This hobby seems to be growing in popularity. Is anyone out there intersted.

Is this your hobby then? :)

The hobby is good, you can spend as little or as much as you want on it. Houses, shops or just scenes can be any period and made out of anything.
I have four houses and three shops.
It's great fun.

How minature are they? I can imagine you could make your own estate :)

Most people work in one twelth scale, that means an inch would represent a foot in a normal world. Or you can do one twentyforth, one fourtyeighth or even smaller depending what you want to make.
All my houses are one twelth, it seem the sallest I can manage.

It's an area that some knitters are interested in too. Have a look at these sites. They must have amazing eyesight (and/or a nice big magnifying lamp)!

Bugknits (http://www.bugknits.com/)
Buttercup Miniatures (http://www.buttercupminiatures.co.uk/)
The Knitting Lady (http://www.theknittinglady.co.uk/patterns.htm)

I have a beautiful dolls house, tudor style, that someone made for me. I have had it about a year now, still getting round to putting lights, etc, in. Not keen on the actual dolls though - I want my house to look real when its finished and I think they spoil the effect.

What period of houses have you got Redbox?

My nicest house is Victorian.
I have a house called Car Boot Cottage ( guess where it came from) It's set in the 50's
I have a house divided into two flats. In one lives a male student, very untidy and retro. In the other lives a very respectable "clean" girl who has folded washing and books and teddies everywhere. It has been really great fun to make and hasn't cost much.
I'm also working on a house with a restaurant on the ground floor. It's set in about 50's and very respectable.
I don't like to dolls much so most of my in my houses the occupants are out. Except in my boys flat, he is lying in bed with just one foot and one hand out.
Sometimes I use the resin Dolls, which I think look much better.

Some miniature knitting is lovely. I can't do it although I can do lovely "normal" knitting. It might be the length of my needles as my miniature needles are quite short. Do you know if they make long ones?
A friend has made me a miniature knitted teddy, about 1 inch long. Do you know where I could get patterns for miniature knitted toys?

Some miniature knitting is lovely. I can't do it although I can do lovely "normal" knitting. It might be the length of my needles as my miniature needles are quite short. Do you know if they make long ones?
A friend has made me a miniature knitted teddy, about 1 inch long. Do you know where I could get patterns for miniature knitted toys?
This (http://www.beeptwo.com/bitstobuy/) company does a selection of miniature knitting patterns, including a small range of toy patterns (http://www.beeptwo.com/bitstobuy/toys/toys.php). The patterns all seem to require 1 mm needles, and they do those (http://www.beeptwo.com/bitstobuy/needleyarn/needleyarn.php) too (though the 1 mm diameter are still fairly short). The 2 mm diameter ones on that site are a longer length, though from what I've seen it seems to be a common theme that the smaller ones are also shorter. I'll have a search and see if I can find any longer ones.

And if you're interested in knitting, the Sheffield Forum Knitting Group is over here (http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/forumdisplay.php?f=74) :) .

Theres a great shop in Chesterfield for this. I was thinking about making my own dolls house, because I love making things. :)

I've had a hunt for fine diameter knitting needles. All the ones I've come across of 1 mm diameter and finer have been around the 20 cm mark (the standard length of full size knitting needles is about 33 cm). The fine ones appear to be the around the length of standard DPNs.

Most traditional online knitting shops often don't sell anything finer than 2.5 mm (2 mm if you're lucky). You'd probably have to go to a specialist supplier if you wanted the finer ones, like here (http://www.helena-petitefashions.co.uk/miniature.knitting.needles.html) and here (https://stores.hotscot.net/annscroc/view_product.php?product=KNIS756913).

I'll ask in the Knitting group to see if anyone knows of anywhere where you can get longer length fine diameter ones.

I used to have a few dolls houses, built them and decorated them etc, but then I got bored. I used to make alot of 1/12th textiles, bedroom sets etc, they were very popular.

This might be being a bit cheeky, but my mum is wanting to sell her very grand dolls house, if you know of anyone looking for a new investment property :)

About buying another house
At the moment I daren't. I have so many unfinished projects.
I will ask around to see if anyone esle is interested. What is it like?

About miniknitting:
The toy patterns are lovely especially the teddy. I like to take tiny things to make if I go visting, then I can give them as gifts. I am making a chest full of old toys for someones attic so they will be lovely for that.
Thanks for your help.

Hi, Just cam across your post and thought it might be nice to chat with someone with dolls house experience. I'm new to this. My husband and I have two houses to complete, one of them being an antque shop. My idea was to actually fill it with real antique miniatures, which I've been collecting. I'd be happy to hear any ideas you may have for beginners. Cheers! :thumbsup:

Hi I hope am not intruding as not from the area, :) but have been searching the web for a forum which will maybe help me on my way. I am very new to dolls houses, and so far have been furnishing it from online. But since have got the thought that maybe I would like to make the minitures myself. So please a little bit of help maybe anyone know of a good book that has instructions for "all" minitures.. or any websites. I cannot afford to spend a lot of money as will not see 55yrs again lol. So heres hopeing.
tc carol

Hi British Petal,
There are no rules for starting, that’s the fun of it all.
Charity shops and car boot sales can be great places for odd rolls of wallpaper to cut down the cost of decorating the house. Old bits of jewellery can make picture frames, vases, ceiling roses. There are a few good printable sites on the Internet.. Print whatever out onto card, make it up and then I find a cost of PVA glue makes it better.
Some people plan everything and some just start and see how it develops.
Enjoy it all and let me know how you get on.

Red box

Hello, I have just seen the thread mentioning my miniature knitting site bitstobuy. :) I can confirm that it is impossible to get needles smaller in size than 2mm in lengths longer than 20cm. This is because the gauge is just so small the needle will easily bend in use if it is any longer. You could get them specially made from a company that makes steel wire, but I don't think they would be practical to use or last very long.
Most of my patterns (except the tiny toys) are designed using 2mm needles, which are available in the longer lengths. I found that a lot of knitters couldn't use small needles (they are very fiddly and, yes, you do need good eyesight!).
1mm needles are not too difficult to use if you are an experienced knitter, and a magnifying glass (the sort that sits on your chest above the work) will help.
Miniature knitting is enjoying a revival, and if you are a knitter it is a new challenge! I love it and it is especially satisfying to make a tiny teddy only one inch tall :thumbsup:
If I can offer any help or advice I am more than happy to do so. Helen Cox

.................................

can we see some photos,
I've got a dolls house I won it in a competition,
Wasn't realy in to them but I've bought a few things for it
Although it did come with some furniture,
but it would be lovely to see all the others, for ideas.

If you look at the dolls house emporium their web site is very good

I love dolls houses and miniatures and have been doing this as a hobby for about 15 years. I've got 10 now including a blacksmiths forge, a vets, a greenhouse, a lighthouse, Mrs Lovett's pie shop from Sweeny Todd and a regular house with an integral shop. A couple of years ago I entered a competition with a 1/12th version of the Temple and Cascade at Chatsworth which was very tricky. I have never known anyone else who was into miniatures and friends seem to think it is a strange hobby, though they do like looking at the miniatures, especially with the lighting on. I also don't like dolls in my dolls houses as they are unrealistic and often hideous! However, I do have a vet operating on a dog in my veterinary clinic and a Belle in my 'Beauty & the Beast'.
Coodencat - try dolls house books by Jean Nisbett for ideas. Also, to save money, take small sample size pieces of suitable wallpaper from any DIY store as they are free. I also continually collect useful looking bits and pieces that could be made into a miniature. My choices in the supermarket are often influenced by what I can make out of the packaging or lid.
The Dolls House Emporium has a huge choice available but can be pricey. I am working on their Waterside Way at the moment. I ask for vouchers for Xmas & birthdays so I can get all the things I cannot make myself. Ebay is good for dolls house bargains and I have managed to sell a few items myself.
I can't imagine getting bored with this hobby as I have invested so much time and effort in each creation and I love to sit in my study surrounded by them.
Sorry to waffle on, I am a bit of an anorak about this subject and noone else I know is interested.:wave:

hi this is my first reply,I have the only dolls house shop in Sheffield and would welcome any new friends who love the hobby,as I do.Would also offer any free help and advice that I am able to.Bye for now, Sandra

I love dolls houses and miniatures and have been doing this as a hobby for about 15 years. I've got 10 now including a blacksmiths forge, a vets, a greenhouse, a lighthouse, Mrs Lovett's pie shop from Sweeny Todd and a regular house with an integral shop. A couple of years ago I entered a competition with a 1/12th version of the Temple and Cascade at Chatsworth which was very tricky. I have never known anyone else who was into miniatures and friends seem to think it is a strange hobby, though they do like looking at the miniatures, especially with the lighting on. I also don't like dolls in my dolls houses as they are unrealistic and often hideous! However, I do have a vet operating on a dog in my veterinary clinic and a Belle in my 'Beauty & the Beast'.
Coodencat - try dolls house books by Jean Nisbett for ideas. Also, to save money, take small sample size pieces of suitable wallpaper from any DIY store as they are free. I also continually collect useful looking bits and pieces that could be made into a miniature. My choices in the supermarket are often influenced by what I can make out of the packaging or lid.
The Dolls House Emporium has a huge choice available but can be pricey. I am working on their Waterside Way at the moment. I ask for vouchers for Xmas & birthdays so I can get all the things I cannot make myself. Ebay is good for dolls house bargains and I have managed to sell a few items myself.
I can't imagine getting bored with this hobby as I have invested so much time and effort in each creation and I love to sit in my study surrounded by them.
Sorry to waffle on, I am a bit of an anorak about this subject and noone else I know is interested.:wave:

You sound like a very interesting person your hobby of miniatures, has obviously exeeded the norm,I would love to know more.I hear lots of ideas from my friends too.

You sound like a very interesting person your hobby of miniatures, has obviously exeeded the norm,I would love to know more.I hear lots of ideas from my friends too.
I don't know about being interesting - more like obsessive really!! I've always loved miniature things and I started making dolls house accessories when I was a kid and never stopped. My husband is always taking the mickey out of me and calls me "The Magpie" because I'm constantly collecting bits & pieces that could be useful for a miniature project in the future. I actually drove past your shop today - where is the best place to park during the day? I think I'll pop in and see you soon.:hihi:

Hi.... Just reading your thread.
Dolls houses look fabulous when they are done properly.
There is a fabulous shop on chesterfield road, I cant quite remember its excact name but its a ladies name with a box on the end.... ***** Box etc. it could be Sandys Box or something.
Anyway, it is about 4 doors up from Artscene opposite the Arnold Laver car park.

I hope this is helpful.

On a trip across town the other day, I discovered that Sandorasbox is now closed down:( Lovely friendly shop to visit. Such a shame.

I now hope one of the members here can help me in finding bonnet/hat patterns and tutorials.

It would also be a great help if anyone has any miniature Tudor Gable Hood and Tudor Crescent Hood patterns, and also a Victorian Bonnet for a Christmas stall.

Is there any other Doll & Miniatures shop in Sheffield? I know that years ago there was Anita's up Hilsborough, but it's that long since I've been in that part of town that I'm not sure if she's still open as the phone number I have doesn't work anymore.

Thanks in advance
Damkina

'On a trip across town the other day, I discovered that Sandorasbox is now closed down Lovely friendly shop to visit. Such a shame'
I find this a very sad statement..... The poor lady at Sandorasbox like many independant shop keepers has been attempting to provide everyone with fabulous specialist items and a super personal service.

After many years of customers visiting to 'look' and then crossing the city to the likes of the Hobbycraft at Meadowhall, possibly wasting more in petrol than they would save, has meant the this lady can no longer survive.

I know we are all feeling the pinch right now...but the closing of independants take time over years of poor customer loyalty, not just one month in a credit crunch etc.

The next victim of this will possilby be the Art Shop 2-3 doors down from Sandorasbox....ART SCENE.... The lady at Art Scene has been serving the arts & craft community in sheffield for a couple of decades now...but watch this space....unless we all show our support by using and more importantly purchasing products at prices that allow the shop keeper to make a living, we are all going to find ourselves with no local services....Pat Lewis at Art Scene has possilby forgotten more about the world of painting etc than most would be lucky to every learn ...this knowledge in its own right would be a great loss and nothing that can be replaced by the likes of Hobbycraft.

The old adage 'Use it or loss it' comes to mind.... and statements after the fact such as " lovely shop with a lovely lady" ... " lovely shop to visit" ...and the best one ever " If only I had know that they were struggling" will mean nothing when Hobbycraft cant and wont order your specialist item or be able to provide specialist advice.

Look after them.

Andy, I did mean 'visit' as in, 'to buy something', not just look round and then visit Hobbycraft.:)

I agree, you won't find much in the way of miniatures in the said hobbycraft, and no, they won't order that something unusual or special order.

I also make patchwork quilts (some can run to a couple of hundred pounds and not a cheap hobby) and buy most of my quilting fabric, tools, cottons etc from the independant Patchwork Garden on Abbydale Road. And I also would visit to buy some from Cosy Daze in Hope regularly.

Sadly, this is another shop that has suffered through the larger city shops stocking cheaper fabric... often the same design for the last couple of years with no specialist orders.

Despite being amongst the best stocked this side of the Penines and a wonderful atmosphere and classrooms to learn quilting, Cosy Daze had to close their doors earlier this year.

Damkina

Hi Damkina.

Nothing personal intended to you ....just a very frustrated rant.

I know these shopkeepers personally and watch the heartache as they attempt to do a fabulous job providing excellent service.

They are constantly asked for reductions or special items, that not even the big boys could hope to bring to the table.

This is a trend that everyone in the retail sector is feeling.... we have a jewellery website....we work 18 hour days delivering items at 30-50% below highstreet retail values.... but still on a daily basis do we have request to discount further......People are expecting wholesale prices and are not considering that unless the vendor makes some profit they wont be able to bring these prices to the shops for much longer.

I do appologies if my previous reply appeared rude ..... I worry for my friends and when you see the effort that goes into what they do, it is very sad that they will no longer be able to do it unless supported by local customers.

Even on our website, I am trying to source UK only manufactured jewellery...this is very difficult but unless we do this there will be no UK manufacturers left at all .... No jobs ....no money etc. etc.

Moan over..... I wish you well in your search for the items you need for your quilts etc and that you can find customers that appreciate the effort that you will have taken to bring it too them.

Best wishes.
Andrew.

Hi Andy, no insult was taken, I just wasn't sure if you realised my meaning of visit as in shopping.:)

I think that the over-all problem in todays market is that the public can go in places like Primark and TJs etc to name but two, and get their goods and gifts at rock-bottom prices, because they are made abroad.

Hand made crafts that are made on English soil, often in English homes and often taking painstaking intricate hours, days or weeks to research and make to be sold in independant small shops or craft fairs don't even raise their interest enough to buy.

They'll look, comment that they know someone or somewhere that it can be got or made cheaper, not even realising how much work and soul has actually gone into the item.

Please excuse this comment, but these people are known as the "3 Ps..." = Pick up, Put down and **** off!

It comes to the bottom line that the general public that don't craft, think of "Hand Made" as "Home Made," and don't equal "Hand Made" with quality. They would rather go and do all their rushed shopping in one place instead of taking the time to pick out that unique hand made gift or hobby item.

Kindest Regards
Damkina

Hi Everyone,
I had my miniature allotment in Sheffield Fayre on bank holiday and won first prize.
I also had a diplay called the Allotment Fair to promote our allotment site.
I have neglected my hobby for a few years but this has really got me back into it.
I need to make dolls for my next display but I am hopeless. Their arms and legs keep falling off and "husband" has suggested I make a hospital scene instead.
Any tips.
Also anyone wanting to swap send a PM. I used to be in a postal Dolls House Club and suddenly really miss it.

I was wondering where the DH and miniature forummers had disappeared off to! I check the Craft section regularly but there's been noone on for ages. Redbox - what's involved with a postal DH club? Sounds interesting. Unfortunately, I have been too busy recently to work on my latest project and am really missing it. Anita's closed down some time ago I believe. Such a shame, as she sold DH Emporium products for less than DHE catalogue prices! I have bought the odd light or 2 from hobbycraft as they have Dijon lights that are cheaper than the DHE ones but the accessories are frequently broken. Minaturists are a fairly small minority of the population so I guess keeping a small specialist craft shop going must be near to impossible, especially with Ebay and the big on-line DH stores as competition.

Hi,
The only Miniatures shop around is at Markham Grange, a Garden Centre at Brodsworth near Doncaster.They have quite a lot of stock, cheaper than DHE.
Sue Rider Charity shops have some miniatures. The furniture is not very good but the lights are very good and cheap.
A postal Dolls House Club is whatever you want it to be. Ours swapped gifts for Christmas and Birthday, had four themed swaps a year and a newsletter.It lasted about five years and we all enjoyed it, then members seemed to become ill or have other interests.

Thanks for posting the shop and club info. I am intrigued by the club idea and would like to look into the possibility, but worried about getting involved in a club with high subscription fees.

BTW, with all the talk of Christmas on the main boards, I've really got into the idea of making a room box/diarama (?) of a Christmas Tudor or Victorian street theme to have out on display for the season.

Has anyone done a scene with snow, and what did you use? I've been drawing up some ideas for a 1/12 Tudor house front and redused it for 1/24, but can't decide which would be best because of the size of the conifers and ivy etc, although the 1/24 looks really cute.

Also, I thought of using 1/8 thick book/grey board behind the picture frame, being as it isn't going to be out all year and on the smaller scale. Would I be able to plaster some of the wall on grey board?

If you've had a go at this type of project, any ideas and suggestions would really be appreciated. Damkina

Hi Damkina,
Our subscriprion fee was one book of twelve first class stamps. ( As we had a Newletter every month) If it's just a group of people running a club for mutual advantage, it usually works out as everyone pays the postage themselves on the swaps.
Ideally you need about six people to make a postal club work. I wonder who would be interested?
I have never worked with 1/24th scale. I have a Lundy house in 1/16th and that is small enough for me. I think they sell synthetic snow in garden centres at Christams. Sue Ryder has a range of Christmas Lights which are quite cheap.
I am making a Santas grotto. I need to pratice making dolls and can use up all my "failures" waiting in the queue. They can have coats with hoods if I haven't got the faces right!

Hello Redbox, the postage stamp idea doesn't seem too bad actually. did you actually meet up at all, or did you keep it to a postal club.

Sorry for asking all the questions, but I helped run a postal Medieval group many years ago, and it ended up with myself and my friend/co-editor running ragged because no one was bothering to send stuff round or in to the magazine we had. It was fun while it lasted, and some of us did meet up a few times over the years, but it came to an end after about five.

I'll keep an eye on the garden centres for some snow... what about the odd balaclava or woolly hat with a scarf wrapped around their face? lol!

With how I painted my first doll, she could have quite happily managed with a paper bag over hers!:blush:

Hi Everyone I have only just noticed this section,Just want to say hello to all who know me from my shop, and hello to any other miniaturists. and want to say I am still here to help anyone with anything to do with doll houses and miniatures. I still have some stock from my shop,Many of my customers call to see me at home, so I am having open house day on 22nd october 10am till late,There will be tea coffee & nibbles all day,You are all welcome to come and meet like minded friends. I have been extremely saddened that I had to close my happy shop,but the economic situation forced me to close,(but not forced me to give up the hobby that I love,)so come along for a warm welcome,or contact me if there is any help you need.See you all soon.Thank you to all who have mentioned me on here.::

Hi Everyone I have only just noticed this section,Just want to say hello to all who know me from my shop, and hello to any other miniaturists. and want to say I am still here to help anyone with anything to do with doll houses and miniatures. I still have some stock from my shop,Many of my customers call to see me at home, so I am having open house day on 22nd october 10am till late,There will be tea coffee & nibbles all day,You are all welcome to come and meet like minded friends. I have been extremely saddened that I had to close my happy shop,but the economic situation forced me to close,(but not forced me to give up the hobby that I love,)so come along for a warm welcome,or contact me if there is any help you need.See you all soon.Thank you to all who have mentioned me on here.::

I got my doll's house after visiting your shop - you put me in touch with a guy who makes them (from Jump I think). I haven't done a thing with it yet, but have great plans as soon as I get a bit of time. I still haven't ever seen one I like better. Thank you!!!

I'd love to come to your open house day, whereabouts are you? :)

Hi Everyone I have only just noticed this section,Just want to say hello to all who know me from my shop, and hello to any other miniaturists. and want to say I am still here to help anyone with anything to do with doll houses and miniatures. I still have some stock from my shop,Many of my customers call to see me at home, so I am having open house day on 22nd october 10am till late,There will be tea coffee & nibbles all day,You are all welcome to come and meet like minded friends. I have been extremely saddened that I had to close my happy shop,but the economic situation forced me to close,(but not forced me to give up the hobby that I love,)so come along for a warm welcome,or contact me if there is any help you need.See you all soon.Thank you to all who have mentioned me on here.::


:help:

Hello,

I've been away from ther forum for ages, now and apolgies to anyone who tried to contact me through this thread. Thanks to those who offered to help me with my dolls houses, as well. I just read about Sandorasbox shop closing; such a shame. I am interested in her open house in October, though. How can I get details to her location? I have tried to reach her through her profile but it seems there are no contact details. If this is a private venue, again, my apologies; this is all new to me. I'm trying to meert other people with similar interests. Love to hear from anyone with information.

Thanks again.
:)

Hi to everyone,

Dont know if its any help or not, but the Cake Decorating Shop on the gallery in Sheffield town centre, used to sell dolls houses & all things for them. I havent been in for quite some time now, but next time i go to town i will pop in & have a look & let everybody know.

Will be back soon with more info

Billiethekim

I am still having open house on wed 22nd oct and welcome all who are interested in dolls houses and miniatures.There are lots coming that I know of, so the more the merrier.Many have asked for christmas miniatures, so I have them ready + new items that I have made.Hope to see you wednesday.

Thanks to all who came on wednesday,We had a lovely time, I am fortunate to know so many nice people.I look forward to the next one on dec 3rd, Just in time for christmas

Quick Reminder.I am still having open house on wed 3rd dec.Get in touch if you need directions

Like other people, I miss Sandora's.
I've noticed that Sid Cooke Dolls House company have now got an ebay shop with loads of furniture on. You can make a Best Offer so there are bargains to be had.

hi people, it is a real good hobby, i have a sweet shop and ice cream parlour, and 2 houses i have done one modern with black leather corner settee and flat screen tv. i go 2 dolls house fair all over england. I have some stock left and am selling it i have beds, cabinets etc and i also make sweets like munchies in packets and polos etc if anyone would like to buy some and want some pictures please pm me or email h.ambler@hotmail.com, i will do them really cheap, and will send them through post free if you cant collect. thanks holly

I love them I'm just biulding a large georgian mansion at the moment I also found an amazingly cheap store called Maple Street, they do free catalougues too and they are much cheaper that the other mail order catalogues I have seen!

Hi all I am being a bit cheeky and wondering if anyone can help I got a lovely georgian style house and my dad very kindly wired it up using the copper tape method however he then wallpapered, put skirtings covings etc and it lloks great however he daren't tell me that the electrics now don't work, he thinks its because he pasted the wallpaper without covering the copper tape ( my brother has told me this ) is there anything short of stripping all the wallpaper etc we can try?? :confused:

beautiful narrow ribbons on my website ideal for minatures
some thick and wide enough to use as doll house pelmets

Hiya, Nearly a year since I closed my shop reluctantly, I am still here to help if anyone needs me.I do have lots of stock and hobby materials. At the moment i am renovating a Victorian house which unfortunately has been put on hold due to personal committments.I cant wait to get back to the miniature world which had become my life, and will again I am sure.Wonderul Hobby.

theres a lady at elsecar heritage center that sells the kits and all the goodies you need too. theres some good books on making food out of fimo, a profit to be made there too!

Does anyone know where you can buy the mini shop front kits, that look like a little picture frame?
I saw them in a shop in scarborough and thought they looked lovely, not as big and time consuming as a house, so probably more suitable for me! I've looked on ebay, but not sure exactly what they are called?

I used to buy these from a company called streets ahead.They are called shop kits or hanging framed room kits.Can still get them if I send an order,they are trade only.There is a lovely dolls house shop in Chesterfield near to Wilkinsons.I am sure they can help.Good luck

Kazpa - the eaisest thing to do is forget the copper tape method and use the socket strip method. Leave the tape papered over and forget about it. You need to buy a transformer appropriate for the number of lights you have and a socket strip that simply sticks on the back of your dollshouse. Attach your lights in the rooms as usual, drill small holes for the wires to go through to the rear of your house, pull the little "plugs" off, feed the wires through the holes to the back, replace the "plugs" pop them in the socket strip and switch on!! Dead simple and quick - will never return to the copper tape method. Transformers and socket strips are available from Hobbycraft and all the usual on-line dollshouse sites - Dollshouse Emporium etc.

I am not living in Sheffield at present but would be interested to know if anyone has any news about the lady at Sandora's Box....Such a shame she closed.

I love them I'm just biulding a large georgian mansion at the moment I also found an amazingly cheap store called Maple Street, they do free catalougues too and they are much cheaper that the other mail order catalogues I have seen!

Hi I am furnishing a Georgian doll house too, i've come accross a few really good Georgian books as both resource and sourc books on amazon.co.uk
The dol's house show at York race course if a really good event to go to on the Sunday 29th of November (nxt weekend)

Get in contact with me if u want to swap ideas or knowledge - i love doing lighting effect and false walls - i have pictures on facebook if you wwant to have a look

cheers
Helen

Hi all I am being a bit cheeky and wondering if anyone can help I got a lovely georgian style house and my dad very kindly wired it up using the copper tape method however he then wallpapered, put skirtings covings etc and it lloks great however he daren't tell me that the electrics now don't work, he thinks its because he pasted the wallpaper without covering the copper tape ( my brother has told me this ) is there anything short of stripping all the wallpaper etc we can try?? :confused:

Hi,

I would abandon the copper tape system and go for proper wiring using the thin whte wire hat is always available at dollhouse shows or shops. You could tell you dad that you hav since found out that the wiring system is a more reliable method and will not loose the transfer of electric as it ages - which it does - i have rewired my old vicorian with wire after finding that the connections with the tape started to fail. It would sav u hurting your dad's feelings!

Helen

Does anyone know where you can buy the mini shop front kits, that look like a little picture frame?
I saw them in a shop in scarborough and thought they looked lovely, not as big and time consuming as a house, so probably more suitable for me! I've looked on ebay, but not sure exactly what they are called?

Hi, i know what u mean, at the moment there is a sample of what i think you mean on the warner's website tht is promoting dollhouse show on 29th November at york race cource - hope it helps

cheers Helen

I love dolls houses and miniatures and have been doing this as a hobby for about 15 years. I've got 10 now including a blacksmiths forge, a vets, a greenhouse, a lighthouse, Mrs Lovett's pie shop from Sweeny Todd and a regular house with an integral shop. A couple of years ago I entered a competition with a 1/12th version of the Temple and Cascade at Chatsworth which was very tricky. I have never known anyone else who was into miniatures and friends seem to think it is a strange hobby, though they do like looking at the miniatures, especially with the lighting on. I also don't like dolls in my dolls houses as they are unrealistic and often hideous! However, I do have a vet operating on a dog in my veterinary clinic and a Belle in my 'Beauty & the Beast'.
Coodencat - try dolls house books by Jean Nisbett for ideas. Also, to save money, take small sample size pieces of suitable wallpaper from any DIY store as they are free. I also continually collect useful looking bits and pieces that could be made into a miniature. My choices in the supermarket are often influenced by what I can make out of the packaging or lid.
The Dolls House Emporium has a huge choice available but can be pricey. I am working on their Waterside Way at the moment. I ask for vouchers for Xmas & birthdays so I can get all the things I cannot make myself. Ebay is good for dolls house bargains and I have managed to sell a few items myself.
I can't imagine getting bored with this hobby as I have invested so much time and effort in each creation and I love to sit in my study surrounded by them.
Sorry to waffle on, I am a bit of an anorak about this subject and noone else I know is interested.:wave:

i know exactly what you mean about people who look at u strange when u say doll house! i haven't been in this hobby long only since 2003 but have mangaged o accumulate a victorian house, Georgian mansion and a set of 4 shops in a building!

i love going to the shows but have limited myself to only the NEC, Pudsey and York dollhouse shows! i end up spending far too much!

I am struggling to find good source for late Georgian / early regency kitchen range. can anyone help?

cheers Helen

We went to the York dollhouse show and there were hundreds of people there - why are they not on any forum? there's a show on the

10th jan at stafford showground (sunday)
27-28th march at the birmingham NEC (sat and sunday)
6th june at York race course (sunday)
28th nov at york race course (sunday)

it would be great to dispand this shroud covering dollhousing!

ttfn H

This hobby seems to be growing in popularity. Is anyone out there intersted.

I love the toys but not interested and busy too. Just now I saw a tiny bony mammoth in vogue forums and it is really beautiful.

I love the toys but not interested and busy too. Just now I saw a tiny bony mammoth in vogue forums and it is really beautiful.

That's a shame - but dollhouse mdelling is not for everyone!

There's lot out there who are interested - i've been informed there were 1500 visitors to the York dollhouse show, so there is an interest out there.

DO YOU OR DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO HAS A DOLLHOUSE INTEREST? CAN YOU GET THEM TO POST HERE?

look forward to hearing from them

Helen x

I've just been doing some mini food modelling ....

I love Angie Scarrs books - i've just got her most recent and love it - "Miniature food masterclass"

i've also just watched her disc that came with the book and a can't wait to make mini cheesecakes

i've made the canes for oranges, limes, lemons, bananas, tomatoes, also leeks, onions, cabbages, bread sticks and a few cakes!!!!

helen

Hi all,
just to let you know that the stafford doll house show is coming up on sunday the 10th january 2010 - it caters for all tastes and abilities whether you are a beginner or quite advanced - its a great day out, th peopl are always helpful too! :)

http://www.doreenjeffriesdollshousefairs.co.uk/stafford-fair.php

That's a shame - but dollhouse mdelling is not for everyone!

There's lot out there who are interested - i've been informed there were 1500 visitors to the York dollhouse show, so there is an interest out there.

DO YOU OR DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO HAS A DOLLHOUSE INTEREST? CAN YOU GET THEM TO POST HERE?

look forward to hearing from them

Helen x

Hi Helen and everyone else who has posted on this thread. I love dolls houses and the contents. My main interest is vintage stuff which I am now putting on a blog. I am going to be trying out some craft projects during 2010 which may be a disaster or not, as I have not done much in the way of crafts for a long time.

The knitting links are good, I might try some mini knitting.

Pan x

Hi Pan,

what sort of dollhouse are you interested in? and which era?

ttfn H

Hi HK

I really like old dolls houses and dolls house contents of any era really. I have amassed quite a large collection of contents.

I particularly like Barton and old German tin items. I also love Grecon dolls.

I have an old German tin bathroom which I would list as one of my favourite items.

If you would like to see some of my collection, I am putting them on a blog. It started just as a record for me really to keep track of my collection. There is a lot more to put on but I have put the bathroom and some other stuff on there and also some history of miniature makers like Barton, Lundby etc.

Please say hello if you do pop by (it is the Smallstuff address in my signature).

Pan

I've just made some minature fruit flans using fimo and liquid fimo, they look brilliant - i didn't think i could make them look as good as the expert or like the sales on ebay, but i think i've made then brilliantly.
i'll be looking for ideas from real food next!

ttfn H

Hi Helen
I have just read your messages and I would like to bring to your attention that there is a large dolls house fair at the Heritage Centre at Elsecar on Sunday 31st January 2010.

I am one of the miniature traders who will be trading there. I am based in Doncaster and I am opening a new shop at Markham Grange Garden Centre Brodsworth, hopefully next week unless this awful weather continues.

There is another dolls house shop at the Garden Centre that sells furniture from Streets Ahead and Dolls House Emporium but I will be selling fabrics and haberdashery (much of which are suitable for miniatures) plus handmade miniatures which I make myself (many of which I will be making at my shop).
Hope this helps.

That sounds good - do u have anymore additional info?

cheers H

Today I called in at the new shop at Markham Grange.
It's called Helens Houses (Postcode DN5 7XB)
What a treat.
It would be interesting to anyone who likes quilting or miniatures.
It is a lovely shop. It has a large range of materials for quilting and making patchwork and stocks reasonably priced sewing equipment. (Needle threaders 15p, priced 25p in Bakewell market.)
The miniatures were delightful and quite unique. The handmade babies were absolutely beautiful.
It’s a lovely find and I thought it was really worth they journey.
Chris

I must go there soon to see new shop, and also the dolls house shop there, which is very good. I know they are very knowledgeable and helpful. I really miss my shop and customers. Wonderful hobby.

Hi, looking for advice please! My daughter loves miniature dolls houses, we've visited shops and she can spend hours browsing.
I'm thinking about getting one for Christmas for her, she will be 10, so I don't really want a childish one, but obviously she won't be ready for anything too expensive. It won't be played with as such, but she will like to move the furniture around etc.
Can anyone suggest some places to visit to get ideas? I'm not sure whether to go with a victorian or modern theme - I thought modern might be more suitable due to her age, but she loves history too.
I'm also checking ebay for houses, as long as its structurally sound I think I'll be ok to redecorate inside if needed!
I'd like to be able to put lights in it too, is there anything special I need to look for?
All help much appreciated!

Hi honeyb, I have a dolls house for sale cheap because I need the space. I tried to message you about it but your in box is full! If you are interested just send me a private message and I willl send you details back.

I'd like to be able to put lights in it too, is there anything special I need to look for?
All help much appreciated!

I posted this a while ago:-

You need to buy a transformer appropriate for the number of lights you have and a socket strip that simply sticks on the back of your dollshouse. Attach your lights in the rooms as usual, drill small holes for the wires to go through to the rear of your house, pull the little "plugs" off, feed the wires through the holes to the back, replace the "plugs" pop them in the socket strip and switch on!! Dead simple and quick - will never return to the copper tape method. Transformers and socket strips are available from Hobbycraft and all the usual on-line dollshouse sites - Dollshouse Emporium etc.

Top tips!!!

Dijon lights are cheaper that the Dolls House Emporium.
Use ceiling lights that take replacement bulbs as replacing an entire ceiling light can be difficult.
Gouge a groove along the floor of the room above each ceiling light to the hole you drill through the back to accomodate the wire. This can be hidden by flooring.
Ensure the wires from each light can reach the socket strip when you attach it to the back of the house.