Ella-Rose Miniatures
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Where does your interest in miniatures stem from?
I have always had an interest in dollhouses and miniatures. In 2004, a new shop opened up on our local High Street that sold dollhouses. 
I saved up funds and was soon able to purchase my first “grown-up” dollhouse.
How has your work in miniature evolved?
I began making my own miniatures in 2004, immediately after purchasing my first dollhouse. I found that I enjoyed creating these minis immensely: it was very rewarding and also something that I discovered I had a talent for. Soon after, I opened up an eBay shop and began selling my handcrafted miniatures. Then I opened up my Etsy shop, launched a blog, Facebook fan page and Twitter account. The rest, as they say, is history.
What materials do you use to make your miniatures?
I mainly use Fimo, liquid Fimo, acrylic paints and genesis heat paints.
Advice for beginner artists?
Find your niche. Have patience and persevere. Your work will improve over time as you begin to use new and interesting techniques. Buy a few good books on making miniatures (I recommend any miniature food books by Angie Scarr) and simply add your own unique touches.
Material you can’t live without?
I cannot live without Fimo, white in particular. I use a lot. Liquid fimo is also a must for me.
Favorite mini you own by another artisan?
I have a small pumpkin with a rat on it from the wonderful Mags-nificent Miniatures that I simply adore.
Artists, designers, books you look to for inspiration?
I take most of my inspiration from real-life bakers and cake makers, in particular Miss Lola’s Bakehouse and her amazing creations. I also created a Marie Antoinette collection after watching the film of the same name. Inspiration can come to you in many forms, maybe a color combination that you have seen or a certain design of furniture. Inspiration is all around us if you keep your eyes open and have a creative imagination.
What is the most miniature you have ever seen?
I think it would have to be anything by Ron’s Dollhouse’s. He creates the most beautiful, unique and interesting abodes for dolls.
Why miniatures?
I am fascinated with creating real-life items and food in miniature form.
What’s to come from Ella-Rose Miniatures?
I am exhibiting at the Dolls House & Miniatures Fair in York next month. I exhibit twice a year at York. I am always creating new minis and strive for perfection.
Other activities you enjoy?
I enjoy watching films, horror films in particular. I also enjoy reading, training my two dogs, cooking, baking, oil and watercolor painting, as well as spending quality time with my loved ones.
Words you live by?
“Being creative is not a hobby, it’s a way of life.” I love that saying.
What do you want miniature fans to know about you?
When I bought my first dollhouse as an adult many of my friends and family didn’t understand the interest and would ask, “what on earth do you want that for?” However, now that they have seen the end results of my work with miniatures, many of my family members have more dollhouses than I do and are just as enthusiastic about the hobby as I am! My biggest fan (and critic) has always been, and will always be my son.
Kerry of Ella-Rose Miniatures hails from Great Britain. If you’d like to view more of her marvelous miniature creations, head on over to her shop, blog, Facebook, or Twitter.
