Spa Bed Update

Let me just say that I admire all those who are juggling multiple mini projects. I am just trying to make the deadline on this one.  Every day presents new discovery and challenges but it’s been fun. Here is my latest work on the Spa bed. Since I saved the wooden paint brush handles from used brushes (no since in wasting perfectly good wood), I thought why not try to make neck rolls. I must say they came out much better then I thought they would. Judge for yourself. ***disclaimer*** I'm so sure someone out there has thought of this...if so great minds think alike!! That's the fun part of starting a hobby others have mastered for years...I am waaaay behind. And what seems new to me may be old to some. Either way I'm happy with the outcome.

Smell the Lemons...

“When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.”  That being the case, I can make lemonade, lemon cake, and lemon pie. I recently had a birthday, (Yay me!!), started a new workout regimen, and started juicing. I feel great! So yeah, I have been busy.

Anyway, I am overjoyed because I have some new followers. I have been writing this blog thinking that no one would be interested and I was wrong. I would like to think all of you for commenting and supporting my efforts as a new blogger and hobby miniaturist. I am still working on the add followers button.  Google Friend Connect is no longer offered.  At this point I will take all suggestions. Mini Dork of Modern Mini Houses instructions were very helpful, thank you.  Also, I was excited to see my “little” blog mentioned in her recent post. Awesome!! 

I would like to mention that Lyssa of Can't Have It Big? Make Mine Mini! wrote this post and it hit home. I was like…that’s me. I read so many awesome posts and see so much talented work. I am at awe of the natural skill and ability…and the things people are able to create.  I often think to myself…”I ‘m not that good.” Her post reminded me that I am better than I was a year ago when I first started. And a year from now I will be better.  I will keep at it!!!

Now on to the Build-Along project. The exterior is complete with some minor finishing touches. I am working on the interior. Not much to show yet but I will share a couple things I am working on:

 This is the making of a spa bed from a place mat.

 This is a counter for the spa.

 I covered the exterior with contact paper. I don't really like it much. I may change it.

Something Old Made New

While inventorying my furniture trying to figure out what pieces I would use for the Build -a-Along, I came across this Vintage Hello Dolly Armoire/Closet. I bought it the beginning of last year on eBay.  It looked promising on eBay but once I received it, I lost interest. I thought why not give this dull old furniture some life. First I removed all the hardware (gold handles), then sanded off the shinny coat of polish. I kept sanding until I reached the original wood. Once that was done, I hand painted using a sponge brush and 2 coats of Valspar "La Fonda Villa Fountain," paint purchased from Lowes. There's a Pinterest Board dedicated to the color. You will see this color again. (smiling)..... Oh and I added new silver hardware. It gave it a more modern look.  I love it!

Robin Carey Dollhouses For Sale

Okay, I am a huge fan of Robin Carey.  Her Dollhouses are phenomenal! Two of her houses are up for auction on Ebay starting bid at 1.299.00 dollars. Buy it Now priced at 1.699.00. Whew!! Pricey but I am sure it's worth it.   See for yourself:

"The Orchid House"

"Sea Glass Cottage"

*photos pulled from Ebay auction.

There is also a blog that features her work http://robincarey.blogspot.com.

House of Miniatures Kits

I decided to Post some House of Miniatures Kits that I completed.  Just for fun.  Enjoy!

 I altered the this kit by changing the legs and turning the chair into a Rocking chair for a nursery. This chair is currently being housed in the Victoria's Farmhouse by Real Good Toys.

 I bought the pillow on Esty, I can't remember the seller's name.

 I made a couple of mistakes while assembling this kit. Luckly I was able to fix the errors.

 I should've left this kit unpainted. Not loving my dark color choice. It takes away from the details.

 I changed the fabric of this kit. I didn't want to use the blue fabric that came with the kit.

 Not sure where I will use this couch but I like it.

Exterior Update to Build-Along

 I have some updates on the Build-Along project. It’s been slow and steady. I received an email from Real Good Toys informing that the photos are due in the first week of July and not August like I had thought.  This means I am REALLY behind.  I have two vacations scheduled before the due date, so I have really been working to complete the exterior of this Townhouse. Yes, I have changed it yet again and due to time constraints.  I may have to nix the SPA idea too. At this point I just want to complete the darn thing. If it hadn’t been for my indecisiveness in the first place, I would have been further along. I just got to make it work. Here is my work in progress: 

 I had to cut out new windows.

 Then  fill in the gaps with 3/8 inch thick MDF to match the frame.

 I was going to use cork board as bricks but time would not allow it. I remembered I had these wood strips and I could use them instead. Done. 

 I am happy with the way it is turning out.

 I cut out trim and added siding to the front (I don't think I will have time to do the sides).

 The exterior is shaping up!!

 Testing out different windows and doors for fun.

 I settled on these and decided the bay window need something more...and voila!! I am extremely satisfied with how things are turning out. Stay tuned more to come!

Rare Dollhouses on eBay

If you follow Mini blogs you should know by now that two really cool modern contemporary dollhouses are/were listed on eBay.  I knew this prior to catching up on favorite blogs but it was interesting to read what others were chatting about these houses. Especially about the Summer House Rundquist Vintage Dollhouse., this house is amazing. I would love to own it.  It was first listed at 500 dollars plus shipping. Now that’s a little steep even for that rare/hard to find house. They re-listed for 400 dollars and now have a bid. I have to admit I got kind of disappointed because I was hoping to watch that house (decrease in price) like I did the Citadel dollhouse by Lolly’s. Hopefully one of my favorite bloggers will win this bid so I can at least read about it.  

 

Now this brings me to the Citadel dollhouse.  I have watched this house on eBay go from 1500.00(I know right) all the way down to 150.00 before finally getting a bid. I felt sad for the seller who disclosed that she has health issues and is unable to finish the house. I wish her well. It’s got to be difficult having to let go of your hobby due to illness. 

 

Now there is a new trend of dollhouses and kits on eBay listed at crazy high prices. Every one of them is so called rare/hard to find items. I know I have said this before but I will say it again, this is an expensive hobby. I can’t help but want them all. Thank God for self-control or I would have bid on a 500.00 dollhouse made mostly of foam core or a "pre-built" dollhouse with the side panel hard to close/open.    I dedicate this entry to the winners…may you get all the joy in the world from these favored dollhouses (and blog about them).

*Note: These are stock photos