AMN159

Gabriele Layne takes us to an inspired mini market from Germany.July 16 Issue #159 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $7.95 CANADA $10.95 CAD. UK £ 5.25PROJECTS• Crete cross stitch• Carnival stand• Carnival game• 4th of July decor• Candy booth• Lamp shade• Mini fireworks• Rattan-top tablePatriotic miniatures Scene by Debbie Booth

Real Good Toys Heirloom Quality DollhousesEngineering the world’s best miniature homes for over 40 years!Many Choices! Sizes! Price levels! Years of Joy!SHES 10 Quarry St. - Barre, Vermont 05641802-479-2217 on the web: www.RealGoodToys.com OWCASEO2uOr 041F1st Y6MearINIATUR “The Good Sam Show” Largest Miniature Show West of the MississippiOctober 8 & 9 116 Sales Tables Doubletree Hotel • in San Jose, CA 14 International Dealers Saturday 10-5 Sunday 11-4 • 34 IGMA Artisans & Fellows Framed Peacock offered in 2015 by Beth Freeman-Kane of South Africa. Information: Ruth at [email protected] or 408-997-1004 http://goodsamshowcase.miniature.net or www.facebook.com/GoodSamShowcaseofMiniatures2 American Miniaturist

MOLLY CROMWELL PRESENTS SHOWS & TOURS CALIFORNIA TOUR • OCTOBER ~ 2016 Private Collections ~ Miniature Shops ~ 2 Days at The Good Sam Show The 2015 trip SOLD OUT so reserve your spot early! All questions and deposits for this trip come directly to Molly. TRAVEL EUROPE WITH KINDRED SPIRITS THE RIVIERAS: FRANCE * ITALY & THE ISLES • JULY 30 ~ AUGUST 14, 2016 Optional Pre-Cruise Trip to Aix en Provence Cannes * Nice * Portofino * Cinque Terre * Santa Margherita * Florence & more ENGLAND & BIRMINGHAM MINIATURA • SEPTEMBER 26 ~ OCTOBER 3Visting Buckingham Palace * Chatsworth * Newby Hall * Covent Garden & more plus 2 Days at Miniatura CHRISTMAS MARKETS ALONG THE RHINE • DECEMBER 3, 2016 Cruising Amsterdam to Basel ~ Lots of Miniatures Switzerland • France • Germany • The Netherlands For these European trips, make your deposit today with Grand Circle Lines: 1-800-597-2452 Press Extension 2, and mention this code when booking: G6-20068 For more information: [email protected] • Phone: (703) 978-5353 www.mollycromwell.com American Miniaturist 3

Gabriele Layne takes us to an inspired mini market from Germany. ContentsJuly 16 Issue #159 www.americanminiaturist.com Price $7.95 CANADA $10.95 CAD. UK £ 5.25PROJECTS Regulars Features• Crete cross stitch 6 Mini mail 16 A family home • Carnival stand• Carnival game We love to hear from our 52 years ago Karen• 4th of July decor readers and share their Watson’s parents surprised• Candy booth words on these pages. her with her first dollhouse.• Lamp shade• Mini fireworks 64 Itty bits 24 Backyard barbecue• Rattan-top table The latest news and notes Kelly Murdie shows miniPatriotic miniatures in the mini world, and our creations that are perfect Scene by Debbie Booth newest contest winners. for a Fourth of July party.04JY16_p001.indd 1 5/25/16 3:52 PM 85 Snippets 32 Little friends & familyAmerican Miniaturist68132 250th Avenue Cut out your very own Doll artist Michelle CollierKasson, MN 55944 plates, posters, a red box, has a way of making dolls and bunting to decorate. that will make you a smile.Phone: (507) 634-3143Toll Free: 1-866-606-6587 88 Show dates 36 Artist showcaseEmail: [email protected]: AM, PO Box 2258 Mark your calendars Four patriotic artistsPulbrough and plan to attend these made some mini pieces RH20 9BA shows around the country. to celebrate with gusto!Great BritainTel: 01903 884988 On the cover: Scene by 42 Mini marketsPublisher: Debbie Booth Gabriele Layne remembersKelly Johnson the wonderful market stallsEmail: [email protected] and shops of Europe.Editor: 58 Nine room dollhouseAuralea KriegerEmail: [email protected] Margaret Gowing based her dollhouse around one ofAdvertising & Marketing: her favorite books.Sara VixEmail: [email protected] 66 The RosemontCustomer Service: Chris Machen built theEmail: [email protected] Rosemont at Hollingsworth to stay in the family.Distribution:Alex Schwemmer 74 Italian palace Email: [email protected] It started out as a modestDesigner: dollhouse, but Silva VivianiAuralea Krieger made it into the Pisani Palace.Ad designer: 90 A mini getawayBrita Moore The team at AmericanContributors: Miniaturist is hostingJean Caff, Michelle Collier, Kris Compas, Karin relaxing retreats this fall.Doggett, Margaret Gowing, Mandy Groves,Burgos Ruano Immaculat, Gabriele Layne, Chris 93 Scaling downMachen, Kelly Murdie, Pat Newbury, Edna Salt,Silva Viviani, Keith Walker, Karen Watson, Deb Mandy Groves discoveredWeissler that moving down a scale can be good for you.Issue 159July 2016Published by Ashdown BroadcastingSubscription rates:1 Year (12 issues) $76.99 USACanada $121.99 CAD, UK £79.99Europe €110.99, ROW $135.99 (US Funds)2 Year (24 issues) $143.99 USACanada $231.99 CAD, UK £146.99Europe €211.99, ROW $260.99 (US Funds)American Miniaturist (USPS# 021-053 ISSN #14778203) is published monthly at 68132 250thAve., Kasson, MN 55944. Subscription price is$76.99. Periodicals postage paid at Kasson, MN, andadditional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send addresscorrections to American Miniaturist, 68132 250thAve., Kasson, MN 55944All material submitted to the magazine is accepted on the basis thatcopyright will be vested in the Publisher who assumes all rights worldwide,in all forms and media. This means American Miniaturist owns the rightsto the instructions and photographs that we publish. The work may bepublished in the magazine, our i-Mag, ebooks, CDs and bookzines as well ason Dollshouse.TV. You continue to own the copyright for the design and arefree to teach and sell your work. All that we ask is that you wait a minimumof 6 months after the publication of the issue before teaching the design orselling your own instructions. We don’t allow you to re-publish the designfeatured in other books or magazines without prior consent.

Projects Welcome 8 Crete cross stitch July is positively the best time of year. The weather is sunny and hot and there are lots Edna Salt noted a few things of barbecues to enjoy. Grilling beer brats and to make in miniature while sweet corn in the husk is my favorite meal this she enjoyed her visit in Crete. time of year. If it were a healthy one I could eat it every day in the summer!12 Carnival stand To kick start this wonderful month there are Knock ‘em dead with this fun many 4th of July celebrations. I remember my project that is perfect for any family would always lay down a blanket to mini carnival or festival. mark our spot for the parade and then go to the fireworks at the school afterwards.27 Carnival game My most favorite fireworks back then were39 Keith Walker makes a the ones that were so loud you could feel them traditional carnival game in your chest when they exploded. named the Gobstopper. Now I suppose my favorite are the ones that 4th of July decorations wiggle and squirm all around while whistling and of course the grand finale when all heck49 Gabriele Layne shares how breaks loose! to add a blast of fun to your mini Fourth of July. I think this issue has a great mix of Independence Day celebrations and stories Cotton candy booth that revolve around family. By the time I was finished with all the tutorials I was envisioning52 Make a cotton candy booth to a miniature 4th of July summer carnival! How add to a carnival or festival much fun would that be to make? scene with Pat Newbury. Hopefully you will try your hand at some Lamp shade of the tutorials and your creations will add57 something extra special to your projects. Kris Compas makes a 1:12- scale lamp shade. When you are gazing up at those colorful fireworks in awe please take a moment to Mini fireworks remember everyone that has fought and are fighting for our independence and perhaps97 Celebrate a miniature share with a loved one what you are grateful Fourth of July with a bang for as an American. by making these fireworks. Rattan-top table Burgos Ruano Immaculat has a great idea on how to make a fun 1:12-scale table.

minimail AM is your magazine, and we want to hear from you. Write to: MiniMail, American Miniaturist, 68132 250th Ave., Kasson, MN 55944. Or email: auralea@ ashdown.co.uk. Letters may be edited if necessary.Star letter that I love so much! Mini memoriesThis month’s star letter was So her answer is, Arthur can When I read Edna Saltsfrom Debbie Vazquez who December (AM153) article,wrote in to share a story about be found on page 29! She is so “Stitch your own blanket” andher granddaughter Anahi, excited and has asked me to wish saw the words “Ayios Nikolaos”, everyone good luck! I was immediately taken back to the third grade.who is a budding miniaturist. Debbie VazquezWe truly love to share your Idaho Falls, ID Our elementary school wouldprojects and letters with sit us in the gym and show full length movies on the bigour readers, and it means so Contributing artist screen. The movie that alwaysmuch to us that you take the Thank you, thank you, thank you stayed with me was “The Moontime to write! To thank Debbie for the beautiful article, photos Spinners”, based on the novel byfor her wonderful letter, we and cover of my barn wedding Mary Stewart.will be sending her a very room box in your magazine! Thespecial project DVD. Please writer did an excellent job on the The adventure of Niki Farris (Haley Mills) takes place on thekeep your letters coming. article, so I thank her also. You island of Crete and starts out in Ayios Nikolaos. I was taken withWe love learning about have made my mother ecstatic the simple village, the white of the architecture, the windmills,you and your projects and for days as she tells everyone that the landscape, and ancient ruins.hearing your comments she encounters. It was a place I promised myselfand ideas. We always look I would see.forward to reading your Thanks and wow is what I keep repeating in my head. Some years later a friendthoughtful letters! Denise MoralesStar letter Spring, TXI am going to start mycontest answer with a littlestory. Every time I receive mymagazine from AM my sweetlittle granddaughter Anahi asksme if she can find Arthur! Sheloves looking for him and is sovery good at doing it.We hadn’t even gottenhome from themailbox and she Sherri Colvin brings recognizable characters to life in her sculpts.had already found June 16 Issue #158 www.americanminiaturist.comhim! My desire tolearn and my love PROJECTS CANADA $1P0.r95icCAeD.$U7K £.95.255for miniatures has • Pansy pillowpassed on to her • Washstand • A hat cake • Cherry pie • Mini pink bikini • Fire grate • Backgammonand it means theworld to havesomething so Acountry wedding barnspecial to sharewith a little one 04JN16_p001.indd 1 4/12/16 10:13 AM6 American Miniaturist

minimail of the Greek islands. It was an amazing trip and though we did not see Ayios Nikolaos, we did stop at Crete along the way. Thank you Edna for the reminder of my trip to a beautiful and intriguing part of the world. I also wanted to say how happy I was to receive the beautiful Secretary desk giveaway from the December Highlights contest. I hadn’t even had the chance to send a thank you Miniature blanketsand I wanted Sotwitcnhbylaonukret for that when I receiveda memorable another package from youcelebration of LEthedtan’staienSnsajplotiyraeasdsthhoeuerrvtoiosfitmtshtaehkGeercaeoemlkoirinsfiulablnmladnsakrwkeeitt.ths winning the Star letter andturning 50 anddecided we EbuptAtahbesaeimiaildtnnIsattuagtoneitis,dmsrNuskistinftnennurusiioakttatstlecbiuodshtwbthcoinlioeosatl,ihattiloofoalahahnekstnbniadknbhcdrawasesrrliolageotchtunspnnarhsresieeskadaptepraaeetn.esstirttTtntndeeo/ioshAtkrrdhucrnnuiytus1ehphlsgifyogo8.efaTssohprsnhmupaumdetnisatadelnlryn. imvanhbomeftaiaglhtfnganhTrarteaenkehdrheletkkapemeadestetabhtpegtiasts.lafteadlweIioepantlseheratr,eiwneiatcsoaservotpnousinisefosuidnsciefrangnzdoeepamegocserpoas,retriatteafbollhtsycamntfesetaihindtesbsrcabii.dndvneabdThrseuiewlhebaceu,isdisdnryiieesitbt,.tahobtcsaaph,naosteaneetnhdd Tools & materials:wanted to go to to a single bed orGreece. a king-size. Each l 22hpi fabric received the Easter Time pattern diamond is Needle DVD and hat kit! Our husbands l Thread in preferredhad no interest in l Thank you! I look forward to receiving my colors issues and have every l Scissors one since the first one. I l Tacky Glue have also done numerous l Toothpick any traditional Cretan mupinsaeetHatdesourclnbrreo,ewsiansbi-tssohttuiitttctchhh6e,.3fdbo”iurvwttidhibdieneagc.mIklahisniatneivtsceh home or shop, it is can be used for this. jiiuwmtaswEshslnhedaaEtahdnsangdnwitcrdainsenhoattahcaaiofhtionettsipCenihndopterrgeethnaedfintonefsdeitostuuovmecriineinsrostysandiagvotCikaenerptuhesehdrracaieasehritnhntttshoysi.eetae,l.hdr, e. 35sts x 35 sts, and “This market is a my breath away. Each figure is on 22HPI (holes wonderland with created with exquisite detail, per inch) fabric that vegetables, spices and and so lifelike. I especially loved measures about hsheealrnebcdstm,iaoannddoefaafgnardbermaictas,cbhointehd.” her depiction of Dame Maggie 1.5\". The size of an Smith as the Dowager Countess.  item can be found Just amazing! cboyudnitvibdyintghethhepsi toitfcthhe material. Denise Morales’ country I have stitched this wedding vignette was so full of Chania is full of one on 22hpi fabric, cntmhoeArlyaoesrnral,ytdethhe,tewudepsloesiani.zstgRketeeetIrmiwnnhsoaeovmonseftlbry6mae-unrsa,sdtdtreshaesneinuodsneed interesting details that I could historic sites, an samtbitaockuhintegd4.53o”n,dbilau6mht piofinitcdawsnavsas, find myself studying the picture ancient harbor, 3 diamonds would over and over again for fear of and my favorite missing something. It must have part, the indoor taken hours of work to put this market which was built American Miniaturist 35 wonderful room box together. 11/20/15 9:56 AM I thought David Brookshaw’s collection of miniature tools 04JA15_p035-038.indd 35 was quite amazing and working with pieces so small out of projects from the magazine. such unforgiving materials asgoing and didn’t really believe Keep up the good work! ebony and boxwood must bewe would do it. We decided so difficult and require endlesson a tour of Greece and a tour patience. I am sure it was a lot Joan Purcell more fun for David than making dentures! Sharewood, MN Three highlights Sherri Colin’s sculptures of well-known figures just took Mary Everheart Gainesville, FL Facebook Twitter Blog: A Small World’s Big Buzz American Miniaturist 7

Crete cross stitchInspirationsfrom GreeceBeing a tourist in Crete was fun for EdnaSalt. While she enjoyed her visit she alsonoted a few things to make in miniature.T he “Cretan night out” may but any counted thread stitch Tools & materials: seem a very touristy thing can be used. I have bordered to do, but it is great fun. the apron with simple drawn l 22hpi and 32hpi fabric We were taken to a village thread work, which adds a l Needlehigh in the mountains, and traditional touch, and added l Thread in preferredgreeted by a glass of raki (the a ribbon tie belt. colorslocal home-made drink) and a l Scissorsselection of locally made crafts. I was also attracted by the l Tacky GlueThen off to the theatre for a large selection of folk inspired l Ribbon or plaited threadshow of dancing and music, shoulder bags – there were soaccompanied by bottles of wine many woven and tapestry bags after running some Tacky Glueand a traditional meal. that it was very difficult to choose along the edge of the stitching one! As they are so small, and can to reduce unwanted fraying. There were photographers vary so much in size, any smalleverywhere, and some nice remnant of fabric can be used Handles can be made fromsouvenir pictures were taken up, as long as the end result is a ribbon or plaited threads to suit.with some of the show people in miniature! My patterns are just suggestionstraditional dress. I was impressed – let your imagination run riot toby the aprons worn by the “I was impressed by produce some colorful patterns.women and have designed a the aprons worn by The average size of my bags is 1”simpler version. the women, and have x 1.5”, not including fringing. designed a simpler It is stitched on 32 HPI Aida, version.” These bags would make aand the pattern measures 2.8” colorful addition to a traditionalx 1.2”. The size can be easily The stitches used are basically shop, or even a miniature of oneadjusted by stitching on a cross stitch with some Algerian of the kiosks (periptero) whichdifferent size fabric, and the few eyes and some elongated cross can be found all over the island,colors used can be changed to stitches! Beads have been added selling everything from stamps tosuit any threads you may have in to the finished patterns and the cigarettes, sweets and swimmingyour work-box. long ends of the bags fringed, goggles, newspapers and comics. I have stitched in cross stitch, A stay in Crete cannot beusing one thread in my needle, considered complete unless8 American Miniaturist

Crete cross stitchApron pattern defenses, and tasted were bought here! museums and The huge Archaeological galleries to satisfy the most ardent Museum, just off Platia Eleftherias, voyeur. Tavernas is well worth a visit, with Minoan and bars abound, artifacts dating from 6,000 BC, and some of the from all over the island, although best pizzas ever it may be better to visit the Palace of Knossos first. This most Minoan ladies patterna visit is made to thecapital, Iraklion. Thereare shops galore for theenthusiast, a street whichis a permanent market,a Venetian harbor and American Miniaturist 9

Crete cross stitch Dolphin patternfamous site is well worth a day used as a guide only – if you ladies with their bare-breastedexploring, with its stairs and feel like altering some part to fashions!passages revealing copies of suit your own miniatures, that isthe original frescoes which have part of the fun! One of the items I have adapted the picture tobeen removed to the museum. in the museum which caught show them in a more modest my eye was a scene of Minoan fashion, tending their flowers, My young grandson was and used this as a wall-hangingfascinated by the famous“Dolphin” fresco, and spent agesjust staring at the colors. I havetried to capture the magic of thisfresco in my dolphin patterns,which can be made into pictures,wall-hangings or rugs. My stitched example is ratherplainer, as I missed out the fishesand the seaweeds to make abasic rug. The choice is up toyou – all patterns should be10 American Miniaturist

Crete cross stitch Shoulder bag patternsTip: Run some Tacky Gluealong the edge of thestitching using a toothpickif necessary to reduceunwanted fraying.which could be framed if both of these projects are only threads at a variety of prices. Therequired. suggestions. I tend to use up all main thing to remember is that small lengths of thread in my you are doing this for fun! The Minoan ladies have been workbox – that is one of theworked in cross stitch because I pleasures of miniatures, nothing Edna now has memoriesprefer that stitch. They can also you make uses a lot of basic of a wonderful visit to such abe worked in tent stitch, or any materials. If you need to purchase delightful island. Memories thatpreferred needlepoint, but will new threads, your local sewing will now last a long time in theprobably need blocking at the shop will stock a variety of miniature pieces she has sofinish, and I can never get that carefully stitched for us. AMjust right! The dolphin rug was stitchedin a mixture of cross stitch andtent stitch, with two threads on22HPI Aida, and measures 3.5”x 2.7” approximately, while theladies were on 32HPI, using onethread, and measure 3.2” x 2”.Size can easily be adjusted bychanging the HPI of the material. The colors I have used for American Miniaturist 11

Carnival standYou gottaplay to winKnock ‘em dead with this fun project thatis perfect for any mini carnival or festival.Jean Caff builds a coconut shy!A coconut shy, also known Step 2: Take the two 85mm Tools & materials: as coconut shie, is a skewers and attach a 40mm game from the past that strip along the bottom length l Balsa woodyou could find as a sidestall at of each one. l Obeche for framefestivals and carnivals. The l Wooden skewers (x2 at object of the game was to ALL MEASUREMENTS IN MM 125mm and x2 at 85mm)throw wooden balls at a l Toothpicks x6row of coconuts that were l Small findings x5balanced on posts. l Coconuts x5 l Material for sides The player would l Old hankie for sackingpurchase three balls l Spray starchand would then win l Beadeach coconut that was l Tacky Gluesuccessfully dislodgedfrom the post. Some Cut wood as followsstands would switch out Baseother prizes in place of 103mm wide x 111mm deepthe coconuts So let’s getstarted and make a 1:12- Framescale stand! Cut obeche into 10mm wide stripsStep 1: Glue one 103mm 3x 103mm (back horizontals)strip on its narrow edge to 2x 107mm (side diagonals)the back of the base and 2x 105mm (back vertical)along both sides. Glue a 2x 40mm (front supports)125mm skewer verticallyin both corners and as Signextra strength, glue a small 1x 85mm wide x 20mm highpiece of wood across the 2 strips 5mm wide 140mmskewers. Leave to dry. long12 American Miniaturist

Carnival stand Step 3: When dry, glue to front of base, again making sure they are straight, and with a small piece of wood as extra strength as before. Step 4: The 107mm side diagonal pieces need to be angled at each end to fit. Mark and cut each end to fit flush between the two skewers, as shown in the diagram but do a dry run first to be sure of your angle. Glue in place. Step 5: Fit the two 105mm pieces to brace the back.Stand templates (not to scale) American Miniaturist 13

Carnival standStep 6: Cut material to fit sides, Step 9: When dry, make sure the anything your imagination canmaking sure there’s enough to sign is level with the base bottom produce.fold over the top rail and about and glue in place.one inch to go around the back Step 13: Make holes in the baseand wrap around the front Step 10: Using the hanky, spray and stick coconut shy in place.skewers. Cut another piece to fit with starch and lay it on base,the back. crumpling it up to fit. When dry, To decorate the stall you can use dirty it. I use either ground chalk the red, white, and blue buntingStep 7: To make the sign take the or cake decorating powders. from Snippets.85mm x 20mm piece and attachto the two 5mm x 140mm strips Step 11: Push toothpicks into Again, balls can be madeto the back to act as posts. findings and secure. Paint if from polymer or anything you preferred. deem suitable. Use any basket orStep 8: Paint color of your choice container that is fitting or makeand write a slogan with either Step 12: Make coconuts using one by winding string covered inpaint or permanent pen. polymer clay, small cones, or PVA around a container, such as a film canister and paint when dry. AMWhat projects have you been inspired to create?We would love to see the results of your finished miniature projects you havemade using AM tutorials. Please send us a few pictures of your finished pieceso that we can share them with our readers. Send your photos to Inspired to Create, American Miniaturist, 68132 250th Avenue,Kasson, MN 55944. You may also send your entries via email to [email protected]. Please be sure to include your name, address, phone number, and emailaddress. We can’t wait to see your results!14 American Miniaturist

Meow, meow, meow... Our 3 little kittens have found their mittens! Kit #3485 Three Little Kittens the latest in our in our Fairy Tales Series priced right at only $45.00 plus shipping Our 1/4\" scale project kit includes all you'll need to create this sweet little cottage, with 3 kittens from Falcon Miniatures The project fits into your own 5\" x 7\" frame Grandt Line Products 1040 B Shary Court Concord, CA 94518 www.grandtline.com e-mail: [email protected] tel: (925) 671-0143 fax: 671-0806s Real Good ToyResal Good Toys Real Good Heirloom Quality Dollhouses mes Heirloom Quality DollhoMuasnyeCshoices! Sizes! Price levels! Years of Joy! Heirloom Quality Do Engineering thfoerwoovreldr’s40beysetamrsin! iatu8r0e2-4h7o9-2m1201Qe7usarwry wSt.w- B.aRrree,aVelGrmoonotd05T64o1ys.com Many Choices! Sizes! Price leve 10 Quarry St. - Barre, Vermo 802-479-2217 www.RealGof Joy! Doreen Sinnett TDinoyt’sDDolol lMl Hoolduse Doreen Sinnett Tiny Doll Molds SFueell oliunre5s½h“oAprial”.com speacniadliozuinr g2½in See our 5½ “Arial” ha“nFadicryraFfateyde”itmeomldss! and our 2½ LoWcaetehdavine t9h0e+ RomckininiagtuHreodrsoellhMouaslel “Fairy Faye” molds! 1m5o4ld2sNra. nHgwinyg1in01size We have 90+ Lincfroolmn 1C½ity” ,toO6re” gtaolln. (54A1ls)o949”4&-466”4t7all miniature dollhouse molds ranging in size Many Choices! Sizes! PricheoOtledpAoventen3t&[email protected]!cJlkdoo,smy! from 1½” to 6” tall. 8C0E2L-4E7B9R-2A2T11I0N7QGu3oanr0rytYhSEetA. w-RBeSabrr:e,wVwerwmCw.oRl1wno(e0t5wsaa40el.5G1mtdi6)no4o6y-o15ndd59oTWp-ol9mlesy9.sd1c..9coomm Also 4” & 6” tall 2 American Miniaturist Antique Repro molds & more Fairies! www.tinydolls.com (541) 659-9919 American Miniaturist 15

A family homeAFAMsIpLeYcHiaOl ME 52 years ago Karen Watson’s parents surprised her with her very first dollhouse. Today she and her father still cherish it.My passion for creat- ent after present but, once we had many more gifts than I. ing miniatures began were finished, it was obvious Although I was grateful for my in 1964. I was eight that my brothers and sister gifts, there was still a bit ofyears old and I made myfirst dollhouse out of dis- disappointment.carded shoe boxes. I also Suddenly I felt mymade cardboard furnitureand cardboard people father’s gentle handfor my magical world. I on my shoulder as henever dreamed of having whispered, “Comea real dollhouse, but with us to the diningeverything changed on room.” The din-Christmas morning 1964. ing room door was closed, which was cu- I remember waiting rious because it wasimpatiently to go down- never closed. I slowlystairs to open presents. opened the door andFinally we heard my could not believe myparents say, “come on eyes. There on thedown”. My two broth- dining room tableers, sister, and I raced was the most beauti-down the stairs in sheer ful dollhouse I haddelight. We opened pres- ever seen! It took my breath away.Top: Karen and her fatherspending time together Mom and Dad wereon a sunny day. grinning from ear toRight: The dollhouse that ear. “For me?” I askedKaren received as a young in wonder. They said,girl. This 1:12 scale dollhouse “Yes.” I ran to thehas an open front and a wood dollhouse and dis-back so it can be placed covered my first realagainst the wall. world of miniatures. My passion was born16 American Miniaturist

A family homeLeft and above: The front hall of the house.Below: The table and chairs were made byher father to resemble the ones Karen’sparents had when she was growing up. American Miniaturist 17

A family home that day. The dollhouse was complete with furniture, little people, curtains, and rugs. I played with the dollhouse all day until bedtime. It is one of my fondest Christmas memo- ries to this day. My father was a mechani- cal engineer and my mother a nurse. They were busy raising a family and had very little free time. For months they had secretly been working on the dollhouse after we children went to bed. Money was tight so they poured their love into the dollhouse by using simple Left: The kitchen is full of activity. Below: Karen changes out the photo in the window occasionally to show new neighborhoods.18 American Miniaturist

A family home Above: Karen’s father cut each piano key out one at a time.“The dollhouse is now Above: The Aunt with an affection was made from scrap wood.fifty-two years old and for cats was Karen’s first attempt at The keys of the piano werenot a single roof shingle making a 1:12- scale doll. cut from a plastic toothbrushor chimney brick has holder which had a white topcome loose.” and a black bottom. Dad cutand inexpensive supplies. Theroof shingles and chimneybricks were made out of sand-paper from the local hardwarestore. The dollhouse is nowfifty-two years old and not asingle roof shingle or chimneybrick has come loose. They used leftover wall-paper and linoleum tiles forthe walls and floors of thedollhouse. All of the furniture American Miniaturist 19

A family homeAbove: Karen found many dolls atyard sales and refurbished them.out each piano key from the lived on Plum Island, MA. repair anything else.plastic container and indi- Many years have passed Some of the dolls are eithervidually glued them in place.I can’t even imagine the hours since 1964. Ten years ago the refurbished yard sale dollsit took to create the piano. dollhouse was showing its that were in disrepair or ones I made from porcelain doll We had an old metal kitchen “Ten years ago the kits. I also discovered that ourtable with red plastic chairs in dollhouse was showing local craft store had a won-1964. Dad made the miniature its years of love and was derful scrapbooking section Itable and chairs to look just looking sad. I decided could use to dress the dolls.like them. The kitchen table to bring it back to life Many of the scrapbookingactually pulls apart so you can with new wallpaper and kits have clothes in them thatput a leaf in the center of the floors.” perfectly fit a 1:12-scale doll.table to enlarge it. years of love and was looking The Harley Davidson dad The picture window has sad. I decided to bring it back in the kitchen is dressed froma frame behind it so you to life with new wallpaper one of those scrapbookingcan change the background and floors. I did not need to kits and the entire outfit costscenery. I still have fun chang- under $10. The scrapbookinging it frequently to represent kits also have other wonder-different neighborhoods. Cur- ful items for a dollhouse. Therently there is a picture of our monopoly game on the floorbackyard when my sister and I20 American Miniaturist

Above: The three story dollhouse ing fuzzy slip- A family homeshown from the back side. pers. The cats were the final a five-story haunted gothicof the girl’s bedroom, san- touch. Victorian dollhouse withdals on the bathroom floormat, the bathrobe hanging in My Dad is removable gables.the bathroom, and the street now 93 years Dad designed thesigns in the boy’s bedroom old and sadlyare from scrapbooking kits. Mom passed dollhouse and is away two building it just like a One of my first dolls I years ago. real house, completemade is the elderly aunt My beautiful with floor joists andsitting in the living room dollhouse is a miniature 2x4 piecessurrounded by cats. I had so tribute to them of wood. Yesterday Dadmuch fun making her. I had both. Dad and decided to make his ownnever been trained and did I continue our electric coal burner fornot know where to begin. passion for the dollhouse.I read all I could on mak- miniatures by It would be easying dolls and then started. working on enough to buy one, butI wanted every detail to be this one is special since itperfect. I left the top of her Right: Even is made with love.dress unbuttoned slightly, the window is In our next issue of AMher knee high socks have bustling with we will show the upstairsfallen down and rolled, and blooming flowers of Karen’s lovely littleof course she had to be wear- and outside dollhouse. AM visitors. American Miniaturist 21

roadtripdirectory STAR BUSINESS FLORIDA • USA The Toy Box The Toy Box The Toy Box is a full service 419 Brevard Ave, dollhouse and miniatures store Historical Cocoa Village on The Space Coast of Florida. Phone: 321-632-2411 We enjoy helping you fulfill your Email: [email protected] “dream dollhouse” wishes from Hours: Tu-Sat 10-5 our large selection of dollhouses www.thetoyboxstore.com and accessories... Come visit us and enjoy our CALIFORNIA • USA world of miniatures.CALIFORNIA • USA CALIFORNIA • USAElegant Dollhouse Celebrating Dollhouses, Trains & More Ms. Peggie’s Place1120 Fulton Avenue, 36 Years 300 Entrada Dr 5063 Cass Street, Novato, CA 94949 San Diego, CA 92109Sacramento, CA 95825 Phone: 415- 883-0388 Phone: 858-483-2621 20 minutes North of San Francisco Hours: W-Th 5-8 / F 12-5 /Phone: 916-484-0411 off Hwy 101 in Marin County Sat 10-5 / Sun 11-5 Hours: M-F 10-6, S-S 10am-5pm www.mspeggiesplace.comHours: M-Sat 10-6 / Sun 12-4 www.DollhousesTrainsandMore.com ILLINOIS • USAwww.elegantdollhouse.com FLORIDA • USADELAWARE • USAFingertip Fantasies JJ’s Miniatures & Tom Thumb Hobby & Crafts401 Main Street, PO Box 544 2nd Chance Treasures 6001 Gross Point Rd.Clayton, DE 19938 8 S Main Ave, Lake Placid FL 33852 Niles, IL 60714Phone: 302-653-8800 Phone: 863-699-2401 Phone: 847-869-9575Email: [email protected] [email protected] Email: [email protected] Hours: Tue-Sat 9am - 3pm www.tomthumbcrafts.com INDIANA • USA MARYLAND • USA MICHIGAN • USA Jeepers Dollhouse Miniatures Forever Friends Miniature Makers’ Workshop 69 W Washington St, Dollhouses and Miniatures 28120 Woodward Ave, Morgantown, IN 46160-0335 2105 Bishops Castle Drive Royal Oak, MI 48067 Phone: 812-597-4346 Olney, MD 20832 Phone: (248) 549-0633 Hours: T & Th 10-7, M-W-Sat 10-5 Phone: 301-774-3037 Email: [email protected] www.jeepersminiatures.com Hours: Open most days/weekends Hours: T, TH, F, SAT 10-5, W 12-8 www.foreverfriendsminis.com/shop www.miniaturemakers.com22 American Miniaturist

MINNESOTA • USA NEW HAMPSHIRE • USA NEW YORK • USAAmerican Miniaturist Earth & Tree Miniatures D. Thomas Fine Miniatures68132 250th Ave. 276 Route 101 #1 Historic Hudson ValleyKasson, MN 55944 Amherst, NH 03031 COLLECTIBLES * WORKSHOP * GALLERYPhone: 866-606-6587 Phone: 603-673-8707 579 Warburton Avenue Shop #6Email: [email protected] Hours: M-Sat 10-5 / Sun 12-5 Hastings-On-Hudson NY 10706Hours: M-F 9-5 CT www.EarthAndTree.com dthomasfineminiatures.comwww.americanminiaturist.com OHIO • USA OHIO • USA NEW YORK • USAChautauqua Miniatures & Dollhouses The Miniature Cellar Dolls and Minis5031 W. Lake RD Rt. 394 12652 West Geauga Plaza 8068 Columbia RoadMayville, NY 14757 Chesterland, OH 44024 Olmsted Falls OH 44138Phone: 716-753-3100 Phone: 440-729-6464 Phone: (440) 647-1519Open seven days a week Email: [email protected] Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-6pmwww.chautauquaminiatures.com Hours: Tu-Sat 10-5 www.dollsandminis.com www.miniaturecellar.com TEXAS • USA VIRGINIA • USA VERMONT • USAMy Doll House Inc. Real Good Toys Happily Ever AfterAlamo Heights, 6000 Broadway St Dollhouse Factory Outlet 20609 Gordon Park Square, Ste. 110San Antonio, TX 78209 10 Quarry Street (Behind State Ashburn, VA 20147Phone: 210-930-5363 Farm), Barre, VT 05641 Phone: 703-777-1869Email: [email protected] Phone: 802-477-6464 Email: [email protected]: M-Sat 10-6, Sun by appointment Hours: Mon-Thurs 9-4 Fri 9-5 Hours: Tu-Sat 10-4 & by appointment www.realgoodtoys.com www.happily-ever-after.bizLike us on Facebookwww.mydollhouse.us Join in on the roadtrip! For a small investment each issue, your miniature business can be featured in our state-to-state directory!For rates and information visit: www.americanminiaturist.com Call 1-866-606-6587 or email [email protected] to add your business to the map today. American Miniaturist 23

Backyard barbecueIA CtO’sOtiKmOeUfoTr Kelly Murdie from the UK shows some of her mini creations that are just perfect for a Fourth of July celebration here in the States.The Fourth of July is from Great Britain by the and celebrated throughout a National holiday in Continental Congress the United States. Festivities the United States, in 1776. consist of fireworks, parades,which is also known as Patriotic carnivals, fairs, picnics, con-Independence Day. It is displays and certs, baseball games, familythe anniversary of the familyadoption of the Decla- events are Below: This outdoor barbecueration of Independence organized spread will get your appetite going.24 American Miniaturist

Backyard barbecueget-togethers, and barbecues. “I made some lumps of Left: The addition of raw The types of food usually charcoal from polymer hamburger patties adds to clay and dusted them the illusion of the scene.served at Fourth of July cel- with white chalk to giveebrations include barbecued the look of smoldering kebab skewers, andribs, hamburgers, hotdogs, charcoal embers.” the barbecue scenekebab skewers, pulled pork kind of evolvedsandwiches, pasta salads, I was commissioned to do a around that. In thegarden salads, corn-on-the-cob food project for a magazine, UK, barbecues areand desserts decorated with chose to make some chicken very popular in thered, white and blue. summer months. We do not always have I made this barbecue food the warmest of sum-arrangement in spring 2015. mers so we definitely make the most of them when the sun does choose to make an appearance! They are a fun social occa- sion which brings to- gether family, friends, and neighbors. My scene began with an oil drum- style barbecue which I bought through eBay. I made some lumps of charcoal from poly- mer clay and dusted them with white chalk to give the look of smoldering charcoal embers. I then painted the barbecue grill with a Liquid Fimo and brown pastel solution to give it that “cooked on” look. I added a few of the chicken American Miniaturist 25

Backyard barbecue large bowl filled peppers. There is a plate of with tricolor pre-sliced white rolls readykebab skewers fusilli pasta salad, and waiting for a freshlyto the grill sun-blushed cooked hamburger, a heartyand on the tomatoes, black bowl of barbecue flavoredshelves of olives, red onion, beans and last but not least,the barbecue, yellow peppers, something no barbecue woulda plate of and mixed herbs. be complete without: tomatoraw hamburg- ketchup and mustard!ers, some cooked I made a bowl I set out four place settingsburgers, cooked sausages and of mixed veg- at the table with little bits ofa basket of hotdog rolls. There etable rice, which all the different food types onare a couple of folded tea tow- contains cooked each plate. I wanted to giveels and metal tongs hanging mushroom and my scene a really informalfrom the side of the barbecue green and red and relaxed feel, one youready for the chef to serve the would expect to find at a gar-food to their hungry guests! den barbecue: a place where you can share good food and On the picnic table I made a good times with family andlarge bowl of Greek salad with friends, and a knife and forkmy own cucumber and tomato are optional! AMcanes, onion, black olives, andfeta cheese. There is anotherBelow: This scene will surly inspireyou to try your hand at makingsome backyard dishes!26 American Miniaturist

Carnival gameStep up andtry your handKeith Walker makes a traditional carnivalgame that you will have load of funmaking. Introducing the Gobstopper.I have made this one into a Step 3: Cut out the front; glue a Tools & materials: Gobstopper, but it also lends rail to the bottom face. Assemble itself to a coconut shy. The the front and back to the sides l Pine: frame 2.5mtrs x ball box has been made to a as in the photo and leave to set. 6mm square traditional design taken from All you are making here is a box l 5mm-ply: base 250mm x the early 1900s. For the balls you section. 175mm x 6mm thick could use beads, polymer clay, l Grass paper or something similar. This fair l Netting (washing powder ground stall can be adapted to soap bag) suit various games. l Kebab stick l Material for the tent Step 1: Cut out the base, side l #240 sandpaper frames, and panels; see the l Drill and 3mm bit drawing for measurements. Glue together the side framework and set to the side on a level surface.Step 2: Apply glue to the edge of Step 4: Clean any overspill Step 5: Cut up the bottom andthe panels then push them into of glue from the joints and side seam of the net bag, openthe frame so that they are flat then smooth over with #240 flat then thread the kebab stickto the inside face. Then glue the sandpaper. Glue the assembled through the top seam. Cut to suitback panel to the bottom rail. frame to the base. Use a clamp the width of the stall. to locate and keep everything square while drying. Step 6: At the back on the outside supports, drill 3mm American Miniaturist 27

Carnival game diameter holes, then thread the stick from the inside with the net in place. Make the top front board and glue into place. Step 7: Cut out the back panel (a) 165mm deep, the width to suit the inside of the stall, then the horizontal; (b) 25mm wide28 American Miniaturist

Carnival gameand finally the front (c) 40mm backdrop onto a sheet of paper.deep. Lay the sketch on the woodStep 8: Cut out a block 85mm Step 9: Sketch the scene or American Miniaturist 29x 40mm x 15mm that will fit characters you want for thebetween (a) and (c) to supportthe backdrop. Glue in place andleave to dry. Grab a cup of coffeewhile you think about a designfor the backdrop.

Carnival gameand pencil over the other side Step 12: Lay the stall sideways rounded when the glue has dried.of the paper, tracing the shape. on the material and mark 12mmRemember the picture will be extra on the left and right sides.in reverse and will be quite fainton the wood. Mark it out with a Step 13: Sew these together topermanent marker. the size of the stall frame.Step 10: The outer charactershave 10mm diameter for theirmouths and “2 tokens” writtenabove their heads. The central Step 14: You can pop in a brass Ball boxcharacter has a 12mm diameter eyelet on the front corners and Use pine 6mm x 2.5mm x 2 mtrsmouth and “1 token” above the a 2 x 1/4” screw to pull the tent in totalhead. I colored the characters tight. I covered the base withusing highlighters and made the some scenic grass. To make it Step 1: Cut out four posts 8mm xsigns on my computer. To finish look like a popular, well-used 8mm x 75mm for the corners. AllI used some gold self adhesive game you might like to create a the slats are 6mm wide x 3mmstrips around the edge. worn path in the middle - or a thick, for the sides and bottom line for throwers to stand behind. 75mm long (12). The ends areStep 11: Cut out the tent 50mm long (8) and the anglematerial 12mm wider than the supports 80mm long (8). Step 15: Cut and fix six uprights, two of which are glued to the Step 2: Glue on four slats 50mm long and leave 5mm gap between each strip. Place the 80mm strips on the inside at anwidth of the stall, enough to front uprights and the otherscover the top and down the back secured by pinning underneathto a depth just below the panel. and also a little glue on theTo decorate the tent top I used bottom of each post. Cut thesome fringing, the type used for two horizontal rails and glue intochair upholstery. place. The front of the rails can be30 American Miniaturist

Carnival gameangle and mark where it matcheswith the posts. Cut this angle offthen glue into place, as shown.Step 3: Make a wooden block75mm wide. This is used to setthe width for the sides. Useclamps to hold the correctposition then glue in the sidestrips. Turn the box over andrepeat on the other side. Leaveto dry. angle as done previously. the end to finish. AM Glue these to the side strips. Step 5: Using 75mm strips, slot each one into the base at a time then mark off and cut to fit.Step 4: Using the other 80mm Step 6: Finally, this box, used instrips, place inside and cut the the early 1900s, had a bar that the stall holder kept the money on. This can be a strip glued on American Miniaturist 31

1:12-scale peopleLANitDtlFeAfrMieInLYds Doll artist Michelle Collier has a way of making 1:12-scale dolls that will bring a smile to your face. By Deb Weissler.Our faces are like has loved miniatures for as I could do anything! I learned roadmaps of our lives; long as she can remember. As so much and have had so reflecting the twists children, she and her cousin much fun. I’m vice presidentand turns we’ve taken by had dollhouses that their of programming and the clubchoice or by fortune. Doll moms built furnishings for now meets at my house. I loveartist Michelle Collier believes from scratch. Life was filledthe faces of her dolls bring with imaginative play, but itsmiles to our own. was as an adult with a family of her own that “What makes a miniature miniaturesscene come alive? People!” truly came toMichelle exclaims. “Charac- the forefront ofters who breathe life into a Michelle’s life.setting. My favorite part ofcreating my people is when I “I discoveredcan bring a photo or memory a miniatureto life. I focus on what makes club in my area about two“My favorite part of years ago andcreating my people is my world justwhen I can bring a photo exploded,” sheor memory to life. “ laughs. “With the club’s sup- port I felt likethat person truly unique. Top: There isWhat makes them immediate- always time toly recognizable? It may be a play a tune. Right:style of overalls, a musical in- This cheerfulstrument, or a favorite shirt.” gentleman isThe fun is in the details. ready to do some small repairs Like many of us, Michelle around the house.32 American Miniaturist

1:12-scale peopleclub day! My two Above: Sculpting my first doll was born. It wasgrown children older people is truly a face only its creatorthink I’m crazy, Michelle’s favorite could love, but I was hooked!but love me any- subject.way.” The clay takes on a life and “The clay takes on a life personality all its own. You For the 2015 and personality all itsNAME conven- own. You never know American Miniaturist 33tion in Indiana, who you will be creatingMichelle was until it’s finished.”working on acenterpiece proj-ect. She needed abear and couldn’tfind the right oneso she shrugged,grabbed somepolymer clay, andstarted sculpting. Her group’scenterpiece placed first out offifty entries and was donatedto the Museum of MiniatureHouses in Carmel, IN. Michelle had been collectingfabrics to make fancy dressesfor a miniature store displayand decided to try her hand atmaking some mannequins onwhich to display them.That enthusiasm lastedabout a week beforedeciding what she reallywanted to make wereminiature dolls. “I read an article onhow to sculpt faces frompolymer and thought,what the heck! I fol-lowed the basic instruc-tions and before longRight: After learning howto sculpt from an article,Michelle dove right in andnow makes wonderfulcharacters with bigpersonalities.

1:12-scale people through time and arrived at their desti- emotions, turn- nations.Right: Michelle makes ing faces intomost of her dolls for landscapes that “The old man inpeople that want to have reveal where the park you justa doll to represent a family want to walk up tomember or a friend. they’ve been and hug; the smiling and perhaps cat lady; the happynever know who you where Grandma; or thewill be creating until they are fellow in the coffeeit’s finished. I have headed. shop who waves todone a lot of trial and Some are you every morning.error to find what still on I choose to concen-works, and find I like trate on what makesworking on a wire their journeys; people unique andarmature to give my others have happy. I don’t showdolls a little more pain or sadness. Istability.” Left: This charming want to celebrate couple are perhaps those sags and Michelle is particu- on their way to wrinkles that makelarly fond of sculpt- church. After 50 us who we are.”ing older people. years they still walkTheir faces are like hand in hand. Many of herroadmaps, each sag commissions haveand wrinkle repre- been for folks whosenting life’s journey aren’t into collect- ing miniatures, but34 American Miniaturist who desire a representation of a special friend or family member they wish to remem- “Michelle, an inveterate people-watcher, has the ability to translate what she sees into her dolls’ face.” ber, bringing smiles and happy memories all around. Michelle, an inveterate people-watcher, has the ability to translate what she sees into her dolls’ faces. Each doll is unique and each displays its own personality. She gives

1:12-scale people really enjoyed learning to create other ethnicities and nationali- ties too. My dream is to travel the country with my creations, attending miniature shows and teaching workshops.” Michelle admits she still hasn’t finished those fancy dresses, but continues to col- lect fabrics nevertheless. One look at her dolls and I think that fabric is going to have a long wait! AMAbove: Here is a motorcycle times it’s Below: This sweet little lady waitsenthusiast who is ready to ride! hard to let for the bus to go downtown.Below: This mellow fellow is having them go.a warm beverage and relaxing. GET IN TOUCH Whenthem names and tries to place people ask how long it takes Wild Rose Whimsiesthem in scenes where they best to create each doll, she doesn’t Michelle Collierbelong. She also admits that at have a ready answer except Etsy: WildRoseWhimsies [email protected] that “it takes as long Phone: 574-401-2693 as it takes” to create just the right look. It’s finished when all the details have been add- ed and the personality shines through. Each piece is OOAK—hand- made, from armatures to sculpted anatomical parts. Michelle hand sews costumes from vintage fabric, itself becoming a part of the doll’s story with its own history. “Once I started making dolls I haven’t been able to stop. As each doll coves alive, another is started. I love the challenge that each one brings. I have American Miniaturist 35

Artist showcase4thofJulyshowcaseThese four patriotic miniature artists havemade some beautiful pieces to celebratethis Fourth of July with gusto!Bridget Aul  Pennsylvania “I have been making miniatures since I was a Above and Below: Bridget has little girl, but I technically began my miniature made Fourth of July miniatures business in 2006. to add to the celebration! Making miniatures gives me the oppor- tunity to use my hands and really pay close attention to details. My specialty in miniatures is food, of course, which is also perfect for me because I have a passion for food in real life. Ultimately, miniature-making has been a favorite hobbyof mine for as long as I can remember! I love the patriotic celebration of this summer holiday in America.It’s always a joyous event full of red, white, and blue and it’s such agreat time to celebrate the USA’s anniversary of independence withfriends and family.” Lisa Komives  FloridaAbove and Below: A little 1 3/4” “I’ve been making miniatures for over twenty years. I started outpillow that features a hand-painted just making things for myself. Then I began selling them at craftpatriotic flower pot and greenery fairs and now I am very happy to have my own shop on Etsy!with red and white beaded flowers. I am fascinated by the artistry that goes into making miniatures. I love the attention to detail. I love making little pillows because I can do three of my favorite things–paint, sew, and bead! My family threw the biggest and best 4th of July parties. Family, friends, good food, and fireworks. But the best part was the small town parade where the streets were lined with people, each and every one of them waving the flag. What a beautiful sight!”36 American Miniaturist

4th of July showcase Debbie Ritter Ohio“I enjoy miniatures partly because I like thechallenge of fitting a face with personality onsuch a small area of space. For the past eightyears I have been focused on making myminiature dolls. Creating miniatures provide a form relax-ation to me, and lets me use the creative sideof my personality that combines things I enjoy-observing people and a touch of humor withartistry! I love the freedom we have in America; it’s aprivilege denied to many so I feel very blessedindeed. The specialness of Fourth of July to memeans celebrating the freedom we have asAmericans–freedom isn’t free, it has cost manytheir lives so we should be grateful for it.” Above: Debbie makes plush 1:12-scale dolls depicting many historic or famous individuals. Debbie Booth California “My father was a minister so as a young girl I sat in church quite a bit. To keep me quiet and entertained, he bought me little toy miniatures. I would use hymnals to create little rooms for my pretend dollhouse on the pews. I would make little beds, and place pieces of fabric on them and play with my dolls in these little make believe rooms. My mother taught me to sew and quilt and now, years later, I am creating miniatures and bedding to sell all over the world.” Left: Debbie has such fun decorating for the Fourth of July as you can see here. The 1:12-scale table is set and a beautiful quilt hangs on the wall. American Miniaturist 37

4th of July showcase This wonderfully vibrant room has a New England style with an Americana color pallet.Right: The porch andupstairs patio are readyfor Independence Day!“Being extremely patriotic,and loving our country, Ienjoy the entire celebra-tion on Independence day.We decorate our porchwith flags, red flowers, andspecial signs. On July 4th we have anenormous family get-together, with lots of food.Everyone gets sparklersin hand and we enjoy thefireworks together.”38 American Miniaturist

Fourth of July decorationsA little red,white, and blueGabriele Layne shares how to add a blastof fun to your mini Fourth of Julycelebration with these simple projects.I t’s time to show your American pride, get out your red, white, and blue craft supplies and make some fun accessories for a backyard barbecue or an Independence Day festival!Tools & materials: l Card stock in red or blue Step 3: Score lightly with a blunt Tools & materials: l Craft glue blade using a craft knife. l Ruler l Silver jewelry jump rings l Pencil Step 4: Cut out the shape and narrow red, white, and l Craft knife into the four corners as shown. blue ribbon l Alligator clips l Shiny confetti l Printout of box top Step 5: Fold and glue the red l Scissors created from vintage box bottom and the printed top l Stars and beads in red, picture postcards. for the box using alligator clips to white, and blue hold together until dry. l Fabric glueFancy 4th of July box l Tacky GlueStep 1: Mark the card stock Star hangers l Alligator clipsaccording to the box size desired. Step 1: Cut the ribbon pieces approximately 1” long. insert them into a jump ring.Step 2: Draw a square for thebottom and rectangles for the Step 2: Fold the ribbon ends and Step 3: Add a tiny drop of fabricsides. The bottom should beslightly smaller so that it will fitinto the top. American Miniaturist 39

Fourth of July decorationsglue and press together, hold Step 3: Glue a small printout on end of the wire (on the flat piece)with clip until they are dry. one side for the label and fill the and sprinkle on the blue glitter. box with the finished streamers.Step 4: Glue on a star with a  Yard stakes and bannerbead on the end of the ribbon Paper pinwheelusing Tacky Glue. Tools & materials: Tools & materials:A box of steamers l Colored wire pieces l Red card stock l Pompoms Tools & materials: l Craft glue l Tacky Glue l A box of steamers l Scissors l Scissors l Strips of red, blue, or l Tweezer l Round large sequins white crepe paper l Silver beading wire with l Clay flower pot l Scissors a flat end piece l Tiny printout with 4th of l Red seed beads Step 1: Cut the wire to the July theme l Flower shaped jewelry desired length and bend in an l Craft glue findings angle. Push the sequin onto the l Fat card stock box – sized l Fine blue glitter wire and secure it with glue. to fit the finished l Tacky Glue streamers Step 1: Cut out small squares ofStep 1: Cut narrow strips red card stock and cut halfwayof crepe paper. into corners.Step 2: Roll tightly and glue the Step 2: Add a pompom using aend so it will not unravel. contrasting color and glue it into place. Insert finished stakes into a40 American Miniaturist pot and let dry. Step 2: Using tweezers, curl the Step 3: Cut some sequins in half paper inward to the center and and glue onto a strip of wood in glue. Repeat for the four corners. desired length for the banner. AM Step 3: Make a hole with a pin and push the silver beading wire with the seed bead added through the hole. Step 4: Bend the wire at a right angle and slip on a flower shape finding, then glue in place. Step 5: Add a dab of glue to the

teddytibmees ar ...with the collector in mind.Artists (L-R): Gill Cattroll, Miranda Rolfes, Laure Waytekwww.TeddyBearTimes.com Dollhouse Land See our complet Artistry in Miniature by Laura Crain collection at you See you at: miniature re NAME Nationals in SeattleDenver Museum of Miniatures Fall Show The Good Sam Show Philadelphia Miniaturia Artisan Painted Furniture • Garden & Floral Masterpieces27134A Paseo Espada • Suite 304 • San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 (949) 496-9841 • [email protected] 2 American Miniaturist American Miniaturist 41

Mini marketsEMuArRopKeEaTnDAYS Gabriele Layne reminiscences about the wonderful market stalls and shops of Europe where she grew up.Oh how I miss the ing distance from our home cucumbers from Holland, market stands scat- or were easily reached by lemons and other citrus from tered throughout the public transportation. Spain, eggplant and zuc-towns and cities of Germany chini from Italy, and oliveswhen I was growing up. Seasonal fruits and veg- from Greece, just to mentionThose small stands selling etables were available fromfresh produce throughout farmers in the region or Below: Gabriele’s 1:12-scale fruitthe year were within walk- imported from the surround- and vegetable stand. ing countries: tomatoes and42 American Miniaturist

Mini marketsa few. During the growing Above and left: This stand was builtseason baskets and crates from Gabriele’s memory of thefilled with asparagus, plums, market stands in Germany.apples, pears, rhubarb anda variety of berries includ- produce were made to fill en retriever, Max, has beening red and black currants, them. The stand is decorated waiting patiently for him allgooseberries and blackberries with small glass fruit found in day in the back by the storagewere sold to make fresh fruit an antique shop and placed area. Joseph has a Dalmatiansalads that were eaten on hot on string that lines the edge who is the “shop dog” and hesummer days. of the roof. The beautiful old gets a lot of attention from the scales are set up on a table shoppers. The seasons dictated the outside, ready to weigh thekind of meals that items being sold. Joseph’s market stand iswere prepared. In well established in the neigh-the fall, root vegeta- Joseph, the stall owner, is borhood. He has been here forbles, potatoes, leeks, chatting with the errand boy, many years and has many cus-and cabbage made Timothy, who has finished his tomers who love to come bywonderful stews and deliveries, and Timothy’s gold- for the quality foods he sellssoups. along with friendly service. The children that come shop- Different kinds of ping with their moms knowmushrooms, freshly they will get a piece of freshpicked, added to fruit to eat as a treat.the assortment. Mymother shopped at Every evening Joseph bringsthe market almost in the crates and boxes anddaily for fresh pro- boards up the stand and induce, but this was the morning he opens up andalso the place to places everything outsidesocialize with shop again while waiting for newowners who knew deliveries. He is thinkingher by name, neigh- about retiring to a warm andbors greeting one an-other, and inquiriesabout families made.Market StandThis market stand was builtfrom memory and after asketch was drawn, the pieceswere cut from strips of woodand then assembled. The roofis made of craft sticks withrounded ends. Small sale bins, crates andbaskets were built and labeledand filled with polymer clay American Miniaturist 43

Mini marketsAbove: This 1:12-scale grocery market was Gabriele’s first room box which she built while in Germany. Becauseminiature grocery items were hard to find back in the 1990’s, she had to make most of the items herself.44 American Miniaturist

Mini marketssunny climate like Spain soon making as many groceries as Above: The clerk waits patiently forand is hoping that a family I could, then over the years the first customer of the day.member will take over the other pieces were added, somemarket stand to continue the bought in Germany, some in hanging from a shelf in thetradition. the United States. produce section were also found in antique shops.Grocery Store “All of the furniture isThis is my first room box that handmade from a variety An assortment of sacksI made in Germany in the of wood moldings and filled with onions, potatoes1990’s. The walls are covered the groceries are made of and other produce sit on thewith paper and the floor has polymer clay.” floor and the baskets holda sheet of shelf liner with a potatoes, celery and cabbages.stone-like pattern. The wooden barrels were A large ceramic crock is filled found at flea markets; the with traditional sauerkraut, All of the furniture is hand- three stacked against the back while the barrel beside holdsmade from a variety of wood wall were souvenirs from a pickles. moldings and the groceries wine region. The baskets,are made of polymer clay. bottles, and tiny glass fruit A shelf on the back wall isBack then it was hard to find filled to the brim with cannedminiatures so I ended up goods, jams and jellies, vin- egar, oil, lard, coffee, tea and American Miniaturist 45

Mini marketswine. The bottom shelf holds Above: While at Reichenau Island of card stock printouts hangwashing powder, floor wax, in southern Germany Gabriele on the wall. candles and other household was inspired to make a marketnecessities. There are even stall similar to the ones Reichenau Island Market Stallsome tools in the corner. in that area. The island I had the pleasure of visit- is well known for their ing family in Switzerland The counter has a cash fresh products from the in August of 2015. Whileregister and a wrapping paper local farm fields and there, a day trip to Reichenaudispenser surrounded by greenhouses. Island inspired me to makecanned and bottled goods that a vegetable stand similar tothe shopkeeper is the market stalls I remember.trying to promote. Lake Constance (Bodensee) isBeside a basketof fresh eggs he is a lake on the northernwrapping up fresh fringe of the Alps.sausage in wax The shoreline liespaper that he has in Germany, Austriajust cut from the and Switzerland,assortment hang- and the Rhineing on a wood River flowsrack. Signs made into it from the south. Located in the lake is Reichenau Island. It lies between Gnadensee and Untersee, two parts of Lake Constance almost due west of the city of Konstanz. The island is connected to the mainland by a causeway that was completed in 1838 and is famous for its farms where fruit and vegetables are grown in huge greenhouses and in the fields. There are very few enterprises on Reichenau Island, and the daily work that takes place outdoors is likely not much different than the way things have been done for centuries. Several small roadside stands sell vegetables freshly picked, and the quality of the produce here is quite famous in46 American Miniaturist

Mini marketsAbove: Gabriele carefully placed v-shaped grooves to give thethe “fresh” fish onto the miniature effect of roof tiles. These“ice” using tweezers. strips were glued on with tacky glue whilethe region. The restaurants’ alternating the notchedtop chefs source their organic edges. After it dried, the en-food from the island and lo-cals often make the trip across tire roof was dry-brushed withthe causeway to buy their dark brown and gray paint.groceries. On the interior, underneath Starting with a bare wooden the roof, LED lights werestand I had purchased at an strung from corner to corneroverseas miniature show, using small hooks to holdI gave it a base coat of them in place. The wire run-umber acrylic paint. This ning down to the battery casewas followed by another is hidden behind the coun- ter. Some strands of paper coat of pine greenery were attached to the green with a dry roof edges with wire loops brushing of a inserted into tiny holes that I watered down drilled into the wood. A base gray. The roof was made from a plain picture is made of 150 frame and covered with light grit sandpaper brown sand from model rail- cut into strips and notched on American Miniaturist 47 one end with Left: Fresh vegetables are displayed in baskets on the counter.

Mini markets Left: The roof is made by painting and cutting 150 grit sandpaper. Another crate holds cabbag- es and there are baskets filled with turnips, leek, radishes, celery, bell peppers, squash, pumpkins, onions and carrots. On a cutting board freshly squeezed orange juice is be- ing offered and beside it is a basket filled with croissants. On the sales table in front little prepared rolls are offeredroading supplies. even used it in my lemonades. “Several crates were Several crates were as- I spread a thick layer of glue assembled out of wood into the crate bottoms, poured strips and given a washsembled out of wood strips in the ice cubes, and then I of watered down lightand given a wash of watered placed fresh fish, lobster, crab, gray paint to make themdown light gray paint to make and squid on top filling the look aged.”them look aged. They were set gaps with pieces of ice usingon stands that I made out of tweezers.   on a glass covered platter, a3/16” by 3/16” square wood basket of radishes and grapesstrips and painted green. An wrapped in paper.assortment of baskets holdsall of the wonderful veg- This was a great miniatureetables that I had purchased project as now I can displayat the miniature show. all of the wonderful pieces that I purchased and cherish Two crates, divided inthe middle, were filled with the memory of a won-“ice” I created using broken derful day spent withglass that I have had ina container for almost family on Reichenauseventeen years after Island.”finding a shattered carwindow on the road Gabriele has givenone day. It makes the us a charming lookperfect realistic ice! I have into the world of Euro- pean produce sell- ers and perhaps has inspired your own imagina- tion to create something from your past!AM48 American Miniaturist

Cotton candy tableEnjoy somecotton candyMake a cotton candy booth to add to acarnival or festival scene. Pat Newbury willwalk you through this sweet project.B egin by making, buying, amount of wadding until fluffy. Tools & materials: or borrowing a table and Dip into colored powder and cover it with a tablecloth. shake off the excess. l Wadding l Toothpicks Step 1: Cut your toothpicks to Step 3: Put a small dot of glue l Tacky Glue approximately 3/4” in length. onto the toothpick and with l Quilt padding the tweezers, gently wrap the l Pink chalk powder Step 2: For the candy floss, colored wadding around the l Base of a tea candle gently tease out a very small toothpick. l Plastic bottle top l Trestle table l Top of a hand cream tube l Piece of material Step 4: Color the top of the hand cream tube as desired and glue to the table. This forms the base of the machine. Step 5: Use a tea candle base for the drum of the candy floss machine. Make more candy floss and place it around the inside of the machine – smear a little glue to keep the floss in place. Glue the drum to the center of the bottle cap base. Step 6: Dress the scene with bunting if desired and wait for the customers! AM American Miniaturist 49

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