I’ve been awake since 4:45 am. I’m not real happy about that. Lack of sleep, the inability to concentrate or remember things, a short temper, spontaneous tears; all are, I’m sure, part of the grieving process. Don has to fill in the blanks for me when I say something like, “You know….that series with Kevin Spacey….the one we like…. you know…”
“House of Cards?”
Frustrated. “Yes. Why can’t I remember that?”
And so it goes.
But, hey, it’s 6:34 am and I’m already writing my post for the day while Scout snoozes in the ‘Tunnel.’ That can’t be all bad.
Let’s talk about what I did yesterday for seven hours straight, in my painting clothes, hair unwashed. Because once I get going on something I am like a dog with a bone, I push myself beyond the point at which I should stop.
The talented Amy Powers, who blogs at Inspire Co., created Club Little House (for all of us who love miniatures) several years ago and occasionally, she conducts a swap. The last one I can remember was when I was first getting into my dollhouse and I didn’t feel remotely qualified to take part. I still don’t.
But when Debby told me that Amy had a new swap going on, I bit the bullet and signed up. Now, I am really not a miniaturist. I tweak, I play, I build a few things, but I’m very much a beginner. In this swap, we are to come up with some miniature that we can make 12 of. We send our creations to Amy and she puts everything together and soon we are opening a box with 12 different miniatures created by members of the swap. Sounds like fun, doesn’t it?
I racked my brain trying to come up with something. When I finally did, I had to order some supplies that took a while to get here because they were sent from England, though I somehow didn’t get that fact because this website has an American version as well, so I thought everything was being shipped here. I was a little panicked about whether my supplies would arrive in time. But they did. Everything arrived on Wednesday.
My first idea was to make a small hanging/coat/hook/rack. The mini hooks were brass, so the first thing I did was spray paint them white.
Then I used some of the wood trim I had on hand and cut several pieces 2¼” long – since the scale is 1:12, that means that one mini inch equals one foot in the real world. So this would be 2¼’ long in reality.
I stained and painted each piece of wood. Then I sanded the painted pieces down in order to give them a more rustic look.
Then I glued the hooks on.
Twelve hanging hook/coat/racks. (I never know what to call them.)
I made a prototype for myself and here is what it looks like in the dollhouse:
I think I’ll make one to hang towels on in the bathroom.
The other mini that I made was inspired by the wooden crate I bought from a seller on Etsy. He did such a nice job with it. The same miniature site that had the hooks in stock also had mini crates, so I ordered them as well. I searched the internet for free printable miniature images and finally settled on a label that I really liked. I finally figured out how to print several of the same image on one page (I know. It’s probably perfectly obvious to you. But not to me.) I cut out each of the labels with the aid of a metal ruler and an Exacto knife.
Here’s the prototype I made:
Because French labels are pretty. They just are. There is a label on the front and the back.
Each crate was first painted with a base coat of white.
Then they were painted in aqua and the corners were sanded to age them a bit. Next, I glued the labels on to each crate.
And voilà!
Nothing complex or intricate; nevertheless, it took me a long time to add each element, to paint, layer, sand and glue .
I’m pretty happy with these and I’ll wrap them up and send them off to Amy on Monday. Can’t wait to see what other swap participants have created!
Happy Friday.
Good morning Claudia, The crates look like they come from a flower company ready to ship out the goods. Everyone needs a place to hang up their jacket. very very cute! Doris
Thank you, Doris!
Clearly, you are more than qualified enough to participate in the swap! It’s a great idea and good for you for taking it on. Your projects are simply darling. I have been slowly building my room boxes, but have found it too challenging for these old fingers and my lack of work space to actually make anything for my little dream house. I tried my hand at wallpapering with tape, not sure of my results. Seems I need some cornice boards to hide my errors, but I am having quite a good time. Thanks for your how-tos and inspirational projects.
By the way, if you ever decided to do a weekend get-together to make small projects in your own style, I’d love to meet up with like-minded folks in your area for some tea and teaching!! I’ve heard you’re a great teacher!! I’d pay to attend. ‘-)
What a neat idea, Nora! I will definitely consider that for the future. Wouldn’t that be fun?
Oh just adorable. I hope I get one. You must be swapping twice. I can’t wait to see what everyone is doing. I posted mine and shipped them out. Have a good weekend. I know this one will be hard. Hugs
I’m not swapping twice, Debby. Frankly, I was worried that my little hooks might not be good enough, so I made two things. It was a good exercise for me!
Claudia, you should give yourself more credit. These are very cute and practical miniatures and they are perfect for the swap. Great job. Have a wonderful day. Tammy
Thanks so much, Tammy!
claudia…mailed your little package FINALLY today…i mailed you the rocking horse in case you knew someone who could use it….hope you enjoy your “little” gift!!! sharon
I may use it, Sharon! Who knows? Thanks so much! xo
They are all lovely.
You are inspiring and I agree with Nora above. Consider doing some workshops in your area.
You’ve got the wheels in my brain a-turning!
OH Yes I’ll be out your way in July??? -Judy A
I’m thinking. But I’m not good at organizing these kind of things…..
Let me ponder this one.
Hi Claudia,
I couldn’t sleep past three or four o’clock in the morning for the longest time after my dad passed away three years ago – it will get better. There are so many markers along the journey of grief, so much ebb and flow. You think you are “over it” and a wave takes you under again. The truth is, you never get over the loss. Be gentle either yourself, move slowly, your balance will return.
Thank you for your kind words regarding my sampler, you are a big sweetheart to comfort me during this time for you. My partners reaction to my sampler was very “small” and subdued, so I know she was less than thrilled. Oh well, such is life, huh?! Thankfully I overheard other people saying they liked it before they knew it was mine or that I was standing behind them and hearing them.
Oh! I used to love watching Club Little House years ago. Your towel rack and crates are darling, can’t wait to see what everyone made!
Sally xo
Goodness, what kind of person is she? Isn’t the whole idea of a swap to share things that are intensely personal? Not just to impress? (That’s a good lesson for me to learn, as well.) If it’s created with love and from the heart, it’s priceless.
xo
Ay yi yi auto correct drives me insane, sorry for the strange correction, that I didn’t see argh.
My impression is the core attendees are a very close knit group and she probably expected to receive a sampler from someone she knew and she didn’t know how to react when it was both from someone she didn’t know and something she didn’t care for?? I’m an introvert and new people throw me completely off kilter. Who knows, maybe I’ve got it all wrong – wouldn’t be the first time, plus I’m pretty weird myself LOL. Oh well …
Close knit = cliquey. Hmmm.
No, I didn’t get that vibe. People were very nice. It’s probably all just me, my zero self esteem, etc. I’m such a noodle head.
Oh good. I’m glad that wasn’t the case. I am shy at heart, so those kind of get-togethers intimidate me!
Thanks for commiserating with me Claudia, I’m shy and introverted – the dreaded double whammy! Plus the message in my family was “you’re never good enough”. OUCH and good grief, can’t I move on at sixty years of age?!
I read your comment below about grieving for others in the past – yes! losing your parents is a whole new world of grief. When I lost my dad, I found yet another new wrinkle – being the sole survivor of ones family of origin, an orphan. I was so lost and alone, I found a grief group and was helped through the unbearable loss and sadness.
I’m sorry you are missing the comfort and closure of a memorial service. Are there any things that are part of a memorial service that you could do for yourself? Make a scrapbook, ask people to tell you memories of your mom?
Thinking of you, sending lots and lots of hugs your way!
Claudia, a very important lesson I’ve learned over my journey this year,(I can’t believe it’s been a year since I lost my girl!)
Grief literally, changes your brain chemicals.I’ve tried to help my friend here,who lost her Mom this year understand. None of this is being lazy, or “just snap out of it” you aren’t doing any of this on purpose.
Now I do need to correct you on one thing, OH Yes You are so too a miniaturist! -Judy A-
I grieved over the loss of many people in my life, including my brother. But this one is unique – it’s my mother. And because we didn’t have a funeral or a memorial service, I don’t really have any closure. It makes this journey a very strange and hard one.
Thanks for your kind words about my little creations!
Every loss affects each of us differently … the loss of a parent, (maybe) especially a mother, I think is uniquely hard. It’s that one person who has loved us unconditionally since before we were even born – and she’s gone. It does something to us that takes a while to recover from. It’s been 3 years since I lost my mom, and I still have moments when I want to call and tell her something … and then I remember she’s not here. It will get better Claudia <3
On another note – LOVE what you're contributing to the trade! It will be exciting to see all the goodies you get in return!
Thank you for your kind words, Debbie.
I am excited to see what others have created!
Love those crates – adorable! You are quite talented – I have no idea how in the world you can have such nimble fingers to work with AND BUILD such miniature items! It will be fun to see the 12 items you get back in return.
It ain’t easy! Sometimes I feel all thumbs!
Claudia they are both so cute and so you! What a fun swap and can’t wait to see what comes in the package! Hope you get some rest tonight!
hugs, LInda
Me too! I think I’ll be in bed very early, my friend.
Your items are darling! I would love to have them, I know the participants will , too. I worry about the clique aspects in these craft groups, I don’t think it is intentional but the result of frequent meetings and similar interests. It is crazy at our ages to have poor self images. We are all unique!
Yes, I suppose that frequent meetings and a history of working together can do that – even if it’s unintentional. There’s a shared bond.
Here’s to uniqueness!
Oh, Claudia, your hooks and crates are amazing! What lucky recipients they will be!
Please don’t be hard on yourself for your lack of focus during this time. As you said, you have grieved previously over other losses, but this one is so very different. After 10 years, as another commentator said, now when I try to remember something, or want to share something, I still reach for a phone. Nearly every day I think of all the things I wish I had asked about and discussed with my mom. For those who still have their mom with them, it is something to think about while you still have the time. With such a loss we truly recognize how short life truly is.
I hope you can sleep tonight, and also that you know we are all thinking of you as you move ahead.
Thank you for your support, Chris. You and all of my readers have been wonderful.
So cute! I have an old dollhouse in my basement that belonged to my grandma. My adult daughter can’t bear to give it away. Maybe I should bring it up and work on it….
You’ve inspired me.
Clara
Oh, that’s nice to hear, Clara. Go for it!
Such nice work!
Those symptoms seem very familiar, to me.
Hang in there! Well, what else CAN you do?!
Not much else, my friend. Just have to go with it, I guess.
I am so impressed, Claudia. I love both things that you made.
Any type of stress or grief can cause the symptoms that you are experiencing. Just allow yourself to grieve and in time they will lesson. Thinking of you, my friend.
xo
Laura
Thank you so much, Laura.
Oh how darling!! I cant imagine that anyone will have anything any more precious than your two items. Love the little rack and the little crate is darling too. You do such fantastic work in whatever you do!
Judy
Oh, thank you, Judy! It’s a lot of fun. You’ll love working on your dollhouse, too!
Well done, Claudia! You are now a real, hooked, miniaturist. Once you start swapping you can’t quit. You did great on both items. The recipients will be proud to show them off!
I take that as high praise from someone with your skill set, Casey! I’m just starting out and I count you as one of the most inspiring miniaturists out there. Thank you for everything you do. And for sharing it with us. xo
Those are adorable! So cute! You really needn’t be so modest…you are quite talented! Enjoy the rest of your day! ;)
Thank you, Donna! I assume you’re home safe and sound!
Yes…we made it! It’s always nice to get away…but it’s always terrific to get home! Our trees have mini leaves…finally! ;)
So do ours! Will wonders never cease?
Ha! Well, after this past winter….it really DOES seem amazing I think! There was almost a line in Illinois…one half of the state has leaves….and the top part…not so much! So, I’ll take mini leaves any day! ;)
I love both the crates and the racks. Very charming and so cottage. I take a Benedryl at night. It helps me sleep. I keep forgetting things too. It really frustrated me at first, but now I am getting used to it. It does get better, I promise.
Big Texas Hugs,
Susan and Bentley
Thank you, Susan. I know you understand. I didn’t have trouble getting to sleep, it was waking early and not being able to turn off my thoughts. Ah, well.
You are grieving Claudia. It is perfectly OK if you can’t think, can’t sleep, get moody. Who says you have to be cheery all the time? You don’t have to be!
My mom has been gone since 1991. Just the other day I thought to myself that I should call her to tell her something. I just smiled and knew she knew. And your does too.
Your contributions to the swap are wonderful. Your are so right about French labels. The are very pretty. I love the little hook to have by the door.
I think when you do your teaching retreat it should be more centrally located so more of us can attend. I suggest Minnesota.
Ah, Minnesota – perhaps nearer to your home? xo
I love the miniature pieces you’ve created. Your coat hooks and crates are such a pretty color and love the french label too! I’ve developed a love for miniatures from visiting your blog. I’ll add them to the long list of things I want to get done someday. Looking forward to seeing what everyone makes in the swap!
Me too, Diane!
I am impressed lady..wow..I can’t wait to learn to make some things too..If Casey says you are doing good you should believe you are doing good..That woman is amazing!!..I am shooting for Sunday to start building my house..
Casey is incredibly talented!
Well done you! The hook racks and little crates are really charming, you have certainly qualified to wear your ‘I’m a miniaturist’ cap :)
Well….maybe! I’m at the bottom of the ladder, Norma!
Claudia-
Craziest thing- I could have sworn I left you a message today! I saw your adorable little minis! I wanted to tell you that you are so talented. You shouldn’t be afraid to join in on the swap! Im sure that the others will be happy to have them . I came back here to double check and read all the comments ; well because you always respond! I don’t know what happened why it didn’t go through. But I was watching the ballgame our teams are playing in Arlington tonight.
I’m glad I came back I wanted to tell you- to hang I there. I can’t imagine not having a service for closure. Might I suggest a trip to the garden enter for you and Don? Perhaps you can plant something I your yard or garden. A memorial planting. Maybe that will help you during this grief period. As you’re planting say those goodbyes and let peace fill your heart. I am praying for you this Mother’s Day friend. I do miss my mom on Mother’s Day and she has been gone 14 1/2 yrs. This is longer than I intended. – Pat
So sorry for the typos- it’s these phat iPhone phingers! Watching the Rangers and Boston play is what reminded me to come back and check in again. Pat
We planted a wildflower garden for her, Pat. I may add another plant or tree in the future. Thanks for your words of support!
How cute, and fun. I bet the swap will be a blast.
I think it will!
Hello Claudia, I’ve joined the swap too and didn’t feel quite qualified either. Your dollhouse is wonderful tho, and I had hoped you had joined too. I can’t wait to receive my little coat hook and crate! They will be perfect in my dollhouse. I sent out little birthday parties! Take care, and love your blog!
Kim, I now there are at least 28 participants and we’re getting 12 items, so whether these will be in your package, I’m not sure! And I’m trying to decide whether I send them individually rather than 2 to a package. Not sure yet. Amy said it would be fine to send them as two different swaps.