Mini Meaning

Not that I need more excuses to like minis...but my nine-year old daughter and I are able to have fun and connect through them. I think she is genuinely curious about my hobby, she knows how important it is to me, and in general is pretty careful with my things.

I stayed home from work on Monday since I fell down a flight of stairs (don't ask, it's been a crazy few weeks), and she was feeling a bit punky, so we stayed home together. I was cleaning up the carnage from three different scenes, and she suggested she do a scene in the Villa Sibi, but NOT with too much of my help. It's hard to resist my control freak mechanism, but I did indeed let go and she set up here very own scene!

I did not move anything around or switch things out, even though I was tempted. :)

Credits: Could I pass on credits since this is not my scene? I feel very lazy tonight. White sectional couches by Bozart; wooden stool is made of two salt cellars (OK, that had some help from me); "rug" is origami paper; Eames elephant is Reac; dog is my daughter's; guitar and piano (check out her sheet music!) are Nodameggaki; Hello Kitty light is Sanrio; Easter Island head is from Barnes & Noble; plant and small round table by dog are Re-ment; table and chairs are vintage Topper Toys; Mini Sibi is handmade by Oese; Mini Sibi table and Easter Island head pedestal are from the Villa Sibi; and artwork is gift packaging. Accessories are Re-ment, our local toy store, Manor House Miniatures, and handmade by Oese.

Re-ment: I have written about the Re-ment in this scene with a few exceptions. The place mat, knife, and cups on the table are from Megahouse Pop 'n Kitchen #5 and are all good for 1:12. The chair and light in the Mini Sibi are from Beauty Storage #10, "Pretty Placement" and are good as minis in 1:12!

Skeleton Crew

I find it very hard to pass by the $1 bin at Target (or walking out of there without spending $75 on things I did not come there to buy). I recently saw these skeleton party favors and while not a big fan of Halloween, thought I might put them to use in one of my houses.

A $1 package of scrapbook paper also made it into my bag, so that has shown up as a "carpet" for these carousing and contemplative skeletons and their spider friends.

Credits: Skeletons and pumpkin "carpet" are from Target; orange chairs and couch are vintage Bodo Hennig; guitar is Nodamegakki; Nelson couch and black lounger are Reac; fuzzy cabinet, orange flower side table, and bar are AG Minis; gold ball chair is Lil' Bratz; white round table is vintage Lundby; blond wood coffee table is vintage VERO; checkers table and striped lamp are Bozart; orange dresser, tiny "egg" stools by fireplace, chicken phone, and s'mores set are Re-ment; large orange vase is vintage Fiestaware; small yellow and white chairs are vintage Fisher Price; Ibsen book is handmade by Oese; orange polka dot pillows are handmade by Tarkus. Accessories are from my kids, Re-ment, Manor House Miniatures, Ryan's Room, and Mighty World.

Re-ment: I have written about the Re-ment in this scene with a few exceptions. The s'mores set is from Mini Sweets #10, and is a bit large for 1:12, but works. The fish-shaped wine bottles on the bar are from Black Cat Italian Restaurant # 6 and they are good as large bottles in 1:12. The Pellegrino bottle is also from Black Cat Italian Restaurant #1, and is good for 1:12. The orange dresser also comes in white and is fine as a large piece in 1:12. It also comes with a workable lamp, which I have not used here.

Typing Time

Seeing this typewriter reminds me of being in high school (before the age of personal computers) and typing out my papers. I kind of miss the simplicity, but appreciate the (simple) complexity of today's conveniences. :) I am motivated by color, so the yellow and black set the tone for the scene, hence Mr. Penguin had to make an appearance!

You'll see some photos with a wall covering, some without. I decided to put up some strips of origami paper, mostly to see if I could succeed in hiding the outlets!

Pubdoll is a wonder, and has created this beautiful ball clock for me. It is amazing and looks fantastic. I am so pleased to have it. Now I need a 1:1 one!

Credits: Bed by AG Minis; Eames elephant by Reac; table is vintage Bodo Hennig; chair and lamp are vintage German; small table is vintage Petit Princess; typewriter, coffee pot, storage unit, plant, crayons and sketch book are Re-ment; "wallpaper" are strips of origami paper; artwork is a tarot card; cowhide rug and books are by Oese; ball clock by Pubdoll; pillow is by Tarkus; small instrument is by Nodamegakki; vases at foot of bed are Bozart; glass vases are beads; clear shell was a freebie with a Re-ment order. Accessories are Re-ment, AG Minis, Bozart, Mighty World, and our local toy store.

Re-ment: I've written about the Re-ment in this scene with a few exceptions. Coffee pot is from Black Cat Italian Restaurant #5, and is good for 1:12. The storage unit is from Storage Beauty #10, "Display Shelf," and is also good for 1:12. The plant is from the Room series # 3, and is a bit on the small size, but good for 1:12. The plant pot is actually a cooking stand for a pot from I Love Kyoto #1 "Traditional Conger Cuisine." It works for 1:12 as I have re-purposed it. The typewriter is from one of my favorite sets, Natalie's French Sundries # 5, and works for 1:12. The crayons and sketch pad are from another terrific set, My Favorite Stationery # 8, and are good for 1:12.

Brown Time

Well, I really mean "Down Time," but the scene ended up with lots of brown/yellow/creme hues. The anchor of the room is a new (but vintage) shelving piece I scored from German eBay. The round table came with it, as did a smaller rectangular table I did not use.

The piece is a nice way to show off some nice handmade books by Oese, as well as some smaller Re-ment items on the bottom shelf that took a lot of patience to situate properly (the bird candle kept falling down). The coffee table is a Re-ment invention -- a tray from the Lovely Chocolate series (received in a swap with Tarkus) atop a shelving box. Now there's a thought...edible furniture!!! :)

UPDATE, 10/10/09: While looking through the Puppenhaus Museum website, I came across a few pictures of Modella furniture, and saw this picture, which leads me to believe the shelving unit* is indeed Modella (photo courtesy of the Puppenhaus website):

Credits: Striped console by Paris Renfroe; abstract artwork and white poof are Lundby; white chair is Reac; standing light and brown hanging light are AG Minis; daisy stand and white couch are Bozart; dog is from a game called "Lucky Puppy Math"; shelving unit and round table are vintage German eBay finds (Modella?)*; gold drum chair is vintage Petite Princess; antique marble bust is my husband's; coffee table and stand, potted plant, and tea service are Re-ment; "rug" is a paper coaster; long grasses are aquarium plants; white "rug" is gift wrapping; lucite chairs are an eBay find; and "Drink" wall art is a cork coaster. Accessories are Re-ment, Manor House Miniatures, Pain d'epices; MAR Toys, and hobby shop items.

Re-ment: I have written about the Re-ment in this scene with a few exceptions. The coffee table is from Lovely Chocolate, # 9, and is a bit large for 1:12, but can be re-purposed. The bird candle is from Beauty Storage, # 3, and is good for 1:12. The two jars are from Is Dinner Ready Yet?, #9, "Fried Dumplings," and are good for 1:12 as condiment jars or display. The teapot is from the Megahouse set "Cafe de Cake," # 6, and is a bit large, but good for 1:12.

Creative Chaos

Don't we all want the work + play combo? I know I do. I guess when I think of that concept, I envision a thirtysomething-type deal, where these cool dudes work in an ad firm and play basketball during meetings. I forget if they brought their pets to work, but that would just about complete the vision.

This is one of the most chaotic scenes I have created -- there's lots of stuff in here, perhaps because I decided to create different work/play spaces: the eating space with coffee and treats; three workstations: Hello Kitty table; tulip table; and low coffee table with couch as chair; and the middle for endless play!

If anyone has a job like this, more power to you!! :)

Endnote: I bought a new lens for my camera, so I am happy camper!

Credits: White couches, striped lamp, and Hello Kitty desk by Bozart; glass coffee table by Ryan's Room; orange chair and white tulip table are vintage Bodo Hennig; office chair, black lounger and ottoman, and tulip chairs are Reac; two mini dollhouse scenes/figures on floor are vintage Galoob Toys; "rugs" are origami paper; cow rug, books, and some of the pencils are by Oese; Hello Kitty desk lamp and box next to desk are Sanrio; wood block table and blond coffee table are Paris Renfroe; orange side table is AG Minis; artwork is a postcard from France; lots of accessories by Re-ment, tech decks, our local toy store, Mighty World, and Pain d'epices.

Re-ment: I have written about the Re-ment in the scene with a few exceptions. The green paint set is from My Favorite Stationery, #2, and is good for 1:12. The pencil sharpener, yellow pencil box, notebook on white table, and ruler and pen in pencil cup on Hello Kitty table are all from My Favorite Stationery, #10, and are all good fr 1:12. The detail on these sets isamazing, and I wish I had more of them! The strawberry clock on the white table is from Merry Strawberry, #9, and is good for 1:12. The white laptop is from the Room set, #2, and is good for 1:12.

Shared Space

Full disclosure: photos taken with my cell phone. Apologies in advance for the poor quality.My camera broke and I am still working out the solution, but couldn't keep away. :)

My brother and I are three years apart and our bedrooms were usually in close proximity while growing up. The older siblings tended to get the larger rooms, or shared a very large attic space. When we moved into a brownstone in New York City, we shared the top floor, and our rooms were separated by a bathroom. The room setup in the Kaleidoscope House inspired me to think back to those years.

His room was usually pretty tidy, but he had a weakness for bringing food upstairs. To this day, we make fun of him for his love of Pop Tarts and fruit (eaten together), and peanut butter. He is a big snacker, and at 6'5" had all sorts of excuses to keep his body fed on an hourly basis.

Me, on the other hand...I loved to sit and play with office supplies. I had lots of knickknacks and wrote letters all the time. My room was usually messy, but I couldn't bring myself to mess up the scene!

Speaking of sharing...it's been great to do a few swaps with Oese and now Tarkus! Oese made some wonderful books and pencils and also sent a lucite box and other mini treats. Tarkus and I swapped Re-ment and she threw in a few of her handmade pillows! Lovely!

Credits: Yellow beds, bathroom set, and toy chest (actually a refrigerator) are vintage Fisher Price; red chair is vintage Fairline; red and white dresser is vintage Jean of West Germany; plant is from Lolly's; egg table, fish bowl, peanut butter, Pop Tarts, pink clock, rocking horse on top shelf, "Happy" lunch box, brother's side table, bathroom back splash, and sewing items on toy chest are Re-ment; Easter Island head is from Barnes & Noble; speaker is vintage TOMY; bowling pins are Japanese toy erasers; red striped bed cover and green bath mat are IKEA; purple flower bed cover, flowers and silver box on top shelf, pouf, magazine holder, and lamps are AG Minis; pink vanity and pink cup are Sanrio; violet desk and matching lamp and bathroom mirror are vintage eBay finds; bedside table is vintage German; bird pillow is by Tarkus; accessories are AG Minis, TOMY, Pain d'epices, Re-ment, KidRobot, and my kids!

Re-ment: I have written about the Re-ment in this scene with a few exceptions. The stamp set is from Girls in the City, #3 "Accounting Essentials," and is good for 1:12. The sewing items are from the Primary School Stationery set, #10, and is good for 1:12. The Pop Tart is from Fun Meals, #7, "Morning Grab 'n Go," and is a bit large for 1:12, but works. The rocking horse is from Princess Tea Party, #5 "A Rocking Horse Cutlery Tree," and is good as a toy in 1:12. The "Happy" lunch box is from American Kitchen, #5 "Fun at the Cafeteria," and is too large as a lunch box in 1:12, but can be re-purposed as a small suitcase.

Animal Eyes

I was looking at this scene through animal eyes. I wanted to use as much animal-related pieces I could dig out of my collection. It was quite a challenge, and of course not all of it fits the bill. But, there is some cow, leopard, zebra, canine, feline, chicken, and egg (!), so perhaps I succeeded a little.

I've been down with a virus this week, and finally got myself some antibiotics for an ear infection, so I am feeling more human and less like a sick...beast. :)

Credits: Cowhide daybed from Paris Renfroe; orange side table is Bodo Hennig; Nelson couch by Reac; coffee table is Ryan's Room; cat picture, furry TV cabinet, rug, and orange trim side table (with phone) are AG Minis; TV is Lundby; dog is from Lucky Puppy Math game; striped lamp and Easter Island head base are Bozart; high cafe table and chairs from Battat; coffee pot, potted grass, chicken phone, and egg tables from Re-ment; Hello Kitty clock is Sanrio; zebra couch is Creative Playthings; antique marble head behind couch is my husband's; Easter Island head is from a desktop set from Barnes & Noble; accessories are AG Minis, Re-ment, Mighty World, and from Paris.

Re-ment: I have written about the Re-ment in this scene with the exception of the egg tables and chicken phone. Both are from Beans, Egg, and Strawberry #8, and are good for 1:12. The set comes with tiny, tiny stools that are way too small for 1:12, but they could be re-purposed for a table decoration or candle.

Three Rooms, Apart

Perhaps you have done this too -- create a scene (s) as an excuse to try out some new acquisitions. I am guilty of this today. These three rooms -- a tea salon, powder room, and playroom -- really don't totally relate, but I wanted to test out a lot of things. I bought two of the traditional, Deco-like couches for about a dollar on UK eBay, and felt compelled to use one here since stylistically it is not a typical choice for me. The same goes for the large rug and the tea set items.

In the powder room (and on the deck), I was able to use some things from the Mighty World Town Life Cafe set, which I *finally* got a hold of online, through a toy store in Connecticut. I also purchased some Re-ment from PlayscaleMinis to try out a few different pieces from the "Girls in the City" office sets.

Upstairs, I decided to use a 1/16 scale vintage Jean of West Germany playroom set, which goes with the bubbly wallpaper.

Credits: Tea salon: Deco couch, rug, picture above sweets, and side chair are eBay finds; sweets table, white coffee service table and lamp are AG Minis; round table is vintage Petite Princess; pictures above couch are Calico Critters; purse is Re-ment; jacket is from one of my Euro Minis dolls; accessories are Re-ment, Mighty World, and Bozart. Powder Room: Sink is DHE; rug is from The House that Jacq Built; mirror is AG Minis; side table and makeup shelf is Mighty World; small vanity is Re-ment; accessories are Re-ment, AG Minis, Petite Princess, and Lolly's. Playroom and Deck: Shelf, dresser (really a wardrobe on its side), and rocking horse are vintage Jean of West Germany; table is vintage Lundby; chair is Reac; corner table is Re-ment; light is AG Minis; cafe table and chairs on deck are Mighty World; accessories are Re-ment, Pain d'epices, and eBay.

Re-ment: I've written about the Re-ment in these scenes with the exception of the following:Tea Salon: The small cakes on the tiered tray are from Elegant Sweets, #5 "Delicious Artisan Cakes," and are good for 1:12. The tiered tray, tea pot and cup on small table, brown and white cake cup along the back of the long table, the white platters, and the butterfly plates are from the Princess Tea Party set, #8 "The Princess' Favorite," and are all good for 1:12. The chocolate treat in the glass vase, the chocolate top hat cake, the strawberry dome and the white dome on the small table are from the Special Cakes for Me, # 4 "Patisserie Collection," and are good as large, fancy treats in 1:12. The gold purse is from Girls in the City, #4 "Hot Date After Work," and is good as large bag in 1:12. Powder Room: The white mirror and brush, gold and blue perfume bottle with a cross, white scalloped box on bottom shelf, and pink puff in box are from the secret set of Cosmetic, #1 "Princess," and are all good for 1:12. The two square eyeshadow boxes and the lipstick are from Cosmetic, #5 "Actress," and work for 1:12. The blue Tiffany box and purple watch on sink are from Girls in the City, # 4 "Hot Date After Work." The watch is good for 1:12, but the box is too large as a watch box but can be re-purposed. The pink cosmetics bag and hair rollers are from Girls in the City, #5 "Overseas Retreat," and are good for 1:12. Playroom: The yellow school bus is from American Kitchen, #9 "Family Christmas," and is good for 1:12. The red water toy and pink pencil sharpener are from Primary School Stationery, # 8 and # 9, respectively, and are good for 1:12.

Kids Rule

I felt like using figures today in a scene, and have really been wanting to use the Bodo Hennig kitchen I received in a swap with Oese. I also wanted to use the great mini Sibi handmade by Oese, although I need mini furniture -- for now, it is a very upscale barn!

Kids tend to take over, and that's what's happened here in this home, full of activity. I wonder if kids know how lucky they are...???!

Credits: All figures, wooden sculpture, green pillows, and dollhouse counter are Bozart; dog is from a game called Lucky Puppy Math; refrigerator, stove, sink and cabinet are Bodo Hennig; chop block is an eBay find; couch, small tripod stools and table, and funky purple flower vase are AG Minis; couch coverlet is from Lolly's; side table is Lil' Bratz; dishwasher is Theo Klein; kitchen table is vintage German; chairs are Reac; vase in fireplace is vintage Fiestaware; mini Sibi is by Oese; other house is a vintage eBay find; blocks are from DRAP; R2D2 is from my kids' Star Wars Lego set; skateboard is from Tech Decks; round "rug" is a coaster; dartboard is from Pain d'epices. Accessories are vintage Topper Toys (Penny Brite), Bozart, Lolly's, Pain d'epices, Manor House Miniatures, Re-ment, and from my kids' collections!

Re-ment: I have written about all the Re-ment in this scene with the exception of the loaf of bread on the chop block. It is from the Re-ment Bakery set #7 and is a bit large, but good for 1:12.

Not-So-Green Thumb

I'm pretty under the radar about my mini life at work, but I have shared my hobby with a few close colleagues. One of them passed along a glass box to me, initially thinking my daughter would have some fun with it. But, I saw some potential and confided to her that I would likely try to work with it as some sort of greenhouse.

I did go through with this scene, but realized that the box is a bit too shallow (warranting 1:16 or smaller furniture) and challenging to photograph. I gave it a try, though, and even took it outside in between rain storms--it has been endless rain on the east coast--and got bitten alive by some hungry mosquitoes.

Overall, not a great experience, but I put some Saturday afternoon time into it, so here it goes. I'm crabby today.

Credits: Plant box is a console by Paris Renfroe; plants are aquarium plants from a rummage sale; "birdbath" is Bozart; bench and radio are from the Mighty World "Hanging Out" set; white table is vintage Jean of West Germany; Asian shelf and watering can table is Re-ment; watering can, shears, small hoe, and sunflowers are from Pain d'epices; gardening caddy is vintage TOMY; sailboats from DRAP. Accessories (including potted plants and vases) are: Re-ment; Pain d'epices; Bozart; Michael's; Manor House Miniatures.

Re-ment: The Asian shelving unit and watering can table are from the Megahouse My Room set #5, and is better sized for 1:16 or 1:18. The green potted plant to the right of the console is from the My Cats set, #7 "Fujita's Potty Cat." It is fine for 1:12, but the rest of the set is huge, better for 1:6. The white pig vase is from the Oriental Season "Summer" set and is good for 1:12 as a household object. The cigarette holders (masquerading as vases) are from the Megahouse My Room set #2 and are a bit small for 1:12; better for 1:16, but usable.

Off Limits

This is an "off limits" space -- it is where one can go to bathe and just...be. I wanted to do a bath scene, since I got the "bath tub," which is actually a condiment dish, for .25 at the Crate & Barrel outlet near me. It worked pretty well, I think, but I had to figure out how to situate it with the Villa Sibi bath partition.

This title is also apropos because some little hands were playing with the bath tablets and also messed with other things while I was out earlier. So, if there are elements that look a bit different, it was influenced by a 9 year old girl's (secret) taste. :)

Credits: Sink and vintage mirror are separate UK eBay finds; pouf and metal side table are AG Minis; toilet and green towel are IKEA; toilet paper holder is vintage Lundby; Asian light fixture, towel basket, bath tablets, makeup, shoes, and perfume are Re-ment; bath platform with partition is from the Villa Sibi; "bath" is a condiment dish from Crate & Barrel outlet; towel rolls near bath are Lundby; "towels" by sink are tissues rolled up; vases and tea set are MAR Toys; plants are Lolly's and from a rummage sale.

Re-ment: I've written about the Re-ment in this scene with the exception of the bath tablets and box. They are from a secret set of the Cosmetics "Actress" set, #5, and it is good for 1:12 as a large bath item.

Old Memories Anew

My grandmother was awesome. She was my buddy growing up. I would often come for sleepovers to her apartment in Brooklyn, NY, where she lived with her sister, my great Aunt. We ate in front of the TV, sat around the table drinking tea, and they gave me all sorts of snacks. It was all about fun hanging out time with the ladies, and there are days when I really want to go to Grandma's house. Like today.

This reminds me of their apartment. Kind of cluttered, but usually pretty tidy. I recall my grandmother washing PAPER plates for reuse (she was hip even then!). She was a young woman during the Great Depression, and often said nothing was wasted. One of my favorite things to do with her was look through all of her costume jewelry, which she methodically arranged and stored between tissue paper in drawers. Some of it was opulent, some understated, always interesting, and I always saw something new.

Speaking of new, I have not yet gotten around to showing off my new Bodo Hennig kitchen from Oese, delivered last weekend in our first swap! It is a beauty and I hope to use it soon, once I clear out the dollhouse clutter around my house. Sweet Oese also put in an amazing extra -- my very own mini Sibi!!! It is fabulous. Now I just need furniture...

Credits: Oven and dish rack and its contents are vintage Topper Toys; floor lamp, side table lamp, retro metal couch, pouf, TV table, and rug are AG Minis; wooden side table is Concord Miniatures; vintage pink couch, lucite chairs, and chop block are eBay finds; sink and TV unit are vintage German; toaster and bread is Re-ment; plant is vintage TOMY; table is Wolverine; accessories are Re-ment, Bozart, MAR toys, DRAP, and Pain d'epices.

Re-ment: I have written about the Re-ment in this scene, with the exception of the red chair next to the mini Sibi and the green TV tray and milk glass. The chair is from the American Kitchen set #5, "School Lunch," and it works for 1:12, if not a little on the small side. The tray and glass are from the Primary School Stationery set # 5 and # 8, respectively. Both work for 1:12.

Behind the (Art) Scenes

Back in the early 1990s in New York City, I worked in an art gallery when I was in grad school going toward my masters degree in art history. I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do -- be a dealer; be a curator; be gainfully unemployed (hee hee). While that experience taught me that I did not want to dabble in the commercial aspect of art, it also opened up my eyes to the inner workings of the art world, good and bad.The folks I worked with were actually all pretty nice, and I got to handle artwork and do research for shows. But, there were the grungy aspects too -- on demand espressos or lunch for the gallery owner and the frosty receptionist, doing research at the library and coming back with stacks of books, working in cramped quarters, etc. Yet, at twenty-something, you take it in stride, and I still had enough energy to go out after work to debrief with my friends over drinks.This scene is inspired by one of the back rooms at the gallery, which was part office and part kitchen. There was always some setup for catering to a VIP -- I can recall serving coffee or water many times -- and it was also a place for random pieces of art, which often were lying around or propped up on shelves.This represents one of the first times I have worked with traditional dolls...my scenes are usually lifeless! :) I bought them in France at Pain D'epices in the bargain basket (less than $8 each). The dame behind the desk is likely the gallery owner who is peeved at something she sees on her laptop; the young lady breathlessly striding in the door carries some books for research. She is keeping her distance to avoid the fire breathing from across the table :)

Credits: Dolls from Pain D'epices; boomerang table is vintage German; gallery owner's chair is Creative Playthings; table lamp, stool, white coffee cups, and colored vases on top shelf are Bozart; small metal side table, funky purple vase, cat and op-art painting, and garbage pail are AG Minis; plant is from Lolly's; console is Paris Renfroe; espresso machine, red clock, and plant stand are Re-ment; microwave is Theo Klein; dishes are from a vintage Topper Toys set (Penny Brite); clear plastic "light" under shelf is actually a vintage Petite Princess table flipped upside down. Accessories are Re-ment and finds from France!

Re-ment: I've written on all the Re-ment in this scene with the exception of the red case next to the laptop. It is from the Stationary School set #7, and is good for 1:12 as a clutch or case.

Poolside

I love the nifty pool-in-a-drawer in the Lundby Stockholm, but have not yet used it in a scene. I recently got a lounge chair so thought I'd give it a whirl. How nice it would be to have quick access to a cool dip and then be able to saunter over for a cup of coffee and a treat in the adjacent sitting area!

Credits: Lounge chair is an eBay find; side table is Petite Princess; boat is from Drap; potted plant, toaster, dress form, and cups and saucers are from Pain D'epices; bookshelf unit and lamp are vintage German; chairs are Reac; table is a marble candle base from TJ Maxx; table sits on a table from the Villa Sibi; kitchen island is also from the Villa Sibi; coffee maker and blender are Lil' Bratz; garbage pail is from Manor House Miniatures; Fallingwater postcard from the Fallingwater gift shop; "wallpaper" behind kitchen island is origami paper; plant outside window is from a rummage sale; bathtub and sink are vintage Lundby; accessories are AG Minis, Ryan's Room, Bozart, Pain D'epices, Manor House Miniatures, Lil Bratz, and Re-ment.

Re-ment: The chocolate dessert on the table is from Special Cakes for Me, #4. It is fine for 1:12 as a large, fancy treat!

Crowded House

Anyone else feel this way? I don't know about you, but it's like a Russian matreshka nesting doll in here -- our house, dollhouses, dollhouses within the dollhouses. I don't like to mention the state of things, and when my DH says, "You know, it would be great to have our living room back..." I smile and back out of whatever room we happen to be in at that moment.

I got some of these 1/144 scale houses from eBay -- two are from vintage kits -- and the other white was purchased in Barcelona. These are pretty traditional -- wouldn't it be great to find modernist mini houses more easily??? I've seen a few homemade ones that look great (right, Oese?), and Mini Modern has a Fallingwater one that is pretty awesome, but it's definitely not the norm.

On another note, I was quite pleased to receive some assorted AG Minis items from eBay. The bed is pretty cool -- sleek and metal. The coat hooks and magazine holder have come in handy! The new wooden asymmetrical side table is Concord Miniatures, and quite neat. Also, I like my new Tech Decks, found on sale at Target!

Credits: Vintage 1/144 houses from eBay; white 1/144 house from Drap; bed, coat hook, floor lamp, and magazine rack are AG Minis; mini dresser at foot of bed is a vintage eBay find; little toy cat is from the store at the Contemporary Art Museum in Barcelona; little toy light is Re-ment; skateboards are Tech Decks; side table is Concord Miniatures; bedside lamp is vintage German; plant is from a rummage sale; retro chair with yellow cushion is vintage Petite Princess; tables for 1/144 houses are from the Villa Sibi; chair under white house, artwork, and glass coffee table are Bozart; Barcelona Chair is Reac; rug is from The House that Jacq Built; accessories from AG Minis, dollhouse store in Paris, and Re-ment.

Re-ment: The sewing kit on the glass coffee table is from the Primary School Stationary set #10 and is good for 1:12. I bought the travel coffee mug and little toy light a la carte from Playscaleminis.com, so I am not sure which sets they come from -- I'll keep checking. In any case, the coffee mug is too large for 1:12, much better for 1:6, and the light is intended as a mini, so it's sized more for 1:24.

UPDATE, 7/29/09: The travel coffee mug is from the Fun Meals # 7 set, Morning Grab N' Go. Still searching for the toy light.

UPDATE, 8/9/09: The toy light is from the Beauty Storage set, #10, Display Shelf.

Home Cookin'

We have come back from our European vacation -- what an adventure. Three kids, one under the age of three. Very interesting! We had a great time, phenomenal weather, saw friends, went to a lovely wedding. And, I made it to a few mini stores! I could only get to one in Barcelona, Drap. The other two were in France. Once was snooty and not worth it, while the other was heaven -- PainD'epices (thanks, Pubdoll!). I went through my monthly mini budget there and bought some nice things and had a great time doing it. I also went to Musee de la Poupee, but their store was closed. The exhibit was 50 years of Barbie; some neat 60s and 70s clothing and accessories there.

This scene was inspired by how nice it is to take a trip, but how much nicer it is to come back home! The kitchen table and cooking unit are vintage Fairline and I love the 70s punch of color.

I recently received some a la carte Re-ment items from Playscale Minis, which is a good resource if you are looking for parts of sets, reasonably priced. I also used some of my European mini finds in the scene, like the potted tulips and sailboat, which are very well made.

In addition to all the cheese and bread we ingested on our trip, lots of delicious coffee was had as well!!

Credits: Table, chairs and cooking unit are vintage Fairline; dishwasher and microwave are Miele; counter and yellow vase are Bozart; espresso maker, toaster, tray, yellow "rug," and blender are Re-ment; white TV stools and TV table are Lundby; TV is from Pain D'epices; orange kitchen shelving is IKEA; plant is vintage TOMY; accessories are Re-ment, Manor House Miniatures, Bozart, Drap, Pain D'epices, and Lolly's.

Re-ment: Blender is from the Puchi Petite Mini Sweets set, #8. It is way too large for 1:12, much better for 1:6. The espresso maker and cups (#2), flowered tray (#3), and toaster, peanut butter, and slice of bread (#6) are all from the Kawaii Kitchen set. The tray is fine for 1:12. The espresso maker is a bit too large for 1:12, but the cups are fine for 1:12. The toaster and peanut butter are also better for 1:6, but the toast is great. The "rug" in front of the sink is actually a table mat from the Tea Time #11 American Kitchen set, and is good for 1:12. The knife by the sink, soy sauce in the cabinet, and polka dot tray on the bottom shelf are all from the Is Dinner Ready? set, #6. All good for 1:12.

Surf's Up

The wallpaper of this room in the Lundby Stockholm inspires fun, so I created a sporty teenage girl's room, complete with shoes, makeup and a chill spot for watching TV. She also has a deck conveniently adjacent for cool chats with her friends - lucky girl! An art set is nearby if she feels inspired. I added a Pop Art headboard of a 1961 Roy Lichtenstein painting (courtesy of a postcard) to lull her to dreams.

Surf's up for me, too. In a few days, I am traveling overseas with my husband and kids for a dear friend's wedding in Spain, and then we are going to France. I don't know if I will be able to post while I am gone (certainly no scenes!), but I hope to make my way to mini places of interest.

Credits: Bed is from the Villa Sibi; coverlet is Bozart; pillow is IKEA; side table is Lundby; gold chair, bedside lamp, surfboard, art case, shoes, deck coffee table, and purse are Lil Bratz; "wastebasket" is Re-ment; shelving unit is two small Bodo Hennig chairs stacked on top of each other; TV is a UK eBay find; chairs on deck are all Reac Japan; accessories by Re-ment, Lil Bratz, Manor House Miniatures, and AG Minis.

Re-ment: The lava lamp is from the Megahouse Living Room #4 set and is good for 1:12; the wastebasket is actually a food container from the Tea Time #11 American Kitchen set and is best for 1:6, unless you are re-purposing it like I did. The white perfume bottle is actually a secret set from the Cosmetics "Princess" set that I luckily purchased from our local toy store. It is a bit on the large side for 1:12, but works. The spritz perfume bottle and powder box hiding on the top shelf of the unit are from the "Oriental Season" Winter set and are good for 1:12. The art markers are from the Primary School Stationary set #8, and are good for 1:12.

Sleep Tease

This scene is mocking me...sleep is not really a big part of my life. It should be, and the dark circles under my eyes tell me I should get more sleep, like I did 10 years ago before I had kids. Oh, I used to sleep solidly; nothing would wake me up. Now I could hear a pin drop and its echo.

I liked the idea of making the K House great room into a bedroom. Pretty luxurious amount of space for a bedroom, eh?

Some artwork up high...

A reading "nook"

I also did very quick setups in adjoining rooms. Not sure if this one room was meant for a garage, but what the heck.

A little office off the bedroom...

This weekend kept me busy with the usual, but I also took some time to continue stripping wallpaper in the Citadel. My goal is to strip everything down to the original white walls and paint. I did one door a few months ago and it was pretty quick and painless. The other door and interior walls are NOT easy in the least. It's slow, torturous work. The previous owner put a layer of (ugly) wallpaper and then painted it (ugly), so there's a lot to come off and it comes off in tiny strips. Grrrr...Here's a few pics of what I was able to do this weekend.

I had to take the door off to get complete access to the challenge:

Credits: "Headboard," light, and coverlet are AG Minis; "bed" is a marble candle base from TJ Maxx; bed pillows are Lundby; bedside tables and artwork in balcony are Bozart; flooring under bed is from the nice Japanese film crew; zebra couch is Creative Playthings; coffee table is Ryan's Room; chess set is an eBay find; Corbusier love seat, Eames chair and ottoman, and white office chair are Reac; "rug" is origami paper; storage cubes are Re-ment; red desk is vintage eBay find; lamp is vintage German; console is Paris Renfroe; recycling basket is Re-ment; rug is The House That Jacq Built; plant is from Lolly's; car is Lil' Bratz. Accessories are Bozart, AG Minis, Manor House Miniatures, and Re-ment.

Re-ment: The plate in fireplace and vase in storage cubes are from the Megahouse Japanese Room set and the storage cubes and two small magazines on side table are from the Megahouse Scandinavian Room set. All items are closer to 1:18, but workable for 1:12. The red clock is from the Stationary School Set #9 and is perfect for 1:12. The wire basket is from the Bread & Butter #3 Happy Bagel Basket Set, and is a bit large for 1:12, depending how you use it.

Sisters

Growing up, I always loved sneaking up to my sisters' bedroom way up in the attic while they were out at school or with their friends. Eight and seven years older than me, they had lots of interesting things for me to check out: clothing, hair accessories, pocketbooks, and perfume. Diaries. Books. Letters. I could spend hours up there.

One sister, the eldest, is the impulsive dreamer with a funky side who always dated musicians; the other is type A, prim, and punctual, who always liked to match her clothing. I recently got two tea service-related sets and thought it might be fun to use the Villa Sibi to recreate their attic space (with many liberties, of course). By the way, doing this scene made me think of *annina*, one of the more amazing mini artists and photographers out there in my opinion. In addition to creating her own 1:12 furniture, she crafts scenes that are truly stunning. Her Flickr shots show her gifts -- pots and pans, clothing, books, etc., set in unbelievably realistic living environments. I wish I had a fraction of her talents, because I would have tried to re-create sister #1's tendency to leave her clothes strewn around, but alas, my mini world tends to be an orderly departure from the real world:)

I should mention that my sisters fought on occasion, being 15 months apart -- the bookcase, while used by both, and is a kind of dividing line.

Can you guess who is who?

Credits: beds, watermelon rug, modern tea set and small white table are by Bozart; wood bedside table is from the Villa Sibi; pink coverlet is from by Lolly's; bookshelf is IKEA; round yellow table and orange chairs are Wolverine; radio, light fixture, cat artwork, and whirligig are AG Minis; wooden couch is an eBay find; white bedside table is vintage Lundby; lucite table is Petite Princess; pink tea set and dollhouse are Re-ment; accessories by Re-ment, AG Minis, and Bozart.

Re-ment: The pink tea set is Princess Tea Party #1 and is a bit large for 1:12, but the storage dollhouse is good for 1:12. The blue bear on the bookshelf is from Toy Storage #7, and is large for 1:12, unless you use it as an over sized teddy bear. The pink phone and clock are from the Megahouse Living room #1 set, and are good for 1:12. The piggy bank on the top shelf of the bookcase is from the Primary School Stationary set #9, and it is perfect for 1:12. The pink purse is also from that same set, #6, and it's perfect for 1:12 as well.

Beauty Nook

Part of my job is to oversee any filming that takes place where I work. A wonderful, courteous (crews are not always like this) Japanese film crew came last week, and gave me a few small gifts, as is their custom. One of the gifts was one of the nicest mouse pads I have ever seen -- lacquered and lovely. The mouse pad came in a great decorative paper case, which I have cut up and used as the wallpaper here for this scene.

By the way, when I was taking the crew around, I had to *really* resist the temptation to ask them about Re-ment, because then I would risk exposing my obsession -- down comes the professionalism and out comes...an addict.

The wallpaper then led me to turn this into a nook for beauty (and beauty rest, of course) in the K House. Again, I continue to be amazed by the opportunities for contrast and color in this house, especially in natural light. I had to turn the house around to get these shots, but it's worth the effort.

I am attempting to better track Re-ment for 1:12 in preparation for the sizing resource I am developing, so I am starting to include more precise information on what I have used in my posts, under "Re-ment."

Credits: Cowhide daybed from Paris Renfroe; sink is an eBay find; vases, chair and artwork are Bozart; towel rolls under sink are Lundby; laptop is Elf Miniatures; rug is from The House that Jacq Built; accessories are Re-ment, our local toy store, and AG Minis.

Re-ment: The mirrored vanity is from the "Oriental Season" Winter set and the shoes from the Summer set. Both are closer to 1:6, but usable. Most of the makeup items and the black case are from the Cosmetics "Actress" set. The makeup items are good for 1:12, but the makeup case is closer to 1:6. I also used parts from two Megahouse Room sets: Japanese and "Scandinavian." The red Scandinavian chair is best for 1:16 and the Japanese Room light and vase on the floor are also closer to 1:18 or even 1:24, but both are doable for 1:12 as small accents.