turkey feathers

Miniature Easter Baskets

A tisket, a tasket, a green and yellow basket. . . a pink one too, and also a blue!  The peeps are happy and I am too.

The little kid in me wanted an old-fashioned style Easter basket for the miniature chocolate bunnies I got from the Dainty House and these are what I came up with.  They required very few materials.  I used thin strips of colored cardstock and a one-inch circular wood base.  Because of their very small size they were a bit on the fiddly side.  I had glue everywhere even though I was applying it sparingly from the end of a toothpick.  

For the first basket, I glued thin strips of paper around a wire handle.  For the others, I glued the wire inside two strips of paper.  Much easier!  And it created just the look I was going for.  Peep peep!

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter and Joyous Spring!  

Production Lines

Hello again!  Just popping in with a few shop updates and to let everyone know that for the most part we are still here, busy as bees just working on dollhouse miniatures, embroideries and other nifty stuff.  My workroom shelves are a silly happy place these days.  I need to get better organized!  A job for a rainy day perhaps.

For the past two weeks I've been rolling out more miniature fabric bolts, the fourth restock for the MeadowSweet WorkShop.   These have been popular and are fun to make, but they take a fair amount of time when done in large batches like this.  It feels good to have them packaged up in tidy little bundles and ready to go.  Approximately, 228 individual bolts to be exact! 

With the bundles done, I'm turning back to this project again, a pattern update for this small Redwork quilt that I made way back when.  It will be added to my shop where it will be at home with the embroidery patterns featured in my book--which are all now available as hot-iron transfers.  So no tracing required.   

And speaking of little things, my darling daughters have been busy creating all sorts of amazing miniatures which are sold at The Dainty House.  I'm often just floored by the darling things they come up with, like these boxed chocolate bunnies.  So cute!!  I've already claimed the smaller white bunny in 1:12 scale for my own dollhouse, but if you want one, she just listed them today along with her other sweet creations in 12th Scale HERE and 6th Scale HERE.  

Well, I've got to run along and get back to the business at hand, but before I sign out, I just want to say thank you again to everyone that stops by here and cheers us on.  Times are difficult and life seems more uncertain than ever.  With a heavy heart, I stepped out my backdoor a few days ago, looked up and saw a beautiful heavenly sky full of blazing colors.  It lasted only a few seconds before it faded into dusk.  As I stood in awe watching, I was reminded of the Creator's love for us.  Ultimately, we are in His hands.  Never lose hope and keep looking up.   

  

 

Mini Christmas Cheer

Hoping your holidays are Merry and Bright! 

December Delights

Hello Everyone!  Not to worry, I'm still here.  Alive and well and still kicking.  Still indulging, as you can see.  Where did sweet November skip off to anyway?  I looked up and it was gone!  Time seems to be speeding up.  Days are flying by faster than ever and before I know it my blog has gathered dust.  No excuse really, I've just been busy and preoccupied with this and that and the other, all good mind you, but leaving me with less time to gather my thoughts for a blog post.  So, today I got out my camera and looked around and decided to share something I've been working on.    

Like my Christmas in a Box diorama!  I love how it turned out.  It's become a happy little corner of my world as of late.  A place for all the little odds and ends that I've had tucked away.  In case you're wondering, the box is made out of 1/4" core board and covered with scrapbook paper; the floor is popsicle-type craft sticks stained with ordinary watercolor out of my paint box.  It's very lightweight, yet surprisingly sturdy from the paper and glue.  Just a note about foam core board; it tends to bow, so I only use it to make small boxes. This one measures approximately 8" x 6 " x 4".   Perfect for a book-shelf decoration.

I've had some of these miniature pieces for years and years.  They're a funny scale.  Smaller than 1:12 and bigger than 1:24.  Maybe 1:18 or so?  Odd sizes.  That wood fireplace is old, as are the two rubber, bendable German dolls.  I kind of worked around them as a starting point.  The rocking chair is a tad large, but I needed something to fill that corner and it doesn't fit anywhere else--I think it was originally a Christmas ornament.   The metal gold tree with the star topper is actually a new place card holder!  I added some glitz and glued it to a table I made from a recycled plastic lid from a jar.

If you look close, there's a flickering flame in the fireplace.  The logs are woody stems I gathered from the yard.  They are glued together and sprinkled with red glitter, creating a realistic glowing ember effect. The logs are arranged to make a space for a battery tea light candle that is inserted from the back.

These tea light candles are great for this and can be easily switched on and off or replaced when need be.  I covered the plastic "flame" with red glitter glue.

To give you a sense of the size, it's shown here with a box that is done in 1:8 scale.

Anyway, that's just one of the little projects I've been up to.  You can find some of my other miniature creations at the MeadowSweet WorkShop on Etsy.  I wish I had time to share some of those things here, but alas, there are only so many hours in a day.  However, I am glad to report that our tree is up and decorated but OH My!  Here it is, only 15 days 'til Christmas.  Still need to get my Christmas cards in the mail, wrap presents, plan menus, bake--and speaking of that, I do believe I smell gingerbread coming from the kitchen...what a nice surprise!

Holiday Cheers!

BIG HUG

Little Things

So this is what happens when the deer aren't nibbling away at the garden!  We fenced those critters out for good at the beginning of the year and reclaimed our space and it's been a glorious summer of flowery goodness.  

These are ordinary shrub roses that decided to grow back from a small root remnant that was left in the ground after they were dug out and transplanted to another home seven years ago.  I guess we're going to have to find the hedge trimmers now.  Oh the irony.

Back at the workshop, trimming on a much smaller scale.  More fodder for my in progress miniature sewing room.  

I must say, my little sewing room-box is coming together rather nicely. I've made just about everything in it with a few exceptions.  For instance I purchased that little ironing board recently because it would've taken me ages to figure out how to make one that folds up like this.  How cute is that?

MeadowSweet shop update;, I have a few more yarn shop bags with teensy yarn skeins, random fabric bolts, rugs and runners, wall art, wooden fat quarter display boxes, and seasonal decor for 12th scale dollhouse and room box dioramas.  I'll be adding a few cork bulletin boards (like this one above) and new "fabric stash" cupboards very soon. Plus mini shoeboxes of sewing patterns and other odds and ends.   

Now that I've told you, I'd better run along and get it all done.

 

Got Groceries?

Hello Blog Friends! I'm still here.  I've been keeping busy and having lots of fun making more little things.  Like these tiny doll house size grocery boxes.  They've been added to the Dainty House shop here.  I'm currently working on more miniature wall art and shop signs in 12th scale.  Those little lovelies will be available soon in my MeadowSweet shop, along with some other miniature goodness.  I hope to get back around to my own doll house bedroom and the window cornice thingy one of these days.  I might even try and make a bed.  No rush though.     

In the meantime, I'm just taking it easy, enjoying the start of a new season and all the surprises and magical things it brings to my own backyard.     

Mini Easter Baskets & Choco Bunnies

Hello everyone!  Bakery Lady has joined me with the newest 12th scale Easter Basket creations from my workshop.  I had a lot of fun making these!  But there are only three this time, so they are going up in my Etsy Shop over here. 

And just look at these darling "chocolate bunnies".  They have just been listed here at the Dainty House, along with a lot of other new spring creations for dollhouses, room boxes and dioramas that the girls in the doll house bakery have been working on for many weeks. All these adorable things come but once a year and sell out rather quickly.  So don't delay if you want something for your own doll house or to give as gifts. 

Well, that's the shop news for now.  I have an embroidery project in the works that's beckoning. . . .  

Miniature Minutia

Rather than succumb to cabin fever mid winter, there were a few tiny things that happily occupied my time this month.  First, there was a little decorating.

A project that involved crafting a half-round window valance for the pink dollhouse bedroom.  This canopy sits securely on top of the window trim so I didn't have to glue it.  Which was good because I couldn't make up my mind where I liked it best.  Over the bed (which I have yet to make) and that will have a curtain falling around both sides of it like a crown canopy.  Very princess like.  

Or over the vanity.  I'd make another canopy, except that I only had the tiniest scrap of wallpaper left to make the first one, which by some miracle I'd managed to find at the bottom of a long forgotten drawer.  I dare say, this wallpaper, and its companion rose pattern, I purchased at the same time I bought the dollhouse--in 1992!  

Either way, at either window, I am pretty happy with it. However, the dollhouse in general, like real-life these days, seemed a bit too quiet and I was feeling a little lonely.  To remedy that, I decided to throw a party. 

First, I had to invite some guests.  But before I could invite them, I had to literally make them.  A shopkeeper and bakery lady were the first to arrive on the scene.  They were more than happy to help out in the kitchen. 

Word got around and pretty soon the relatives started arriving.  (I decided to leave the Christmas decorations up for the festivities.)  Which encouraged much singing.

The doorbell kept on ringing.  The neighbors heard the singing and popped over to share some stories over hot cocoa and tea cakes. 

Young and old alike gathered in the dollhouse.

And a most merry time was had by all!

My New Year's resolution this year was three-fold; to learn, make and do something new.  So far, I'm staying on track.  Making a bendable, realistic 6" doll has been a learning curve though and I still have lots to learn.  But I am enjoying the process along the way--even if my characters are a bit quirky.  I just can't seem to make them any other way. 

See what I mean?  I'll just have to keep working at it. 

Handmade Christmas

As the fun crafting continues . . . it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!  We got our tree up last weekend.  Early for a change, and happily so, remembering last year's crazy armoire dilemma.  Followed by a wonderful happy ending here.

I love that fresh pine smell when entering the room--and the way the twinkle lights cast a warm glow all around.  This year, just for fun, we pulled out some really, really old ornaments from my 1980's "folk art" days, consisting of rag balls, cloth dolls, painted wood toys, vintage elves and other homespun treasures.  And I'm enjoying all the Christmas memories that go with each one.  

See how cute these are?  Perfect for the young ones and the young at heart older ones too.

Remember that microwave box in the last post with the Laura Ashley wallpaper that I promised to show you?

Well, here's how it turned out. Fresh off the craft table and ready for action.

Here's a close-up view.  The small tree is from Hobby Lobby and is decorated with miniature vintage glass ornaments from my favorite thrift shop.  Lights were also added.  That adorable cupboard got a teensy make-over with white paint.  The man who hand-crafted this is a retired cabinet maker and often accompanies his wife to doll shows.  He always brings along a few pieces of doll furniture to sell.  His work is absolutely flawless and sturdy--this was actually made from maple; and although I hesitated a bit to paint over it, I'm quite pleased with how it turned out.  The doors open and there's a shelf inside to stash more treasures.  The felt gingerbread couple are new to my shop and include various accessories; Ginger is the talent behind these darling characters.  I'm still making miniatures; books and tote bags, stuffed stockings and other small stuff.

Such as Grandma's Christmas Goodie Boxes!

These are 1:12 scale, doll house size and in my shop here.

 
I've still got lots to do and time is ticking.  Getting ready to zoom outta here and have some more fun in the "workshop".  Have a great weekend everybody!

 

Doll's Toy Kitchen

I was thrilled to find this vintage Martin Fuch's toy kitchen last summer at a local flea market for $14.  Click image to view larger.  These cute tin kitchens were made in West Germany from the 1940's thru the early 1970's and came in all sorts of styles and colors and included a variety of cooking accessories.  They've become quite collectible.  Mine had seen better days for sure, so an up-cycle was in order.

The scale of the pots and pans are a bit large for the kitchen which is about 1:6 scale, or Barbie size; presuming I suppose, that little girls (not their dolls) would actually be doing the cooking.  Because you could actually heat water on the little stove with a candle and "cook".  Which is why, I presume, the red plastic pot handles were melted.  Oops.

This kitchenware looked better after a good soak, a coat of varnish and a dab of copper paint.  

Here's how the kitchen looked in its original state; I'd already removed the water dispenser.  

The idea was to build a room-box for our miniature product photos.  The kitchen is about 16" in length which was an easy fit in a standard sized box.  I added wood trim, a bread board, an upper shelf and water taps. 

I also made the wall clock and towel-shelf rack to hide the holes where the water dispenser was attached.  Magnets hold them in place on the metal (faux tile) back splash.  The oven mitt hides a burn on the face of the door.  Another unfortunate...oops.

It works well for Barbie, a big-headed Blythe, or in this case, my pink princess ICY Miss.  Looks like she is ready to start some Christmas baking.  I love it!  

Mini Stitch Shop

Hello Friends!

Well, it's official.  The frost is on the pumpkin and fall is definitely here.  It was a chilly 32 degrees this morning at six o'clock when I went down to the kitchen.   Flocks of robins were gathering on the lawn, likely preparing to leave for a warmer climate.  I envy their freedom--having been home-bound all year.  But I'm not complaining.  It's been a happily busy time with house projects (our fence is almost done!) and of course, lots of fun crafting.  I honestly don't know where the time goes.  The days just roll by, one after another and suddenly I see it's been months since I posted anything here on this blog.  Maybe I need to get out more.  But then I probably wouldn't have the interest or time to make things like this . .  . 

Welcome to my retro stitch shop:

All from recycled materials from around the house!  

This tiny shop was created inside a packing box measuring 8"W  x 7H"  x 3"D.  It's basically 1:12 scale. 

The exterior of the box was already red with no other markings so I left it as-is.  The cut-out worked nicely at the top too.  I added shelves and a faux door with a curtain, all glued in place, but everything else is removable. 

The cute cutting table can be turned round to display other things.  Fabric anyone?

No?  Perhaps we can interest you in some yarn. 

Oh golly...having lots of fun making these little shop bags and yarn skeins!  "Aunt Mary's" pays homage to my dear old Mother, Mary Lou, who loved to knit and made beautiful things...that's her silhouette on the label when she was a young woman in the 1950's.

Here we are back home with our treasures and ready to relax awhile. 

Maybe later this evening . . . get started on a Fall project: warm socks.  Yes, please.  

I've listed some of these tiny treasures in my Etsy Shop and plan to keep adding more.  I seem to be moving toward miniatures these days.  They have always been a passion of mine--and I do love sharing it all with 'kindred spirits'.  So, there will be more yarn, fabric bolts, crates of fat quarters, shop bags and some 6th scale items for Barbie and Blythe as well.  Plus some other doll house decor and fun stuff as the mood strikes.  Christmas is coming and I've got more little surprises in the works for that too. 

Plus, I've also been moonlighting for The Dainty House, crafting up some more food boxes and grocery bags for Grace's miniature bakery shop.  They tend to sell out fast (I think these have sold), but there may be a few others around and I'll be making more as time permits. 

So that's what I've been up to these past days, weeks and months.  Just puttering around in my own little world.  Will be back with more tiny goodness soon.  

A Tisket A Tasket

As each day brings us a little closer to SPRING I've been having a little fun over here . . . behold the latest creations from the workshop.  Actually, these miniature "green and yellow spring baskets" are a collaborative of three pairs of hands; mine and my two daughters. I made the baskets, the boxed candy and that shiny gold foil egg; Grace made the chocolate bunnies and Ginger made the tiny colored Easter eggs.  There are only six baskets in all, three of each color.  If you need one for your dollhouse or room diorama, or your special dolly friend, or for any reason that makes you happy---they are over here at The Dainty House. 

More sweetness...my miniature Easter Wreath for sale here at MeadowSweet Workshop.

If needle and thread are calling...I've got an adorable vintage Easter Vogart embroidery transfer (reprint) from 1964 over here, and a 'new addition' celebrating Birthday's here.

Enjoy!

 

Hearts and Flowers

It's time for another update and in keeping with my New Year's resolution to keep making happy little things...I'm right on target.

My 6th scale Valentine doll house decorations are complete.  So fun to make. It was really cold with snow flurries all weekend and I just got into a groove crafting, watching old movies, nibbling and sipping tea. Before I knew it, I had a wonderful stash of them.

These tiny old-fashioned Tussie Mussies (or Nose-Gays) came out especially cute!  It seems I may have been listening to my inner child by attempting to create a bit of Tasha Tudor make-believe magic as they do so remind me of her aesthetic.   

I guess I was in the zone.  Next came these fancy paper heart envelopes.

Because a gal's gotta have something to keep her love letters and Valentine cards in doesn't she? 

And of course, iconic conversation heart candies are a must. 

All these sweet happy little things are available (while they last) from Grace's miniature shop The Dainty House.  She's just added some adorable heart cakes, pastries and cookies as well. 

And also more of her adorable tiny donuts from the doll house bakery.

A Doll's Christmas Treasures

Per my request, Miss ICY Angela got a new toy poodle and a sweet gingerbread boy for Christmas, compliments of Ginger and her amazing talents with needle and thread.  These are just too cute!  I can't help it, I'm just a kid at heart.

Little Boys Miniature Christmas Bedroom

Christmas Day has come and gone for another year, but the memories and spirit will live on in our hearts  . . .  and of course, our doll house displays!  I had fun decorating the "little boys" miniature bedroom this season.  I'd made the train table set last Christmas for this room and was pleased with how it all came together.  

I found the table and dresser at the 'Dollar Store' (for one dollar each!) and painted them minty green.  The built-in cupboard/bookcase was a doorway that I closed off separating two bedrooms--the girly pink bedroom is on the other side. 

click to enlarge view

 

Here's the bedroom so far, with temporary chair and table for effect.  These two pieces actually belong in another room; I'm thinking about making a toy box filled with tiny treasures to go right here, front and center.  The hamster habitat got a few upgrades too.  That tiny silhouette picture way in the back, up on the shelf, was handmade by a talented lady (sorry I don't have her name at hand), who was at the Seattle/Tukwila Miniature Doll Show that we visited earlier this year.  There will be another doll show there this coming March 2020; details on the website. 

Holiday Sparkle

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!  After weeks of wild and blustery weather ending with what was being called a "cyclone bomb", Thanksgiving arrived in our neck of the woods all bright and sunny with crisp blue skies over the valley. Oh yes, the chilly air was frosty, but we were snug inside and happily so, preparing and then anticipating that scrumptious feast roasting in the oven all afternoon.  So worth the wait I tell ya--and now, we're loving the left-overs.  However, we've got to keep moving.  And not just to compensate for feasting overload, although that's not a bad idea, but because the count down to Christmas has begun.   With Thanksgiving falling rather late in the month there's no time to waste!

 

Fortunately, I have lots of help.  I am thrilled that Ginger has taken over most of the Christmas decorating around here.  I can always count on her to find  everything and display it so perfectly.  I love all the special touches she adds throughout the house.  This little gingerbread tinsel tree has become a favorite on the hall table just around the corner from the kitchen.  It was cobbled together from bits and bobs found and collected over the years.  I bought the wooden planter pot for $2 from a thrift store.  I didn't know what I was going to do with it at the time, I just knew I liked it and that it would come in handy.  For something.  Some day.  And eventually it did!  Don't ya just love when that happens? 

We don't have our big tree up yet and I'm getting rather anxious about it.  This has become a bit of a quandary actually.  I'm waiting on the removal of a large TV Armoire that was pushed temporarily into the corner of the room where our tree usually goes.  Since this is a large piece of heavy furniture no one here can move it, especially without a hand-cart or dolly. It's a beautiful piece, I have an identical one in my bedroom.

However, I am sadly finding out that it's become impossible to easily pass along a piece of furniture that everyone believes has become OBSOLETE thanks to the roll-out of the huge flat-screen tvs, although a smaller one fits inside it just fine and is perfect for the bedroom.  And it's only ten years old, hardly ready for the scrap heap.  This particular TV Armoire is larger than a double-wide refrigerator and twice as heavy.  So now I'm waiting on a number of things to happen, like professional movers coming to the rescue.  If they can get this to the garage I will be able to have a charity truck come pick it up.  If this cannot be accomplished, we will simply have to burn it.  Just kidding, of course.  But not really! 

On a much smaller and more manageable scale however, the tree is up in the dollhouse!  I must say, these tiny rooms are looking rather festive.  I've also been having a lovely time making more miniature decorations and little gift-wrapped presents.  If you need some cute faux presents to tuck under your own dollhouse tree or for a room box diorama there will be a few extra sets available through Grace's etsy shop: The Dainty House, where the dollhouse bakery oven has been working overtime! 

 

   

 

Miniature Inspirations

Hello Friends!  Thanks for stopping by my blog today.

Autumn is here and  I've been quite busy at my worktable making miniature decorative accents for the dollhouses.  Mine and Yours!  My mini wreaths and porch baskets are fun for seasonal room-box displays too.  I'm handcrafting each one individually from "scratch" with natural and created elements, all in 12th scale.  My wreaths are approximately 1-1/4 inches in diameter, the baskets are slightly larger.  The wreaths have some sort of hanger, although I prefer to mount them temporarily with sticky wax or removable glue. But they can be hung by nail if necessary.

My porch baskets are filled with faux dried cobs, pods and pumpkins and are created from hemp cord and lined with fabric.  Everything is glued into place so nothing topples out.  I'm using a variety of fall fabrics to line them with.  I'm really loving the black and white stripes. 

 

Remember when we could actually spend a penny?  At least it can still be used for something, if only to show scale.  This wreath is SO tiny and yet full of texture, color and detail.

I've only got a few of these little lovelies made so far--each one is unique!  These can be found in my daughter's shop: The Dainty House 

Meanwhile, I'm offering a *special deal* to my MeadowSweet Etsy shop customers. Use coupon code: PUMPKIN5 to receive $5 off on any order of $25 or more.  This coupon expires 12/31/2019.  Orders of $35 or more will also receive FREE Shipping!  Please swing by and have a look around and let me know if there's anything in particular you're looking for.  Feel free to contact me thru Etsy if you would like to set up a special order. 

 

August Projects

Summer is back to a sizzle after a cool gray drizzle.  It was such a nice respite from the heat though.  The flowers and foliage were also revived a bit.  But the change in weather hardly slows us down.  We always have projects in and out of the house.  I wandered around and took a few snapshots of some of them. 

My first project:  I've been scanning a bunch of my old food and decorating magazines.  Scanning magazines is a BIG project because it's so time consuming.  I've been watching old B&W melodramas over my shoulder while hunched over the scanner.  Albeit, some 'mindless tasks' are therapeutic, but in my opinion, scanning isn't one of them.  If this device could only move a little faster.  Fortunately, the charming content is some measure of compensation.

The sitting porch (above) is from Country Living: August, 2007.  I really love simple rooms like this. White wicker is a summer classic and seems to never go out of style.

And have a look at this pretty little nook.  So perfect for an afternoon nap at the lakeside cottage. (We are using our imaginations here and day dreaming while the scanner hums). Upon closer inspection I spy some hand-stitched pillowcase embroidery. 

OK. How pretty is that?  And that quilt!  Such tiny colorful squares, seemingly random prints, but as a whole--it has the effect of a summer garden. 

Speaking of gardens. . . time to take a break from scanner detail and head outside for some fresh air and sunshine.

Oh look . . . I've found Grace in the greenhouse.  She's been collecting flowers from the garden to produce natural plant dye for wool.  The dried petals will produce soft natural colors for her homespun yarns.

In another corner, a harvest of hollyhock seeds from 'Black Night'.  The petals of which produce a pale mauve color like a dusk sky.

I'm SO happy to report that the tomatoes are doing well this year.  What isn't eaten fresh from the vine, becomes another project.  These tomatoes are an Italian plum variety that Grace started from seed in the spring.  They are good for sauces and for drying, as they're not as juicy as others.

Once dried, the tomato bits can be kept on the shelf for years, although they usually get devoured long before that, because they're so good.  Just wonderful in all kinds of dishes and full of flavor once reconstituted in hot water.  We will probably have a few large pint jars full by summer's end.  It's always great to see a row of red jars on the pantry shelf.

And over in the kitchen it's also . . . .

Here we have a quick batch of refrigerator garlic pickles. They should be ready in another week or two.  These have not been heat processed, but will be kept cold in the fridge to make crunchy dill pickles.  I made a few extra jars to share.  This project is super easy.  Just pack the cucumbers in sterilized jars, add chopped garlic, dill and a few white peppercorns (if you like them spicy), and cover with a salt and vinegar brine.  My full recipe: A Pickle if you Please. More pickle posts here and here.  One can never have too many pickles.

Visiting the upstairs studio . . . more crafting goodness.

 

With Autumn waiting in the wings, Ginger has been hand-crafting adorable things that celebrate the seasons. She just added this gorgeous charm bracelet to her Etsy shop Friendly Hollow.  She has an eye for detail and a keen color sense, and loves to create!

Making another comeback, her festive felt horse ornaments are another fun project. 

This 'project post' wouldn't be complete without a dollhouse update, so here's what's happening up in the ladies lounge.  A cozy little scene, with flowers from the garden, magazines and knitting at the ready.  However, some sort of nibbles are in order.  For that, we have to pay a visit to the Dainty House Dollhouse Bakery.

Yum!  Exactly what was needed.

We hope your own August projects are coming along nicely.  Thanks for stopping by!

Blue Skies & Blueberry Pies

Summer is the time to enjoy simple country pleasures and picking blueberries is something my daughters and I always look forward to.  Best done in the cool of the morning, preferably under fluffy clouds to shade the hot August sun, we don straw hats, tie on aprons and grab our baskets to fill. 

Look at this.  Filling our baskets did not take long!  In no time, we were headed back home with our bounty of blueberry goodness.  Blueberries generally don't have a lot of flavor until they're cooked or frozen.  So after freezing a bunch I threw together a cobbler.

Because of my past health issues, I'm still experimenting with vegan recipes and this cobbler turned out pretty good.  The ice cream (not vegan) is my husband's addition.  However, he declared the whole thing delicious, and I trust him as my number one official "taster", so here ya go--with or without the ice cream, my recipe for:

Vegan Blueberry Cobbler

Berries:

• 3 cups fresh blueberries
• 2 T. lemon juice
• 2 T. sugar

Biscuit Topping:

• 1-1/4 cup flour 
• 1 teas. baking powder
• 1/2 teas. sea salt
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• pinch of cinnamon & nutmeg
• 3/4 cup coconut milk
  
• 1/2 teas. vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.  Spray non-stick oil into a deep 9-inch baking dish.  Add blueberries, lemon juice, sugar; toss to coat.
• In a bowl, add the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, spice; mix well.
• Add the coconut milk and vanilla to the dry mixture; stir gently just until moistened.  Do not over mix or it can become doughy.
  
• Pour the thick batter over the top of the blueberries; use the back of a fork to even it out--leave some blueberries exposed around the edges.  Sprinkle a little granulated sugar over the top. (optional)

• Bake for 35 mins. or until biscuit topping is golden brown and berries are bubbling.
  
• Remove from the oven, let cool about 20 min.  The juices will thicken a little as it cools.  Spoon out into bowls while warm.  YUM!

And over here in my dollhouse kitchen . . .  another basket of blueberries and more pies in the making.  The miniature flour sacks and baking ingredients are NEW items from The Dainty House .  There's a *free sample pattern* on Grace's blog--and a link to her PDF pattern for the entire DELUXE DOLLHOUSE BAKING SET of 22 baking supplies.  Each item is quite realistic and a nice addition to all her tiny baked goods.  Perfect for doll house bakeries, kitchens and diorama displays in 1:12 scale.  Just print, cut and glue.  Good, easy fun!

Now for a picnic!

A Green and Yellow Basket

My little dollhouse porch got a face-lift with a wood floor, fresh paint, and window trim.  I'm especially pleased with the door repair/make-over too--so pretty in pink!  That tiny pristine doorknob set traveled all the way from Oxford, England by way of Bits and Pieces by Julie.  I've been following her excellent online tutorials and learning how to make furniture and all kinds of tiny things.  Her method of making baskets gave me some ideas of my own, resulting in these two "Easter Baskets". 

She builds her baskets from scratch, but I started mine with a foundation of metal and plastic bottle caps.  Trash to treasure!  Pass your mouse over the image to see what these started out as. 

So far, I've got the knitting basket filled.  Now for the others . . .

Hearts & Houses

Grace and I were recently invited to join a miniature craft group here in our area and this is the little picnic table I made while attending the first meeting.  It made a nice prop to photograph my Valentine candy box.  I'm working on a few more.  Like a good box of chocolates, my revised interest in crafting miniatures has become addicting!

As you can see, the candy box made a sweet addition to the pink bedroom.  I also added a "tuffet" made from a plastic recycled lid (from a jar) and a heart-shaped basket fashioned from a bit of wired burlap ribbon glued to a wood heart-shaped base, perfect for collecting the Valentine greetings that are arriving for the Mistress of this miniature manor.  I am also happy to report that the lost slipper has been found (thank you Ginger) and they are once again a proper pair. 

So, as I wrap things up on my dollhouse makeover I'm already thinking about the next challenge.  For one, our original dollhouse bakery, the inspiration for The Dainty House could use a few upgrades.  Grace uses it for some of her product pictures and also takes it to doll shows for display.  So, I'll probably do that one next.  While thinking on that, and researching for ideas and attempting to learn some new crafting techniques, I discovered some cute and fun things. . .  

Coming from the Netherlands . . . a huge "dollhouse", het muisenhuis (Dutch I think, for 'the mouse house') captured my heart.  I love that it's built on a base that can be maneuvered about on wheels and displayed so beautifully.  I really wished this video was longer.  I wanted to study each and every nook and cranny of this towering adorable mouse habitat and then--had to know more about it.  So after a bit of poking around, I found a website and the usual online platforms and had a good long look at some of the most amazing details all done up in miniature scale.  If you are so inclined to make a virtual visit yourself, before you go, fill the tea pot and plan on staying awhile.  There's a lot of see! Apparently this has all been created as part of a marketing tool to sell books, theater tickets, merchandise (there's a shop) and even a TV series (primarily for children--but hey, I found it quite entertaining and perhaps you will too!)

Closer to home, and along similar mouse tracks, I recently ran across Maggie Rudy's website, an artist in Portland, Oregon who's created an enchanting tiny world she calls MouseLand.  This premise is used as a backdrop for the amazing children's books she's been creating for about a decade.  And I must say, her set creations (mostly crafted from found and recycled objects) and her tiny mouse characters are just so exquisite and expressive it's hard to believe they aren't real.  Her latest book, City Mouse, Country Mouse is sweet and charming, and complete with a traveling diorama in the form of a miniature city that precedes and accompanies her book tours and special venues.  There's a schedule on her website if you want to see it and meet the author/artist.  I may just have to go and take a peek.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Stepping It Up

My Newburg dollhouse make-over is nearly finished.  I've been having SO much silly fun with it.  At the moment it's sitting in the middle of my desk, so it's next to impossible to walk by without a glance and a bit of attention.  It's hard to know when to stop, when enough is enough.  This is the type of project that could go on forever.  And probably will in some form or fashion.  I still want to craft a mini piano for the attic music room (next to the library).  At the moment, I'm white-washing the exterior, adding porch steps and repairing the door. 

The boy's room just got a "new" hamster habitat.  Miss Ginger made this darling little thing years ago and was just going to throw it out.  Can you imagine?  Well, I rescued it, squirreled it away and recently discovered it again.  I'm happy to have found a permanent home for it here.  We've all contributed to this dollhouse in one way or another and the memories will live on.

The girl's bedroom is pretty much done.  I painted the dresser, hung a sparkly mirror (a candle holder), and made some accessories.  I'm still trying to figure out how to make lamps.  These two turned out pretty good.  Getting the scale right is always a challenge.  The pink miniature tree is from The Dainty House--all sold now.  Most of the rooms are still decked out for Christmas, and will most likely remain decorated since I plan to display this during the holidays.  My tiny wall calendar can be changed to reflect the current month.  I made a few extras to put in my MeadowSweet shop.  Hope to get them added one of these days.  

Finished the bed.  Such as it is.  It's not as refined as I'd like, but will do.  The pillow I made is way too large, unless intended for a mini-Blythe dolly with a ginormous head.  Which is not entirely out of the question, actually, since one was last seen in here.  LOL... 

I'm still hunting for that other lost pink slipper amongst the Barbie doll remnants.  Two would be very nice paired next to the bed.  But then again, one single slipper can also suggest a story.   Perhaps the little dollhouse dog ran off with it . . .

The sparkly bead rug is a coaster from K-Mart.  Our K-Mart is closing its doors March 24th and everything is on clearance--so naturally, I had to go and have a look around.  You just never know what you'll find that can fulfill a need in a dollhouse!  Now what to do with the rest of the set?

Thanks for visiting me here and for your kind comments.  I do appreciate hearing from you even though I am a bit slow on the uptake and can't always respond like I'd wish to you are in my thoughts. 

  

 

 

Make-Over Magic

We are more than halfway through January now, and I do think it's time to take down the Christmas decorations and do some serious housekeeping around here.  Well, maybe not too serious.  Christmas may stay awhile longer at the dollhouse.  For one thing, this make-over is still in full swing. . . 

And there's still lots of yummy things to nibble on.

This box of cookies for instance.  Too cute to put away just yet.  Or ever!  Compliments of The Dainty House.

My slip-covered chairs and table set are new additions.

Here's a peek upstairs.  As you can see, a couple of rogue dolls have claimed these rooms.  They really don't belong in here at all, and I tried to tell them, as gently as possible, that they are the wrong size, but they only giggle and jump on the beds and leave cookie crumbs everywhere!  Sigh.

What could I say?  Look at the fun they are having.  

So, I went to work on the attic spaces instead.   

These awkward upper spaces are a challenge with the slanted walls and odd sized openings.  I've never known quite what to do with them.  The larger one on the left was a bathroom at one time, but I wanted to do something a little more fun with it.  After a bit of pondering, I decided to turn it into a library with a "secret door" that opens into an attic space. 

It started with a new wood floor, which was easy enough.  With the addition of some attic junk, and a tiny visitor.

And lots of books had to be crafted to fill the bookcases that I made from foam-board.  These were painted with chalkboard paint.  I intend to trim them out nicely once I find the right molding for them. 

Here's the final placement.  I'm pretty happy with how everything turned out.

Here's a close-up of the secret door--that swings open to reveal a tiny mouse staring back.  I keep a miniature flashlight nearby should one care to explore inside.

Squeak!

 

 

 

 

Miniature Mania

Christmas was lovely and low-key just the way we like it, and now we're ready to take a sleigh ride into the New Year--and like everyone, we're hoping for  a thrilling fun-filled journey!  I'm getting back to some little projects again.  My dollhouse is still sitting on top of my work table in various stages of completion.  I forgot how much fun it was and can't seem to think about anything else at the moment.  It's rather comical. 

In fact, I woke up one fine and glorious morning with nothing more on my mind except making a wreathed mirror to hang over the tiny fireplace inside my dollhouse living room.  

I had been pondering this before I fell asleep--having been unable to find the raw  materials I needed to make such a thing, and was thinking 'outside the box' of possibilities.  By morning, it suddenly occurred to me that the solution was in my makeup drawer!  So, out of bed I sprang, eyes barely open, half-focused on my dressing table, to find that empty face-powder compact. 

I remembered I had an empty one I hadn't thrown out yet . . . it being a visual reminder for me to replace it.  (Just wait until your in your sixties and you'll understand that logic.)   Anyway, after breakfast I got to work and removed the compact cover, plugged in the hot-glue gun and found some greenery stashed away in my craft corner.  In no time it began to take shape.

I love those tiny sequin pins (from Hobby Lobby), they sparkle like fairy lights, so I added them too, along with a miniature snowflake for extra cuteness, then lightly brushed the whole thing with gold glitter nail polish.  The effect was exactly what I was looking for.

Simple and festive.  Exactly what I wanted.  I used a padded-foam mounting dot to stick it to the wall. 

And voila!  It worked perfectly.  For me, one of the fascinations of building miniatures is discovering novel uses for discarded items; another way of recycling 'trash into treasure'.  It's fun looking at things in a different way and seeing the possibilities.  Sometimes, when you can't find what you're looking for you have to make it.  Necessity being the Mother of Invention.  Speaking of that, here's another peek at the progress and compromises I've made in the dollhouse kitchen.

This cute work-table is made from an unfinished $1.oo "sofa table" I found at the Dollar Tree.  I purchased two; glued them together back to back and added slats underneath.  Some whitewash and light sanding added a nice time-worn effect.  It's perfect for displaying the treats I got for Christmas from my favorite miniature bakery: The Dainty House.   

After much image perusing, I chose an AGA Rayburn-style wood-burning range, and added a "tiled" back-splash and plate shelf like they have in old English houses.  This I made primarily from foam-board and painted it with chalkboard paint to make it look like cast-iron.  It's actually light as a feather.  The minty-green fifties-style fridge was fashioned from an egg-carton.  A metal clasp from a pen fell off in my hand one day and I found it made a great door handle for it.  See what I mean?  It's all about how you look at things.  As they say, "One man's trash is another man's treasure".

I was explaining this to The Mister and his face lit up.  Apparently, he had this wonderful collection of odds and ends he was about to throw out, but thought maybe I might be able to do something with them.  I do so love a challenge.  We shall see . . . 

Little Things

Hello again . . . and with the flip of a page, it's December already!  Whoosh.  2018 is nearly a memory.  But not yet.  There's still lots to do in the next few weeks.  Having some fun and making merriment is high on my list.  And I've already started.  Here are some of my helpers.

After participating in a couple of doll shows recently, I got inspired to dust off my old dollhouse and give it a much needed make-over.  The girls have been prompting me to do this for years, but I just never had time for it.  I still don't, not really, but it's either now or never--so I've taken the plunge.  I looked around at my already full to the brim workspace and miraculously managed to clear a corner for it.  It didn't take long however, before I had teensy projects in various stages of construction spanning three rooms!  Not entirely sure how this happened, except that one thing always seems to lead to another.  While glue is drying--another place is needed, and so on.  So I'm trying to keep it all moving along at a steady pace because if I don't I will inevitably run out of places to move.

Here she is all cleaned out.  A new starting point.  The rooms are small, but the possibilities loom large in my mind.  I assembled this 4 room + attic Victorian house from a kit in (gasp) 1992.  Little did I know just how much time a dollhouse would take or the amount of space it would need while under construction, but I soon found out--it needed a lot of both.  Our family home at the time was adequate, but had little room to spare with two teenagers and a toddler; so I worked on a picnic table under the covered patio outside.  As I recall, the directions weren't much help and I made some mistakes. but somehow, many months later it all came together.  A little wonky perhaps, but OK for my purposes. 

The kids have had fun playing with it over the years.  We've collected little things here and there.  Always keeping an eye out for any small treasure to tuck into a room.  It was never meant to be a showcase or anything, just a fun hobby for us to share.

So I've been busy sprucing up the place!  Here's one side of the new updated kitchen.  I removed things and added things, but decided to leave the wall paper alone.  Wall coverings are generally applied to dollhouse walls before they are assembled for a very good reason!  Besides, I still like pink and blue and the patterns and colors are easy to work with.  

TIP:  I have my dollhouse on a large (older) computer table that rolls, so I can move it around from place to place to work on it.  This saves time going back and forth, because sometimes I need it to be next to the cutting table when I'm fitting things, or near the sewing machine, or just out of the way.  I can also turn it around (front facing) and make it look like it's part of the décor! 

Anyway, I started with the kitchen floor.  It wasn't hard, but I won't kid you--it was rather tedious.  I rolled the dollhouse over to my easy chair in the family room and every evening for a full week I watched movies while I cut lolly stix at various intervals and painstakingly glued them to the foundation.  It really turned out great though.  I love how it looks and just left it natural--no stain or varnish needed.  I suppose you could paint it, but for now I'm pretty happy with it like this. 

Next came the window treatments.  For the bay area, I used core-board to make covered valances; wrapped them in batting and fabric and secured it all with hot-glue.  The "curtains" are made from two matching lengths of 1-3/4 inch wide lace trim, glued side-by-side inside the front panel of the valance.  No sewing required!  The scalloped edges are effective--they look like matching lace panels even up close. 

The kitchen café curtain did require some sewing and glue and a few tricks to get it to hang correctly in the way of wood stays to weight the sides--to keep them from flaring out.  It turned out darling in spite of all the fiddling I had to do with it. 

The cupboards and shelf over the window are made from light-weight wood from the craft store; painted and lightly sanded for a worn weathered look.  The "peg board" is really just a piece of scrapbook paper glued to core board to fit that space behind the sink area. Another secret is that just about everything is mounted with dental wax and can be easily removed if need be.  I still need to furnish the other side of the kitchen, but in the meantime . . . 

I'm having so much fun making little things that make a house a home.  Aren't these so cute?

And I made a feather tree.  I'm still working out so many of the details.  Hope you are having fun doing all the little things that you love to do too. 

Until next time . . . happy crafting!    

Setting the Stage

The sun came out this morning!  Only for a few moments, but it was heavenly while it lasted.  This redbud, 'forest pansy' is still putting on a show.  It's been raining on and off for over a week now, and although I don't mind the Oregon rain, I am disappointed with the timing, as it brings down all the lovely autumn tree color with it.  Fall is short enough as it is.  A few more dry golden days would be awesome. 

As a consolation, we do have some colorful gingerbread cookies though.  And that's something right?

There's sure been a lot going on here baking, crafting and sewing-wise.  I've been helping Grace get ready for the next doll show (coming up November 10th), and have been busy building a display for her dollhouse bakery goods. 

Here she was at her very first doll show earlier this month.  Participating was sort of a last minute decision and this display was cobbled together with boxes.  It did the job, but wasn't as sturdy as she would've liked.  Since the items are so very tiny, she also needed something BIG to display them to their full advantage.  We brain-stormed a bit and came up with a design similar to this. 

So, starting last week, without a moment to waste, I got out the glue and got going.  

Here's what I've managed to build so far.  Please, don't look too close!  I had no blueprint or pattern to follow, just sort of made it up as I went along. 

This display, made entirely from core-board, can be used for a variety of things.  It's light-weight and portable and comes apart in two pieces; and it's super easy to take down and set up.  I put "hair-net" Barbie up there to show the scale, but I think Grace is planning a Christmas setting with smaller dolls (1:12 scale) around a table or something like this.  How adorable is that? 

This display piece will do for now.  At this point, I think the upper level is ready for some cute decorating.  Oh, this should be fun! 

Dainty House Anniversary Sale

Following right on the heels of Jelly Roll Day, we are gathering together with jelly rolls of a different kind, along with dolly donuts, teensy cakes and big hugs in celebration of the very first anniversary of The Dainty House Dollhouse Miniatures! 

It's hard to believe it has been a year already since Grace opened her own Etsy shop.  I went up to her work studio this morning and found her happily crafting some darling little things for the fall season and upcoming holidays.  Even though her art is on a miniature scale, I can tell you that lots of heart, and attention to detail, goes into everything she makes. 

Grace is so very thankful for all the support she has received this past year and in appreciation, is offering a 10% off sale starting today thru Sunday.  There's a link to the shop in the right sidebar or just click HERE to see all the cute things she has in store.  She would be most grateful if you could "Follow and Like" and tell a friend!

Currently, we are both trying to get organized and ready for our first doll show next month.  The original dollhouse bakery (click image for enlarged view) is being spruced up and restocked with lots of cute doll-sized delectables and will be going with us and put on display.  I'll be bringing a few of handmade showbox dolls along too. 

My goodness, we have so much to do! 

Peek-A-Boo

Something new.

After that brief revelry, we call Independence Day, with all its concentrated sparkle and glory, and with it falling smack dab in the middle of the week, things are all at once quiet on the home front again.  Though somewhat briefly, pending a lovely visit from my darling granddaughters later this afternoon.  Who knows what sorts of mischief we will get up to.  In the meantime, my attention has returned to a little creative stitching with another doll.    

*SPRING SALE*

Hello again!  After a few days of "spring cleaning" and rearranging things here on my blog, I realized I never got my link up for my new etsy shop.  I actually meant to set this up months ago, but got busy and forgot all about it!  Oh well, better late than never.  So there it is . . .

Here's a little bit of what I've been up to these past months.  This darling doll was made for my youngest granddaughter's 8th birthday.  She loved it!  Her older sister got one (see below) a few months before that, for her 12th birthday, and she asked for one too.  Of course, I was thrilled and got busy with my needle and thread and paper and glue.

Here's big sister's doll--with a garden theme.  It wasn't entirely planned, but the dolls turned out resembling each of them, which was kind of funny.

And here's another birthday present I made for my 17 year-old niece Anna.  It also sort of looked like her! 

Each doll and her ShowBox, come packed in clear cellophane bags and make most special gifts.  The hand-crafted boxes have little loops so they can be hung up on the wall.  The dolls are removable and can be posed as well; clothing is fixed.  Some dolls are wired to the inside of their boxes to keep them from shifting around during shipping.  This can be removed or left as is if you just want to display them standing up.

 

My "supplier" for the gorgeous paper flowers and tiny cakes are provided by my daughter Grace.  It's great having so many resources nearby in the studio upstairs.  She is always having fun setting up props for photo shoots and making things for her Etsy Shop: The Dainty House.  Take a peek if you haven't yet.  It's amazing.

There's a ton more I could show, but my time clock is tick tick ticking away.  I mainly wanted to introduce my shop properly and officially.  And to celebrate it with a Spring Sale for my ShowBox Dolls! 

Please visit me on Etsy at MeadowSweet Workshop and check the announcement box for the coupon code if you are interested.

And follow me on Pinterest for updates and other sweet stuff: MeadowSweet Work Shop

That's all for now . . . until next time . . . happy stitching!

Sparkle

Hello friends!  The season is upon us once again.  Are you hustling and bustling? 

I am finally getting around to introducing my quaint & quirky little ShowBox Dollyramas.  I don't know why it has taken me so long to get this show on the road and to start talking about it here on the blog, except to say that it's been a bit of a juggling act getting all the particulars in order while a lot of my attention was on PatternBee stuff and the photo album project.  Which I am happy to say, is nearly done now.  Whew!

Plus, there have been a few other distractions.  Some happy and welcome, but others quite sad and serious.  My "little" six-foot-five brother was diagnosed with stage 4 bone cancer a few months ago and told me he doesn't expect to get well.  I am having trouble accepting this and sit and stare at nothing for long periods of time.  Processing.  Praying for a miracle.  Wishing I could kiss and make it better, like when we were kids.  Frank has always been alarmingly accident prone, being more of the daring adventurous type.  And I would often carry him home and patch him up after one of his various mishaps.  Then I'd bean him over the head for being a dope. 

My heart is breaking.  

I've just been keeping my head down and my hands busy, allowing my mind to drift into a blissful make-believe world where nothing bad ever happens.  Where life is peppermint candy and sparkles and music and sunshine.  Like a Hallmark movie, I can pretend we all live in a town called, Cookie Jar.  That was an actual name they used one time and it made me smile.  I think towns should have cute names like that. 

Speaking of cute. . . here is a cute distraction.  My new ICY "Blythe" wanna-be.  Oh my goodness she is adorable.  She is our prop doll, a model for accessories like tiny candy canes. (Check out Grace's shop, The Dainty House for those.  Link in the side bar).   

Miss Icy (haven't named her yet), arrived nude, so I got busy and made her presentable.  A simple holiday outfit seemed right for the season.  Believe it or not, her top is fashioned from a scrap of natural cotton batting.  It's so soft and gives the appearance of an angora sweater.  Three snaps in back make it easily removable.  Red-ribbed stretch knit for the leggings.  The shoulder capelet is felt with a cotton plaid lining, faced and tied with narrow bias binding. It all came together so well, I was quite tickled. 

But I really had no idea about what to do for her shoes.  I traced her foot, cut out some felt and started stitching.  These were the result:  Elf boots!  Of course.  They are perfect.  I made a few more in different colors and put them in my etsy shop for fun.  Maybe you know a doll with cold feet that needs these as much as mine did.    

My ShowBox dolls are finally on display and needing a new home. I love these girls so much.  It's going to be hard to let them go.  (My kids will tell you!!)  Each is unique.  The time spent creating and fussing over them is ridiculous.  But because I enjoy every aspect of it, that makes it OK, right? 

For now, I have six little dollyramas, each with her own story--capturing a snippet in time.  All wrapped up and ready to go!  Please pin them, share them and check them out on etsy at MeadowSweet Workshop.

Gotta run dear ones.  Have a great day and thanks for stopping by.

Seasonal Stitching

Autumn is in the air!  Can you feel it? The leaves are starting to change color on the trees in our neck of the woods and the squirrels are scampering through my backyard gathering pine nuts to store.  I love watching them from the deck and listening to their funny little chirps high in the trees warning us that this is their territory!  Here is the October Bonus pattern with our friend the squirrel.  It's this month's free with purchase transfer from PatternBee.  Nice for a seasonal pillow, picture or what have you. 

Like a squirrel with a good nut, I am gathering up and settling in with some seasonal stitching too.  I may not be as glamorous as Prissy Poodle here, but my stitches are just as fine. 

Also, I just want to say THANK YOU dear friends for the sweet birthday wishes and the support for Miss Grace's new launch! She has been busy cooking up some new treats and has a really darling autumn collection coming up.  Oh my goodness!  You will not believe your eyes. 

She has allowed me to give you this sneak peek and to let you know that the Dainty House shop update will be October 4th--Wednesday.  She has a cute Dainty House Blog and will posting more pictures here on Pinterest too.  Enjoy!

Holidays & Horses

 
My youngest daughter came up with this tiny domed Thanksgiving vignette for the buffet table. I swooned when I saw it and had to show you.  So you could swoon too.  Let's lift the lid and take a closer look shall we?

I am particularly partial to that adorable little "Chocolate Peanut Butter Torte".  This cake was inspired by a real one at a favorite restaurant downtown.  Ginger whipped this one up in the dollhouse bakery kitchen. 

Meanwhile, back in the full-size kitchen, her sister was baking something special for her birthday. Yes, that is a chocolate horse, painstakingly cut-out by hand.  What?  How is this possible, I ask.  It's perfect.

So much like another "chocolate" horse we know.  Ginger is quite the horse wrangler.  These two are a team. 

Like two peas in a pod.  Happy Birthday Gingerbread girl!

Dollhouse Digs

It's time, I think, for a dollhouse update!  I'm speaking of our 'Old House in Paris' dollhouse that was featured on the blog back here in 2006.  Due to the pinboard phenom it's making the rounds again in a BIG way and I've gotten some emails and questions about it, so I thought it would be fun to share a few more photos. 

Not much has changed really, the dolls (Pepito, Madeline, Danielle, the Thornberry sisters (Deb and Eliza), Henry & Melissa, all still inhabit the two upper floors which are conveniently located over the toy store, bakery and mini-mart, where Barbie pops in from time to time for party food. 

Keep in mind, this is an actual dollhouse that gets played with, messed up, and rearranged on a regular basis.  My two little granddaughters added the Barbie's.  Afterall, you need adults to run the place, right? 

And to keep little fingers from poking the pies!

Here's the "toy department" at the back of the shop.  I'll try and get some more pictures of the upper rooms.  When last I looked there was another birthday party going on.  These crazy dolls celebrate daily!  Yep. It's a good life here in the dollhouse cupboard.     

Presenting . . .

There's been some mysterious goings on in the dollhouse neighborhood.  Some whispers and giggles heard going round.  All very hush-hush.  But the time has finally come to let the cat(s) out of the bag.  Time to celebrate the completion of a wonderful project!  And I am thrilled (and a proud mama) to be able to present:: The Dollhouse Date Book by Grace! 

I have had to keep all this under my hat for quite some time.  Keep my excitement contained and my lips sealed.  All the while watching this creative process unfold bit by bit, scene by miniscule scene, with teeny-tiny treats set against backdrops meticulously arranged and photographed, season after season with themes to represent each month.  Now it's here!  A lovely little book full of lovely little things.  And for a limited time, Grace is going to be giving away a *free donut charm* with each book purchase!  You can visit her new blog for more details at: Little Things Amuse Me. 

High & Dry

It's Monday morning and still very dark outside.  My favorite time of the day.  The house is quiet with everyone soundly asleep in their beds.  Just the clock ticking and the faint sound of a gentle rain falling keeping me company.  Today, I am grateful for the familiar.  The weather-related drama of last week seems to have subsided along with the high water.  Thankfully.  But I don't ever recall seeing the Willamette River running so high and so swift, and so brown.  It truly is an awesome sight.  A reminder of how small and vulnerable we humans are compared to the unrelenting forces of nature. 

And well, speaking of small...I have to show you this.  One of the Blythe Littlest Pet Shop dolls.  I bought a few of them to play with, um..  I mean, to use as props in the dollhouses.  Of course silly!  This one is called, Buckles and Bows and it took me about half an hour to undo all the tape and ties just to get her out of the box.  But look how utterly adorable!  The scale is pretty good even with that big iconic head of hers.  Ha!  I just noticed her shoes are missing in the picture.  They kept slipping off so I carefully put them aside (and accidently left them downstairs) for safe-keeping.  I'm going to have to glue them on otherwise they will probably get lost. 

Well, time to go pour myself another cup of coffee and get on with my "work."  Wink Wink. 

 

Winky Shop Update

Oh my!  It looks like the little dollhouse bakers have been busy.  These are just a few of the tiny confections the girls had added to their shop.  Do we LOVE Pink?  Why, yes.  We do!

Heart shaped cakes are new to the shop!
Sooo cute.  Yum! 

Little Things

There's nothing like flowers to bring life to a room, even if it is just a dollhouse!  I'm having fun designing these little vignettes to showcase some of our miniature items.  The brass lamp and vanity table are not for sale, but the flower vase has just been added to the Winky shop.  We have a few more on hand, but our supply is limited.  I think these are so cute!

     

As for Calico Kitty, there's no need for laments because I have a few left!  What I have here is three sleepy heads and one starry-eyed doll.  These (and Pinky Rose), are all samples I made for my book, and are featured posing together on page 95 along with the pattern to make them.  So I guess you could say, these could be a bit of a keepsake.  I would really love to keep them (all), but I've got to make room for the next litter of little lovelies.  Still, it will not be easy saying goodbye to my lean and lanky friends here.  They are up for adoption here. 

Sweet dreams!

Sweet Things

Something's cooking at the dollhouse bakery!  The shop girls are bustling around stocking the shelves with sweet goodness.  Etsy is making changes and so have we, in terms of our offerings in the shop.  Dollhouse Sweets is now Winky Handmade, to encompass a broader array of items. 

Here's a sample of what I'm talking about.  Oh, yes, the shop girls have been busy!

And...there are more surprises to come!  We hope you'll stop by and let us know how you like it. xo

   

Oregon Farm Stand

 

It's Friday already--and the 17th of December at that!  My-oh-my the days are just flying by.  Does it seem that way for you too?  'Tis the season.  I just looked up from my piles of various ongoing projects and realized I hadn't shown you guys the pictures of the FARM STAND.  If you missed the part about why we made another dollhouse, the back story goes like this . . .in 2009 the girls and I entered a contest hosted by Hobby Builder's Supply--the challenge was to do something with their GAZEBO kit.  Our theme was for a "Garden Party Reception" (see it over here.)   We didn't win, but were surprised to get a great BIG BOX in the mail a few weeks later; the consolation 'thank you' gift from HB, containing THIS dollhouse kit for the 2010 contest.  (This is their 17th annual -- check out the gallery of past winners and entries--all very inspiring.)  Well, we were in no way obligated to participate, but found we could not resist doing so!  However, at that point in time, I was still working on my book, Embroidery Craft:  Stitching Through the Seasons, and had absolutely no time to start anything new, so it just sat in the box until the December 15th deadline started creeping up, and for the past few weeks it's been a mad rush to get it done in time.  (When I tell you that I am bouncing from one activity to another I am so not kidding.)  Anyway, here it is and we think it turned out pretty cute. 

 

Here's a close-up of the "shop".  I knew I wanted scales, but for the life of me could not imagine how to make them.  I asked Grace, and she made both scales by cobbling together bits and bobs from old spice can lids, broken Barbie accessories, jewlery rings, and chain.  She is just SO brilliant that way! 

 
I made the chalk board signs and fashioned a produce stand.  Ginger has tiny delicate little hands and went to work making miniature crates of goods, preserves, fruits, & veggies . . .

 
. . .  free range eggs, impossibly small  fruit pies and wee jars of honey.  Those innocent looking honey jars had us reeling.  Ginger hand-painted the labels and spent quite a bit of time on them so I was trying my best to handle them gently.  But as I attempted to place the three jars in the basket, old fumble fingers here, dropped the whole thing and it went tumbling down under the table.  There's a very colorful wool braided rug under that table and in the fading light I could not find those honey jars, (which are actually glass beads with lids on top).  I crawled around under that table on my hands and knees for ten minutes.  Then Ginger joined me with a lamp and we both crawled around looking--and eventually we found one.  The other two seemingly had vanished into thin air.  We lifted the rug and looked far beyond where they could have possibly traveled, queeried the cat who was watching from the corner of the room.   Hmm . .  It was a mystery...until I stood up and felt something in my slipper.  Sure enough, that's where they were hiding.  What a shock!  I still can't figure out how that even happened.  After our hysterical laughter died down, we got back to work and glued them into place once and for all. 

 
We made the crates and tried to use Oregon packing labels for authenticity.

And pickles! Of course had to have those.

 
Here's the front porch.  I am so happy with my Dutch door!

 
Grace made the perfect paper flowers in the window box.  We gathered moss and lichen from tree branches for the greenery.  Those cedar shingles were left-over from another dollhouse roof (made long ago), and Ginger and I spent days and days and days gluing each one down.  I forget where I found the wheelbarrow.  It seems we've had it a very long time as it was broken, and needed repairs to stand upright.  I couldn't resist adding the 'Happy Bee' crate label.

 

Here's the back side view.   I've got another dollhouse to show you too, along with more thrift shop treasures.  But now it's cookie baking time (still bouncing here), so until next time...have a great weekend! 

In the Homestretch

Welcome to the last week of February.  I can't believe how quickly it's flying by, can you?  Spring is on its way for sure and I'm keeping an eye out for it like a long-lost friend.  A dear old friend that has been away far too long.  In the meantime, some serious spring cleaning has begun.  These past sunny days have illuminated the charming "corners of my home" in unexpected and frightening ways.  Time to find my feather duster and  a sandblaster and start whipping this place back into shape.  (The miniature country cottage is shaping up nicely too.) 

 

Part 2

And. . . .the mini Gazebo story continues!  And. . . .Thank You for all the sweet comments about our little 'garden party reception' display.  (Those pictures did not show up on the screen as nice as I'd like them, they are very grainy-looking to my eye.)  But anyway, you'll never guess what happened.  Yesterday, just seconds after I hit the 'publish' button for that last post, the Fed-Ex truck pulled into my driveway and delivered a rather large heavy box.  A box, as it turns out, and as you can see, containing my consolation gift from HBS.  I was expecting a small token of some kind for participating in the contest, but this is what they sent me.  It's the Country Cottage kit and a 2010 contest entry form!  Needless to say, there was a vast amount of high-pitched squealing and jumping and clapping between the girls and I.  Now, I know I told you I was tempted.  But now what excuse do I have?   Oh dear, I'm afraid I am not going to get much work done.  We've already started kicking a few ideas around and our excitement is growing.  I think I will have to put it off for a bit longer though, while I finish up the new book, which is coming along in its own lovely fashion.  First things first, as they say.  Because, SPRING is right around the corner.  I'm already seeing small glimpses of it now and then, and that alone is bound to bring with it another glorious array of distractions.  So, nose to the grindstone while I still can. 

You Are Cordially Invited...

 
Here it is, as promised, one of the little projects we started last summer. 

 
I must admit, this all came about rather impulsively as I perused the HBS miniatures website and noticed they were hosting a contest featuring a simple Gazebo.  All that was required in terms of crafting and decor, was that their Gazebo be used.  I thought it might be fun and the construction was simple, so for $19.99 I bought one, glued it together, and then spent several months staring at it.  There really wasn't a lot of extra time to devote to it, but one thing I knew for sure though, was that it had to have a little cake somewhere on the premises!  And Grace fashioned a beautiful one as you can see. 

 
The idea for a "garden party wedding reception" came to me, oddly enough, after I found a string of silver bead garland at a thrift shop for 25c.  After I cut and hot-glued it in sections to the rafters, creating the illusion of lights, the rest just sort of fell into place.  A silk curtain made a soft backdrop, and I just filled in around those two main elements. 

 
Grace meticulously made the climbing roses with tissue paper and wire.  The "white-work" tablecloth was fashioned from an antique hankie.  Oh how I hated to cut it up, but as you can see it is very effective--but then after I made it, I wished I'd made it floor-length.  But, oh well.  The topiaries are Styrofoam balls rolled in crushed oregano and stuck together with toothpicks and glued into pre-fab flower pots.  Sarah did most of the foundational painting and helped wrap tiny presents. 

 
The dishes, candlestick, cake server,  and other accessories were purchased from HBS.  All in all, a fun mini group project. However, we were completely out of our league as you can see by the contest winners and the honorable mentions.  I am just really so amazed with the level of crafting that went on there.  Click on each of the images to see all the fabulous little details. The new contest has already begun and features a sweet country cottage.  Find out more about it here, if you dare.  I must say, I'm mighty tempted!

Tiny Tidbits

 
Now that Grace is busy with college courses and other pursuits, I was afraid the doll house bakery, and Le Petite Patisserie--which for a time on the blog seemed the center of our crafting universe, had all but been forgotten. But, now it would appear that there's another apprentice baker waiting in the doll house wings.  Miss Sarah (12) made this darling charm bracelet for her cousin, and another for a friend's birthday last month.  I was stunned by how cute they turned out!  No word however, whether more of these will show up in the shop though, which as been empty for awhile.  Will keep ya posted for any new developments on that front.  However, it hasn't all been dull as dishwater around here...as Grace and I did collaborate on a much bigger miniatures project a few months back.  And that I will share next time.  Toodles!

 

Granny Takes a Breather

Just look what you can do with hideous plastic Barbie furniture and a hot-glue gun...oh, the possibilities!  This little easy-chair was something I made a couple of years ago for the girls cabinet doll house.  (A few other accessories are from early Club Little House swaps that Amy organized.  That seems like such a long time ago now doesn't it?  I'm still enjoying these little handmade treasures though. ) This cozy scene makes me want to sit down and put my feet up.

And nibble a donut.  It's fresh from the Dollhouse Bakery right next door.

Yes, Grace is back in the kitchen(s) big and small.  A few of the special orders she just finished::  four flavor muffins and candy boxes!  I just can't stand how cute these are.  If you're in the etsy neighborhood stop by for a little treat or check out her online catalog if you need something in particular.  Both these items will be added for custom orders.  And she's getting a few things ready for a mini shop update on Monday morning (PST) too.  How are your doll houses coming along?  If you have made one, or have one to share, let us know, we'd love to see them.

Dolly Sweets

  There’s been some serious candy-making happening in the doll house bakery kitchen again.  Grace was back in her craft corner, following a brief intermission of driving lessons (eek!), starting up a Celtic band with friends (woot!), planting a vegetable garden (yum!), and ya know, just generally being a busy teenager.  So I was quite surprised when I saw these dainty boxes of petite confection a few days ago. Oh my.  Even the darling teeny boxes and tissue flower roses are handmade.  (Gasp!)  The sad thing though--supply is limited.  These do take quite a bit of time to make, so if you need a little candy box, you’d better scurry over to her shop without delay. 

 

Let The Dance Begin

Thanks again for supporting our efforts. We are grateful for the fun and friendship that happens along the way too.  

Grace is happily pulling together the dollhouse bakery orders.  I think just about everything is sold out. 

Might be a few crumbs left.  If you hurry.... 

Her lollipop tree was a surprise hit.  She wasn't sure if anyone would like them--so she only made one.  Silly girl.  She can't believe people want to buy her tiny creations.   

As her mother, it's heart-warming that you do. 

Thank you. 

No Tricks Just Treats

I'm pleased to tell you that Grace has been busy in the dollhouse bakery again, making wonderful things--with a pinch of this and a dash of that.  What teeny-tiny marvels these are. 

And look--a new lolli-pop tree! 

How cute is that thing?  She only made one, but is happy to take orders.  It comes with 5 assorted lollipops.  (Email us if you'd like one and we'll send you a Paypal invoice or add it to your order).

Plus--we'll be including a miniature Halloween surprise with orders until the end of the month.

Just a little something made by yours truly. 

(I couldn't resist.) 

Oh, it looks like we already have a customer. 

Off we go! 

More dollhouse pictures over here.

Summertime Sweets

We are back with a shop update!

More sweet cupcake morsels, the lastest mini-treats to come out of the dollhouse bakery. 

These are so cute.  Grace only had time to make a few, but I am sure she would be happy to take orders, for as long as her supply lasts.  Visit her etsy shop HERE.

 
REAL baking also happened!

Both girls participated in a cake baking contest (last month) for the annual company picnic.  Ginger decorated a small sponge cake with paper butterflies and edible candied flowers she made with egg-whites and ultra-fine sugar.  It was her first time using an icing bag--I think she did pretty good with it.

Grace made a vanilla ring cake, also with edible fresh flowers.  We had some humidity issues that day, but both cakes held up--much to our relief.  These cakes were as delicious as they were beautiful.

Dolly's Delights

Grace has been busy over here whipping up more petite confections. 

These tiny cupcakes, fresh from the dollhouse bakery, are for Jenny (Everyday is a Holiday). 

They are the teeniest cupcakes ever!  I can't even fathom this, and yet here they are.  Each one is about the size of a blueberry, the platter an inch-and-a-half in diameter. 

They'll be on their way soon.  Right after I stop drooling and staring at them. 

And another doll quilt.  This one is 12" x 12".   I'm really fond of this simple block pattern and strip-piecing in general. 

The embroidered bunny is from this old pattern set.