Daily Mini Interview: Totally Handmade Miniatures

Totally Handmade Miniatures 

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DSC_0281 (2)What’s your earliest memory with miniatures?

The first miniature I ever made was a slice of watermelon when I was 5 years old. My auntie used to make ceramic flowers out of an air drying dough she used to make herself. She used to give me pieces of the dough to create miniatures while she made flowers. I loved her work and creativity, and she inspired me to work with clay and be creative.

How did you first get started making miniatures? How has your work evolved?

DSC_0241 (2)In 1995, I got my first dollhouse as my birthday gift from my uncle. I was so excited to play with it and decided to make whatever I didn’t have, using clay. I made a roasted chicken out of DAS clay, and this was my first creation later in life. Then my mother bought me a Play-Doh set with a vegetable mold that was about the size for a dollhouse. I didn’t use polymer clay until 2010. It was not available in Kuwait at that time, and I had to make an order for international shipment.

What is the most memorable miniature you have ever seen?

Before learning about polymer clay, I went through a site called pincstuff by a young girl who used to make ice cream cones out of polymer clay. I was so touched by her miniature work and details.

DSC_0211Advice for new miniaturists?

Details makes all the difference, even the smallest detail that you wouldn’t think matters.

Why miniatures? 

I loved playing with dolls in my childhood, and my dream was to mimic real life activities. Even now, I find it very challenging, yet amazing to be able to recreate natural effects and have them exist in miniature scale. Every new miniature project for me is an interesting challenge!

DSC_0263Upcoming projects planned? 

I’m planning to open my Etsy shop soon. I’m also sketching for a complete set of mini restaurants each by theme: Italian, Mediterranean, Chinese.

What do you want miniature fans to know about you?

I love making miniatures that challenge me, rather than straightforward, easy miniatures. After all, it’s all for fun!

Totally Handmade Miniatures are created by Israa from Kuwait, who now lives in Maryland, U.S. Have a look at some recent miniature creations on Instagram!
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Daily Mini Interview: Miniatures by Megan Hess

Miniatures by Megan Hess

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IMG_0160What’s your earliest memories with miniatures?

I think miniatures have always been a part of my life in one way or another. As a very young girl I can remember loving the feeling of holding something small in my hand. One of my earliest memories as a child was catching a teeny, tiny frog and trying to talk my mother into letting me keep it. She wasn’t persuaded.

How did you first get started making miniatures?

That’s an easy question to answer. My interest in anything creative comes from, and was nurtured by, my mother. She was always making something; our kitchen table was never really fit for eating on. Whether it was making dollhouses, or Christmas ornaments or Halloween costumes for my sister and me, the creative process was just a normal part of my childhood.

I was always interested in small things, and I had a whole collection of miniature animals, tea sets, and other knickknacks. However, I didn’t start feeling a need to make miniatures until I came across an article in Dolls House and Miniature Scene about Betsy Niederer. I saw all her wonderful miniature food scenes filled with Christmas and Halloween goodies and I knew immediately I wanted to make miniature food. My only sadness comes from the fact that I lost my mother, Sue, to pancreatic cancer four years ago, and she never really got to see any of the miniature food I made. It was something I’m sure we would have bonded over.

IMG_0157How has your work with miniatures evolved?

I’ve been making miniature polymer clay food for a little over four years now. When I first saw that article about Betsy Niederer, I didn’t even know what her miniatures were made of; I had no idea what polymer clay was. It was, what felt like, a long process doing research and learning as much about the craft as I could through the Internet, magazines and Stephanie Kilgast’s wonderful how-to book. I think the one thing I make that has improved the most since I started has been my cupcakes. For some reason, I just love miniature cupcakes, and I really focused in on trying to make the best one I could. It took me about two years before I was happy with the cupcakes I made, so that was definitely an interesting journey.

Favorite mini you own by another artist.

I really adore the cupcakes I have from Cindy Teh of Snowfern Clover. She is just the most amazing artist and person. I have also been lucky enough to be able to make a miniature wildlife scene under the instruction of Beth Freeman-Kane. I completed a framed kit with a pair of chickadees on a barbed wire fence and I really treasure it. In my humble opinion, Beth Freeman-Kane is the gold standard for miniatures, it just doesn’t get any better for me. If I could figure out how to get my hands on anything made by the incredible Tomo Tanaka of NuNu’s House I would be over the moon, but so far I just have his books, which are invaluable to me.

IMG_0159What inspires you?

As far as miniatures and art in general, this may not sound very unique, but I am so inspired by other artists. To see what people have created with their hands and minds really gets me going and in the mood to sit down at my little table in my bedroom and get to work.

To think that when a polymer clay artist begins their work all they have is a hunk of clay and somehow they end up with a beautiful little piece of art is just an amazing thing to me. The process from raw material to finished product is a thing of beauty. In everyday life I’m very inspired by people who face adversity in their lives with dignity and grace. Life can be harsh and unfair a lot of the time, and I always try to remember how incredibly lucky I am to have a wonderful healthy family and a fairly comfortable life when so many people all over the world have such great challenges to face.

What is the most memorable miniature you have ever seen?

I once saw miniature marital aids in an online store (you know what I mean) for the bedroom. It was a little kit complete with fuzzy handcuffs and a riding crop. I laughed so hard, and thought, now I’ve seen everything in miniature!

IMG_0162Words you live by?

When I am going through a particularly tough time in my life–and I have had several pretty bad ones–I try really hard to not think life is conspiring against me. I try to remember a quote by one of my favorite authors, Christopher Hitchens, ” To the dumb question ‘Why me?’ the cosmos barely bothers to return the reply: why not?” In other words, don’t take it personally, its just life, and none of us get out of it alive.

Advice for beginner artists and miniaturists?

Wow, this is a tough one. I suppose my reluctance to offer advice may stem from the feeling that I’m still very surprised to receive any attention at all in regards to my miniatures. If I can say anything, it would be to get online. I’m sure not everyone lives in a city where there aren’t any other miniature artists, but I am fairly certain I do. I swear for the first year, I thought it was me and half a dozen artists I read about in magazines. I was fairly certain I had the weirdest hobby next to those people who collect potato chips shaped like the U.S. Presidents’ faces. When I signed up for Facebook and started seeking out other polymer clay miniature artists I was pleasantly surprised to find a whole community of people who shared my interests. I guess it never dawned on me all the people who build dollhouses need to fill their kitchens with something. It was wonderful to find a supportive group of awesome artists ready and willing to offer advice, friendship and exchange ideas and techniques.

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The Internet is also a well of information, you really can learn how to do almost anything from YouTube. I would also recommend sculpting what you like, or what you enjoy sculpting. Don’t force things; if you like desserts then sculpt desserts. If you like savory foods, then sculpt them. There’s no need to try to force yourself into making something you’re just not that interested in.

Upcoming projects planned? 

I’m currently working on my first roombox scene. It’s the first time I’m trying to put the food I make all together in a cohesive scene and I am finding quite challenging. Making single items is one thing, but trying to put them all together in a collection that’s trying to tell a story or make a bigger picture is a horse of a different color. At the moment all four of my sons, Colton, Logan, Jonathan and Harrison, are all in school which would make one think there is more time for art, but I find it the exact opposite. Between laundry for six people, feeding six people, homework and trying to fit everything I need to without children at my feet in the hours they attend school, there isn’t much time for being creative. Luckily I have an ally in this, my husband David is incredibly supportive and does his best to get the kids out of the house to give me time to turn my brain off of mommy mode and into mini mode.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I would like to thank all the artists I’ve met online who have offered their friendship, advice, and kindness to me. I wouldn’t still be making miniature food if I hadn’t met them. And I wouldn’t be anywhere near as happy with what I’ve created so far without all the knowledge I’ve gained from what they’ve shared with me.

Megan Larayne Hess lives in Pueblo, Colorado. To see more of her amazing miniature food and mini creations, head on over to Instagram, DeviantArt, or Facebook

oranges by @megansminis. 🍊 check out this deliciously new interview with the artist: http://bitly.com/meganhess

A photo posted by The Daily Miniature (@dailymini) on

Daily Mini Interview: Miniature Lighting Designs by Lighting Bug Ltd.

Lighting Bug Ltd. Makers of Dollhouse Lights and Miniature Lighting

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660What’s your earliest memory with miniatures?

We moved to Hawaii when I was six and my parents bought us a top opening Hawaiian-style ranch house. Although it was 1:12 scale, over the years the five of us made it home to Barbies, G.I. Joes, Lone Rangers, and all their friends. The house was given away long ago but I still have some furniture, lighting, and accessories.

How did you first get started working with miniatures? Where does the interest in miniature lighting design stem from?

When Jim and I were first married, I saw an ad in the back of a magazine for the House of Miniatures kit-of-the-month club. When I had enough furniture kits made, I needed a house for them. So, I took an evening woodworking class at our local college and made a 5-story 15-room bookcase-style dollhouse that I designed. I still love to do miniature woodworking, and to the amazement of my friends, I actually have table saws in three sizes.

When I built my dollhouse, I wasn’t going to light it because of the expense. But when I finished the first floor, it was obvious it needed light to show off all the details in the rooms. Jim helped me come up with a hard-wired system that worked for such a big house. Years later, I made a chandelier in a lighting class taught by Scott Hughes and another in a class by Phyllis Tucker, both fabulous lighting artisans, and was inspired by the results. Now I can’t do a project without lighting it, no matter how small it is.

CH-MOR_LRGTell us a bit about how Lighting Bug Ltd. came to be.

Lighting Bug Ltd. was started in 1976 by Isabel and Tom Thompson. We bought the business from them in December 2005 and have been delighted to continue the legacy they started. We have two major milestones coming up. In December, we celebrate our 10 year anniversary and in 2016, Lighting Bug Ltd. will celebrate 40 years providing handcrafted lighting to dollhouse miniaturists. It feels pretty special to be a part of this history.

Did either of you previously work in the field of lighting design?

I was a small business accounting consultant and tax accountant which has the same mindset needed for detail work. Jim was an air-traffic controller which means he’s pretty good at details too. We’re both happy that making dollhouse lighting is less stressful than our previous careers.

Who designs Lighting Bug Ltd. miniature lights?

Jim is the techno-guru, web-master, photographer, and customer service for the business. Linda is the lighting artisan and business manager. We handcraft all of our lights and they are either our designs or designs we bought with the business. We were fortunate to buy a popular line of light designs that are still in demand today. We’ve added quite a few new designs since we bought the business and Jim and I have fun collaborating on some of the artsier ones. As small business owners, we wear a lot of hats and our skills blend very nicely.

CH-WWWhat are some of your best-selling works?

Our signature light is the bare bulb with the pull chain. There are so many places it can be used in projects and it’s just so cute. What sells best goes in phases. In the last few years anything Moroccan or Tudor sells very quickly. We make the largest selection of handcrafted dollhouse lighting in a variety of styles from Tudor to Contemporary in 1”, ½”, and ¼” scales so we have lights for just about any project.

What inspires you?

I watch HGTV in the background while I’m making lights, and pause the TV when they show the lights in the reveals. I also do a lot of custom work inspired by photos or drawings customers send us. And when I have the time, I like to play around with the hundreds (maybe thousands) of parts we have on hand and see what fun new light I can come up with.

100Advice for beginner artists?

Don’t start as big as I did!

The whole idea of lighting and electricity can be very intimidating and prevent miniaturists from trying to light their projects. The good news is that there are quite a few new techniques for lighting available now that make it so much easier than it used to be. We love to show customers how to wire their projects and we do offer advice by email and at shows. My advice: start with a small project like a roombox to gain confidence; and take a wiring class to learn tips and techniques. Our favorite saying is, “Lighting brings your miniature projects to life.”

What’s to come from Lighting Bug Ltd.?

Our next show is The Miniature Show in Chicago in April 2016. It has an unbelievable list of dealers and should be great fun. We are always working on new lights that we add to our online store and expect to reveal new ones at the show. We’ll start posting teasers on Facebook and other social media as the show gets closer.

CL-SFBBL_LRGWhat do you want miniature enthusiasts to know about you?

I am a miniaturist just like our customers. A fun time for me is working on a mini project in the company of my mini friends. I usually have two or three projects that I’m working on, and at least as many more in the queue. My current obsession is ¼ scale but I still love one inch scale best. Jim thinks our house looks like a miniature museum because of all my projects, but enjoys giving the mini tour when we have visitors.

Linda and Jim Orleff live in the beautiful state of Tennessee, in the lovely town of Fairfield Glade. To learn more about the work they do with Lighting Bug Ltd., head on over to their website, shop their online store, or follow along on Facebook.

Daily Mini Interview: Miniature Designs by Tom Lynall

Tom Lynall’s Miniature Jewelry Designs and Pencil Carvings 

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10453087_739859586055450_4850438126037476385_oTell us a bit about your background in jewelry design.

I have wanted to be a jeweler for my entire life; since I was about 4 specifically. I never really wanted to do anything else or experiment with anything career-wise. My dad’s a jeweler and he would take me to his shop, give me little jobs to do when I was a kid. I’ve loved it ever since then. I left school at age sixteen to immediately start training with another jeweler. After a few years, I left that jeweler, and would frequent my dad’s shop to create tiny models for fun. Eventually, I became qualified to work alongside my father, and I can officially say I’ve been a jeweler for twelve years now.

What’s your earliest memory with miniatures?

I can remember when I was four, I was given the duty to sort stones out by color. I enjoyed sorting through sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and more.10687036_906926426015431_58747239304539151_n

How did you get started with miniature pencil carvings? 

At first, I would see pictures of pencil carving sculptures on Facebook as well as around the Internet. On the 30th of November last year, I thought I would give it a go myself. My first pencil carving was a little red heart, which I made purely because I had found a red pencil.

Do you have a favorite carving?

I created a Batman vs. Superman carving, I guess that could be considered my “favorite” since everything seemed to fall into place just perfectly for that one in a rapid amount of time.

Do you keep all your carvings? 

I do keep all of my carvings, apart from a few which I have given away to people. I do not do these for money or anything, but for my own leisure.

10525682_739859022722173_5751603696795488200_nAnd do you have a favorite work of jewelry?

I had made a ghostship that was being attacked by a giant squid. It was a model that I had entered into a Goldsmiths competition a few years back. This piece resonates with me because it marked the first time I had ever had my work compared to others. It was also really cool because I won a Senior Modelmaker silver award, which was really special since I only made the model for a bit of fun.

How has your work with jewelry design evolved over the years?

When I had started experimenting with Discworld models, I eventually began to branch out and create more detailed pieces. I’m currently working on a commission which I can say has definitely been the biggest thing I have ever worked on: taking up over six months of my life.

gold-hare.94c92a60dfa58106b59084f52e50a8371What’s a unique material you’ve used in one of your jewelry designs?

The most unique tool or material I’ve resorted to using was one of my eyelashes, which was effectively used as a paintbrush to paint a miniature stained-glass lantern.

Technique you can’t live without?

When I am doing carvings, my hands need to remain in a certain position for the process to take place. I brace my blade in a certain way to hold the pencil, so that both of my hands are braced and only the blade moves to carve most efficiently. It’s steadier opposed to your hands moving backwards and forwards when they are not braced tight enough and holding the pencil in place.

10523530_740129259361816_4731228867917513303_nWhat inspires you?

Mostly, it is seeing other things that peers make. Also, whenever someone throws out an idea that something cannot be done, it pushes me that extra bit to give it a go and see what may come of it. Willard Wigan is my favorite artist hands-down. And a recent friend.

What is the most memorable miniature you have ever seen?

The most memorable miniature I have come across has to have been something from Willard Wigan’s work. It is just nuts to say the least, in a good way. His fairy on a toadstool in particular is probably my favorite that he has done.

small-knife-fork.94c92a60dfa58106b59084f52e50a8371What appeals to you most about your work with jewelry design and pencil carvings?

It’s my passion, it’s not work. It could be classified as more of a hobby, really. I just enjoy making pieces and seeing what I can come up with using my imagination and my own two hands.  I’m very lucky to be in my position. I enjoy being there to lend a helping hand to a friend who may have some broken jewelry, or need something constructed as a gift for a loved one. Not to mention, it’s a huge honor to make engagement rings for couples, truly.

What’s to come from Tom Lynall?

I am on a commission at the moment–the details of which I cannot fully disclose–but I can say it will be ready by April 2016. It will truly be one-of-a-kind, and by far the most complex piece I have ever worked on. After the commission is finished, I will be primarily focusing on projects for my own interest.

Months later, I went on to complete the 1,000 heart project, which you can learn more about here: http://www.1000heartcollection.com.

small-hate.94c92a60dfa58106b59084f52e50a8371Other activities you enjoy?

I’m quite amused by juggling; it can serve as an excellent stress reliever when I need a quick break. For the past 12 years, I have done a form of gymnastics called tricking. In my spare time, Super Mario is always a fun alternative.

What do you want miniature enthusiasts to know about you?

The biggest point I’d like to get across is I don’t do what I do for profit. I find it intrinsically fulfilling. I do it for my own personal satisfaction, which to me is a much better catalyst for any artistic motivation.

Tom Lynall is a specialist bespoke jewelry manufacturer located in Birmingham’s prestigious Jewellery Quarter. Having been in the industry for over a decade, Thomas has produced high quality sliver, gold and platinum pieces to the highest quality. To see more of his jewelry designs or miniature carvings, visit his website, Facebook or Instagram.

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Daily Mini Interview: Paper Miniatures by Jon Frier

Miniatures in Paper by Jon Frier

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IMG_5145How did you first get started making paper miniatures? Where does the interest stem from?

Oddly enough, my model-making stems more from an interest in (obsession with) aviation rather than my art background. I have a relative who is a WWII veteran. He was a Navy pilot and when I was younger, he told me about the planes he flew and all the experiences he had in the war. One day I was trying to figure out how to fold paper airplanes that looked like real planes, and I realized that I could do more than just fold the paper. I grabbed some cardboard and tape and scissors, and I made my first model plane. That was probably around 8th grade, and I’ve been honing the craft ever since. Until recently, I had only made model aircrafts.

untitled333What are you currently studying?

I am currently earning a BFA in Communication Design from Pratt Institute, with a focus on Graphic Design.

How have your studies at Pratt influenced your miniature designs?

The best thing about being at such a high caliber art and design college is that I am constantly surrounded by incredible people who are doing incredible things, both staff and students. Even if it isn’t miniature work specifically, I’m always learning about new techniques and processes from my peers. Also learning design and art from talented working professionals doesn’t hurt my craft either.

img_4122Do you have any favorite miniature projects you’ve created?

My favorite creations tend be the ones that allow me to try something new. It could be a new material, technique or subject matter. One of my favorites has to be the food cart. It was the first time I used digital printing and clay in my miniatures, and that opened the door to much smaller and more intricate works. I definitely want to do another one like it soon (possibly a newsstand).

Any new miniature paper designs in the works? 

I’m always thinking about what objects around me I can shrink. Lately, I have been working on some collaborative pieces with a couple of peers who do awesome small-scale clay models. I’m excited to show those off soon. I also had a lot of fun using light in my minis recently and I want to play more with that soon as well. My goal on that front is to somehow figure out how to make a tiny illuminated neon sign for a model. I have no idea how I’m going to do it.

IMG_5143What different materials do you use to make your miniatures?

I’ve probably tried everything you can imagine at some point. The work I do now is largely composed of Bristol paper, chipboard, clay and wire. The one thing I couldn’t make a mini without is glue (Locktite super glue is my best friend).

What is the most challenging aspect of working in small scale?

In short, hands and eyes. My hands are too big and my eyes are too weak.

img_4082Advice for beginner artists and designers?

Always be looking. When you’re walking around, look up, look down, look behind you. Look in places that seem like they have nothing to look at. Ask questions, talk to people. Inspiration is found at the oddest moments and in the oddest places. And then when that inspiration comes, make sure you have a notebook or sketchbook handy, or at least take a picture with your phone. Oh, and draw… a lot!

What inspires you?fullsizerender

Inspiration comes from the weirdest things. I have moments in my everyday life where I stop in my tracks and look at something and think, “I have to figure out how to make that tiny.” I’ve gotten in the habit of snapping pictures of all kinds of things that give me ideas.

Who inspires you?

Anyone that wastes his or her time doing art inspires me. But specifically: most of my professors, most of my peers and everyone who’s ever been featured on @dailymini.

IMG_5140What is the most memorable miniature you have ever seen by another artist?

Baltimore is home to the American Visionary Art Museum. Part of their permanent collecting is a 16-foot long scale model of the Lusitania by Wayne Kusy made entirely out of toothpicks. It is incredible.

What appeals to you most about your work with miniatures?

My favorite part of making miniatures is problem solving. Every project presents new challenges and I enjoy the process of tinkering and experimenting to figure out the right material or tool for the job. It is also extremely satisfying to be able to shrink my world down and put it on a shelf. It’s almost like a super power. Sometimes I find myself staring at a building or a vending machine or something and thinking, “what tool could I use to make that thing the size of a golf ball?” It is a fun way to look at the world.

img_4041Upcoming projects or exhibitions planned?

I would love to exhibit my work somewhere, I just don’t have the connections yet.

Other activities you enjoy?

I’ve been doing a lot of animation lately. I’m taking an animation class as an elective and I spend a lot of my free time doing that. Besides that, I always draw. I can’t tell you how many sketchbooks are piled up in storage back home. And the guitar is good for relieving stress.

Jon Frier is a PrattComD student currently studying Graphic Design. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, he now lives in Brooklyn, NY. Check out his portfolio on Behance, and see what he’s been making in miniature on Instagram!

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Daily Mini Interview: Miniatures by Thamer Alcigeary

Miniatures by Thamer Alcigeary

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CS6garlWUAEwZrOWhat’s your earliest memory with miniatures?

At first I was watching stop motion animated movies. I liked the rooms, all the places and small things, so I started working in miniatures.

I started working on miniatures in July 2014. I’ve developed my skills quite a bit over the past year, but I don’t sell any of my miniatures.CR2ttKuWwAARme5

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by old rooms.

What is the most memorable miniature you have ever seen?

I enjoy miniatures with a lot of details; there are many good artists creating miniatures now. A miniature sewing machine is always my favorite.

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Why miniatures? 

I chose the art of miniatures because I can make another world through this art and medium.

Upcoming projects planned? 

As a future business, I would like to make stop motion movies.

Thamer Alcigeary is from Baghdad, Iraq. To see more of his miniatures, visit Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr or Pinterest.
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Daily Mini Interview: Sweetbriar Miniatures

Sweetbriar Miniatures 

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tumblr_mdl00a22es1rb7q21o2_1280How did you first get started in miniatures? 

From an early age, I collected miniatures and wanted to get more into the dollhouse hobby, but when I was younger, it was very difficult to find houses and other pieces that weren’t designed to look 200 years old! So my interest stopped until I decided to create my own miniatures based on the world today, with modern meals, shabby chic decor, and food from around the world.

Do you have a favorite type of miniature you enjoy creating?

tumblr_m7mnf6q1my1rb7q21o1_500I like creating preparation sets, and have a couple I am working on at the moment. At the moment, I am enjoying creating savory pieces, which is slightly against the curve as bakery designs are very ‘in’ at the moment. I love creating seasonal pieces such as for Christmas, and I love spending time looking at others’ work to inspire me. I also like surprising my partner by creating his favorite meals and putting them in front of him at dinner time.

What unique materials have you used to make your miniatures?

Not unique materials as such, but the most inane household products can sometimes create the best effects or become makeshift molds when starting out on an idea. Hello, toothbrush, tin foil and sponges!

tumblr_n8rv9ylqtj1rb7q21o1_500Advice for new miniaturists?

Enjoy what you do and add your own creative flair! And don’t overdo it, as I found when I had carpal tunnel-like symptoms and had to rest my hands for three months.

Fellow miniaturists that inspire you?

There are lots! Instagram is the best way to find similar artists, and a great way to communicate through your work.

What inspires you?

I tend to spend half my time at restaurants taking photos or jotting down menu items to try and recreate at home in a smaller scale.

tumblr_m7wzbq00wj1rb7q21o1_1280Why miniatures? What appeals to you most about what you do?

It’s whimsical. I don’t have a dollhouse or own any dolls, but I just love working on tiny little pieces and try my hardest to make them look as realistic as I can. They’re like an illusion if you get the effect right.

What’s to come from Sweetbriar Miniatures?

I am working hard on new pieces to showcase and hope to open my Etsy shop soon. I am currently on maternity leave though, so my spare time is sparse at present!

Sweetbriar Miniatures is the work of Amy from Cambridge, England. To see many (mini) more of her lovely miniature food creations and more, follow along on Instagram!

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Daily Mini Interview: ACTÍVA Products Perfect for Miniature Making

Make Your Own Miniatures with ACTÍVA Products

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image9.JPGTell us a bit about how ACTÍVA Products came to be.

ACTÍVA Products, Inc. has been serving the arts and craft and hobby industry with the highest quality products for over 50 years! Our plant in Marshall, Texas prides itself on manufacturing high quality premium North American made craft materials such as our most popular CelluClay® – The Original Paper Mache, Blackjack Clay, Instamold, Permastone, Li-Qua-Che and our eye catching Scenic Sand.

mini donutACTÍVA supplies many other great products such as our Rigid Wrap which is a highly durable premium plaster cloth which is the best in the industry and a full line of clays such as La Doll, Premier, Activ Clay and Plus Clay. ACTÍVA provides products to complement our product line such as the Activ-Wire Mesh, Flower Art Silica Gel and many others. Our products continue to exceed the industry standard and are all ACMI certified as non-toxic.

microbakeryFor the past 50 years we have continually provided the best customer service to ensure customer satisfaction. ACTÍVA’s products are great for all ages and inspire creativity and the use of your imagination to provide endless enjoyment and fun!

What ACTÍVA products are best for beginner artists?

Products we recommend for beginning artists would be our CelluClay and our Hearty Clay (polymer air dry clay), because so many things can be made with it.

image7.JPGWhat ACTÍVA items would you recommend for those with a little more art experience?

All ACTÍVA Products are suitable for a wide range of expertise. The individual artist develops improved techniques as they progress, enabling a higher degree of sophistication from the product user.

Recommended age range of ACTÍVA product users?

The recommended age for most products would probably be 8+, but most of our products can be used by younger children, especially with adult supervision.

hearty clay skull

Is there a best selling product available through ACTÍVA? What about for miniature making?

CelluClay which is an instant papier-mâché clay is one of the most popular products, followed by our wonderful range of polymer air dry clays.

wedding favors3The best clay for miniatures would probably be Lumina, though some miniature artists actually use Li-Qua-Che which is a liquid papier-mâché in molds. Our Hearty Clay is also a great clay used for miniature clay projects.


Any ACTÍVA products work especially well together?

All of the air dry clays, including our clay, mix well together to give a different type or color of clay with different plasticity, texture and final appearance.

Also, our casting products allow you to make a replica of your favorite pieces with InstaMold and then cast. The replica in either Permastone or another casting compound is popular.

image2.JPGWhat do you want artists and creatives to know about your brand?

We have a created a good, high-quality range of basic crafting materials that have been tried and tested for a consistent outcome.

Opportunities and challenges within your industry you’d like to cite?

Although our brand has been around for 56 years and introduced many products to the marketplace, such as CelluClay and Rigid Wrap, we still strive to build brand awareness to those unfamiliar with our wonderful range of products. The good news is that crafts and hobbies are still popular.

Any favorite miniaturists you’d like to cite?

There are a few favorite miniaturists who we would like to mention: Hadyn’s Charms, miniature daisies, ParisMiniatures, This Charming Stuff, Kleineknetwelt, and amazin_crafts are all great artists and Instagram accounts that really stand out.

11174338_1564181043862325_6212085218712109120_oFavorite miniature motto?

“Good things come in small packages.”

What is it about these materials that keeps you coming back? Why do you do what you do?

These materials are fun and easy to work with. I think that as far as crafting is concerned, the miniatures have really taken over the industry in a sense. Think about it: who doesn’t love “mini” things? Whether it be a keychain, a pendant, other jewelry accessories, or even just a decoration topper for a party… mini is in and addicting!

What’s to come from ACTÍVA Products?

sparkle pumpkinsWe are continually creating a variety of new projects that can be accomplished using ACTÍVA products. These include a range of different clay products and other products we offer, available for use by kids and adults. We also include a step-by-step guide on how to replicate these DIY projects.

Anything else you’d like to add? 

We are leaders in new product development and are proud of the quality and innovation of the products we provide. We always pre-test all of our products before they are exposed to the market and all of ACTÍVA Products and non toxic and wheat and gluten free.

Interested in making your own miniatures? Shop a wide selection of items available through the ACTÍVA Products website. You can see what creations have been made using ACTÍVA Products by following along on InstagramFacebook and Twitter

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Daily Mini Interview: Ron Stetkewicz Miniatures

Ron Stetkewicz Miniatures

|   Website   |   Facebook   |  Instagram  |

umbrella stand w canesWhat’s your earliest memory with miniatures?

I’ve been doing this since I was tyke. I can remember falling asleep under a table in Syracuse back in 1980-1, being woke up for snoring too loud. I can remember my brothers covering my hand in resin to try and make a mini hand. That had to be 1979.

I wasn’t formally trained in miniature art until I attended the IGMA Guild School in Castine this year. I also learned through an apprenticeship under my Dad. His shop was always open to do whatever: minis or fill your tire with air or make a sword for a Halloween costume. That’s how I run it today: a place to get it all done. There’s a lot of processes that can be done there.CUTTY-3

Do you have a favorite type of miniature you like to create?

I enjoy making miniatures out of brass. I don’t have favorites, it’s all the same flow. I can only make anything for short spurts and if it’s caste statues or the intricate hour glasses, they are all felt for equally.

Do you have any favorite miniatures?

GneshI don’t collect for myself. My Mom was the big collector, she had everyone’s best stuff from the 1970s through the 2000s. The collection was given away when we split the estate. There were some great pieces in that collection. Originals by Alice Zinn, dolls by Jane Spain and Joan Benzell. Chet Spacher weldings, Bauder Pine works, all gone.

I do collect music instruments for my son, Ronnie, and little books and mini worldly treasures for my daughter, Kayla. She loves going to miniature shows.

swordWhat material do you find the most challenging to work in?

I’m not looking for a challenge, I work in what I know. I’ve been learning woodwork and at Castine I learned working with polymer clay and oil paints. I learned so many valuable things that I think I might write a book. There was so much learning and meeting new friends that I couldn’t summarize it in one statement.

What advice would you give to an IGMA Scholarship Student?

Soak it all in. As much as you can.

P1020938What inspires you?

Inspiration is a funny thing. It can be a dreamt up idea that makes me want to work until the piece is done, or my inspiration can be because I’m flat and need the cash. Either way, it’s my family that keeps me from chaos. My parents got me into this and I plan on doing the same for my children. The true inspiration was my dad, now the true drive is passing things along to my kids.

What can we expect from Ron Stetkewicz Miniatures in the future?

My door accessories in stores across the country. I will be unveiling my product line at the Philadelphia Miniaturia from November 6-8.

Anything else you would like to add?

I’ve seen a lot of years in this business from my behind-the-scenes vantage point. I want this industry to rebloom. It’s time breathe new life into this mini world.

Ron Stetkewicz Miniatures is located in Cairo, New York. To view more of Ron’s work or to buy a miniature of your own, check out his website, Instagram, Facebook, and Miniatures Site.

Daily Mini Interview: Miniature Characters by Longefellowes Designs

Miniature Sculptures and Accessories by Longefellowes Designs

|  Website  |  Daily Mini Studio Visit  |

koiyama_bk_pngDescribe your background in the arts and your first memories with sculptures.

I’ve been doing something artistic and/or crafty since probably around the age of three. I honestly can’t remember a time when I wasn’t doing something, whether it was painting, drawing, needlework, drafting, sewing, designing, building…the list goes on. I have a lifetime of skillsets and muscle memory built up by now, and though I’m largely self-taught, I’m always looking to learn new skills and apply what I know to new tasks and challenges. I’ve taken classes on a variety of techniques and subjects throughout the years to augment my skill sets. Sculpting didn’t actually begin for me until fall 2006 when I decided (mostly on a lark) to take a polymer clay dollmaking class. Prior to that, I hadn’t sculpted anything (I don’t count the pinch pots ubiquitous to grade school art classes). I discovered that I had a talent for it, and over the course of a year or two, made the switch from cloth dolls to polymer clay sculpting. In winter 2008, I made the switch to 1:12 scale.

Do you remember the first miniatures that made a lasting impression on you?

That’s tough, but I can think of three things that definitely stayed with me through the years and paved the way for a return to miniatures. We had a train set when I was little… I can still smell that rank ozone the transformer puts out. I loved all the tiny details in the cars and engine… itty bitty pistons and wheels, ladders, hatches… the works. I wouldn’t let my parents get rid of it when they downsized, so I have all the cars in a box in storage. I hope to be able to rig up a display track someday.

11057747_749821460270_4375559361798221310_nI was also fascinated with the accessories that went along with Barbie: the tiny shoes, handbags, clothing, all sorts of ephemera. In fact, I was usually more interested in them than the dolls themselves; the dolls were more a means to an end than the actual focus of my machinations.

I also still have some of the very first actual miniatures I can remember from when I was little: tiny pot metal figures (one was a dog, I believe), a couple of turned jugs/vases, and a few other random things. I can recall exactly the fascination I had with how wee the jugs and goblets were, and the realization that “someone made that. How did they make such a tiny thing?” Miniatures still fascinate me to this day, and mostly for the same reasons.

What scale do you enjoy working in the most?

I’m most comfortable working in 1:12 scale and slightly smaller, probably 1:18 or 1:24 at the smallest. Partly because there’s far more accessories and scale-related items that I can use with my sculpts, or use as inspiration. I occasionally do 1:48, but that’s a real bear.

moorish_merch_bk_pngI didn’t have any difficulty transitioning from 1:4 down to 1:12 and smaller – it was a very natural thing for me. Working large is just uncomfortable, physically and mentally. I’m short, and have tiny hands–not kidding, I have to buy children’s gloves–and I just find smaller proportioned things to be more relatable, I suppose.

When I took a sculpting class recently (I took it because it offered a chance to learn to use a new sculpting medium), the bust was worked in near life-size, and it was…difficult, at least at first, because everything just felt ginormous and awkward. I guess you can get used to almost anything, really. Mostly, I’ve found that when switching scales (regardless of how big or small you’re going) keeping things in proportion is probably the thing that requires the most attention; the methods are largely the same regardless of how big/small you’re working.

Daily Mini recently visited the Longefellowes Designs studio — see the photos here!

Do you ever create works of miniature sculpture without the intent to sell them? 

Not generally, no, unless you count gift-giving, and I rarely give my sculpts away. I mean, what would I do with all this stuff? The challenge and fun for me is in the making, not so much the keeping. As to favorites, I have a few that I’ve kept (not including class work, which I keep as a matter of principle). One is called “I Need a Jump,” featuring the Bride of Frankenstein’s Monster as a partially bandaged pinup (of course), holding miniature jumper cables. I didn’t make her with the intent to keep her, but I liked her well enough that I decided that if she hadn’t sold by a specific date, I was retiring her and keeping her. And now she supervises me from my “trophy
shelf.”

What’s your favorite style of fireplace to create and why?12190979_749821355480_5444496937381252009_n

Not sure I have a favorite. Visually I like the ornate ones (think Rococo and Baroque), but those are a pain to paint. The flatter-surfaced types are easier to paint with the faux marbling, but don’t have quite as much “presence.” Eventually, I’ll make one in a hybrid style, but I’m going to have to teach myself how to carve wood first. Oh no! I have to learn something new!

Tool, technique or material you could not live without?

That’s tough! I use almost everything! Seriously, that’s the fun of figures; I get to nerd out over the anatomy, and the physics required to get them to balance. And then I get to play with fabric, trims, metal findings, beads, accessories, furniture, or whatever else I decide needs to go with the figure, and all the various tools and techniques that go into all of the above. True multi-media, including sound; I usually wind up swearing at the little buggers at some point.

But back to the question, I’m not sure there’s an answer. Because, other than my eyes and hands (which might be a cheap and possibly pompous sounding answer), I can’t think of anything that I couldn’t figure out how to replace or find another way to make it work. If I think about it, if you take away my favorite knife, I can go find a saw or some other implement of destruction that equally results in bandaged fingers. If you take away my favorite clay, I can go find another clay to use. In fact, I’ve had to do that when manufacturers changed the formulation of their product, so….yeah. Doesn’t mean I’d be happy if you took away my favorite stuff, but I’d learn to cope.

What’s the most challenging aspect of creating a miniature sculpture?

That depends on the scale. The smaller it gets, the trickier it is overall. Half scale figures take almost the same amount of time as a 1:12 scale figure. SONY DSCGlobally though, while getting them to balance on their own is often hard, I’d have to say I have the most difficulty with hands – the clay pieces are so thin and small at that point, the heat from my own hands makes the clay sticky; it’s like trying to sculpt with joint compound (I’ve tried that – it doesn’t work well). So as a result, it’s tricky to get the right proportions and detail level without ruining all my effort due to the tools or my hands melting, sticking, or squashing everything.

What’s the most unexpected material you’ve used in one of your works?

I don’t tend to think of media as anything other than “this fits the purpose, so use it,” so I don’t go out of my way to consider putting something into a piece just for the novelty of having it there. Miniaturists are weird that way; we all just sort of see new purposes for things – a marble might become a crystal ball, jewelry findings become candlesticks, bullet casings get turned into beer steins, wristwatch parts get re-imagined into a variety of steampunk creations. And yes, I’ve done all of those things.

Have a favorite miniaturist you’d like to mention?

Oh, there’s a huge list of people whose work I admire – but if I start listing artists, I’ll inevitably leave someone out accidentally, and I don’t want hurt feelings. But I do have a couple of particularly good friends within the miniatures community. The sort of people who act as a sounding board, give “attaboys” when earned, inspire nefarious ideas, are willing to plot and scheme with me, and most importantly, give a reality check and/or a kick in the ass when I need it, whether or not I’ve asked. You know, the type who stick around even after they find out just how insane you really are. Everyone needs friends like that. So yes, public thanks to both Bill and Deb for the shenanigans and even the occasional boot. You both are awesome.

Advice for beginner artists?

Stop trying to convince yourself that you can’t do something, especially if you’ve never even tried. Just go do it. Everyone starts from ‘zero,’ and it’s not a competition, except against yourself and whatever you just finished. Go try [insert skill here]. And then do it again. And again. I guarantee your second one will be better than the first, and your third better than your second. Take a class, try it out. Heck you might find out you hate [insert thing here], and then you can then take a class in [insert next thing here]. Or you might discover you love doing it. This is why workshops at shows are such great ideas; try before you buy, as it were.julia png

Just go do it. Because you know what? If you wait until you think you’re “ready,” you’ll never do it. Because no one is ever ready for anything. DO IT.

What inspires you?

I get inspiration everywhere. Inside jokes, regular jokes, off-hand remarks during conversations, people watching, even random things I see on the telly, in print, or on the Internet. Doesn’t mean I turn every idea into a sculpted figure, but I keep adding to my list.

Motto that keeps you creating?

I have two that immediately come to mind: “If you don’t ask, the answer is automatically ‘No.’” and “What If…”

In addition, just the desire to continue to learn and improve keeps me moving forward. Every piece I make, the first thing I see once I’m done is where I could have done better—outside of any deliberate exaggerations or makers marks—and, I try to address those issues in the next piece. And the next, and the next. It’s a constant process.

What’s to come from Longefellowes Designs?

I have three upcoming sculpting classes: a full day class at the Philadelphia Miniaturia on Thursday, November 5 (plus I’m also vending at the show), a half-day workshop at D. Thomas Fine Miniatures on Sunday, December 13, and just announced, a half-day workshop at the Sturbridge Miniatures Festival on Saturday, June 4, 2016 (plus I’m also vending at the show). I even occasionally remember to update my website, so as I add shows and classes for 2016, I’ll be listing them.

Stacey pngUpcoming projects include some new original fireplace mantel designs that I’m currently building, and of course new sculpts. I have three dolls in progress right now. I also have some commission projects I’m working on.

Other hobbies and activities you enjoy?

I have more things I like doing than I have time for, both in miniature and in real life. I could probably fill three lifetimes just with the stuff I want to do!! But outside of the impossible (unless someone gives me a TARDIS), I enjoy baking, watching most sports, spoiling the hell out of a few select people, and, not related, cuddling up on the sofa with my weenie dogs. Oh, and the occasional dram of Single Malt Scotch. Purely medicinal, of course.

What do you want miniature enthusiasts to know about you?

Maybe to correct a common misconception, since everyone seems to assume my business name is named after the poet. The truth is, it’s named for my weenie dogs: they are the Longefellowes! As an aside, and not that anyone will really care, but I do not generally like poetry. Longfellow’s or anyone else’s.

Longefellowes Designs was created by Bev Gelfand. You can see many more of her miniature characters and fireplace mantel designs on the Longefellowes Designs website! Have a little look inside Bev’s studio here.