The beautiful Rose of Sharons in bloom. They only bloom for a short while, so I’m enjoying them while I can. I’m also determined to take in the gardens as much as possible, as we are now in mid-August and September is around the corner. Even though I’m kind of ready for Autumn, I don’t want to wish away this time – it has been a spectacular year for the gardens.
After cleaning up my workspace, I started in on this: the third floor landing. This took me 4 – 5 hours yesterday. It always takes much longer than I expect it to. I went with a lighter stain up on floor number 3. I suppose if I had wanted to be consistent, I would have gone with the darker stain. I don’t know, I just thought ‘lighter and brighter’ so I went with it.
I stain each popsicle stick individually, cut off the curved ends, and start laying them – one by one. I have to cut many of them to fit small areas like the very top of the stairs. Often, as in this case, I have to add oddly shaped additions. The wall on the right was – as are many things in this house – crooked. It slants to the right. I didn’t know that until I started in on this area and then it quickly became obvious.
Next: the much smaller expanse of floor in the artist’s alcove. I don’t know why, but I have a yen to paint the floorboards red. Maybe to signal that this is where the homeowner lets go and has fun? I think so.
I have to be careful. I scan my IG dollhouse and miniatures feed and it’s very easy to feel cowed by the talent and skill I see everywhere. That’s how I feel this morning. It can be overwhelming. And I also get overwhelmed by the amount of accessories and furniture I need to get in order to furnish this house. So I stop and take a deep breath and remind myself that it is a process. And generally, I really enjoy the process.
Back to tax stuff this morning. Now, that’s a process I do not enjoy.
Stay safe.
Happy Friday.
I’m wondering if you can use 3D printed furniture for some of your needs in this house. You had such good success with the stove. Is it less expensive than handmade pieces? I have no experience with dollhouses.
I’m hesitant about most 3d printed furniture. I like real wood and metal. It worked with the stove because it was able to mimic enamel and chrome. And the dark green cubby cabinet worked because I painted it in a way that made it look real. But for the most part, I want handmade pieces that bring a real-life feeling to the dollhouse.
Thanks so much, Ellen.
Stay safe.
beautiful! looking forward to seeing more, both the in-process and results of your time and efforts.
also, telling us of the hours it took you to do something serves as a reminder to me of two things … that one of many blessings of retirement is having longer stretches of time to pursue interests and happiness, the fun stuff, and about what consistent efforts can do over time (note to myself: so just do it, kathy!!!).
thanks, claudia.
happy, safe friday to everyone!
kathy
Yes, to longer stretches of time, Kathy.
Stay safe.
BIg deep breath. The floors look great!
Thanks so much, Jeanie.
Stay safe.
Claudia, how do you cut the popsicle sticks? And why do you stain before you cut? Is there sanding involved? I like knowing process as well as seeing the final product.
Hope taxes are done soon so you can use your time for more pleasant pursuits.
With a special wood cutter. I like doing the entire stick. The staining is smoother than way. Sometimes, there is sanding involved. Just depends.
Taxes will be done by Saturday or I’ll have to have words with Don! My part is done.
Stay safe, Wendy.
The floor looks great, Claudia. Your doll house is a work in progress and you want to enjoy every step. Maybe there are tutorials on line for making some of the furniture you’ll need? You’re very clever with your hands so maybe? Your gardens are lovely. Rose of Sharon is a favourite of mine especially the pink. Enjoy your weekend. Hope Don get’s those taxes done! No fun, I know.
Hugs, Elaine
I’m ready with my end of it – which, to be honest, is much more than he needs to do!
He knows I’m ready, so that puts some pressure on him.
Stay safe, Elaine.
Your yard is so beautiful! Great job!
Thank you so much, Darlene.
Stay safe.
The floors look great. You are so creative and capable with your hands. Do you know what I mean? Your creative mind is able to transmit to your hands what to do.
Your rose of sharon reminds me of my grandpa. He had a big “bush” of the white and pink center ones. It made me tear up.
Take Care,
Kaye
A good memory, I hope. I love rose of sharon – they have a wonderfully old fashioned quality.
Stay safe, Kaye.
Hi Claudia! I think the attic floor looks great with the lighter stain. You have such great instincts for this! The upper floors probably never got waxed and didn’t build up the darker layers… at least that is how I would explain it. :) I don’t follow social media (other than blogs) so I keep away from that competitive feeling of showing off to create envy, rather than just sharing a creative idea. But I am probably just prejudiced against the instagram thing…. it just always struck me as less personal. And the artist studio with a red floor….? that gets really bohemian….. I look forward to seeing this! (I paint on my walls too…. ) no holds barred…. it’s Your creation follow your inspiration!
I love Instagram and I have to make clear that I have not witnessed any competitive feeling there. Just wonderfully imaginative and talented dollhouse lovers displaying their work. I never witness anyone showing off to create envy, rather, they share because they’re proud of what they’ve done. Any feelings of inadequacy were simply due to my head space on a particular day. I love the inspiration I gain from seeing the work of other miniature lovers.
Stay safe, Betsy.