DHM35

new work by ferd sobol, the teppers, and monica graham September/October 13 ISSUE 35 dhminiatures.comTHE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL Price US $6.95 Canada $7.95 PROJECTS Build a fairy garden Sculpt a garlic braid Convert a dress to Steampunk Fill your can with sardines Light your own pumpkin Crochet dogs with sweaters And so much more! silke’s latest Plus: TcwoollasbpoercaiatiloanrstistWHIMSICAL WORLDS

Simplicity w plantation porch and two additions #HS4500Beachside Bungalow Princess Anne WiliiamsburgCALIFORNIA MICHIGAN SOUTH CAROLINA Find us onMs. Peggy’s Place Rau’s Country Store Miniature Memories Facebook!5063 Cass Street, San Diego, CA 92109 656 S. Main Street, Frankenmuth, MI 48734 1670 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 29412 Scan with858-483-2621 (989) 652-8388 (843) 795-6754 your smart phone to visitMy Doll’s House NEW JERSEY TEXAS us online!1218 El Prado, Suite 136 Torrance, CA 90501 Circus Circus Through the Keyhole310-320-4828, 445 Route 23 South, Pompton Plains, NJ 07444 11700 Preston Road, Suite 625, Dallas, TX 75230www.mydollhouse.com (973) 839-7990 / (877) 402-3061 (214) 691-SHOP www.circusdollhouse.com www.through-the-keyhole.netCOLORADOMonumental Miniatures NEW YORK Crickets & Caterpillars274 Washinton Street, PO Box 1105 Niagara Hobby & Craft Mart 10910 Old Katy Road, Houston, TX 77043Monument, CO 80132 3366 Union Road, Buffalo, NY 14225 (713) 932-7641(719) 481-1361 (716) 618-1666 VERMONTGEORGIA OHIO RGT Factory StoreMiniature Designs Dolls and Minis, 10 Quarry Street, Barre, VT 056413555 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA 30044 8068 Columbia Road, Olmsted Falls, 802-477-6464(770) 923-8500 OH 44138 www.realgoodtoys.comwww.miniaturedesigns.com www.dollsandminis.com CANADAMARYLAND PENNSYLVANIA The Little Dollhouse CompanyForever Friends Fingertip Fantasies 612 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto2105 Bishops Castle Drive, Olney, MD 20832 2985 W. Dutton Mill Road, Aston, PA 19014-2842 Ontario, CANADA M4S 2M8301-774-3037, 610-494-6401 (416) 489-7180 / (888) [email protected] www.dollhouseminiatures.com www.littledollhousecompany.comMASSACHUSETTSThe Robin’s Nest(By Appt. only.) 220 York Street, Canton, MA 02021617-733-3723www.dollhousesbytherobinsnest.comSend us an email at [email protected] to sign up for our monthly newsletter.

www.dheminis.com New Season StartsMore info online atSeptemberwww.dheminis.com 100’s OF NEW TREATS! Visit dheminis.com nowCOMING SOON! COMING SOON! FREE SHIPPING AVAILABLE View website for latest offers Call TOLL FREE 1- 877- 986 - 9677 quoting DHMM13dheminis.com/DHMM13 FREE Information brochurefacebook.com/dheminisusa twitter.com/dheminisusa DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES 3 pinterest.com/dheminisusa

Dollhouse Miniatures contents Projects68132 250th AvenueKasson, MN 55944 20 The fairy’s gardenPhone: (507) 634-3143 Jo Bevilacqua takes our minis outside with directionsFax: (507) 634-7691 on creating your own decorative mini garden.Toll Free: 1-866-606-6587E-mail: [email protected] 40 Sculpting and braiding Minnie Kitchen shares how she created the garlicUK: Unit 5E, Park Farm, Chichester Road braids shown in her Italian Shop from last issue.Arundel, West Sussex BN18 0AGTel: 01903 884988 48 A Steampunk adventureFax: 01903 885514 Lorrie Andersen (and Lady Penelope) transform a Victorian dress into a cogs-and-watch-parts costume.Editor: Kelly JohnsonEmail: [email protected] 55 Something is fishy here Gather sardines for your pantry or pizza with KivaSub Editor: Atkinson. And you don’t need a net to get these!Traci NigonEmail: [email protected] 72 Light your pumpkin Make a Jack-o’-lantern out of your mini pumpkinAdvertising Manager: Sara Vix by adding real lights with Paul Gadenne.Email: [email protected] 76 Weiner dogs wearing sweatersCustomer Service: Marianne Colijn shares a warm and fuzzy treat for us byEmail: [email protected] creating dogs with mini sweaters to keep them warm.Distribution: Fran Johnson FEATURESEmail: [email protected] 10 A fairy-tale world of whimsyDesigners: Silke Janas-Schloesser specializes in the whimsicalAllison Croat and the fantastic with her enchanting figures.Traci NigonAlison Smith 18 Match made in fantasy Sylvia Mobley and Todd Krueger work together over aContributors: Lorrie Andersen, Kiva distance to create their mermaids and other figures.Atkinson, Jo Bevilacqua, Patty Clark,Marianne Colijn, Laura Crain, Allison Croat,Elisa Fenoglio, Paul Gadenne, MinnieKitchen, Bridget McCarty, Sylvia Mobley,Amanda Phillips, Martha Puff, Lynne Sobol,Jan Stuart, Deb WeisslerIssue 35September/October 2013Published by Ashdown Broadcasting Subscription rates: 1 year (6 issues): $39.95 Canada $45.00 (US funds); UK £42.00 Europe $80 (US); Rest of world $98 (US) 2 year (12 issues): $74.50 Canada $82.50 (US funds); UK £74.50 Europe $149 (US); Rest of world $190 (US)Dollhouse Miniatures (ISSN 1094-1916 (USPS957-440) is published bi-monthly at 68132 250thAvenue, Kasson, MN 55944. Subscription price$39.95. Periodicals postage paid at Kasson MNand additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Sendaddress corrections to Dollhouse Miniatures, 68132250th Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944.All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or partwithout the written permission of the publisher isprohibited. All material submitted to the magazinefor publication in whatever form is accepted solelyon the basis that copyright in the work will bevested in the publisher who assumes all rightsworldwide, in all forms and in all media. Submittedmaterials cannot be returned unless accompaniedby a stamped addressed envelope. In any eventthe publisher can accept no responsibility for lossor damage to contributions. Material is acceptedsolely on the basis that the author accepts theassessment of the Publisher as to its commercialvalue. All material submitted to the magazine issubject to editing.

welcome Todd KruegerYou’ve heard the saying, “No man is an ideas off, and pick up my slack when we’reisland,” implying that we are inherently approaching a deadline and I just don’t have and Sylviasocial creatures and our lives are interwo- enough hours in the day.ven with others’ whether we intend it to be Mobley createor not. But this is true in every facet of life, This type of collaboration, occurring againnot just our personal lives—it’s true in our and again over the course of years, transforms gorgeous mer- The three coworkers at Kelly’s wedding!work, too, and yes, our hobbies. into an intimate knowledge of the other per- maids, fantastic son’s working style, strengths, preferences, This becomes more clear to me with and desires. For example, Melissa is great at creatures, andeach issue. While I put the majority of coming up with titles that don’t sound con-the magazine together—solicit and edit trived, while Allison enjoys writing long features even entire scenes (see their witch’s castlearticles, edit photos, do the layout—it is by (see her article on downsizing your collectionno means a one-woman operation, as on page 26). And they’re both skilled at mak- on page 19). Meanwhile, Laura Crain’s intri-much as I like to think it is! I have ing me laugh by sending cat photos at just thepeople working on the ad pages, right time. Collaborating can be stressful, yes, cate floral scenes have an extra breath ofall of the artists who contributetheir time and energy for articles, but the end result ultimately turns out better life added to them with various cats, mice,Kelly to make sure everything than any one of us could have imagined orlooks good, and of course, my created on our own. or other animals by Bridget McCarty.coworkers, Allison and Melissa,to keep me sane, bounce This issue, in addition to all of the regular So whether you collaborate with a life artist features, we have two short articles highlighting collaborations between artists. partner, like our star letter winner, or with your miniature store workers to find just the right piece, your hobby becomes some- thing to be proud of not only because of the work you’ve done but also because of the relationships you’ve built. After all, even in the miniature world, there is no such thing as a one-woman island.26Downsizing your collection 6 Regulars Allison Croat finishes our series on downsizing, this Your letters time discussing packing and selling your minis. See what your fellow readers and miniaturists are36The Three Sisters learning, discovering, thinking, and discussing. Monica Graham poured hours of research into this 16Showcase traditional Native American harvesting scene. Two figures artists, Patty Clark and Elisa Fenoglio, are highlighted in this month’s IGMA artist showcase.43Fright Night gets its glitter 30The big buzz Carol Kubrican adds her shimmering touch to a coffin A Halloween candy giveaway, recent mini news, and our latest contest winners are all in this month’s buzz. filled with Halloween buildings and pumpkins. 67Mini cutouts Cut out sardine cans for your new sardines, then add44Inimitable new designs some labels to a spice jar and signs to your garden. We feature everything from Steampunk to modern 71 Show calendar Pull out your mini pens and mark your mini calendars design by Brian (Rainbow Hand) and Kathy Tepper. so you don’t miss any of these upcoming shows. 81 In a Nutshell52Food and fantasy Amanda Phillips and her husband utilized his ingenuity Whether fantastical or delectable, no one can surpass and her love of minis in a pumpkin-carving contest. Kiva Atkinson in imaginative and scrumptious foods.58Creating together These fabulous scenes feature Laura Crain’s flowers and Bridget McCarty’s animals.60Homage to hospitality Ferd Sobol’s latest piece, the Aladdin Tea Cart, pays tribute to the worldwide tradition of offering tea. DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES 5

yourLETTERS  Write to DHM, 68132 250th Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944 or email traci@ash- down.co.uk. Letters may be edited, if necessary.Star letter winner magazine along with me, to while away and approval. It was always a special the time in the waiting room looking time in which he greatly encouragedThis month, we received a let- for Snickers. I became more and more me to keep interviewing and writingter from a woman who told frustrated the longer I looked. When about your miniature creations. Withus how her and her husband both enjoy the doctor called me into her office, I gratitude,Dollhouse Miniatures. Linda Greer men- burst out, “I can’t find Snickers!”tioned that she would buy issues from a Jan Stuartminiature shop, but her husband wanted She understandably had a very puz- Lady Lake, FLto make sure they didn’t miss an issue, zled look on her face, so I explainedand encouraged her to get a subscrip- about the nut hunt. She asked if she  Mini complimentstion! Now the two can enjoy having their could look at the magazine, saying,magazines sent directly to their door “I’ve never seen a dollhouse magazine I have just returned from an extendedevery time there is a new issue. To thank before,” so I handed it to her. She was vacation in hot Phoenix, Ariz., visitingLinda for her letter, we will be sending going through the magazine when I my grandkids and am just now enjoy-her a very special mini gift. Linda, we suddenly realized, “Hey, are you look- ing the letter written by Jeri Rezvan ofhope you enjoy it! ing for the squirrel?” Waretown, NJ in your May/June issue. I don’t think I have ever received a Keep those letters coming, readers. “How small do they make that little nicer compliment than to be told I haveWe love hearing your thoughts, stories, guy? Microscopic?” she asked. “I’m been an inspiration to Jeri. That is theand comments, they always brighten our usually very good at finding things!” ultimate compliment!day! When I left her office, she called after me, “Remember, I want to know where I hope Jeri sends you some photos Collaboration you find Snickers!” We were both very of her finished “Firehouse” project. II purchased a few issues of glad to hear that Snickers had taken would love to see them. a little holiday, and that we weren’tDollhouse Miniatures at our missing him in the pages. Thank you Again, thank you Jeri, and thank you for making an ordinary doctor’s visit DHM for providing such a fantasticnearest miniature store, Miniature extraordinary. magazine.Makers Workshop in Royal Oak, Mich. Susan Richter Sally Commins Hackettstown, NJ Cincinnati, OHMy husband wanted to see them on a  Heartfelt thanks  Mini petsregular basis, however, so he asked me Dear published and soon-to-be My children grew up with Gidget, whoto get a subscription. We both enjoy published friends in miniatures, looked just like the dog pictured here. My sincere thanks to all of you who Gidget just did what dogs do.thoroughly going through each issue submitted photographs for publica- tion and answered my many questions Ron Seibertwhen it arrives. about your miniature scenes during Racine, WI the past year. Because of you, I wasWe have not yet gotten into making able to continue submitting articles Editor’s note: This is in response to to Dollhouse Miniatures magazine our question in our last issue (DHM33,any of our own miniatures, but have throughout my husband’s final year at July-August 2013) asking readers to home, with me as his caregiver. Each send in stories about their mini pets.restored a number of manufactured day, I was able to be “a world away,” Thank you, Ron, for sharing! though I sat only a few feet fromand kit houses that just seem to keep his bed at my computer—thankfully immersed in the miniature worlds you“finding” us. My husband, Lloyd, does had created and so willingly shared. Indeed, Jim enjoyed helping me editall the repairs and carpentry work, the manuscripts by allowing me to read them to him for his suggestionswe both paint, and I do wallpapering.Dollhouses have become a fascinatinghobby for both of us. Linda Greer Clinton Twp., MI Snickers at the doctor’s You have no idea how happy I was to see Snickers on page 21, in the café of this issue. You see, the previous issue arrived the same day that I had a doctor’s appointment, so I took the6 DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES

 Doors and hinges  Snickers success in the last issue. I nearly wore out theI was so excited when my latest issue pages looking for the little guy. Snickers is right out in the open in I so enjoy your magazine. I read itof Dollhouse Miniatures arrived in my this issue. He looks as if he is thinking cover to cover several times once it hits my mailbox! After taking a 15-yearmailbox. While reading the Big Buzz about going into the cafe for a cup of break from miniatures, I recently started again. We are so lucky to havesection in the last issue, I found that coffee to accompany his nut. My sis- many talented people willing to share their skills. Thanks so much for a won-you had published my letter about ter was successful in finding Snickers derful publication.having met the talented artist Craig in the last issue, a job requiring good Christine Scinta Tonawanda, NYRoberts in the May/June 2013 issue. eyes or a magnifying glass. We think there is a very tiny Snickers in the  Dollhouse helpSome days later I picked up your mag- First, let me thank you for your greatazine again, as I had more time to look throne on top of the “Cairo “ box on p. publication. Secondly, thank you for the room box DVD I won in thethrough it. That’s when I discovered 12 of issue 33. By the time we found Snickers search last year. I was in the hospital at the time and didn’t knowthat I was your Star Letter Winner and him the deadline was passed. I won it. When I finally got home and found it I was surprised!that a Project DVD was on its way to Each issue has such interesting I need help with info on a dollhouseme! I couldn’t believe it and just want articles and great pictures. Thanks for I was given as a gift years ago. I never took it out of the box because the thrillto say “thank you” so much for this your hard work. for me is building and decorating and this was already built and furnished. Iwonderful DVD. I’ve been really busy Chris Wagner want to donate it to a charity organiza- tion and they asked me for info andlately working on my Victorian Garfield Aston, PA approximate value. I can’t seem to find either.I would appreciate any help youbuild and just had a chance to look Editor’s note: I see what you mean! can provide. It is made by Battat and says Old-Fashionedat parts of this DVD. I must say that I That wasn’t our Snickers, but there Dollhouse. It is 1:12 scale. Thank you.had to chuckle on the part that Patrick definitely is something brown there! Eileene StewartKinney (who is the artisan featured in  Digital nut hunt Roosevelt, NYMiniature Furniture) had to say about I saw Snickers hiding in the flower bed Editor’s note: If any- one has any informa-mini hinges! He was all thumbs and tion for Eileen, please send it to traci@those tricky little hinges and nails kept on page 48 in the image on the left in ashdown.co.uk and we will pass it alongdropping or disappearing off his table. the May/June issue—don’t know why to Eileen. Thanks for helping out ourI had the most frustrating time trying to I could see him and others couldn’t. I fellow miniaturist!hinge my first door with those incred- read Dollhouse Miniatures on my Nook.ibly tiny pieces of hardware so know- This month, he’s on page 21, bottoming that an experienced mini builder left corner.encountered the same dilemma was Amanda Fostersomewhat reassuring! via e-mailI will try to write again soon and Editor’s note: Luckily, our digital ver-include a photo of how I now learned sions had the correct files uploaded, soto make some of my very own doors for any readers using a NOOK, Kindle,and pin-hinged them rather than have i-Mag, or other device, Snickers wasto use those dreaded door hinges and actually quite easy to find!nails. I had ordered some Houseworks  Cover-to-coverdoors and saw how they were put I found Snickers at the Art-Nouveau Cafe on page 21. I think he is gettingtogether. I had several door openings ready to stash his nut and order a Double-Double. I was relieved to findfor my Garfield that were very small he did not appearand so I could just not order ready-made doors for them. I made my owndoors and they turned out great andusing some of my sewing pins I thenpin-hinged them. They look beautifuland I vowed to never have to use thosedoor hinges again. It solved so manyof my problems and my doors fit nicelyinside each door opening and arealready hinged on the side I want themto be. Anyway.....this is so exciting andI do want to share this with others soas soon as I take a few photos I willsend them on. Susan Birrell Cave Creek, AZ DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES 7

Dollhouses and Miniatures Create Dreams That Last A Lifetime! Handley House, Inc. Creators of your favorite lines in miniatures and dollhouse supplies. For a complete list of our fine retailers please visit: www.handleyhouse.com Dollhouse Land Artistry in Miniatures See me at Denver, Good Sams and Philadelphia. 27134A Paseo Espada, Suite 304 • San Juan Capistrano, Ca 92675 • Phone: (949) 496-9841 E-mail: [email protected] • Visit Dollhouse Land on Facebook8 DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES

Come see us at The Good Sam Show! Gilbert Mena (661) 259-5350Fingertip Fantasies FUN, FREE AND FABULOUS Dollhouse Miniatures Shop @knitsy1 2985 Dutton Mill Road - Aston, PA 19014-2842 www.Knitsy.tv Phone: 610-494-6401www.dollhouseminiatures.com - [email protected]–Friday 10:00AM to 6:00PM - Saturday 10:00AM to 4:00PMThe only park in Basle withalways sunny weather. Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel | Museum, Shop and Restaurant, Toy Worlds daily from 10 until 18 | Steinenvorstadt 1, CH-4051 Basle | The building Museum Basle is accessible by wheelchair | www.toy-worlds-museum-basle.ch D O L L H O U S E M0I N8.I0A3T.1U3 R1E1S:139SWM_Anz_DollhouseMiniatures_Park_181x118mm_E.indd 1

FEATURE 10 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

FEATUREA fairy-taleworld of whimsyDoll artist Silke Janas-Schloesser Silke Janas-Schloesser specializes in the lives in an enchanted world of fantasic, whimsical, and enchanting with her make believe. As a child growing recognizable mini creatures and scenes. up in a small wooded village inGermany, Silke grew up listening to the By Deb Weisslertales and legends of her homeland andthese have helped guide her throughout Photography by Silke Janas-Schloesserher life. Silke’s dolls are like turning thepages of a beautifully illustrated fairytale she loves listening to audiobook, filled with witches, trolls, goblins, books. “Harry Potter for thefairies, and phantasmagorical creatures seventieth time, or children’sthat have delighted and thrilled children stories, fantasy and mysteryfor generations. tales,” Silke smiles, all of them providing inspiration Like one of her wee creatures, Silke that will eventually translate intosteals down to her workshop before dawn, one of her delightful dolls.a warren of three rooms in her home thatare pure magic. The pink room is her As an internationally ac-fabrication studio, filled with clay, paints, claimed doll artist with a seem-fabric, hair, and glue—everything needed ingly inexhaustible imagina-to create her dolls. The green room holds tion, this self-taught artistnot only her personal collection but those has received accolades fromdolls that are completed and destined for around the world, winningnew homes. The third room, painted a coveted awards for hersoothing cream, is her office, where she OOAK hand-sculptedposts dolls on online, maintains her web- dolls. Best known for hersite, and chats with others via her blog. larger dolls, Silke is new to the world of miniatures. It’s not unusual for Silke to work eighthours a day or more and while she works, She discovered our world quite by accident while taking a Rik Pierce workshop in Cologne in 2009, constructing his whimsical “Crooked House.” It was clear from the startLeft: Ilse Grimm searches the street for customers for her whim-sical shop. Top right: Artist Silke Janas-Schloesser. Above:Grandmamma in her snail-drawn carriage has come calling.Right: Jack, the Pumpkin Head, startles little trick-or-treaters. D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 11

FEATURE that Silke’s dolls would stumps, toadstools, wooden wine boxes, never fit inside this quirky gingerbread houses, candy shops, watch 1:12-scale cottage and, if it cases, and fairytale cottages. was going to have inhabit- ants, she would either have This self-taught artist has poured to buy them or make her through thousands of books—fairytales, own. The answer was obvi- anatomy, costuming, and fine art—col- ous and thus began a new lecting an impressive portfolio of features, adventure into the realm of expressions, and gestures, thus ensuring little people. each doll is truly unique. Not that Silke was a As a former illustrator and makeup stranger to miniature dolls. and airbrush artist, Silke employs all her Decades before, her Uncle skills in creating her polymer clay sculpts. Norbert had spied her hand- Beginning with the face, hands, and feet, sculpted little trolls and she lets each doll tell her what they are to pestered her to sell him one. become. Faces become roadmaps, direct- He gave the troll to his wife ing her eyes and hands this way and that. as a gift and it wasn’t long If a head doesn’t work out, it goes into before her aunt wanted a the trash heap and she begins another. tiny wife for the lonely troll. For Silke the face and hands speak vol- Silke’s venture into wee ones umes about the doll’s personality. had begun, but it took Rik’s class to catapult her in this “I sculpt some special faces several new business direction. times, but each has its own unique twist. I especially love noses and wrinkles. I like A quarter of her custom- eyes, mouths, eyebrows, a double chin,” ers buy dolls with a specific she admits. project in mind; the rest buy a doll they just can’t resist Once satisfied with “the look,” she cre- and then go home to plan ates a wire armature surrounded by a soft a vignette around it. Over body, posing and re-posing until satisfied. the years her miniature dolls Silke’s hand-sewn costuming is made of have found homes in tree all-natural fibers like silk, velvet, linen, and fine cotton. In her tiny self-described Above: The side of the Two Raven kiosk “witch kitchen” she dyes her own fabrics reveals the goodies within. Below: and wigs. “I’m always on the hunt for A fairy’s version of the classic materials everywhere I go,” Silke says, Cinderella, complete with pumpkin and her workshop holds an impressive coach pulled by two hedgehogs. array of fabrics she’s collected from all over the world. Once she’s finished a number of dolls she sets up her photography equipment, often using those romantic and fairytale12 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

structures she has made in FEATUREvarious workshops as back-drops. It’s not unheard of for she celebrated her twentieth anniversaryher to cut one of Rik’s struc- as a doll maker and all she wishes for istures in half to create mini that her little people find good homes.streets against which to pose And occasionally, one will experience anher dolls, and finds that Karin adventure Silke will never forget.Caspar’s delicious fairytalestructures work well as part of While at a miniature show in Germanyher backdrops. two years ago, a collector spotted Silke wearing a handmade Troll King necklace She loves purchasing hanging on a leather string around herfurniture, tableware, animals, neck. The buyer fell in love and asked“everything witchy or Christ- if she could buy him. Reluctant to partmasy” from the likes of Karen with her little doll but not wanting toMarkland, Bridget McCarty, turn down a sale, Silke asked her to waitand other talented artists to until after the she returned home so sheenhance her vignettes, thereby could attach a fresh leather string to theensuring collectors who buy necklace.online can fully appreciate thetale she is spinning. A few days later the Troll King was tucked into a small box and Silke added a “I’ve spent more time with tiny cake to the package in case he shouldmy little people than with become hungry en route. Both Silkemy husband or son,” Silke and its new owner watched the packagelaughs. “I am a doll person closely by tracking number and then itthrough and through. I lovethem all: the pretty, the ugly, Left: The Troll King celebrates life on thethe whimsical, the cuddly, big swing prior to his great adventure. Below:and small.” This past summer Silke loved creating these recognizable early twentieth-century slapstick comics, the infamous Laurel and Hardy, as bakers. D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 13

FEATURE along because it seems he had eaten every bite!” happened—the Troll King went missing! Tracking indicated he had been de- When not doll making, Silke loves nothing better than sitting in her cottage livered but was a no-show at the collec- living room, feet up, her nose in a good tor’s home. After careful research they book and her grey tiger cat, Luzie, curled discovered that a person in a neighboring up in her lap. Who knows, the next read village, whose street name was identical, may just inspire another little person. had signed for the parcel and did not ap- pear inclined to trace the rightful owner. Silke welcomes commissions but makes it clear she does not do period or naked “My brave collector drove to the dolls. “There are enough other good art- neighboring village and played Sherlock ists out there who can do that very well,” Holmes, watching the house to determine Silke says, preferring instead to use her who was living there,” Silke recalls. “After rich imagination. “I have eyes and ears getting up her courage, she rang the bell everywhere and I love a good story.” DHM door once, twice, and then again before a lady opened the door. With a strong voice Above: The Fairy Queen with her wee babe my collector stated she had proof that the in arms. Left: Wait! Another bag for the sleigh! lady had signed for her parcel and she had come to collect what was rightfully GETINtouch hers. After some reluctance the stranger Silke Janas-Schloesser handed over the unpacked Troll King, retorting arrogantly, ‘I didn’t even like Web: www.silke-schloesser.de that little witch doll’ and promptly shut- Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/xmasliesl ting the door in her face! A happy ending Blog: http://silkesminiatures.blogspot.com for the Troll King, who was still smiling and so grateful he had had that little cake 14 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

Happily Eve MMololyllyCCrormomwewllelPl Prerseensetns..t.s ...Molly Cromwell Presents ...20609 Gordon Par 30th Anniversary Tysons Corner Miniatures FestivalPremier Miniature ShowsSuite 110, Ashburn, Featuring Legends & Newcomers A Premier ShowPFreematuierrinMg Linegiaentudrse&SNheowwcsomers!703-777-18 FEBRUARY 21 & 22SUNFDeaAtuYrinOg CLeTgOenBdsE&RN2e0wTcoHmers CROWNE PLAZA, 1960 CHAIN BRIDGE RD,~ ORLANDO FESTIVAL ~ Open: Tuesday - HOLIDAY INN RESORT10am - 5 pm MCFLEEBANRUVIARRGYIN2I1A& 22 Early BiGrdenPerreavlieAwd~m9iOsas.miRo.nLR~eA1fr0Ne-s4hDm$Oe7nAtsFduaElntdsSeT$a3rIlCyVhaAidldmLriesn~sion $12JUNE 6 & 7 also open by app ~ STURBRIDGE FESTIVAL ~Open all the time ExhibitsHost Hotel ~ Sturbridge, Massachusetts& Children’s &WHoSOrpkesLchioaIplDsRbAoyoYmNARIMaNtEeNsR: e7Rg0i3oE-n8S9E3O--12RC10lTu0b Memberswww.happily-eve Directions ~ TOURS ~Northcentr Egypt * Irelandmost comp England & Kensington Dollshouse Festival dollhouse Christmastime on the Seine ~ France miniature Preview Reservations & Dealer InfoOnly 3 miles Molly Cromwell ~ 2445 Crispin Court, ALL SCALES Sarasota, FL 34235 (941)371-3193 [email protected] HUGE, UNIQUE SELECTION OF HALF INCH SCALE View workshops at: www.mollycromwell.com Anniversary Celebration at home of Collector Evelyn GilbertHouses, shops, barns, domes, wiring, decorating, finishing sup furniture, accessories, “people” and pets JUNE 6 & 7View Workshops & Celebration Invitation: www.mollycromwell.com Creative customer assistance ~ STURSEBPTREIMDBGERE FESTIVAL ~ 279 Mill Street, Danville, PA 17821 EnTghleanLHdako~esBDtiirHsmtrioincgtt:ehaBlme~aMtrSiixntiuPaotrutbtrearri’SdshDgowoev,~eMCHoeatvtsearsgeaCcaasnhtdlue,setts (570) 275-6538 • Tues-Sat 10-4:30 Wordsworth’s home ~ York ~ Miniature Shops ~ Visiting ArtisansthaCtuasrteomanbyethdirnogombust... ~ TOURS ~DECEMBER 6 ~ 11, 2013 Christmas Markets along the Danube ~ Vienna to Nuremberg Workshops with Debbie YounEg,gRyobpint B*etIterrelelya, nLudci Hanson, Carol K1u-8b0ri0cE-a5n9n,7Rg-2ul4ath5n2S,dtepwr&easrst 2K~, VgeiinsvietsitnihngemMgteooduinrevGaDrloCoupiltliCessohAdoelo:unGsg3eth2eF00We6as8ytival ChriIsnftomrmaatsiotinm, Deeaolenr CtohnetraSctes:ine ~ France Molly Cromwell 4701 Duncan Dr, Annandale, VA 22003 Preview R(7e03s)e9r7v8.a53ti5o3ns & Dealer Info Molly [email protected] Court, Sarasota, FL 34235 (941)371-3193 [email protected] View workshops at: www.mollycromwell.com BackissuTM es | complete you USEDEC-06 YSanOtas UR OWN F•SEPBhT-il0. M7Ain. SIhNow R,evWiew ATER, DEC-07 in Lighting • A Gallery of O•ILLate,st • Afican-American History • Great Smoky Mountains • Elle Piccolo’s People • International Artisans OR LACQUER BASED STAIN!• One Horse Open Sleigh • New Year’s Masks Custom. Sutton Miniatures, the leader in battery-operated AVAILABLE IN SINGLE OR FOUR PACKS!CREATE A WHALE OF A TALE WITH JANE FREEMAN’S MOBY DICK Visit Anne FrAnk’s secret Annex in miniAture dollhouse lights, brings you unique bedroom furniture for your May/June 08 ISSUE 03 dream dollhouse. Visit our specialty store within FAO Schwarz dhminiatures.com July/August 08 ISSUE 04 to see our full dollhouse miniature department: dollhouses, dhminiatures.com accessories, furniture, lighting and more. Touch up scratches, knicks, nailholes andTHEWORLDOFMINIATURESINANUTSHELL THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL Price US $6.95 Canada $7.95 Or shop online for a wonderful selection of doll- Price US $6.95 Canada $7.95MSINUITATTOURNES houses and miniatures. PROJECTS imperfections in wood!fineceramics she sells 767 Fifth Avenue, NYC • 212-644-9400 Ext.3124 IN MINIATURE Fill your sewing chest Sutton Miniature’s battery-operated lights are available in SEA SHELLS Grill teriyaki meat kebobs many fine stores in the U.S. and Canada. Reupholster a couch or two Take a stroll through Make cattails for your garden www.manhattandollhouse.com Paint a sunset scene Stitch a purr-fect cat pillow Wear a dramatic mask AND MUCH MORE… Andrea Fabrega’s Ann Buddenhagen’s fiery little pots little shop of seashells ignite imagination PROJECTS dream garden for vaNeSSa Childhood sewing chest Little Lilly’s lovely dress Jo of Spencer’s Nook honors a Walled garden wonderland dear friend with a little paradise Relaxing leather recliner Battered fish & golden chips Beautiful bridal gown AND MUCH MORE… 100 PAGES 100 PAGES MAY/JUNE 2008DHM03CoverA.indd 1 31/3/08 21:10:40 DHM 04 Cover C.indd 1 29/5/08 16:57:53 JULY/AUGUST 2008 www.perfectmatchstainmarker.comMAR/APR 2008 • Andrea Cagnetti Etruscan Enigma • Ann Buddenhagen’s seashell shop • Dream Garden for Vanessa 866-9-marker• Peter Tucker’s Modern Room Boxes • Turret Filled with Wonder • Andrea Fabrega’s pots • Fill your sewing chest • Create a Walled Garden • Teriyaki Meat Kebobs Throw some miniaTure poTTery wiTh Jason FelTrope CATCH THE MAGICAL ARTISTRY OF THE CREAGERS’ DOLLS M I N I A T U R E S 15Become inspired By desiree’s exquisite furniture January/February 09 ISSUE 07 September/October 08 ISSUE 05 D O L L H O U S ENovember/December 08 ISSUE 06 dhminiatures.com dhminiatures.com dhminiatures.com THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL Price US $6.95 Canada $7.95 THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL Price US $6.95 Canada $7.95 THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL Price US $6.95 Canada $7.95 Hang out in PROJECTS Manhattan a peek Build a vegetable bin Elegant Christmas trees Sculpt your own veggies

miniatureshowcase Every issue, DHM introduces you to some of the talented IGMA artisans out there in the miniature world. So, just sit back and enjoy the show! Left: Martin and Daisy take hands for their tod- dling steps. Below: Baby Blossom in purple has a matching Hello Kitty shirt. Bottom: Katie is a preco- cious toddler who seems a little hesitant in front of the camera.Patty Clark and sculpt,” she says. “There wasn’t muchPatty Clark had always loved miniatures, out there except a lot of photos to look at ofbut it was when she found a dollhouse for other people’s work.” After years of trial and$3 that she really began getting involved. error, she honed her skills by taking an on-Now an IGMA Artisan in the Figures cat- line class on sculpting babies, which helpedegory, Patty focuses on babies and toddlers her achieve the younger look on her faces.in 1:12 scale. Patty averages two to three figures each “There is an abundance of inspiration all week. Rising in the early morning andaround!” Patty exclaims. From her neigh- working at her dining room table, both ofbor’s young children to Japanese books on these to ensure the best light, Patty sculpts one figure at a time. When all three are baby clothing, Patty is never in need completed, she cleans her area and begins of ideas. And finding inspiration in costuming. other sources is really how she got her start: after seeing sculpted fairies and Patty hopes to expand out into creating older children and jointed dolls, as well as mermaids on eBay, “I remember to continue her venture into mini foods. having a little surge of energy But, of course, she will always have a special place in her heart for these delicate babies. run through me and decided “I love the artistry involved in a good min- right away that I had to try iature and can appreciate what is involved in their creation,” she says. “I can’t pinpoint exactly what it is that thrills me so much but they do. I dream about miniatures!” DHM above Left: Baby Annie sleeps soundly in a striped jumper. left: Desiree is in soft white and purple with a furry friend at her feet.16 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

 If you have a special piece that you would like toconsider for DHM’s Showcase page, please write to:Dollhouse Miniatures, 68132 250th Avenue, Kasson,MN 55944 or email [email protected] Fenoglio that drove her to the miniatureResiding in Turin, Italy, is IGMA Arti- world, because she could dedi-san in Costuming Elisa Fenoglio. She cate herself to her family whilelives with husband and three children, maintaining her love of the arts.and has been making miniaturedolls for the past 10 years. “Sometimes I work for specific requests and will have She studied Scenography a photo in front of me, trying toand Costume in college, reproduce a particular dress orwhich fuelled her love of personality,” she notes, thoughcostuming. It was this love other times she lets her fantasies take over “and completely cover my desk with materials, lace, glitter, ribbons, and the like to discover the combinations that are most adapted to making the doll that is on the agenda.” Left: Her “Babbo, I’m days a Boy!” is begin the title of at the this scene. computer, Above: A then shift to her lady from workspace. Elisa of- the 1900s ten works into the evenings, in lace and though she prefers model- a gorgeous ling and painting in the hat. daylight and saves sewing Above for night. right: A figure Her deep love of cos- in a Venetian tuming is seen in all of carnival mask. her creations. “I love an- Right: Vivaldi, tique costumes; it’s the part the virtuoso and of my work I enjoy the most. composer. I look for antique laces that I can stain, and I love putting feathers, ribbons, flowers, and beautiful materials together in harmony when making a dress that was born in a dream.” DHM D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 17

FEATUREMatch made in fantasySylvia Mobley and Todd Krueger work together onfantastical pieces, from mermaids out of Sylvia’s dollkits to the Castle Witch building and creatures. By Sylvia Mobley Photography by sylvia mobleyAcollaboration: people working Krueger. We first met at Tom Bishop’s Top: Todd Krueger (left) and Sylvia Mobley together to the same end. But Chicago International Miniature Show. (right). Above: Torso by Sylvia. Tail and wig by that doesn’t begin to describe the I was making dolls dressed in Victorian Todd. The tail is made from polymer clay with friendship and trust needed for costumes, doll kits, and porcelain cats. individually applied scales, painted with acrylictwo artists to come together and create Todd was making dressed primates and washes mixed with opalescent micro powder.a piece that is better than it would have teddy bears. been if they had worked I had sculpted a solid porcelain mer- separately. Sometimes maid, and Todd purchased a doll kit to it’s a change in the try and make one of his own. Before long vision of the piece we realized it would be fun to collaborate and sometimes it’s and from then on I made the torsos and simple techni- Todd added the tails and the most beauti- cal advice that’s ful hair and ornamentation. It was like needed. seeing something I’d wanted to create In the past 25 come to life. We went on to make angels, or 30 years I’ve centaurs, and a few ghosts in white porce- been fortunate lain. I’m still amazed to see what he does to collaborate with some of my doll kits. many times with Todd About the time I tired of Victorian costume dolls and moved on to Santas, Left: Mermaid by Todd using a torso made by Sylvia. Her tail is polymer clay painted with acrylic washes. The hair is Tibetan lamb trimmed with pearls and shells. She is wearing a silver chain belt with starfish clasp. Right: Mermaid by Todd using a torso made by Sylvia. Her tail is polymer clay painted with acrylic washes. The hair is hand-dyed Tibetan lamb trimmed with pearls and a flower.18 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

FEATUREpeasants, witches, and a variety of animal of what I wanted to create butsculptures, Todd started making his own not the technical knowledgefantasy figures. We continued to share to make the castle room. Toddtechnical advice and creative ideas. knew how to work with Paper- clay to create a scene. We put the two A couple of years ago, Todd suggested skills together to create the finishedI try sculpting ancient women. Out of piece. The photos tell the storythat suggestion came the inspiration for better than words. DHMthe Castle Witch project. I had a visionRight: This angel’s torso by Sylvia is china painted porcelain. The body, costume and wig are byTodd. He made the wings by gluing individual feathers to a thin brass form coated with white acrylicpaint. The skirt of draped silk taffeta and antique lace is trimmed with pearls and Austrian crystals. Left: “Castle Witch” scene by Sylvia Mobley and Todd Krueger. Furniture by David Krupick and torches by Ray Story. Sylvia made this ancient witch dressed in ragged silk and tarnished silver lace sitting in a Tudor chair by David Krupick. Her minion is one of Todd’s fantasy figures. Todd also dressed the table with some of his own fantasy creations and made the dripping candles on the ledge in the background. Todd’s minion is sculpted from polymer clay, dressed in an antique handkerchief and a shark tooth necklace. He has glass bird eyes and is holding burnt paper scrolls made by Todd. The books and celestial instru- ment on the table are by Ericka Van Horn. The table dressing is by Todd. D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 19

PROJECTthe fairy’sGARDENCombine your love of miniatures and your love ofgardening in this outdoor project. But hurry up,because the ground will start to freeze soon! By Jo (Fairy) BevilacquaLove the dirt? Can you not pass Turn this you on your neighborhood’s list for being by a flowerbed without dipping into this the cat’s meow, even if it’s in a small way. your fingertips into it? Do you love garden miniatures at shops and Find a spot that will be clearly viewed as shows? Do you feel like you’re in a candy well as easily accessed so that it is easy to store when visiting the local garden center? maintain. Then you have just passed four of the golden rules for fairy gardening! Step 1. Choose a focal point, such as a Fairy gardening is a way of taking your love of miniatures outside when you are house, arbor, or gazebo. This is the one out of room inside. If you collect miniatures, specific piece around which you can build you may have what you need on hand. the scene. Depending on your stash, you could create a garden scene without going out and I chose a house called Primrose Cottage, buying more. You can select any larger which I bought in a shop. I also found stairs item, such as a house or gazebo, as your online to put on either side of the house, focal point. Then you can use smaller and to raise the house up to the level of the garden items to surround and accent it, stairs, I used landscaping castle blocks for such as mailboxes, garden hoses, benches, the house foundation. You can find these birdhouses, etc. Even though the idea blocks at any home improvement store. of fairy gardens is an old concept, it is catching on nowadays and is very addictive They’re made once you begin! of concrete and If you love plants, gardening, and are quite heavy. miniatures, you are one step ahead in I really like this creating one of these little oases. There are elevated look many books and websites you can visit because it adds with information on how to make the fairy more dimension garden you envision in your own backyard. I and really helps am still a beginner in all this, but since being show off the bitten by the bug, I’ve gotten in spade flowers. deep! Here is a starter point that is sure to put To make the foundation, add sand to the base area, then place the blocks on that,20 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

PROJECT You’llneedSuggested plants then place a level onto the blocks to ensure n Large focal point, such as a the surface is not tilted. If it doesn’t sit miniature house or gazebo (mustJo compiled a helpful list of level, wiggle the blocks back and forth and be weather resistant)appropriate plants to use for a tap them with a hammer, then check theminiature garden. You can see levelness again. Once it’s level, place the n Stairs for either side of the housewhich plants she used in her fairy house on top of the blocks, then step away (optional)garden in the diagram on the next to make sure it is at the right elevation forpage. Take a look here to see the stairs. n Structural mini garden items,which ones you’d like to include in such as resin benches, gazebos,your own special fairy garden: Step 2. Using the list provided, select the arbors, fountains, or bridges• Abunda Giant White Bacopa (still plants you wish to use, decide on a layout, n Decorative mini garden items, small, despite the name) check the placement, and finally plant them. such as beehives, planters, When choosing the plants, pay attention statues, birdhouses, or gazing• Arborvitae Fern (nice, small, but to the care they require as well as to the balls thick ferns) sun exposure for the area you’re using. A trip to the garden department for herbs is a n Fencing (metal or plastic)• Spicy Globe Basil good place to begin. Some shrubs can be n Stepping stones or broken thin• Irish Moss or Scottish Moss (nice bought small and trimmed down to fit the space; other shrubs are dwarf varieties, and flagstone or slate ground cover) those will work best. n Fairies or gnomes in scale to• Parsley Triple Curl (ruffled leaves, • I began by trimming the Dwarf Alberta Spruce into tree form—they make very your items bright green foliage) believable trees! n Plants (see list of options)• Flat Italian Parsley n Full-size garden trowel• Blue Mouse Ears Hosta (small n Full-size topsoil n Full-size pea gravel hosta) n Full-size stone mosaic tiles on• Golddust Mecardonia (drapery- a sheet (the ones used to type delicate plant) decorate walls; see tile• Artemisia (delicate fern type departments at home improvement stores) ground coverage—Chantilly type n Sand (optional) works well, too) n Level (optional)• Silver Posie Thyme (delicate n Castle blocks (for foundation; silvery leaf) optional)• Efanthia Wood Spurge (wonderful n Hammer (optional) red-stemmed tree-like plant, interesting) • I then checked the placement of the trees• Creeping Thyme (beautiful before planting. I put one on each side of delicate drapery of greenery) my stairs.• Dwarf Alberta Spruce (use as a tree)• Pencil Holly (use as a tree—pick small one to trim)• Sweet Marjoram• Portulaca (flowering succulent, loves full sun)• Blue Rug Juniper (low shrub-like plant, needs a lot of trimming as it grows)• Sprengeri Asparagus fern (very delicate lacy fern)• Licorice Plant (lovely white leaves)• Bird’s Nest Spruce (small compact shrub)•Rosemary• Any succulents can serve as miniature garden plants as well; it depends on where you put them D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 21

PROJECT• I removed the “trees” from their containers of where the want all the items to look proportionate toand planted them. Then I planted the center path would each other.plant (Blue Rug Juniper) in the center of the be, I placedlayout. Next I placed the feathered herbal two rosemary Step 4. Create a pathway between theplants, both basil, on each side of the plants, creatingjuniper plant. a border for the steps by adding thin flagstone or any• I planted an asparagus fern on the outer future path. thin stone; then, add pea gravel over it tosides of the stair landings. They look a bit • I also set in contain the pathway.different because the one on the left is lacy three plantsand fine while the other looks almost like a between thepine, with soft, needle-like greenery. rosemary:• I then looked at the area between both Sweetstairwells and decided to make a path Marjoram,connecting them. On the outer (front) side Licorice, and parsley. • Finally, I added three Portulaca plants along the front for color (these are blooming in the photo). Step 3. Now is when you can add a gazebo (if one isn’t your focal point) and assorted structures or decorations in your garden. You can purchase pieces at garden centers that carry fairy garden lines or you can shop online for them. A lot of miniature items from Falcon and Unique Miniatures can be painted and used in the gardens, as can other minis you can find at mini shops. Scale is the biggest thing to watch out for when beginning one of these gardens. You dwarf dwarf alberta alberta shrub shrub Basil Basil Blue Rug JuniperAsparagus sweet parsley Asparagusfern marjoram fernrosemary licorice rosemary portulaca portulaca portulaca22 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

PROJECTStep 5. If you want draping plants orcreeping plants, you can mound an areaof soil and then create a retaining wall tohold it. To create a retaining wall, use themosaic stone tiles on the sheet from homeimprovement stores. These should beconnected with mesh on the back, so youcan simply pre-fold the section you’d liketo cut, then cutthem with a boxcutter carefullyon the back. Icut my sectionabout fourinches tall bythe length of thesheet wide. Step 6. Install the wall in front of your Above: The finished garden blooms in the midst of a setting sun, adding color and mound. Press it against the dirt to be snug. visual interest to the rest of the outdoor area. Then, water the soil gently to lock the wall in place. When you wet the soil, it will The only park in Baslecompact up to the wall, and as it dries with always sunnyit will shape to the retaining wall. Finally, you can plant draping weather. plants to grow over the wall. I planted some Irish moss. Step 7. Finish up by adding a solar powered landscape light for evening lighting as a special touch. DHMAbove Toy Worldsandright:Scenes Spencer’s NOOK www.spencersnook.comMuseum Baslefrom D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 23aroundthshhoeowwgcainerdgrdST-ehapeiinleyblzfureioludmgin1Wg0ei.s0lt0aecnucnMetsuislsi1be8ule.m0b0yB|awSshteeelien|leMcnhuvasoierrsu| twmawd, tSw1h.t,ooCpyH-aw-n4od0r5lRd1essB-tmaasuulsreaenutm, -basle.chtain pieceswere used.SWM_Anz_DollsHouseWorld_Park_90.5x129.5mm_E.indd 1 09.11.12 16:50

How many ways do you SUBSCRIBE?BEHOLD WEST COAST WONDERS INGOOUGRRAGPOEOSDTJdaOnShuAMamryMP/iFIneGNibarAGutaLuryALr1Te2EsIRJS.AScYUoNEm25YINGER’S WINE FESTIVAL new work by ferd sobol, laura crain, and jill dianne with July / August 12 ISSUE 28 dhminiatures.com THE WORLD dhmJuilny /iaAutguusrte1s1 .IcSSoUmE 22 NUTSHELL Price US $6.95 Canada $7.95 OF MINIATURES Price US $6.95 Canada $7.95 Price US $6.95 Canada $7.95 IN A NUTSHELL PROJECTSACMnSoBdTatnBuurkssiaifmeltfokdrauaemaacpmsnurtioulcioalmngohvibweambalcocsboulhkasrpagetrcerm!reaorlkuensd THE WORLD OF MINIATURES IN A NUTSHELL $29*.95 Worldwide MINIATURES IN A PROJECTSMDaRrAthtGhaLeOAcPNoNullDSeffcMH’tsiOAonNPinGtAhLeLERYTHEOFWORLD SWSCAttreoniotardccnmhhsgipeonatugemrnadpkugrbceocahojcebromcysnteoiscntrreea!tdeome$39.95*PROJECTSSCTStCuuihtosrcinotnhokgymyloueo-upubarruciftooialemdwnmcnafsoiffhrusUitarlielftrvSopoeoloradOfceNLY Silver Issue BUTTEaRtFaLbYleCfOoLrLaECTOR Check out Dollshouse.TV! $45 Canada Paper-pDuonllcshhopulasen.ttsv!withmagazine iMag1. Enjoy the printed version of Dollhouse 2. Get an ALL ACCESS PASS to a wealth of pro-Miniatures delivered direct to your door. Whenyou subscribe, not only do you receive each jects and inspiration with our iMag subscription. Thisgreat issue, we will also send you the latest gift will give you exclusive access to the digital backoffer. Subscribe for one year and issue library. This also gives you a digital subscrip-receive 6 spectacular issues PLUSyou will receive the Soap Dispenser tion and you’ll receive each new issue as soonand Tissues Set. Subscribe for two as it’s ready, delivered direct to your In Box.years and receive 12 issues PLUS You can flick through pages easily on screen,the Rooster Cereal Breakfast Set. printing off what you desire. You’ll have thou-Take advantage of extra savings by sands of pages, a fountain of mini knowledge,subscribing for three years and we’ll at your finger-send you 18 wonderful issues and tips!BOTH gifts for FREE! 1 year gift 2 year giftBoth gifts come beautifully All gifts subject to changepackaged from ReutterPorcelain of Germany. Fantastic new subscription gifts from dollhouse miniatures!

Take me to Craft-Club.com! dollshouse.tv Htahveelaytoeustsefielmn sa?ll GiveaDtroylltsohdoauyse!.TV$49.95* Worldwidetv channel 1 year TV subscription gift!3. Subscribe to Dollshouse.tv and enjoy hundreds of Best Buyinspiring, entertaining, and instructional films from some Subscribe to all three! You’ll save more than $30 when you subscribe to DHM’s great bundle pack. All this for the special bundle price of $94.50of the best miniaturists! All from the comfort of home, for the year! We’ll also send you a bath and body set!right on your computer. You’ll also receive the latest free You’ll get: 1 year of the printed versiongift! You can watch any of the programs 24 hours a day, 1 year of access to the iMag7 days a week. This is a “must have” for any miniaturist! BoRtehceGivifets! 1 year of access to Dollshouse.TV CA: $99.55* UK: $122.55* EU: $134.55* ROW: $152.55* Save the postage, subscribe online at www.Craft-Club.comFirst Name Last Name I want to subscribe/renewAddress to Dollhouse Miniatures! 1 year ($39.95) 2 years ($74.50) (US Funds Only) (US Funds Only) 3 year ($105) (US Funds Only) I want access to Dollshouse TV 1 year!City State Zip I want all the imag editionsCountry Telephone available online for 1 year!E-mail BEST BUY BUNDLE Magazine, iMag and TV for 1 year *One, two & three year subscription prices: Canada: $45/ $82.50 / $117 UK: $68 / $118 / $154 Europe: $80 / $149 / $186 Rest of World: $98 / $190 / $226Please debit my Mastercard / Visa / Amex / Discover Expires / Return this form to: Dollhouse MiniaturesCard no. 68132 250th Avenue Kasson, MN 55944Check enclosed payable to Dollhouse Miniatures I do not wish to auto renew with the card listed above Or call us today toll free: 1.866.606.6587 *US Currency Outside US: 507-634-3143Gift Subscriptions make a GREAT present for your favorite miniaturist!

FEATUREDownsizingyour collectionIt can be overwhelming to downsize, but thereare many options for what you can do with yourpieces when you can no longer care for them. By Allison Croat Photography by robert callahanLetting go of your miniatures col- auction houses out there, though some are want a fully furnished dollhouse, your lection is never an easy task. It’s a more well-known for doing miniatures. collection is more likely to sell this way. long process, but one that can be Our panel of miniaturists noted a few: made easier for you or someone Christies, Rhoads & Rhoads Auction There are many other things to consid-helping you by being prepared. In the Center, Skinner Auctioneers, Michaan’s er when looking at selling via an auction.second of this two-part series, we have Auctions, and Theriaults. First is transportation: how are you goingtalked with miniature experts about how to get the pieces to the auction? Marthabest to begin this process. We guide you Lesley Shepherd, Miniatures Guide at Puff recommends having a professionalthrough all your options, from selling About.com, notes, “Many auction houses come pack your pieces, since there is a bigyour pieces at an auction to donating recommend selling the contents (of risk involved in doing it yourself, thoughthem to a charity, and share how to get your collection) as groups separate fromyour pieces where they need to be. the [doll]house, unless it has historical Above: Doris Callahan works on organizing significance.” Because most people don’t her pieces before they go to auction. Following the guidelines set forth in thelast issue of Dollhouse Miniatures, suchas documenting your collection and hav-ing it appraised, will make sure you are asprepared as possible for going ahead withactually downsizing your collection.Selling at an auctionAuctions are a very common way to sellminiature collections. Before you contactan auction house, make sure your recordsare pristine; many auction houses requireappraisal information, and will ask to seethe paperwork to verify the value of yourcollection. After your records are in order (see“Preparing for the Future” in our lastissue [DHM34] for more informationon how to keep meticulous records andfind an appraiser), go ahead and contacta reputable auctioneer. There are many26 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

FEATUREReal life story this can be quite costly. Some movingDoris Callahan’s dollhouse companies specializewas featured in the in moving antiquesFebruary 1980 issue and collectibles. Ifof Nutshell News. She you do have yourrecently decided to sell it dollhouse moved,at an auction, since there make sure to packwasn’t much interest all items separatelyfrom her family in taking so as to reduce theover the collection. The amount of damagehouse, known as “The to each piece.Gray House,” will beauctioned off in October, Another thingsold in small lots and to consider is thatas individual pieces. We auction houses willgathered some thoughts take commission onfrom her and from some of her family members. whatever they sell. Make sure you are prepared to receive It is never easy to part with something you love. Doris’ grandson writes only a fraction of the total value of yourthat for the most part, his grandmother is “most nostalgic about the collection, especially after paying theembodied memories her collection represents.” Many of the pieces were shipping costs and appraisal fees (if youpurchased on trips she and her husband made, and she had spent lots of haven’t already gotten your collection ap-time looking for a piece that was just right. praised, that is). If you are considering placing your col- Doris and her husband also made many of the pieces in the house lection up for auction, begin by research-themselves. In bittersweet fashion, she recalled the ironing board her ing the different companies. See whichhusband made while their son was lost at sea (he was a sailor). The two ones might be located near you, or havewere searching for distractions, and the house was the perfect thing to take done auctions close to you. Practicallytheir minds off their missing son. speaking, moving your collection would be much easier if the auction was closer Her grandson notes that “her biggest regret was that the collection would to you. You can gather a lot of informa-be disassembled and sold in individual lots, as she would have preferred it to tion just by browsing the websites of thebe sold as a finished art piece so that the overall intrinsic aesthetic qualities companies, or simply by calling them oncould have been maintained.” She has previously sold smaller collections to the telephone. They will often have pro-a miniature museum in the Midwest, which was a very rewarding experience cedures for you to follow, but bring anybecause the sets were kept together and displayed with a plaque honoring questions you have to them right away soher husband. Regretfully, the sets were later dismantled and used in other you have the most amount of informationways by the museum. when making a decision. Auctions are a great way to get your “As a student of art myself,” her grandson notes, “I also felt that the pieces to people who appreciate them.collective artistic impact of the house far exceeded the beauty of the They are quite a bit of work, though,individual pieces, but I do understand that for collectors, a completed home especially if your pieces haven’t been pre-might be more difficult to find.” Parting with the Gray House, Doris said, was viously appraised, or if you haven’t keptakin to “saying goodbye to an intimate friend you know you will never see neat records. But if you have, the processagain.” will go more smoothly, and your pieces will be taken care of. There are manyAbove and around: Scenes from Doris Callahan’s dollhouse, featured in Nutshell other options to consider, how-News, as well as examples of how she organized and packed everything in preparation ever, so don’t think auctions arefor selling them at an auction. the only way you can downsize your collection. Museums Another option for passing along your dollhouse is to donate it to a museum. Some museums will take whole dollhouses and display D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 27

FEATURE How to pack your minis them, while others will accept them but an item donated for purposes of display,” might sell them to support the operational Lori notes, though it’s important to know 1. Decide if you want to pack costs of the museum. If you are interested that the piece may not be on display things room by room, or by like in donating, make sure you contact the forever. items. museum and find out their policy about 2. Wrap each piece separately. miniature collections. If donating to a museum is something Create some kind of code where you are considering, check out the mu- you can mark the outside of the Located in Danville, Kentucky, the seum’s website, or call their curator for wrapping easily and know what Great American Dollhouse Museum more information. If you are willing to the piece is or where it belongs; accepts whole collections. “Most have them sell your dollhouse to support i.e., 1 is for living room pieces, 2 is people donate pieces or collections their organization, let them know that, as for the dining room, etc., or 1 is for because they want them to be on that can help them out in other ways. It couches, 2 is bedding, etc. exhibit for others to enjoy, and they is also important to think of how you will 3. You can then pack each want to be acknowledged as donors,” get the pieces there. The Great America grouping into a small box, keeping says museum director and curator Dollhouse Museum sometimes will pick them all together, or you can pack Lori Kagan-Moore. Photographs up pieces, though usually donations have them in a large box and just group must be sent prior to the collection so to be brought in. This is something you them together. the museum can assess the quality of should consider, and if you are bringing it the piece. If accepted for the pur- in, a professional mover may be helpful inAbove and around: More examples of poses of exhibition, the collection will be packing up the collection.Doris’s work and her packing methods. displayed. “We have never sold or stored It is also important to think about the timeliness of pieces, and if things are going to last. Leslie Shepherd says that often, museums have restrictions on what types of materials are allowed. Lack of information about a piece can cause problems, which is yet another reason documentation is so vital in every aspect of caring for your miniatures. Materials you might not think of as being problematic can indeed cause many problems. “Using recycled cardboard with food traces, like the acidic cardboard egg cartons for bricks beloved by so many builders, may make a piece unsuitable for a permanent collection,” Leslie notes. Some wallpaper paste may cause prob- lems as well, so make sure you check with the museum and find out all the small de- tails before you bring in your collection. Sometimes, museums might not be the most appropriate place to bring your collection. “Think not about the collect- ability of the piece, but how an agency can use it,” suggests Leslie. Is there historical significance that might be better served at a history society, or at a local school? Is there local significance, where a community group might have a use for it? Don’t rule out options simply because they aren’t a museum; in fact, there are still many other ways you can downsize your collection. Other places to donate Miniature shops, preferably one with a reliable dealer, might take a full collection28 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

FEATUREfor display. Talk with any shop owners in make sure to check with someone about Another option is NAME’s on-the area and see if they would be interest- donating before showing up with the line auction. Cary Yerves, president ofed in your collection. Bring photos when furnished dollhouse. NAME’s Board of Trustees, notes thatyou speak to the owner; that way they can the organization is “committed to pre-get a feel for what you have to offer. Shel- NAME has recently launched an serving miniatures of all types, and workslie’s Miniatures and Larrianne’s Small Estate Donation Program, and according to ensure that both individual items andWonders, for example, accept estates and to Cary Yerves, they’ve had great success entire collections are placed into eithertake consignments. so far. They offer many different options private collections or sold to individual for your collections, including full collec- collectors.” This is a great way to insure Charity shops are another option, tion donations, specific item donations, or that your minis are going to others whosays Martha Puff. Popular shops in the donations of portions of your collection. appreciate the miniature hobby.United States include Goodwill, theSalvation Army, and St. Vincent de Paul It is recommended that you add your The main thing to remember in all ofThrift Stores. This could also be a tax wishes to your will (see the first part of this is that the more you plan now, thewrite-off, though you will need records the article for more specific information easier things will be in the future for youto figure out the value of your donation. about adding miniatures to your will) or your loved ones. Take time to decideDeb Weissler reminds you to keep in and let your lawyer or attorney know that what you want to do with your collectionmind there is a yearly limit for personal you are intending on leaving part or all of should you have to downsize. Weigh thegifting, and to be sure the amount you are your collection to NAME. If you know pros and cons of each option, and makeclaiming has been certified by an apprais- that you want to donate to NAME ahead sure you tell others of your wishes. Again,er. “Anything over a certain amount raises of time, you can become part of their Liv- reference the first part of this articleeyebrows with the IRS, who may ask for ing Legacy Club. For more information, in our last issue (DHM34) for moredocumentation.” contact the NAME office. practical advice about how to begin this Selling online process. You should be placing your minis Children’s hospitals are also great If none of the previous ideas suit you, in the hands of someone who appreciatesplaces to check for donations. Again, and you’re looking to sell online, there them as well, not trying to regain your are still plenty of options. Ebay is always monetary investment. As Martha Puff a viable internet auction site, though you elegantly stated, “A miniature collector may want to consider selling things one- needs to create miniature scenes for the by-one instead of as a whole collection. love of the process, not as an investment.” You’re also more likely to sell individual Let your love of minis guide you as you pieces as opposed to a fully furnished care for their future as precisely as you dollhouse. care for your own. DHM D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 29

bigbuzz n DHM’s Big Buzz section is the place to check out contests, products, news, and views. Are you celebrating a milestone? Do you have a great product or kit to share? Do you know of a great website? Use these pages to spread the big buzz to other miniaturists like you! Please submit items of interest to: DHM, Big Buzz, 68132 250th Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944. Or email [email protected] a nutshell writing contest COMING NEXT MONTH TO...This month’s In a Nutshell winner Young talentis Amanda Phillips, who took the Fourteen-year-old Kristen Wu found her passion and talentchallenge of a pumpkin-carving for miniatures at a young age and hasn’t looked backcontest very seriously. She created since. See her pieces and learn more about her mini start.an entire mini scene inside the Fireplace screenspumpkin with the help of her Create beautiful decorative fireplace screens with Verahusband, John, who came up with Blair. Vera explains the glass-cutting process to make thea seamless plan and also did the screens and provides a number of design ideas.wiring. You can read about their Bronze figurescreation on page 81 of this issue, Relive the Art Deco and Art Nouveau periods with miniand we’ll be sending Amanda a bronze figures by IGMA Fellow Neil Carter and his minivery special prize for sharing her monuments to renowned artists from those periods.story with us! Not a subscriber to American Miniaturist? We love seeing the variety of Visit www.craft-club.comprojects our readers create, so whydon’t you tell us about your favorite or call toll free 1-866-606-6587 to subscribe today!creation? Please keep your storiesaround 750 words, accompaniedby pictures of you and your specialproject. Send to “In a NutshellWriting Contest,” DollhouseMiniatures, 68132 250th Avenue,Kasson, MN 55944. You may alsosend your entries via e-mail [email protected]. Please besure to include your name, address,phone number, and emailaddress. The deadline forour next issue is Friday,September 20, 2013.The great little nut hunt somewhere within this issue; can you find Book winner him? If you can, please write and let usSnickers was a bit easier to find in know of his location, along with sending in Our giveaway last issue was an openour last issue than the one before! your name, address, email address, and book from Barbara Brear of B.B.Many readers found him on page 21 phone number to “Little Nut Hunt – Issue Miniatures. This botanical, open at aof DHM34 (July-Aug 2013), where he 35,” Dollhouse Miniatures, 68132 250th page of orchids, included a leatherwas waiting for some coffee outside of Avenue, Kasson, MN 55944 or fax your cover and decorated spine. Forthe café by Francisco del Pozo Parés. entry to (507) 634-7691, or email traci@ more of Barbara’s work, see www.This month, our winner was Patricia ashdown.co.uk. The deadline for finding bbminiatures.homestead.com.Johnson of Louisville, Kent., who Snickers is Friday, September 20, 2013.correctly found Snickers. As a thank Good luck! We are pleased to announce thatyou for the correct answer, we are our winner for this book is Nina Peerysending Patricia a Project DVD to help of Goshen, Ind. Congratulations,her find inspiration for any upcoming Nina, and we hope you enjoy thisprojects. gorgeous book! But oh no! Snickers had a bit toomuch coffee, and he had so muchenergy that he ran off again! He’s30 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

Deadline approaching Perfect marker giveaway BIG BUZZPreviously, we’ve mentioned the Dollhouse The “Perfect Match Stain Marker” Sweet Baker GiveawayMiniatures Merchant Association’s Make makes touchups fast and easy!it Yours contest. While you’re not required The Perfect Match Stain Marker is We featured a wonderful arrtist in our last issueto enter the contest if you purchse a kit— a marker that can be filled with your (DHM34, July-Aug 2013). Julie Davis, aka Thethe love of minis is what it’s all about!— own water, oil, or lacquer-based Sweet Baker, creates luscious miniature chocolates,entering will give you the opportunity stain. and now you can win one of her incredibleto win one of many prizes, which go chocolate boxes!to winners in several categories as well The simple design and ease-of-as to winners of random drawings! The use makes the marker a perfect tool Featuring a spooky cat on the lid, the box iscontest ends on September 30, so visit for woodworkers, cabinetmakers, stuffed full of chocolates that you will absolutelywww.ministores.org to learn more about and finishers. The marker can be love. From swirled pieces, to caramel, bonbons,entering your piece and to read the rules! used for touchups, highlighting, and plain dark and milk chocolate, these mini and any task where stain is applied candies will make your mouth water. New items from DHE to wood. Our goal is to make the process of repairing stained wood To enter to win these delectable treats, please send Coming in October from Dolls House simple, clean, and straightforward. your name, address, e-mail, and phone number to Emporium are these two spooky, “The Sweet Baker Giveaway – Issue 35,” Dollhouse ghoulish items just in time for Visit us at www. Miniatures, 68132 250th Ave, Kasson, MN 55944. Halloween! Check out DHE on www. perfectmatchstainmarker.com or call You can also fax your entry dollshouse.com for more information. (866) 9MARKER (866-962-7537) for to (507) 634-7691 or e-mail more information. [email protected]. The deadline for this entry is Friday, To enter the drawing, send your September 20, 2013. name to Miniature Style Giveaway - Dollhouse Miniatures, 68132 250th Visit http://www. Ave., Kasson, MN 55944, or fax thesweetbaker.etsy.com/ to them to (507) 634-7691, or email see more of Julie’s work! them to [email protected]. The deadline for this entry is Friday, September 20, 2013.Mystery scene contest winnerOur contest required photos to a specific scene that displayed clues to a mystery, along with a story about the scene. This winningscene was created by Cindy Payne of Brigham City, Utah, with her intriguing tale of a turn-of-the-century mystery taking place in theYukon in 1901. This scene will be featured in our next issue, DHM36 (Nov-Dec 2013), and once you’re introduced to the story, you’ll have a chance to submit your idea of what the answer to the mystery is! Stay tuned! In the meantime, check out our Facebook page to see our Mystery Scene runner- up scene by Eudis Mirsky! This scene is a “whodunit” featuring a rich man, stabbed in his tub. Both Eudis and Cindy are receiving prizes for their great work! Thank you to all who entered this contest! For more info on Scan this box with these and other mini your smartphone stories and updates, to check out AM’s check out our blog, A Small World’s blog, A Small Big Buzz, at http:// World’s Big Buzz! ashdown.typepad. com/miniatures/ and see our latest posts and news! D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 31

SHGood Sam Showcase of Miniatures October 12-13th, 2013ES OWCASOEur 3O8FthMYeaIrNIATUR “The Good Sam Show” October 12 & 13, 2013 Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-4 Doubletree Hotel, San Jose, CA 100 Dealers, 18 International Outstanding Friday Workshops Troy Schmidt ceramics with carved leaves, celadon glaze Information - Barbara Jones - [email protected] or 408-257-9385 http://goodsamshowcase.miniature.net or http://goodsamshow.blogspot.com NEW URBAN ELEMENTZ by www.rainbowhandandkathy.com32 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

See you at The Good Sam Show! Good Sam Showcase of Miniatures October 12-13th, 2013 Sylvia Mobley and Todd KruegerDollhouse LandArtistry in Miniatures [email protected] See the article about Todd and Sylvia in this magazine. 949-496-9841 www.sylviamobley.com • sylviamobley.blogspot.com www.bytkd.com • [email protected] Workshops by Ron Hubble Ron Hubble SEPT - 2013 “Merchant of Granada” Teacher: Ron Hubble September 21st - 24th, 2013 WEBSITE: WWW.SHELLIESMINIS.COM EMAIL: [email protected] 732 Laurel Street San Carlos, CA 94070 650-593-4921 THE Cortland CASES This case features a unique interchangeable insert that With unique interchangeable inserts and full case allows creating of different lighting with 12v warm or bright LED strip lights. scenes on different inserts (Christmas, Halloween, etc.) Furnishings not included for display during the year without requiring multiple cases. The case is built to hang on a wall or set flat, and comes completely finished with one insert included. Available in 1” and ½” scale. Inside Dimensions: 12 ¼” W x 5 ½” D x 8” H in 1” scale, 5” H in ½” scale. Front: .060” heat formed Acrylic. Wood: Walnut stained hardwood or solid Oak, satin lacquer finish. THE Cortland CASES Order Form Phone: 626-332-1747 Name ________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________ State __________________ ZIP __________________________________________ Phone( ___________ ) __________________________________________________ All lighting warm white unless bright white specifically requested. WOOD SCALE QTY. PRICE EXTRA TOTAL INSERTS Walnut/Oak 1” $110.00 $12.00 Walnut/Oak ½” $105.00 $12.00 SHIPPING: $16 / CASE CONTIG. U.S. Sub Total CIRCLE YOUR SELECTIONS Sales Tax (Calif.) 8.75% Shipping Email: [email protected] Check or Money Order to: TOTAL Web: www.cortlandcases.com Cortland Doan • 857 N. Lyman Ave. • Covina, CA 91724 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 33

Good Sam Showcase of Miniatures October 12-13th, 2013 Stained Glass by Beth Freeman-Kane Wildlife Miniaturist Barbara Sabia Exclusive miniatures for the discerning collector. website: www.barbarasabia.com MAA and IGMA Fellow www.facebook.com/BethMin email: [email protected] message phone: 321-216-1014 CRAIG T. ROBERTS Larrianne’s IGMA Artisan Small WondersEmail: [email protected] • Phone: 480-234-3675 Always the best since 1980-Celebrating 30 years http://www.etsy.com/shop/HairyPottersPottery One of the nation’s largest & best-stocked stores with 3700 sq ft of miniatures to delight you.Karen Cary’s Miniatures Our classes are taught by the best. Visit our 1/4” & 1/44” scale kits website to see what everybody is talking about. www.karencary.com Just off the 101 Freeway Phone: 559-638-8426 3457 Telegraph Rd, Ventura, California 93003 Email: [email protected] 805-289-1508 - Monday - Saturday 10am to 5pm See you at the Show! larriannessmallwonders.com Miss Monarch by B J Miniatures Bruce & Judy Steinke Kit includes pre-cut siding, wallpaper and shingles plus all windows, doors, balcony railings and all trims. Furnishings not included. Visit us online for a wide variety of Quarter Scale Furniture, Accessories and Structures www.bjminis.com34 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

Good Sam Showcase of Miniatures October 12-13th, 2013STRAWBERRY CREEK DESIGNSHand braided & hooked rugs using Rhea’s Wicker in Miniature the traditional methods. Rhea Strange - email: [email protected] Sarah Anne Evans 1317 North V St. #157 Lompoc, CA 93436. Phone: 805-736-6323 Artist & Miniaturist, IGMA Fellow See you at The Good Sam Show! 541 Louisiana Street Custom work available. Shows & retail sales only. Vallejo, CA 94590 Bluette Meloney Cell: (707) 567-6726 (707) 552-7351 IGMA Artisan in Faux Finishes Architectural Designer of Email: [email protected] Fine Miniature Architecture Distinctive, One-of-a-Kind Room Boxes, Structures, Vignettes Elegant, Uniquely Finished Hand-Painted Furniture Workshops in Faux Finishing (650) 692-0342 1835 Capistrano Way, Burlingame, CA 94010 www. bluettemeloney.com D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 35

FEATUREThe Three SistersInspired by stories and research about Native American harvestingtraditions, Monica Graham created this autumn scene utilizing herknowledge of the area and research for accurate plants and tools. By Jan Stuart Photography by monica grahamTitled “The Three Sisters”, this fascinated me. I can thing related to agriculture so we could undeniably realistic and historical- remember making later display our creations at the Delaware ly-detailed portrayal of a time long eggshell igloos on Agricultural Museum. I immediately past in America by IGMA Arti- cottonball snow- decided to depict the historical begin-san Monica Graham touches my heart, fields for Eskimos, nings of agriculture in this state, and thatas I believe it will yours, though initially clay mud and stick was the birth of this scene (which couldwe may not understand why. Here is a huts with animal- easily represent the field harvest timescene common to us all, regardless of hide doors on smallrace, for here is depicted the beauty of a African plains, and Top: “The Three Sisters” as it is displayedfading summer in our ancestral home, other such diora- at the museum, with artist Monica Graham.the fields and woods, with a special mas in grade school Above: The Native American maiden dollsensitivity to the “wildness” of nature as Social Studies shown in this scene was built from a Petiteit truly is. Here, also, is portrayed our classes. Coming People Plus doll kit. Monica dressed herbasic need fulfilled—food from the land from a family that in buckskin crafted from a vintage kidskinwhich ultimately sustains us, no matter had only recently glove, wigged her, and tinted her skin slightlywhich continent. We may also find kindly immigrated from with chalks. She comments, “Getting myhints of the good beginnings of our first a war-torn Germany, these contrasting own legs to bend properly so I could posi-American Thanksgiving, or wistfulness at lifestyles gave me a much-needed sense of tion her correctly was a real challenge!”the closing days of a wilderness people’s perspective. Living then in New Jersey,freedom. However moved, I know you I learned about the Leni-Lenape tribes,will love it as a splendid effort in scale but it was when I moved to Delaware thatminiaturing. So, join me in learning how I really became enamored of the Nativethis outstanding scene was accomplished. American life. At work, I met a delightfulI have asked Monica to describe the crea- Nanticoke gentleman who invited me totive process in her own words, to better my first pow-wow—and I was hooked!explain how she achieved the illusion of The sense of community, the pride, thea tamed and miniaturized northeastern heart of these people spoke to me with ariver’s edge, and to infuse the story with depth and strength that brought tears toher true passion for authentic detail. my eyes.Inspired beginningsSince childhood, alternative ways of Thus, from the moment my localliving and native tribes of all types have miniatures club (First State Minis) an- nounced our working theme for the year, I had a vision. We were asked to do some-36 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

FEATUREof many other Northeastern American are gathered for drying, grinding, and more dried corn, which is soaking totribes). Of course, as is often the case, storage through the coming winter. rehydrate for making corn mush or cornmy vision was far more complex than soup.my 1:12-scale box could encase, so, over My Native American maiden is hur- Research and planningtime, there were many revisions made. I rying to complete her daily chores so she I’ve wandered the banks and shorelinealso took some artistic liberties: In reality, can return to playing with her impatient of the Delaware River, along with itsgathering and storing crops would likely dog. She has already been hard at work fields, marshes, meadows, and estuaries,be completed before the tribes started the for some time, as evidenced by the for many years now, collecting naturalcorn grinding—which was actually done baskets and bowls around her, filled with materials. Converting a “sense of it all”at the village, rather than at the field’s harvested foods, as well as by the sim- into this scene, which is also my favoriteedge. But the basic concept I wanted to mering in the cook pot behind her. Right season, was an easy transition. Then Iportray survived intact; thus, this scene now, she is grinding dried corn kernels dug into my recall of images, ideas, andrepresents an early autumn harvest time into meal using a shallow grinding stone concepts already researched during myamong the Kuskarawaoks, or Nanticokes, and basin (which are like a mortar and programming of interactive museumthe native “people of the tidewaters” of pestle). The kernels were stripped from displays for the National Museum ofDelaware who lived along the Nanticoke the ears in the basket beside her with the the American Indian in New York. NextRiver and other areas of this state. specialized tool that rests upon them. came reading. My favorite source was an“The Three Sisters” story old paperback loaned to me by a friend:As the season draws to an end along Around her are woven flat baskets of The Indians of New Jersey: Dickonthat river, the last of the corn, beans, and twigs or reeds and hollow wood bowls Among the Lenapes—a well-document-squash (traditionally grown together to filled with other time- and place-appro- ed story detailing the lifestyle, work, andprovide support, shade, and nutrients for priate harvested foods: nuts, acorns and play of a Lenape tribe who adopted aone another, and known in Native Ameri- beans, wild onions, persimmons, winter young white castaway boy.can oral history as “The Three Sisters”) squash, etc. A fired clay pot sits on the fire behind her bubbling with venison Then came a bit of travel. One of my stew, a carved ladle sitting at the side to stir and serve with. Another bowl holds The Three Sisters Monica named this scene “The Three Sisters,” for it portrays the harvest of many Native Americans’ three food staples: corn, beans, and squash. Many tribes have a rich oral history of how the “three sisters” came to be and how they help sustain the Native people. Tiny details make this scene more “alive”—there’s a bird’s nest in the tree and a small, gnawed carcass, left there by the little dog, on the rock. D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 37

FEATUREfirst stops was the Nanticoke Indian those flowers for their food value. Wild Plexiglas case that covers and protects it.museum in Millsboro, Delaware, follow- fall asters, which are indigenous to the To give height, dimension, reality, anding a visit to their website. A vacation in area, add realism and color to the scene. perspective to the “land,” I started withthe Blue Ridge Mountains afforded the And, finally, I’ve backed it all with native green dry floral foam that I cut, carved,opportunity to compare and contrast the woodlands of the region, which were re- and layered in approximate thirds: one-Nanticoke habits and lifestyle to those moved along the river’s edge to allow for third for the foreground harvest (on theof the Cherokee, as presented through the planting of crops in the rich soil. right side of the scene), another for thetheir museum displays. And the “living mid-ground plantings (in the middle),history” village at Plimouth Plantation in With this research done, I began to and another for the background woodedMassachusetts added information about visualize in three dimensions the place- location (on the left). This also allowedthe Wampanoag tribe, whose farming ment, proportions, and details of the me to use a bit of forced perspective totechniques were similar to the tribe I was scene until my mind “locked onto” my give added depth to the scene. For thoserepresenting. Being able to walk among desired result. I even mentally walked who haven’t tried coaxing dry floralthe plantings there was a great help! Fi- through most of the construction process foam into hills and valleys with scrapersnally, images like those found at the Na- multiple times to better realize the tools and knives, all I can say is, “static is nottive Tech website were also very useful. and materials needed, and try to antici- your friend”—the foam flakes cling to pate problems before they might happen. everything! Authentication of the plants came from Of course, I couldn’t think of everything!personal experience and research. Here, But the challenging fixes and tweaks kept Upon that miniature land, the plantingI’ve depicted various winter squash, na- this project, as it does any, exciting and layout is slightly modified from actualtive corn (which was smaller and more fresh. planting instructions I found during mycolorful than modern varieties), and a The construction research as well as from observations ofbasic climbing bean plant without trying The scene’s base is simply wood, about early native plantings in illustrations andto differentiate which type it might be, as 17” by 10” by 12” (if I recall correctly), at the “living history” exhibit in Plim-growth patterns are similar. I added sun- with a groove around it to hold the outh. To achieve a bit of fullness, theflowers, as Native Americans also planted plants are spaced a bit more closely than Cutting out leaves For extremely tiny, detailed cutting, like Monica did for the leaves, Monica insists you try “squizzors” (available through a MicroMark catalog or online), as they afford much better control in tight spaces and won’t strangle your fingers. In addition to basic miniaturists’ tools, she suggests a full set of small crafting pliers (Michael’s jewelry-making section or MicroMark), a Dremel tool with attachments (Home Depot or MicroMark), and the best pin- point glue bottle you can find.38 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

FEATURE leaves in this precise fashion was challenging! Beneath those trees, under- story plantings are a combina- tion of more Woodland Scenic materials and dried weeds and plants native to the area. The vegetables also range from col- lected dried seeds (to represent nuts or beans) to purchased miniature wild onions and winter squash to hand-crafted pumpkins. My Indian corn is made from polymer clay (I use Fimo) modeling compound over beads, scored into kernels by applying a screen, and finally wrapped with painted floral tape for the husk—a technique I learned from a class given by my miniatures club. Finally, hidden amongst theabove: Posed in front of an autumn wood, Monica’s scene imitates nature perfectly. Monica advises, trees, I’ve placed a small black“My single piece of advice to anybody who wants to do a natural scene in miniature is to go out there bear (back left corner), whichand walk the land: feel the soil, see how the water flows, where the rocks lie, how the plants stand in were native in Delaware long ago.relation to each other—first-hand experience just can’t be beat. Any large outdoor setting can be pared Bobwhite scurry along the edgedown to manageable size and made to work in a limited space, yet still depict the larger concept and of the woods and a semi-domes-venue, just as my own vision began as something much larger and more complex.”they should be (with the aid of an awl and bought, and hand-made pieces. The ticated dog waits impatiently to play. I purchased them but had the chal-lots of glue), but still within the limits corn plants were purchased miniatures, lenge of modifying and flocking the bearof good gardening. I’ve also depicted as was the birch tree; both were altered as well as the dog, which started life as anthe region’s native river birch, oak, and using paints, and I added Woodland oversized, bushy-tailed fox—another use-maple trees without trying to narrow it Scenics foliage to the birch. The flowers ful technique learned in my club classes!down to specific species, which would are either kits or hand-cut paper. Thehave included red, silver, and sugar maple two tree trunks are actual dried branches The perfect placementand over 15 species of oak, including from marsh reeds that closely mimic the Wonderfully, “The Three Sisters” nowswamp, white, Southern red, scrub, yel- branching structure of the depicted tree. resides on the third floor of the Indianlow, and even more oaks, plus dozens of Each leaf was hand-punched from rice Steps Museum in Airville, Pennsylvania,other trees such as ash, pines, hornbeam, paper and individually glued after being placed in front a pre-existing mural of thecottonwood, and more. Generalization is sponge-painted. The color gradation same name! While camping nearby onenecessary when portraying nature! of the changing leaves was done with summer, I visited the museum and sawAnd sometimes, but not always, substi- particular attention to how such trees that mural—I couldn’t have found a moretutions are necessary! Many of the plant actually turn color from the top outside perfect site for my work if I’d planned it.materials are natural ones collected on my leaves down into the center. Punching A quick consultation with the museummany wanderings, plus paper, artificial, and gluing the hundreds of individual curators resulted in its placement there so others could enjoy the scene as much as I do. Some of the comments I’ve heard are,Monica’s resources “Oh, my, did you notice…” or “Did you see…?” The discovery of small detailsNative Tech website: www.nativetech.org/scenes/grindingcorn.html called out in delight to the attention ofNanticoke Indian website: www.nanticokeindians.org/ and someone else is wonderful to hear and watch. Then, too, I’m proud of the total www.nanticokeindians.org/history.cfm integrity of the scene, and while my talentIndigenous Seed Center website: www.indigenousseedcenter.org/downloads/ hasn’t yet been tapped for any additional museum work, I’d love to undertake that American _Indian_Heirloom_Seeds11_01_10.pdf kind of challenge. DHMThe Indians of New Jersey: Dickon Among the Lenapes by M.R. Harrington(author) and Clarence Elllsworth (illustrator and author)Native Trees of Delaware by W.A. McAvoy D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 39

PROJECTsculpting andbraidingOur last issue featured a fantastic Italian shopby Minnie Kitchen. Here, she shares her secret forcreating the darling braids of garlic hanging around! By Minnie KitchenGarlic is a necessity in cooking a Step 1. For each garlic braid you’re Step 3. Rub the fuzzy part on the brown savory recipe and is, therefore, essential to the kitchen scene. making, cut 11 hemp cords at 3\" to 4\" and black soft pastels to give it an earthy Displaying a garlic braid in look.a kitchen setting creates a delicious lengths.atmosphere, so why not create one for your Step 4. Mix the white and translucent clayown miniature kitchen? Follow these easysteps to create a white garlic braid to use in a 1:2 ratio. Roll 11 small balls that areas a complementary decoration for your about ¼” in diameter.gourmet scene.You’llneed Step 2. Take one end of the hemp cord and try splitting it up, which will create a fuzzy edge. This will become the roots of the garlic bulb. n White polymer clay Step 5. After n Translucent polymer clay n Dark brown soft pastel flattening the clay n Black soft pastel balls, wrap it around n Sharp tool the hemp cord with n Hemp cord the fuzzy part in the n Thin paintbrush bottom. n Glue40 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

has cooled down, Tie versus loop we will start braiding the garlic using Once your garlic strings are the “french braid” created, you can combine method. them with either a tie or a loop. Both versions are Step 10. Start out demonstrated here, but with three garlics both start with braiding and start a braid, the garlic. adding a little bit of glue to the hemp Step 12. Once cord. you are doneStep 6. Connect the ends of the clay and Step 11. Keep adding an additional string adding all your garlic strings, gather themold it into a garlic bulb shape. Create the of garlic each time you braid. Don’t worry if garlics with your two fingers, shaping them up.stalk by connecting the clay up to the hemp your garlics look like they are out of place.cord as shown above.Step 7. After the bulb is shaped, use asharp tool to mark lines forming from thebottom to the end.Step 8. With a thin paintbrush, apply dark Step 13. When you get to the end of thepastel to mimic dirt as shown above. braid, you can decide to tie it up or make a loop. This decision is up to you and canStep 9. Bake in the oven according to the be based on how you’d like the piece to be used in a scene.instruction on the package. Once the garlic Step 14. To tie it up, use one hemp cord to wrap the strings and tie it up in a knot. Cut the remaining strings. D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 41

PROJECT Wherever you decide to display it, your garlic braid will be an attractive décor in your miniature scene. DHMStep 15. If you aregoing to create a loop,first divide the stringsinto two parts andapply some glue. Aftertwisting the two parts,create a loop and cut off theremaining parts. Now that we havecompleted a garlic braid, hangit and decorate in your kitchenor miniature shop. You can alsoplace it next to a prep boardfor a realistic culinary scene. Iplaced my garlic braid next to mygarlic bread preparation scene andhung some on my vegetable stall.42 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

FEATURE Fright Night gets its glitter Twinkling buildings and shimmering scenes aren’t just the realm of brightly lit holidays. Even dark and foreboding evenings can sparkle! By Jan Stuart Photography by carol kubricanIt’s time to retire a few tired, dusty ment in its bottom. Mean- pumpkins and get some glitter going while, the top compartment’s with artist Carol Kubrican’s newest acrylic viewing window can be creation, this time for Halloween: opened for easy access to theher Creepy Coffin Haunted Village tiny houses—making the pieceKit. So intricate are the “frightful” laser perfect to put together easily,cuttings on this 5 ½” tall stand-alone play with a bit, then stand incoffin, it’s hard to believe it’s a true any dark mini corner or on aminiature that can hide a tiny battery dollhouse porch for an instantand switch unit in a “secret” compart- and impressive effect. Or you can secure its bottom to a platter Carol’s miniature Christmas Glitter (museum-quality wax serves the Houses and other timely holiday purpose well), surround it with kits were featured in our Nov/Dec Halloween candies, and present 2012 issue. Will every holiday soon it to your big or little guests for a get its glitter in the hands of this real trick-or-treat surprise. It’s a talented artist? guaranteed party or “beggar’s night” fascination! GETINtouch Carol’s highly-detailed kit con- True2Scale tains everything you need to make Carol Kubrican the coffin, glitter houses, shelf Email: [email protected] edging, pumpkins, gravestones, and Website: true2scale.com ghosts. Her special, creepy, blue Facebook: true2scale dollhouse miniatures LED lighting kit, available separately, Blog: true2scale.blogspot.com will complete the scene just as you see it here. Have a happy, creepy, crafty Halloween! DHM

Inimitablenew designsBrian (Rainbow Hand) and Kathy Tepper have been creating uniqueand head-turning miniatures for years. Here, several lines of theirnew work are showcased, from Steampunk to modern design. By Martha Puff Photography by kathy tepperCutting edge and convention- and incorporate a sense of beauty, defying, the husband and wife optimism, and discovery. duo of Brian (Rainbow Hand) and Kathy Tepper share excit- Vintage and Victorianing new designs with readers. Their Steampunkeclectic 1:12-scale product line has been “I loved Steampunkexpanded to include vintage, Steam- as soon as thepunk, fantasy, modern and cool, writer Martha Puffironically humorous, and luxury. introduced it toThe collections are innovative, stylish, me,” Kathy says. “Straight Victo- Above: rian didn’t really Luggage appeal to me, but cart table Steampunked Vic- with cam- era and torian was right down my alley. We love photos. things that are slightly off-kilter.” Left: By modifying a vintage handcart hand- Luggage crafted by Ken Byers of Shaker Works cart table West, the Teppers created a low coffee with Ship’s table. Their Luggage Cart Coffee Table Placard. brings to mind the trades of the Indus- Top: trial Revolution during the nineteenth Photo century. The rough-hewn grain wood of Kathy and large metal wheel accents recall the and Brian days of steam engines and simple factory Tepper. machinery. Decorated in a Victorian style, the result is a table that radiates authentic vintage Steampunk charm. “Ken’s old-fashioned handcarts are really cool pieces,” Kathy observes. “One worked perfectly to hold a vintage camera, old photos, and memorabilia. For another, I imagined a train station agent44 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

FEATURE turn around and drive back to the shop to buy the whole box. It’s our 250 mile purchase!”who was a retired sea captain. After serv- tags. The tags were used on railroad cars Fantasy, wit, and whimsying many years at sea, the last shipwreck to ensure that the cargo had not been Oftentimes, the Teppers conjure upconvinced him that he was ready for a life tampered with before it reached its des- unique singular work to tantalize col-on land. Some of his keepsakes are dis- tination. These had been found in a barn lectors and admirers. The discovery ofplayed as a little collection. The wooden in Minnesota a single unusual item can start the ballvase just might have been carved out of and somehow rolling. The search is then to find andthe shipwreck’s hull.” made their make complementary pieces to round out way to Cali- the idea. Delightful butterfly creations by Ericka fornia. WeVanHorn, EV Miniatures, provided in- bought ten. “As the idea matures, a character seemsspiration for the Butterfly Collector’s Ta- By the time to materialize,” Kathy explains. “Some-ble. “It completes a picture when you can we drove body has got to inhabit these realms.use multiple items from one artist to tell home, we Marty Murdock’s Speedy Extreme De-a story. The 1900’s turn-of-the-century realized livery Machine really screams for a toughButterfly Table is perfect for anyone who that we little guy with his hat askew and his dogenjoys nature study. Collecting butterflies had to in tow. I just couldn’t find the right bicy-was a favorite hobby and popular pastime cle seat for Marty. Finally, I ripped off theof the Victorian era.” back of a Bespaq chair and upholstered it with fine leather—fit for the ultimate Inspired by Steampunk newspaper delivery baron.”jewelry the Teppers foundin a shop, they designed A merging of Victoriansome Steampunk wall art. Steampunk fantasy andThey didn’t quite know lighthearted humor resultedhow to mount it after it in a vintage diver’s suit withhad been embellished, so tank and cage. It is a favoriteit sat on the table for a few piece of the Teppers. “Brianweeks. made a shark’s jaw and we filled the cage with lots of use- “One morning, we drove ful gear to get it to the bottomsixty-three miles to look at of the ocean. Evidently it madean antique shop that was it to the top again, because itnew to us. There was a box found a new home in a goodof vintage rusty metal strips collection.”in the corner that turned To catch your fancy, there areout to be railroad security Victorian-era anthropologist tables. The first is a SkeletonTOP: Butterfly table Table, which quite delights thewith chair. Right: Marty eye with its irresistible littleMurdock’s Speedy Xtreme dinosaur skeletons. “ThereDelivery Machine. Around: is just about everything aSteampunk Wall Art. scholar would need to un- earth some new data. Brian made the much-used D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 45

FEATUREtool bag on the table. The paper clamp clean lines and an uncomplicated vibe. left: Urbanholding papers on the book (left side) By infusing unexpected and irresistible Elementzis an antique tie clip. The pocket watch accessories, the Teppers create a warm, “Spanishis probably useless to this fellow. He’s welcoming contemporary look with a Silver” buf-always late for dinner!” sophisticated-yet-relaxed feel. fet with mirror, black The second anthropologist scene is a “I love watching House Hunter’s “leather”three-piece set with cluttered table, chair, International on TV,” Kathy tells us. chairs andand dodo bird skeleton on a trunk. An “Most U.S. and European large cities zebraoverfilled cabinet was sold separately as a have very small living spaces. rug.fourth piece. While we do not see the an- At the end of the episodes, theythropologist, we can readily determine that always show the apartments af-he is well-traveled in a fantasy realm—per- ter the new oc-haps an H.G. Wells or Jules Verne science cupantsfiction adventure. A fascinating scene, haveit invites the viewer to ponder and stay movedawhile in order to take in all the details. in. I’mUrban Elementz collection almostThis amazing new collection is very styl- alwaysish, cool, and ultra hip. It is modern, with disap- pointed. Anthropologist’s table, chair and Dodo Bird Skeleton on trunk.

FEATURE GETINtouch Rainbow Hand and Kathy Tepper Tel: 805-684-5821 Email: [email protected] Web: www.rainbowhandandkathy.com Upcoming 2013 Shows Good Sam Show, San Jose, CA: Oct 12-13 Philadelphia Miniaturia: Nov 1-3 Upcoming 2014 Shows Tom Bishop Show Fullerton, CA: Jan 25-26 Tom Bishop Chicago International Show: Apr 11-13 Texas Miniature Showcase, Dallas, TX: May 2014This new collection strives to use smallspaces with interesting elements. Isimplified the clutter by choosing neutralshades in the same color family. Then Ishow fewer—but bolder—accessoriesthat focus attention on each piece.”Accessorize wiselyThe Teppers do a great job at grabbingyour senses by creating ambience onmany levels. They put great thought into combiningitems in unique and unexpected ways—and celebrating the details. “Accessorize wisely,” Kathy says. “It’sthe icing on the cake. You should be ableto look at a room and tell what the personis like who inhabits that space. Does thespace reflect the person’s interests, hob-bies, status in life? Is it a male or female,family, or group of people? Collector orminimalist? Does the entire picture tell astory? Think about what you really wantto convey. People ask me how I knowwhen a project is finished. I just knowthat I’ve tried to say everything I want tosay, and when it’s said…it is finished.”In conclusion out there. Our goal is to continue to push left: Dr. Algaenon’s Anti-Buoyancy FathomWhen asked what they see ahead, the the envelope on creativity and stretch our Blaster Machine. Above: Urban ElementzTeppers replied, “There’s a whole world mind to look at objects in new ways.” DHM white leather settee and cabinet. D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 47

PROJECTA SteampunkadventureJoin Penelope as she transforms her standardlace-and-bows dress into a Steampunk costumecomplete with wings, a hat, and goggles. By Lorrie Andersen, as told by Lady PenelopeCome with me, gentle readers, clothing designer in my own right, I love as I travel on a Steampunk the notion of mechanical wings in case one adventure. I have been so needs to fly as well as the beauty of gears, intrigued and inspired by cogs, springs, and other mechanical partsVictorian and Goth Steampunk that I for creating fashion. Travel with me fromdecided to create a costume and share my parlor to the Victorian Industrial age. Iit with you. It can be permanent or will show you how to dress in Victorian andremovable; you decide. As an artist and Goth Steampunk. These are some tools you will need. The bubble-looking things on the card are bumpers for the back of picture frames so they don’t scratch your walls. These make fabulous lenses for goggles. Here (above right) we have an assembly Step 1. To start, lift the hem of your skirt, of gears, watch parts, charms, and micro beads. Find anything that sparks your if necessary. All you need to do is take a creativity. Be open to all possibilities. few tucks and ruche or fold up your hem. With Steampunk, you are throwing away I’ve also collected a few trims for an convention and giving yourself greater example to use on a hat, corset, your frock, access for movement! Riding on flying or anywhere on your costume. bicycles or in hot air balloons, you need the freedom of short skirts. Shocking, I know… but wickedly fun! Ah, here we are ready to get down to work! Skirt shortened and I have my lovely cashmere knickers on in case there is a chill in the air.48 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S

PROJECT the top of your rectangle to form the top of the hat. If it’s a little big, you can easily trim the excess. Let it all dry. Step 4. Glue some ribbon on your hat. I love this part! Ribbon is my one weakness and all my hats have ribbons, as I think the bigger the bow the better. I’m using a ½” silk blend ribbon, but you can use smaller if you wish or even a strip of netting tied into a bow—anything that is pleasing to your eye. Remember, this is your creation; I’m just showing you some examples to get you started.You’llneed Step 2. One needs a cunning little top hat n Dressed doll to start with for this wonderful look. I used embossed n Embossed felt, leather, or felt, but you can use leather or whatever material you desire. Cut one circle ¾” material of your choice (for top round, one rectangle piece ½” wide by 1 ½” hat and corset) long and lastly, a small circle for the top. n Scissors n Tacky glue Step 3. Take your tacky glue and the Step 5. As you can see, I have some n ½” silk blend ribbon, netting, or material of your choice (for rectangle piece. Round the rectangle gears and bits of this and that. Try them decorating hat) piece and glue the ends together. Let dry. on your hat and be outrageous. I made n Sewing needle Then, take the rectangle piece that you’ve a spring using 24-guage wire wrapped n Thread to match dress rounded and adhere it to the middle of the around a wooden skewer and embellished n 24-guage wire large circle. Next, glue the small circle onto it with a crystal glued to the tip. When you n Wooden skewer are pleased with your arrangements, use n Toothpick your tacky glue and glue each piece to your n Pencil hat. Oh, and don’t forget feathers. I think n Stoppers for picture frames (for they lend such a jaunty look. lenses of goggles) n Fantasy film, colored cellophane, or tinfoil (for back of lenses) n Ribbon, trim, and lace (your choice – for accessorizing) n Gears, watch parts, charms, microbeads, findings, crystals, feathers, or chain (your choice – for accessorizing) n Strong gel glue n Viscose in color of choice n Rubbing alcohol in spray mister n Filigree findings for wings (optional) D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S 49

PROJECTStep 6. Glue either both sides or just one Step 9. Cut a piece of your chosen material (felt, leather, or other fabric) to size. This shouldside of your brim to the crown of your hat Next, remove fit around your waist with just a little extrato finish it off. two stoppers for overlap; for the height, measure from and put them your waist to just under your bosom. I cutStep 7. When one is flying or tooling sticky-side mine in a point, and the corset can be worn down on some either point up or point down. See how itaround in a fantasy film, colored cellophane, or even fits? I feel so much slimmer already.motorized tinfoil for that mysterious look. Trim excesscontraption, one material around your lenses.needs goggles.To make yours, Step 10. Attach the lenses to yourcut a 5” lengthof 24-guage goggles. I use strong gel glue for this. Putwire. Near the the glue around the goggles and carefullymiddle of the place the lenses. Set aside and let dry for atpiece, wrap it least 20 minutes or more.around a pencil.Make a little space, then wrap again. We’re Look how far we’ve gotten! I’m havingstarting to look like goggles! Bend the ends so much fun. I love my new goggles andof the wire back to make the arms of your my darling new hat! How is yours cominggoggles. along?Step 8. Trim according to the size of your Step 12. Trim and decorate your corset.lady’s head. In the picture you will see how I Here I’m hard at work designing and layinghave fitted them to my face. trim on my corset. I will be adding some gears as well. I’m really having so much fun! Step 11. Now, my dears, we are going to make a simple corset. I say, this is a fabulous way to disguise those extra pounds around our middles. Not to mention being a little naughty wearing our corset outside our frocks!50 D O L L H O U S E M I N I A T U R E S