a pink polka-dot snail sitting on top.porcelain at your For a time, Lorylocal hobby center. tion© gaming enthusiasts followed a more that she realized the world Unlike polymer of miniatures existed afterclays, which can be traditional career some 1:12-scale frosted cakessculpted, baked, and caught her eye. Having soldpainted in one sitting, path, training in her paintings, drawings, andcold porcelain dries from the homemade dolls when sheoutside in. Waiting patiently Italy’s school for was young, Lory realized itis a key element for success. was just a matter of shrinkingLarger pieces can be done tourism, learn- her creations down a bit toin segments and must dry achieve proper scale.thoroughly before continu- ing English, anding the sculpture. Colored The first piece she createdwith acrylics and powdered being content was a white teapot decorated with pink rose. When it sold“Whimsical, colorful, to dabble in oil online for more than sheand infinitely charming, imagined, Lory knew sheher teapots bring a paintings, tissue had found her calling. Sincesmile, even on thedreariest days.” art, glass painting, ink her debut in 2005, she has sold hundreds of OOAKchalk, painted with water and pastel sketches, mosaics, creations through eBay,colors, and topped off with her Etsy store, andan opaque spray varnish, and sculpting in salt dough social media con- tacts. and cold porcelain. Inspired by book illustrations and But for as long as she stories, movies, magazine photos, can remember, Lory has loved making tiny things for room boxes she filled with foods and garden produce, long before she even knew about the world of dollhouse miniatures. It was while ca- sually follow- ing her older son’s online business selling painted figures to Warhammer© and Confronta- American Miniaturist 37

Enchanting teapotsand nature’s ever-changing enchanted mushroom fairy Above and below: Showing herlandscapes, her ideas seem rings; scrumptious iced cakes, romantic side, Lordana has madeendless. “I always have a and tables set for tea. a sweet collection of teapots withdrawing pen and notebook roses of all colors nestled inside.close by so I can record my “I’m addicted to tea!” Loryideas before I forget them,” confesses. “I think I’m one of two little nieces who loveLory laughs. Working several the few Italians who doesn’t to visit, watch, and touchhours each day and often into drink coffee! I usually have everything in childlike awe.the night, this professed night black tea with a drop of milk, Her home life and family fol-owl admits if she lived alone very British, I know. I usually low the rhythms of her workshe would work all night and drink seven to eight large schedule, so harmonious andsleep the day away. cups a day.” conducive for creativity. “My family is used to seeing me In her home’s ground floor Lory’s tiny vignettes hear- make things. The only differ-studio awash with natural ken back to our childhoods ence is that now they all havelight, Lory sculpts 1:12-scale when many of us made doll’s to wear glasses to see them!”teapots trimmed with sea dishes from acorn caps and Lory laughs.creatures and exquisitely built dollhouses and doll-details botanicals and insects, house furniture from twigs Along with her own imagi-each with a removable lid. and pieces of scrap lumber. native creations, Lory oftenAs Lory explains, one can As a child, Lory collected accepts commissions frommake teapots in any shape anything and everything— clients looking to customizeone desires. In addition to matches boxes, stones, something of hers they haveher teapots, she sculpts wee stamps, coins, and Barbie seen, or something new thatcreatures that inhabit acorn dolls. Now, many of these challenges her skills. Sheand gourd cottages and same elements make their also teaches others willing tomoss-covered tree stumps; way into her sculptures. learn, in hopes the miniature industry will grow in her na- Her biggest fans are her38 American Miniaturist

Enchanting teapotsAbove: These three charming many of her techniques Using tea in miniaturesteapots have mice and a bunny as online. She graciously sharespart of the flo al arrangement. her favorite recipe for cold Making dirt porcelain below. AM Tea from used or unused teative country. She also shares bags is a great way to emulate dirt in your mini garden.Loredana’s Favorite 5. Knead to a smooth clayCold Porcelain Recipe consistency. If you choose to work with 6. Store wrapped in plastic. unused tea be sure to bake atIngredients: 7. Color is translucent cream but 350 degrees F. for a half-hour.1 cup PVA glue (white glue like can be tinted with acrylic paintElmer’s Glue All) or chalks. Try mixing up a few different1 cup cornstarch types of tea to get a really great½ cup water Sculpt as you would any other color combination.1 teaspoon glycerin clay, using metal or smooth plastic1 teaspoon glycerin cream or tools, or your fingers lub icated Mix 1-part Elmer’s white gluehand cream for the hands with a little glycerin or hand with 3-parts water for a veryWooden spoon cream. The clay has a tendency to thin mixture. You can also add aNon-stick pot stick to wooden tools. few drops of liquid detergent to break up the surface tension ofDirections: If you are going to use a mold, your mix.1. Combine the cornstarch and lubricate the mold with cream.water in a non-stick pot and Making fabric look agedblend well. Use old cookware as Keep any clay you are not How to tea-dye fabric for anthe ingredients can be hard to using either wrapped in plastic aged or antique look is veryclean off. or covered by a damp cloth to easy. First, place some tea bags2. Add glue and glycerin to keep it from drying out while in a bowl and fill it with boilingmixture. waiting to be used. If the clay water. To help set the dye add3. Cook on low heat stirring it too sticky, dust with a little a teaspoon of salt. The moreconstantly for 10 minutes or more cornstarch and if it is a bit tea bags used will increase theuntil a dough forms and begins crumbly add a few more drops strength of the tea dye solution.to come away from the sides. of glycerin.4. Remove from heat and cool For a basic guide, use about 4until you can handle it. Dries in about 24 hours; expect tea bags for a weak solution. 10-15% shrinkage. Once the liquid slightly cools, wet the chosen fabric with warm water. Squeeze out the excess water and place it into the solution. For an even dye treatment be sure to remove the tea bags. Let the fabric soak for a few hours while stirring occasionally. Once you are happy with the results, take the fabric out of the tea solution and squeeze out the excess water. Note that the color will get lighter once your fabric has dried. AM American Miniaturist 39

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 FREE 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. Buy the latest issue anywhere in the world at a fraction of Gift Subscriptions make 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

Miniature shovelA little shovelfor diggingMaria Malmström is here to help you getready for some spring planting with thisrealistic 1:12-scale garden shovel.I f you are working on your Step 3: Make 2 cuts at top of the Tools & materials: garden scene then this is perfect blade. Draw the indentation lines timing! Just by making a small on the blade with a toothpick. l Thin sheet of metal section of your garden look as if it l 1/16” wide dowel is in progress you will add some l Small nails magic to your miniatures. l Scissors l ToothpickStep 1: Cut out the patterns from l Super Gluea thin sheet of metal. l Acrylic paint in green and brown l Brush l Sandpaper l Varnish Step 4: Bend the metal up on the indentations to shape the shovel blade and wrap the neck around the dowel to shape it.Step 2: Cut the 1/16” wide Step 6: Make two holes in the spade handle as shown in thewooden dowel to approximately photo using your nails.3” long and another piece to 3/8”. Step 5: Paint the shovel arm and Step 7: Glue the handle in place handle with green acrylic paint. inside the shovel blade’s neck. When the paint has dried, lightly sand the surfaces. Step 8: Bend both of the metal sides up and put the wood42 American Miniaturist

Shovel template Miniature shovel Cut on dotted lines the shovel with varnish if you Remember it’s all about the would like it to look new. details. If you want the shovel to look used, add some brown paint to the blade. Perhaps some muddy boots on the porch or some plants in containers near a few pre-dug holes in the garden bed would be a nice touch too. Have fun and get creative! AMhandle between. Use the smallnails to secure it.Step 9: Glue the shovel bladeand arm together.Step 10: Paint the tip of theshovel with acrylic paint. Afterthe paint has dried you can paint American Miniaturist 43

The GarfieldAENDnEeAxVoOtiRc Texas resident, Sumaiya Mehreen, grew up in Bangladesh and enjoys collecting miniatures from around the world.Ihave always loved my dolls In 2006 I built my first doll- limitations. My husband and I and dollhouse while I was house Orchid kit, and then share our home-office, and it growing up, and I never in 2007 I started building the takes up a third of the room. grew out of it. I enjoy making Garfield. I love the Garfield all sorts of miniatures, includ- because it is so grand. How- Top: A telescope for star gazing ing dolls. Some of the dolls resides at the top of the tower. I have made will forever be ever, I live in a smaller Below: The dollhouse shown from with me. home right now. Work- the front and the back. ing on the Garfield has been difficult because of my work space44 American Miniaturist

The Garfield seen innovations such as 3D printed dollhouse furniture, and working miniature TV where you can upload your own videos. I am hopeful that the hobby of miniatures will evolve and endure. I love admiring exotic min- iatures from around the world, especially miniatures from South and East Asia. Dolls and My family has always Sometimes I worry when I “I love admiring exoticencouraged me with all of my see young children spending miniatures from aroundartistic endeavors. My mother more screen time than play- the world, especiallyis the first to see any new doll ing pretend. However, I have miniatures from SouthI make, or any new improve- and East Asia.”ments to my dollhouse. My Above: Another view of thefour-year-old has even inher- dollhouse from the right side. miniatures are integral parts ofited the joy of playing with my Below: A close up showing some of many ethnic cultures, more sominiatures. the wonderful details that Sumaiya than in western cultures. All has added to the Garfiel . miniatures are so tiny and so cute; the five year old within me is fascinated by that. Currently, I am in the plan- ning stage of making a modu- American Miniaturist 45

The Garfieldlar dollhouse that would be Above and right: The sitting room iseasier to move around and can decorated with tall window curtainsbe arranged in different config- and a gorgeous wood floo .urations. Although for the pastnine years I have been work-ing on my dollhouse. To mynon-miniaturist friends, it isan eccentric obsession. I hopeyou will understand when Isay; a dollhouse is never trulyfinished, it evolves. The Victorian architectureof the Garfield reminded meof the Colonial era build-ings in Bangladesh where Igrew up. There is a distinctIndo-Chinese flavor to thedecoration of my Garfieldmanor – from the Chinoise-rie bathroom, to the Indianmusical instruments on therooftop terrace. Over the years,Right: The dining room shown withan antique grandfather clock.46 American Miniaturist

Above: The modern kitchen still has the antique style of the dollhouse. The GarfieldBelow: The Garfiel ’s master bedroom is elegant and refine . I have collected various Asian miniatures. Some of which are displayed throughout the Garfield manor. Let me take you on a tour of the Garfield manor as it stands now. The bottom floor houses the living room, dining room, and kitchen. The bedroom, bathroom, and study are situated on the second floor. I modified the attic and turned it into a terrace. The residents of the house enjoy their roof- top garden while listening to music. The tower room is used for star-gazing. When I started building this dollhouse, my limited budget meant that cheaper building materials needed to American Miniaturist 47

The Garfieldbe explored. Instead of using $15 for the entire house. I Above: An ornamental Asian mirrorminiature wood flooring I used painted skinny sticks for adds an exotic element to theused wood-textured drawer moldings instead of 1:12 scale bathroom. The bathtub was paintedliners, which cost me less than dollhouse moldings. to match the rest of the room. Below: The study is decorated with items from around the globe, which includes a tank full of exotic fish48 American Miniaturist

The Garfield I painted the it is not as reflective as paper. tion of our local art and craftstandard win- If you are building this kit, store. I mixed watered downdow inserts that it is important to cover the glue with sand and created ce-came with the kit walls before assembly. This ment for the base of the waterwith inexpensive is important since some parts pump outside the kitchen baytranslucent paint of the house are inaccessible window.to create stained afterwards.glass windows. A “This past winter I addeddollar’s worth of This past winter I added ivy on the back-wall, andriver rock from ivy on the back-wall, and a rosebush that climbs upthe craft store a rosebush that climbs up the side trellis.”jazzed up the the side trellis. I bought theotherwise plain greenery from the floral sec- Since 2007, I have beenfoundation of the recording the building processhouse. of the Garfield manor and making posts about it on my I used uphol- blog thegarfieldblog.blogspot.stery-grade fabric com. On the blog you can alsoto cover the walls, instead of find building tips, as well asusing wallpaper. I find fabric progress photos.much easier to work withthan paper, since it does not I thoroughly enjoy settingcrease or tear. Fabric also up my miniature collectionphotographs wonderfully since and photographing them. In that while I am doing it I feelAbove right: The top level of the like I go back to my child-house showcases some miniatures hood world of make-belief,that have been collected for years. where everything is happyBelow: A view of the stately and simple. AMdollhouse from the back. American Miniaturist 49

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