It's A Small, Small World In Dollhouse Miniatures

I have a passion for dollhouse miniatures that I didn't discover until about two years ago, by accident really. Bored with my usual hobbies, I went to my local craft shop looking for a new idea or project. What I found was a wooden puzzle kit that had punch out pieces that, when fitted together, created dollhouse furniture pieces. I bought and brought it home. I enjoy woodworking as well as painting, so I thought it could be interesting.

As I sit punching all my pieces out and began putting my furniture together, I couldn't help but keep thinking to myself that although a neat little project, this furniture had all these little tabs sticking out all over that made it look so unrealistic. I started back with my beginning piece and started modifying each one to look more realistic by cutting off tabs and gluing pieces together.

In less than two days, I had all the pieces finished. Proud of my modified furniture, I showed them to my husband. His first words were, "I bet you could build your own and it look even better." I had been thinking the same thing. His comment was enough for me to set out on doing just that. I went to my computer and went to researching the subject and to find some sort of template or tutorial. And what I discovered was a whole world of dollhouse miniature collectors, makers, and information galore. The more I read, the more I wanted to read. I was amazed the most at the many things I discovered that were made from simple things, such as popsicle sticks and things we would normally throw out. This last group of items even had their own name - trash to treasure.

I have created many, many pieces since then. Most I have sold, few have I kept. I have found the part of dollhouse miniatures I love the most is creating them, not collecting. I have some select pieces that I have for collection. Otherwise, I sell them or make a special setting and gift it.

I have discovered that there is a lot of missing information for the person who has no knowledge about the craft. At first, I had no idea what the pages I was reading meant when they talked about scale, turnings, tools they used, all types of glues, roomboxes, and so much more of  the terminology.  These things I learned myself along the way.

I want to try to change that for newcomers to this wonderful world of mini's.  I will be doing that here. I will be publishing a glossary with detailed definitions and explanations of words in the mini language. I will also publish projects, tutorials, tips, and challenges ranging from easy to difficult levels.

Hopefully, many will come learn about my passion and find they have a passion for it as well.

Come back for more soon and 'mini' thanks to you.

Well soon enough, I found my template along with step-by-step pictures. And with popsicle sticks, a craft knife, sandpaper and craft glue, I went to work.

Over the next two hours, closed up in my shop, I carefully followed each step of my plans until I had reached the finish. I was so proud. My first piece and even I have to say it was awesome. I was so proud and excited, I burst from my room with such joy, I scared my husband. He just knew I'd seen a mouse or something.

I was screaming, "Look! Look!"

He's frantically asking, "What's wrong? Are you okay?"

I calmed enough to hold out my hand and show him, "Look at what I made."

He too was impressed; and he's a carpenter. He only said one thing but that one thing said it all.

"This piece is mine. I want it."

That was two years ago, and it still sits on a shelf at his desk. My first creation, an Adirondack chair. The beginning of my passion.