Here are the participants in Create's Year Long Challenge (CYLC2024) who have COMPLETED their project.
Participants are in alphabetical order by last name.
Progress for participants who did not finish can be found here.
A few fun facts about how many people finished.
From Suzie Aguilar:
I’m excited to join again this year. Last year was a success! My challenge will be to sort through all the Betterley Secret Book kits I’ve acquired (already done for photo!), decide which ones to keep, complete the ‘keepers’ by year end, and find homes for the rest. There are 50 kits in the photo.
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March Update:
Assembly begins!
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June Update:
I’ve decided which kits to keep and which to let go! I’m working in assembly line fashion to finish all the Christmas gift book kits first - which are my favorite by the way!
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September Update:
Seems the Christmas books may be all I get finished!
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Final Update:
I didn’t get all my secret books finished as I had hoped, but I did re-home many of them and have specific plans for finishing and gifting others next year.
My biggest accomplishment is finishing all the yearly Christmas books!
From Maria Florencia Alecci:
I want to have the opportunity to be able to work on minis on a regular basis. To participate in this challenge I decided to choose 3 projects that I have not started yet. Those projects are the Thursday Night Project Kit from Come Fly with Me; The Burrow on Bunny Lane; and 1/4" Carl and Ellie's House.
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March Update:
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June Update:
I'm sharing an small update. My sister has been visiting from Argentina after 6 years without seeing each other, but here it is a little bit of progress.
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September Update:
I just started the Carl and Ellie's house kit. I'm glad that I joined this challenge because I may have never started the kit otherwise. It is a house I love and I feel intimidated by it.
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Final Update:
Although I was unable to complete my 3 projects, I'm glad that I was able to start working in miniatures again. I really enjoyed having miniatures around me year round. Even thought I did not finish my projects, I think that being part of this year's challenge was a total success. It was a great experience.
From Barb Antol:
For this year’s CYLC, I’m planning to complete a series of book-themed mini projects. The main one will be True2Scale’s 1:48 scale Joie de Vivre kit, which I’ve been wanting to do for some time. I’m also planning some smaller book-themed projects, including the 1:48 reading nook kit from Seaside Miniatures, a British Phone-booth lending library (inside a nightlight) and a 1:12 scale window reading nook from CoolKatzCraft. If I have extra time, I always have some Betterley and Petworth book kits in my stash. It’s going to be a busy year!
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Final Update:
Here’s a photo of my 2024 Year Long Challenge project, which I once again completed much earlier than expected 😊 The 1:48 scale Joie de Vivre Bookshop kit was one I had on my to-do list for over 5 years. I did think it would take much longer to complete, but once I got started, I couldn’t wait to finish. It’s certainly a very unique kit and I’m happy with how it turned out. I also had time to complete another smaller project on my list. I used a British phone booth nightlight to create a little 1:12 scale lending library filled with banned books. Now, on to more book-themed mini projects!
June Update:
Even though I completed my main project for this year’s challenge in March, I’m continuing to work on other related projects throughout the rest of the year. My theme this year is libraries and books. My main project was the Joie De Vivre bookshop. Here are some of the other smaller projects I completed since March. The top three are 1:12 scale: Library Book Nook from Blackthorn Miniatures, Little Book Houses from Robin Betterley, and a library scene in a clock case. The bottom three are 1:48 scale: Library in an Altoid tin, Reading Nook from Seaside Miniatures, and a mini book nook from Petworth Miniatures. I had such fun building all these kits. I have a few more planned for 3Q2024.
September Update:
This little collage show the book-themed minis I completed during the 3rd quarter. Most were 1:48 scale, but one was 1:144 and another 1:12 scale. Quite a variety 😁All were fun and I’ve made a good dent in my stash of book-themed kits. Hoping to do a few more in 4th quarter.
From Marie Arighi:
My year long challenge will be to turn this $10 yard sale find into an Eye Care Office complete with an Optical Department, Exam Room, Receptionist area, and an office for the Doctor!!!
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March Update:
I have painted the walls and furnished the office. I still need to add a roof, replace the door and add in the decor.
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June Update:
I have worked on the exterior of the office. I have painted the walls and trim. I have added the foundation. I think it’s coming along nicely. Still lots to do.
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September Update:
I have finished the door and entrance. Completed decorating the inside. The only thing left to do is some type of roof. I’m not sure what I will do for that as of today but I will come so with something.
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Final Update:
I have completed my year long project of turning the dollhouse into an Optometry Office. My daughter will be displaying in her office. I enjoyed working on this project and making sure I stayed on track by meeting the quarterly deadlines. 😀
From Mary Barrett:
This is my first time doing the challenge. I missed the date last year. I am hoping this makes me take time to work on a pet project that I have only put on paper and started with the bones of the tree. The dream is a grove of trees with a series of tents nestled among the branches, one tent to act as a living area, another for cooking, one for sleeping and more to be added, if need be. I am so excited to start working on my "tree house".
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March Update:
Got some work done, but much more to do.....
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June Update:
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September Update:
Boy, do I have a lot to do ....
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Final Update:
Well ... December deadline came and went ... and the way my year has gone ... well, let's give it a try for next year!!!
From Kate Beasley:
This a picture of what I will be working for my year long project. It will not be this store but similar. I will be making it all by hand.
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March Update:
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June Update:
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September Update:
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Final Update:
DONE!!!!
From Cassidy Beeman:
My 2024 challenge will be to complete the interior of my half scale farmhouse. I make all of the furniture by hand and hope to tackle a canopy bed, dresser, double sink vanity, shower, toilet, kids’ art table, sofa, island, kitchen unit, stove, and fridge this year. Looking forward to the challenge!
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March Update:
I was able to complete the top floor of my half scale farmhouse. This floor is a kids’ room with a cozy window seat. I really enjoyed making the beds with the scalloped detail and designing the art/activity table. My youngest daughter made me the very tiny a-frame dollhouse by the pink bed for my birthday and it’s the perfect addition to the room. I hope to complete another floor at the end of Q2.
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June Update:
I completed another floor of the half scale farmhouse. The master bedroom and bathroom are finished! My little one also moved in a Sylvanian husky family into the house. The kids are enjoying their new art table, the babies are sleeping in their bassinets, and dad is checking out the new bathroom. Mom is downstairs so my goal for next quarter is to complete the kitchen. 😊
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September Update:
Although I made a lot of progress on the first floor of the half scale farmhouse, the kitchen is still under construction. I was able to make a lot of the pieces but still need to finish the backsplash, put up the cabinet and hood, and make an island. Luckily I have the fall to get that accomplished!
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Final Update:
My half scale farmhouse is complete! I was able to get all of the crown molding in and my daughter helped set up the tree, presents, and husky family for the holidays. This was my largest dollhouse kit so far and took me 2 years to complete!
From Cindy Bottasso:
I’d like to complete Robin Betterley’s 2023 calendar club. Of course I’m missing some of the months so I will also be reorganizing my crafting room to find them or recreating new drawers with my own furniture.
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March Update:
Oops! I'm falling behind again. I got 2 1/2 months done. These little rooms are really time-consuming but I love learning new things so well worth it.
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June Update:
Another 3 boxes are done in my calendar of twelve drawers: a secret space behind shelves of books, a two-sided room, and memoirs hidden behind clothes. Six more to go…
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September Update:
I’m keeping on track. I finished 2 rooms and the drawers a month ahead of time. Yay. These 2 rooms are so cute!!!
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Final Update:
I finished!! It was a super fun project which gave me lots of ideas for future projects.
From Barbara Bower:
I plan to try to complete my project from last year. My house needs the front, roof and landscaping.
Also I would to work on my Miss Ivy Cottage by BJ Miniatures.
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March Update:
Miss Ivy 1/4 inch house - kit by BJ Miniatures.
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June Update:
I have finished the porch and balcony. I am now working on the furniture.
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September Update:
I have been having problems. I kept losing pieces. Then I broke one of the sides for the chair. I did finish the piano and several tables for downstairs. So I have sent you this as is.
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Final Update:
It is almost completed. I turned the bed so you could see the back. I broke one of the chairs (for downstairs) so I am not sure if I will put a loveseat or two chairs. The Dolls have to be put back it, and accessories added. I think I will add some attic stuff also. I have continued health problems. My cancer has returned and I am not on chemo pills, so I am exhausted most of the days. (Editorial: The Create Team says: Feel better soon!!!)
From Jessica Boyd:
My goal is to put back together this small dollhouse and decorate it. The theme of the house is going to be the TV show F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
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March Update:
I have worked on painting some of the walls! I made the perfect purple F.R.I.E.N.D.S. color and got that on the walls for Monica’s apartment. I have the wall painted for Central Park! It’s not a whole lot done but it’s a start!
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June Update:
have not put much work into the Renovation of the actual dollhouse this quarter BUT I did buy the perfect “Chicken and Duck” for my FRIENDS theme house for Joey & Chandler’s apartment!!!
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Final Update:
I’M DONE!!!
I used the 30th Anniversary of the premier of the show FRIENDS (Sunday September 22nd) as a deadline to get the house done. The left side of the house is Central Perk. The other side is Monica & Rachel’s apartment on the bottom and the Chandler & Joey’s apartment on the top. I am very happy with it.
From Jackie Browder:
The project that I chose for last year's challenge (a 15 room Victorian Farmhouse) was a little too challenging! For this year's challenge, I will be learning how to make display cases, and will be making a display case and base for last year's Victorian Farmhouse. I will also add the outdoor landscaping and a few extra finishing pieces, like the lattice work under the house.
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March Update:
For the first quarter, I made a display case for last year's Victorian Farmhouse. I made it from precut 12 inch squares of clear plastic, and 1/2 inch strips of basswood. Getting all the dimensions cut and square was challenging! I painted it white to match the house. Since there is empty vertical space inside, I am going to consider adding the tree that was in the painting.
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June Update:
For this quarter, I focused on landscaping the front yard. The tree was quite a project! I made it from wire, paper, and paint. It had to match the tree in the painting!
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Final July Update:
This is my 3rd quarter update for the Year Long Project Challenge, and notification that I am now finished with this year's challenge. The outdoor landscaping, display case, and little things are now finished for this year! This quarter I finished the base by adding a white trim, did the backyard landscaping (mostly grass, dirt, and weeds), and added a few random doors and trims that were missing. I also decided to add a lean-to on the back of the house to give me a larger kitchen. Although my YLP Challenge is finished for this year, I intend to continue working on the indoor furnishings.
From Susan Buffaloe:
I’ve decided to use Robin Betterley’s Secret Spaces 2023 calendar club as my Create Year Long Challenge 2024. I’m very excited to get back to this project. I have found I really enjoy this quarter scale. I’m still wanting on the December kit but will add that to the Challenge when it arrives.
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March Update:
This was not a productive quarter. I did manage to open the April secret space kit and read the instructions. I popped out the first items and am ready to start painting.
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June Update:
I have completed the April and May room kits and papered the outside of June. These last 2 were challenging. I hope the next are a couple of easy ones! (Who am I kidding? They all have challenges!)
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September Update:
I have finished the June, July and almost finished the August room. June was a lot of work but I’m very pleased with it. July was a nice break in 1/12 scale and August has been easy ... a good thing because September has 2 rooms!!
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Final Update:
I just finished the last kit in the Secret Spaces. I was determined to finish and I don’t think the glue is dry on this last one! I feel very satisfied with my project and I do love these Robin Betterley kits.
From Pam Carroll:
This is a kit I have had for a while when an event in the Carolina’s was cancelled. Then the Crowe’s and I were going to have a mini weekend away to do this but we were unable to.
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March Update:
Waiting for glue to dry and 3rd coat of white paint on 3D printed pieces.
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June Update:
I think I am ready to start the assembly and start the box inserts.
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September Update:
I have almost finished the book outside just have to add the edges. I am currently working on all the little bits that will go inside the 3 small boxes. As you can see I was test fitting the boxes but decided it would be easier to decorate the hutch, table and the one with the tree before putting them in the book.
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Final Update:
Surprise! I finished it!
From Brenda Colby:
My goal for 2024 is to fully furnish and decorate the Charleston House which was built for the 2023 Year-Long Challenge!
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March Update:
The cupola and garden areas of the Charleston House are mostly finished. My goal for June is to put the finishing touches on the garden area and to complete decorating the next floor down.
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June Update:
The front of the Charleston House is finished, both landscaping and porches, and appears ready for company. The occupants are hosting a party in the top garden which now has accessories, including a delicious croquembouche and a stocked bar. Three floors to go before December 31!
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September Update:
I have completed another floor in my Charleston house. Only two floors to go before the final December update!
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Final Update:
I have completed my 2024 CYLC by decorating the Charleston house that I built in 2023! To see the completed exterior, please see the June update.
From Debbie Colombo:
My goal for 2024 is to complete the structure.
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March Update:
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Final Update:
My finished project.
From Sara Cook:
This is Overboard, a 1/2-scale kit-bashed boutique for mermaids. It is covered in rhinestones and pearls and disco mirrors, and sells things that have fallen off boats. I can answer any questions, except "why are you making that?" because I have no idea.
Photos are from a recent test fitting. I want to complete the main building assembly and wiring (arduino microcontroller) this quarter, and finish the interior furnishings by the end of the year. If I can have it ready in time for the Good Sam show in San Jose in October, all the better!
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March Update:
Here are some items I made for the fashion part of the mermaid shop (1/2” scale). The counter is kit bashed. The electronic/lighting portion of the project is having a time out for not behaving well. I may be giving up on the neon sign feature. The building itself is at a tedious state where I’m adding trim to the edges and filling gaps. Onward!
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June Update:
I spent most of the past few months working on landscaping, which in this case means a coral reef made from air-dry clays, beads, and sequins. The base of the scene is an 8x12 wooden paint surface, with 1.5" sides. I have covered the sides with coral and will landscape the top after I assemble everything. I have had some success with the lights, and I hope my next update will have a video of everything working at the same time!
I made more clothes and accessories for the shop upstairs, including a wedding dress on a form for the balcony. The wedding dress is crepe paper and tiny rhinestones. The moto jacket is digitally printed on fabric and assembled with glue.
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September Update:
I’ve been frantically trying to get this thing ready for the Good Sam show in a few weeks, so I don’t have any good progress pics of the building today. Here are a few items I’ve made for the store stock. I’m especially pleased with my aluminum Christmas tree, which has a a light wheel. There is a color-changing LED inside the wheel fixture, and a few more color-changing LEDs hidden inside the tree, so the effect is pretty realistic. I love my full-size aluminum trees so I’m glad to have them in my shop. I also made some vintage boxed Halloween costumes and a ballerina music box. I pulled out some old pieces I made a few years ago, a Pac-Man table and a jukebox, but I’m not sure if they will get to stay or not. The rain lamp in that pic is newly built, I’m pretty pleased with it although the scale isn’t perfect.
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Final Update:
I finished Overboard, my 1:24 undersea thrift shop for mermaids, in time for the Good Sam Show in October! It is covered in rhinestones inside and out, because mermaid architecture is different from ours. The roof is covered in mother of pearl tiles. The shop sits on a coral reef made of wired beads and air-dry clay. The LED neon marquee’s lights are on a microcontroller, as are the moving blue “water” lights underneath the base. The merchandise is mostly things that have floated down from the surface. Don’t overthink that part, especially the boxes of Shiny Brite Christmas ornaments which wouldn’t survive underwater.
From Dia Crissey-Baum:
I’ve decided I’m going to do the CYLC and try to finish a lot of projects I’ve had sitting around for a long time. Here’s my list:
The NAME Day Tiki bar (from 2022)
A bunch of Debbie Young’s kits: The Charleston Single from my first National, 2018 (I think)
The Camp Makamini cabin scene from 2021
The Thursday Night project, the Ice Fishing hut, from National 2022
The Shepherd’s Huts from Camp Make-A-Mini 2023. I didn’t finish one, and I didn’t even start the other.
That’s six things, and most of them just need finishing. Surely I can do this! And since I keep buying Debbie’s (and other people’s too!!!) adorable kits, I’ll probably do this again next year, if you do it! Thanks for lighting the fire!
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March Update:
I have finished two of the six projects I picked out for the year! The NAME Day Tiki hut and the first Camp Makamini cabin! Now it’s on to more Camp M. projects and the Charleston Single. Maybe I can slip a few other UFOs in too!
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June Update:
I’ve been busy making kits for my Charleston Single by Debbie Young. Lots and lots of kits. And there are more to come (on their way from Canada) but this house is almost looking lived-in!
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September Update:
I have gotten some things finished, but not what I set out to do in December. Can I use those things instead? It’s the Camp Make-A-Mini studio.
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Final Update:
Well, I didn't finish everything. But I did finish my Charleston Single by Debbie Young. I'm quite happy with the way the Charleston Single came out. Some ghosts came to live among the dusty attic in the attic, and one of Ruth Stewart's pirate kitties caused some typical cat trouble in the kitchen. I went through my stash and found lots of accessories, but that made me realize I really should organize it. Maybe that'll be what I do next year.
From JoAnne Cutting:
Despite having failed to complete the 2023 Challenge I set for myself, I am determined to complete the project that I was calling the Frozen Donation Dollhouse. I've renamed it the SnowFlake House because most of the wallpaper I ended up using has snowflakes on it. The goal for 2024 is finish all the interior trim (ideally by June) and complete the outdoor landscaping by September. I have so many great plans and visions for it. Hopefully, real life will calm down enough this year to allow me time to carry them out. At least I have this challenge to keep me motivated. So thank you for repeating this challenge this year.
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March Update:
It doesn't look like much progress on the Snowflake Chateau but I've lost count of the hours spent on the front door and in completely rebuilding the front windows from scratch. I'm also trying a different method on the trim stonework, which will need more paint and weathering. At least I have established workshop space on the back porch. Now if I can find all the supplies and tools I moved from the front porch last fall, I'll be back in business!
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June Update:
Snowflake Dollhouse progress report: measure twice, cut once is a great maxim. For me, though, it's more like measure three or four times, cut once, measure again, trim, try to fit, sand, try again, sand, fit, glue, putty gap that wasn't there before, sand, sigh, paint and hope the paint covers the repairs. Repeat for next piece. Then I have a Really Good Idea about what to do in the staircase and spend another chunk of time trying to figure out how and what I need to do it, before I realize that I don't have One Important Part and go back to the original task. No wonder progress is so slow!
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September Update:
I have visible progress this time on the Snowflake Chateau! All the baseboards are done. The windows on the first floor had to be hand-made from scratch since those parts have all gone missing from my workshop. I'm particularly proud of the window seat in the blue room. It only took three separate builds to get it to fit and I learned a lot in the process. Two more windows to go and I can start to think about the decor.
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Final Update:
The bad news is that once again, I have failed to complete the SnowFlake House in time. Too much Life going on and the house just had to wait. And wait. The good news is that the house is going to be raffled off for charity in January. The lovely group that I've given it to decided that they would like to finish the last details and decorate it themselves. I have provided instructions, advice, and the box of supplies I set aside for it and then let them have fun with it. Which is, after all, what this hobby is all about.
From Carolyn Eiche:
I want to complete the Joie de Vivre structure.
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March Update:
Woo hoo! Got my Joie de Vivre building finished! Now I'm going to be ambitious and finish all the furnishings.
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June Update:
I have my Joie de Vivre building about 85% finished. I still have to make a few pieces of furniture, plants, and some accessories.
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Final July Update:
Finished Joie de Vivre tonight. Totally, completely done.
From Barbara Engel:
This is a quarter scale Michelle Miniatures kit I have had for awhile. It probably will not take long to finish putting together the roombox but it will take me forever to make all of the tiny little hats and accessories I want to put in it.
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March Update:
The little hat shop has been renamed and repainted. It is now titled Glitz and Giggles Boutique. I have also made some matching furniture for the shop. It doesn't look like much progress but the next challenge is making more hats. And since it is a boutique I can put other items in like perfumes and jewelry.
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Final Update:
This small project was started by a friend. I have completed it and it will be donated to the NAME Raffle at our Retreat Into Miniatures in October.
From Stephanie Engeseth:
Thought I would try this challenge and see if I can get it finished. I get more accomplished when I have a schedule to meet. This is the 2023 year long project from the Betterleys and as you can see it is 2024 and not much has been done.
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March Update:
I now have finished the large Cabinet that will contain the remaining kits for the year. So I have finished 3 kits so far, I guess I am right on track. These are so much fun to do and the Betterleys have such good instructions. Love Them. Finished Kitchen, Bedroom Alcove, and Cabinet.
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June Update:
I am moving right along and have half of the kits completed and we are halfway through the year. I hope I can keep up the pace. This is where I am so far and it has been fun. I would never have gotten this far without the challenge.
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September Update:
It has a busy summer with Camp Make-A-Mini and being a NAME Day cutter, I have been up to my ears and only been able to finish one more room in my "Secret Spaces". This is a winter scene for cozy hot chocolate and resting after a long day in the snow. I have started a small room furnishings behind the glass door and hope to finish the remaining 4 rooms by year end. We will see if I make it!
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Final Update:
This was a great experience and if life hadn't gotten in the way I would have actually finished. I came close. Having a kitchen remodel and being a NAME Day cutter kind of got in the way. So all I can say is I did my best and I definitely will have it finished very soon! Thank You for this opportunity to participate and challenge myself.
From Diane Fisher:
I loved doing last year’s challenge. This year, I plan to do the Stewart’s kit, Birdhouse Bluff, (with furnishings kits by the Betterleys). I am enclosing the kits received already. The house kit and more furnishings will arrive by February.
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March Update:
I am working on Birdhouse Bluff by the Stewarts. I am loving it. I have completed the interior and much of the base. Next, I will accessorize the base, then work on furnishings and hooking up wiring. Ruth has done a fabulous job on instructions and Zooms. Don has outdone himself, along with Ruth, on design.
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Final Update:
It’s finished. It was designed by Ruth and Dan Stewart. It was a wonderful and hypnotic project. And it’s finished!!! The fisherman and the birdwatcher lady are from Sally Manwell, the little girl is from Julie Stevens, and the dog is from Barb Meyers.
From Kim Fitzsimmons:
I recently purchased a new in box RGT Newport kit from FB Market Place. My intention is to make this a Stephen King themed house with several items in the house that are nods to his novels and movies based on his books. I intent to complete the structure, including wiring for lights this year. I would love to say it will be completely furnished, but we know that projects are never truly finished.
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March Update:
I have completed the basic shell, given it a coat of paint, and have shingled the house. Lots of work still needed on the exterior, both in construction and detailed finishes. I regularly update a detailed TO DO list and the exterior will keep me busy for quite some time. I have wired the house and purchased most fixtures, but that is all that has been accomplished in the interior. Although not difficult, I forgot how tedious and fiddly brads could be.
Work outside this photo includes making gallery photos, most from King movies and collecting items for the house itself. The clear shoeboxes in the background contain items intended for specific rooms. Mistakes were made along the way, but have managed to correct or find other solutions for all of them. I’m finding that modifying the kit has consequences as each part is made a specific fit. Overall, I’m pleased with my progress and it is starting to look like my inspiration photos.
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June Update:
I finished the exterior, aged the house with a water-downed paint wash. It will need a bit more, but that will come at the end. I have wired the house and have installed lights on the top floors. I finished the roof top and have started to make floors. So much work is being done outside of the house at the moment. I continue to keep a running list of to do items. One big setback of shorted electric caused me to rip out the finish in the tower room. I hope to pick up in the upcoming months.
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September Update:
It’s starting to come together. Electric is done. I changed quite a bit and eliminated some lights that were just too fiddly to get in. Still 24 bulbs throughout so plenty of light. Floors and walls are complete. Now onto doors and trim. Staining, varnish and install should keep me busy for some time. I’m confident that the structure will be finished by year end.
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Final Update:
My Stephen King house is assembled. Everything in the kit is assembled with the exception of the stairs. Those will go in later as much to do in the interior and the stairs will get in the way. Still lots to do. It needs a lot of aging in the structure. Windows and raw edges need trim (not included in kit). I have an idea/to do list that will keep me working on this house for months, not to mention boxes of items for the interior.
I accomplished what I set out to do this year.
From Bev Fleming:
I'm hoping to finish the traveling village in 2024.
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March Update:
Here's #8 of Traveling Village, inside accessories almost finished.
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June Update:
#8 almost done
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September Update:
finally got something done on #9 of traveling village
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Final Update:
not much done with #9 of the traveling village this qtr. & still have 4 more & some interiors to do. Hopefully I'll get them all done soon.
From Carol Gambrill:
My 2024 Year Challenge is to assemble the remaining 12 furniture kits for my Pickett Pond. At the end of the challenge I will include a picture of the fully furnished Pickett Pond.
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March Update:
This quarter I worked on four kits: Kitchen, Bed, Night tables, and "Under the Stairs" which is a reading nook. My current strategy is to complete the furniture then I'll work on the itty bitty accessories.
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June Update:
Woohoo! I completed all the furniture and itty bitty accessories for the inside of my Pickett Pond! The rest of the challenge year I'll work on the landscaping and a couple of kits that go on the outside ie boats, signs, chairs.
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September Update:
I was able to complete many of the furniture kits during the second quarter. This quarter I was "distracted" by the Camp Make-A-Mini project and family summer events. Sooooo ... this picture is of the Camp Make-A-Mini furniture that I could, possibly, also use in my Pickett Pond scene :)
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Final Update:
Sooo close!!! Last night I realized I couldn't finish by tomorrow night. The paperclay for the rock wall needs 24 hours to dry AND then the water medium needs 24 hours to cure AND then I need to place the plants and trees. I'm submitting these final photos and just know that the "missing pieces" will be in place soon. I've really enjoyed this challenge. Congrats to all who completed ... or made progress on ... their projects!
From Jean Gibson:
Here is the most uninteresting picture of all, but it is something I intend to accomplish. My challenge is to assemble and paint these 30 different little houses in 144th, 288, 450, 1000, 2000, and 4000 scales. There are a lot of new designs along with some older ones plus a Christmas Flyer.
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March Update:
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June Update:
Here are 11 new houses designed by Volker Arnold that I finished for the challenge. The tallest one measures 1 3/4 inch. The smallest one is 1/4 inch tall. The first one is called a crooked house and the one with the red roof is a little wonky, too. There are so many little houses that are fun and challenging.
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September Update:
These are mostly 450-scale houses except for the 2000-scale and 4000-scale churches on the bottom row. The green house on the right is a 288-scale house that opens.
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Final Update:
I have finished the last of my challenge projects for this year. Whew. I love this challenge and hope it is to be continued next year. It works!
From Ruth Goodger:
This is Debbie Young’s English Cottage. Needs furnishings and landscaping. Endust and microfiber already improved its appearance!
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March Update:
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June Update:
It is difficult to place items in these small rooms after they have been built!
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Final Update:
Finished project. English cottage.
From Catherine Hawkins:
My project is a two-wall interpretation in 1/12th scale of a photograph taken by a friend of a cabin at the Jarrell Plantation in Middle Georgia. This is the walls in progress.
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March Update:
Jarrell Shed (based on a photo of the interior of a structure at the Jarrell Plantation in Middle Georgia). The picture shows the walls under construction, the two windows, a table (2 pictures), a ladderback chair, and a barrel. I made a collage since the rules said send one photo.
The wood used is 1/16th inch plywood for the backing of the walls, maple and cherry strips (scrap from a woodworker friend) for the planks that go on the walls, and basswood for everything else except the barrel, which is cardboard and paper.
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June Update:
Jarrell Shed walls, table with some of the things that will be on the shelves.
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September Update:
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Final Update:
The walls and floor are finished. The furnishings, except one standing shelf unit, are finished. I still have to put all the details in -- load the shelves and furniture with bottles and jars and cans and tools.
From Bonnie Helterhoff:
Right now this year is looking a bit busy so I’m going for a project that I hope will not be too complex. Years ago I bought this RGT lighthouse - it was cheap and seemed like something I’d like to do. I put together the top piece (not terribly well) and it was all lost in the back of a closet. I'm not sure I have all of the pieces/no instructions but somewhere I have some furniture that I had intended to use in here. It would be great to actually have this assembled and I adore anything beachy so looking forward to getting this underway!
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March Update:
This is turning out to be a bit more of a challenge than expected as I’m missing pieces ... Not a lot of progress yet, but it was a hectic quarter with too many demands on my time. Looking forward to the summer when I should have more time (I hope!)
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June Update:
I knew I had the pieces to a lighthouse in a closet and pulled enough out to enter into the challenge. I realized once I had it out that what I thought was RGT was Greenleaf that apparently had been stored in my garage at one point. Not only am I missing a bunch of pieces, but the wood is so dried out that it won't even glue properly ... I've tried to work with it but it's simply not fun and I'm tired of beating myself up trying to make it work. I quit.
Editor note: We are accepting a midyear change. Sometimes circumstances are beyond our control!
I believe this is the Fairfield -- it’s a half scale house I began and set aside. I had hoped to do a building I’ve been wanting to copy for literally decades but of course now that there is an opportunity I can’t find the papers. So perhaps it is meant to be that I finish this instead.
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September Update:
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Final Update:
I've found that locating things for half scale is a lot trickier than I suspected. I think I'll enjoy adding things over time -- it's mostly accessories; pictures and rugs that are needed now ... it will be easier to decide what is needed now that house is furnished. I made all of the furniture (other than the bathroom) and the kitchen cabinets were made by hand. Made the many many books and the flowers were from kits by SDK. I enjoyed this project and will have fun adding to it but this will probably conclude my half scale collection -- just too difficult to access stuff for it. I'm in awe of those who only work in this scale!
From Eileen Herrstrom:
After losing my big dollhouse in a fire, I thought about buying another kit. Lo and behold, a friend has an old dollhouse looking for a new home. My project for the 2024 CYLC will be to clean and renovate this house. I’d like to wire it, but we’ll see.
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March Update:
I started my dollhouse renovation with a thorough washing and began removing damaged wallpaper. Top: original state of front porch and its appearance after cleaning. Bottom: peeling wallpaper in living room and mid-removal in bedroom. I’ve decided to refer to this as the Hug House; Hug is the surname of the friend who gave me this house and conveys the coziness I intend for it to show someday.
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June Update:
I have completely repainted the exterior of my dollhouse, as shown by the before and after pictures. The damaged wallpaper has been stripped from two rooms and replaced with new. Finally and most excitingly, this house is now wired for electricity; it’s my first time using round wire instead of tapewire because the wallpaper was already in place. I still have to hide the wires.
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September Update:
I salvaged almost all these furnishings from my old dollhouse after the fire. I did have to make another cross-stitched bedspread and Lord’s Prayer, sew more throw pillows and repaint the white bookcase. However, the needlepoint rugs and chair cushion washed clean, as shown. All the frames and their pictures or diplomas are new, as well as the books in the bedroom. The other books remain darkened by soot; I may redo them later. Among the furniture, only the bed and the mirror top on the vanity were purchased for specifically for the Hug House.
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Final Update:
I furnished the last two rooms in quarter 4: music room and kitchen. The front and the back views show the completely renovated dollhouse. I appreciate the motivational deadlines provided by this challenge!
From Carol Johnson:
I have chosen the Carpathian Cottage kit and the interior furnishings for my 2024 Create Year Long Challenge. Looking forward to another fun year of minis! 😊 ❤
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March Update:
My Create Year Long Challenge the Carpathian Cottage is almost complete. I have the shingling and landscaping to finish on it. The interior accessories are finished. This is the first time I have ever done lighting in a 1:48 house – it was fun!
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June Update:
I still have the base and the landscaping to complete on my Carpathian Cottage. 😊
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September Update:
I have started on the base and landscaping for the Carpathian Cottage.
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Final Update:
I did not totally complete my 2024 Year Long Challenge. The Carpathian Cottage just needs the landscaping to be completed. That is my goal for 2025!
From Julie Johnson:
I will be working on the outside. Big plans!
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March Update:
Thanks for the sweet note and gift I received today! Quite a nice surprise. I am submitting my progress pictures. I’ve been working on the front porch.
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June Update:
My entry has moved back where it came from. Not much completed with the move involved. But here is my update since I doubt there will be any progress for awhile. lol
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September Update:
I’ve been working on the front porch. Couldn’t resist setting up the kitchen though!
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Final Update:
I am submitting my 4th quarter photos. I’m still not finished, a long way from it, haha. It’s taking years but I am enjoying the process.
From Laura Johnson:
I plan to make the interior a jewelry shop this year.
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March Update:
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June Update:
Here is a picture of shelves on one side of my jewelry shop. I have been busy making jewelry.
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September Update:
Jewelry on the shelves. Chair cushions covered. Chest ready to marbleize the top.
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Final Update:
I finished! Happy New Year!
From Tina Kase:
By the end of 2024: 1. Complete the whole of this tree structure, including: (1a) making spaces for future room boxes and secret dioramas. (1b) attach removable (some with child proof locks) or hinged panels to 5 dollhouses and all secret diorama and future roombox spaces. (1c) add tree bark texture and paint. 2. Decorate and furnish the 5 dollhouses with scratch built or modified store bought playable furniture. 3. Complete 4-5 of the other spaces. 4. Add lights in 1 dollhouse.
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March Update:
Very happy with progress this first update. Tree structure is complete. Some bits even have bark! Made all the spaces for the future mini rooms with hinged doors. I only made one miniature which was a wizard shop kit. I also made the walls through which the shop will be seen, after its put inside the tree. The "secret" plug that needs to be removed in order to view the hp diorama is also made, but not visible in photo. It's really getting exciting now.
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June Update:
I've been very busy and made a lot, however the only complete thing is the rabbits house. (photo) Really enjoyed furnishing this. (Though the kitchen furniture is purchased, and the bathroom furniture is remodeled dollar store furniture.) Love the "finished" feeling! They also have lights and so does the full size playhouse. The lights appear bluer in the photo than they actually are. A lot of remodeling on the left side of the tree, including all the "bark" texture and 2x dollhouse fronts and 2x secret spaces fronts precise fitting.
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September Update:
So excited by my progress this quarter, even though it's huge ... not miniature at all! But the outsides of 4 of the dollhouses have been given their own "personalities" and just await finer details. The front of the three bears' home is almost complete.
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Final Update:
No time to take any up to date photos as I've been living with my daughter and being a full time Nana. This will continue for at least another month. I've completed bits of furniture and a few rooms since September. I'm so grateful to this challenge it really helped me get to the stage I'm at so (relatively) quickly. It's now "finished" enough to start as a "forever project" as my grandkids and I build on to it over the years. Once again a big thank you to this community and the organizers of the challenge.
From Mindy Kelly:
I am submitting for the year challenge this whole dollhouse build and fully finish by years end. Currently it is still in the box. Good to have accountability and motivation, thanks for organizing!
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March Update:
A thousand distractions, two room boxes, and facilitating three workshops put the dollhouse on the back burner a bit. Happy to report the structure is standing, wallpaper is up and color palette is decided. Deciding on wallpaper and palette was the biggest challenge so far as I have only done single room boxes prior to this build. I created a little under the stairs cabinet using my Cricut to cut it out from heavy chipboard. Currently working on light fixtures and the windows and doors as next steps. I am choosing to build the vast majority of the items inside the dollhouse so some of those are also currently in process. Yay for spring and progress!
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June Update:
Various other projects have made this farmhouse dollhouse project a back burner project for this most recent update. I did manage to get the windows and shutters and front door painted and put on the house. Started work on the faux metal roof by adding thin wood strips. Did not make any further progress on interior. After the convention, I should have much more time to get this project buttoned up and planning on doing all the decorating in the fourth quarter.
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September Update:
Finally got back to the dollhouse after a bit on the back burner thanks to wonderful projects for and from Convention. I used iron-on birch wood veneer strips for the porch and decided to leave off the railing as I thought it updated the look. The main 2 floors are fully floored and wallpapered. The attic is an undecided just yet. I am happy with how the roof turned out. I am awaiting “tile” and kitchen cabinets from an online order to complete the shower in the bathroom and get a start on the kitchen. I plan on finishing strong with furnishings and accessories just in time to welcome guests for the holidays!
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Final Update:
The dollhouse did not get as done as I would have hoped thanks to a rough couple of months in the health department combined with a 2 month home renovation project. I will happily still keep working on the interior details in the coming year. I have some random furniture as place holders as I create bespoke pieces for the house. At least it’s built and the rest is the fun stuff!
From Kathy Koons:
My CYLC for this year will be to complete Robin Betterley's 2023 calendar club, Secret Spaces. December's kit has not yet arrived, but, as you can see, none of the others have even been started! This has got to be easier for me than the goal I'd set for 2023!
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March Update:
I was going to wait until Sunday and see if I could get the April kit from Robin Betterley's Secret Spaces finished, but whom am I kidding? I'm just happy to have the first 3 months of the 12 finished!
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June Update:
I am on track! I completed the April, May, and June kits from Robin Betterley's 2023 Secret Spaces. You can also see the year-to-date progress in the picture of the outside of the whole project.
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September Update:
These are the July, August, and September kits for the Robin Betterley Miniatures Secret Spaces 2023 calendar club. They are "Seaside Memories", "A Little Bath", and "Hidden Secrets". I'm thrilled to have kept on track in spite of many family health challenges.
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Final Update:
I finished! An Advent calendar that involved building a building slowed me down this month, but I finished the last room, December, in time.
From Debra Kuckkuck:
I’m so excited that Debbie Colombo and the Create team are willing to do this again this year! Like many long-time miniaturists, I find myself with boxes of random miniatures I bought in my early years, just because I liked them. I also have this set of three pastry domes.
I pulled out all my miscellaneous boxes of minis and organized them by calendar month. This year I’m going to try to make as many sets of three domes as I can, with the plan to change them monthly. The third photo shows one of the domes I’ve finished: an Easter dome showing Easter baskets being made.
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March Update:
My first set of monthly domes, just in time for Easter! #1: Dying Easter eggs; #2: Making Easter baskets; #3: Easter egg hunt in the morning
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June Update:
Ugh, I’m so bummed that life didn’t allow for crafting this past quarter. I’m very hopeful that next quarter will be a different story!
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September Update:
APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS. I did petitpoint the pillow on 40 count silk gauze. And the tray and book in the first dome, plus all the pieces in the last dome, were made in our “All Things Lavender” Create class in June.
SPRINGTIME IN PARIS. I made all the food in classes by Carl Bronsdon. The wine bottle is still full of real French wine, from a trip to France 40 years ago!
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Final Update:
I wish I had made more progress on my Year Long Challenge this year. I loved the plan, but life disagreed.
If the great group at Create is willing to herd us all through this again in 2025, I’ll try to finish that challenge this time!
In the meantime, just for the fun of including a photo instead of just some words, here’s one of the projects that derailed my plans. It was a nursery vignette for my niece’s baby shower.
From Sherri Lackey:
Pictured are the 4 kits I need to complete for my Wandlyn Way from Petworth Miniatures. I will complete 2 of these inside and out. You’ll need to wait until March to find out which 2 as I haven’t decided yet. The other 2 are bonus builds or maybe to be done in 2025! 😂😂😂
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March Update:
I decided to do the Crystal Cat and the Green Man (on the left) and the Warped Web (R). Coming along nicely!
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June Update:
Finished the outside of The Crystal Cat and The Green Man. Not much done on the Warped Web.
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September Update:
Worked on some furniture but structures are still the same.
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Final Update:
I was unable to finish this year. I had to recut some floors in the Warped Web. When I finished and was putting in the furniture I found that I had misplaced the finished wall units to the Warped Web and the Crystal Cat. I had to reorder both from Petworth. Guess I will finish them next year!
From Lesia Lennex:
I'm encouraged by having finished a tedious and difficult build for the CYLC 2023 -- so I'll take the plunge on another CYLC for 2024. I'm really torn about what to do as I have several projects I'd like to complete. The one that's going to be the most challenging for me is the 2023 Betterley calendar. I've not started any of it! I've wanted to all year and have not had a chance. So this is it. I'll start and finish all the 2023 Betterley calendar. The photo shows 11 of the packages, still mint, and #12 will be along soon in the mail.
Nick's Cottage, the back half, has been sitting untouched in its box -- with all the furniture -- since January 2017. Seeing a theme here? Pickett Pond was purchased in 2017 also. I really would like to build this half of the house. I created the front half at Greenville 2016. I love this house!!! I've attached a photo of the kits. I'll really try to finish all the 2023 calendar AND Nick's Cottage, back half, this year!
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March Update:
I've finished the March and September 2023 calendar elements and am in progress with January. I've also finished several of the furniture pieces for the back half of Nick's cottage. It's a great word, "finished!"
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June Update:
I'm moving right along with the calendar and am about ready to start Nick's cottage, back half, proper. All the furniture is now complete.
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September Update:
I finished one of my CYLC! I completed the entire #RBM 2023 calendar! I enjoyed making this project. Every room has its own featured technique. It's been creative and, when finished, just beautiful. A favorite part of this project is in the very last room, May's Refresh in the lower right-hand corner behind the window. My RL cat Saturn tries everything possible to obtain the snake plant in my house. I've added him to the scene -- about to jump onto the plant.
I'll continue working on Nick's Cottage, back half, in the hope it'll be completed by Dec 31. All the furniture is completed.
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Final Update:
I successfully finished the 2023 #RBM calendar, but not my second project. I'm making progress on Nick's Cottage, the back half. I've completed the first floor, prepped the landscaping, porch, chimneys, windows, and some of the upstairs wallpapering. I've also completed the first level exterior shingling/painting and the openings are cut for the downstairs lights. I don't know if I'll keep the carpets in it but they're in the right time frame if I do.
From Doreen Lindsay:
I have decided to make Debbie Young’s Pink Lemonade house and 1/4” Bungalow Vignette for the 2024 Year Long Challenge.
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March Update:
A couple more things to add to the shelves, pillows and pets and the 1/4” Bungalow is done. Now working on Pink Lemonade.
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June Update:
I have finished my Pink Lemonade house completing my year long challenge. Now working on Visions of Sugarplums which is my third house this year.
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Final Update:
Finished my third house ... Visions of Sugarplums ... completing my year long challenge.
From Sally Lonn:
I can't find project 4 but it is in the closet somewhere. All are one inch except number 4.
Box number 1, unfinished Whitledge-Burgess class kitchen
Box number 2, unfinished Carl Bronsdon's 1900's pastry shop
Box number 3, unfinished Carl Bronsdon's Tea shop
Box number 4, (when I find it) Debbie Young's Caribbean House 1/4 scale
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March Update:
Out of town again and another partial fall of sorts, I couldn't finish because it was so hard to get teacups. And they just arrived. I've been in therapy since Jan. Now another MRI, so I will mail you a picture of what I have started.
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June Update:
We are almost out of here for Denver for Gabi's Bat Mitzvah and she begged me to finish this for her in March, and I promised to bring it. This is a labor of love. The puzzle on the table spells out her name, the artwork on the wall on the left is hers from about 4-6 years old. There are treasures to love for sure, especially her love for Unicorns. I've made some kits and collected toys for some time. This was a gift from the convention in Louisville, I think. It has been repainted with many, many coats and would you believe I have the quarter scale one too!
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September Update:
I have been home for almost 8 weeks with this knee replacement. So I can't get out just yet and know I need a base for my House of Holidays. I had such fun decorating the trees and the shop is only 1.5 inches deep. The shelves are loaded. This is a donation to my club and our yearly Christmas Centerpiece.
The Candy Shop box was given to our club, oh what to do in a small space? The shelf unit just fit and a square frame fit on the outside. I filled most of the jars and made all of the candy bars. Tough working with photo paper. The doll is by Fern Vasi and dressed in a workshop by me.
There you have it....I've worked hard. Back to my tea shop now.
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Final Update:
I love Carl Brondson's shop so much. Mine houses a few of my many collected teapots and some lovely teacups. I still think it could use some green plants ... but we will see.
My House of Holidays is mounted and finished at last. This will be a centerpiece at our Christmas party and will be a raffle item at our show in March. I had such fun working on this and can now say I am finished. The narrow shop was designed by Desiree Hall and finished by me.
My holiday gift to a surprise winner is this lovely 8.5 inch tree, lit and the base is decorated with many tiny toys that I collected over the years. Many are wood. The tree has tiny bows, candy canes, tiny ornaments that I made, and jewelry pieces. Each time I looked, it needed more ... so I can say it is really loaded.
From Pam McDonald:
For 2024, I plan to furnish and landscape the quarter scale Visalian house that I built as my 2023 challenge.
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March Update:
Here is one side of the house with the rooms completed -- I just need to add some houseplants I am working on.
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June Update:
I have furnished the remaining rooms in my Visalian house -- 2nd bedroom, 2nd attic, hallway, and living room. I am hoping to complete the landscaping in the next quarter.
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September Update:
I didn’t get much done on my challenge over the summer, but I did make a start on the landscaping. I made two hanging fuchsias for the porch (kit by sdk) and have started collecting together materials for the garden and making flowers. I also ordered pieces for a case and will put it together as soon as the special glue I need arrives. Hopefully the next quarter will be much more productive.
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Final Update:
My challenge this year was to furnish and landscape the Victorian house I built for last year’s challenge (house kit by Debbie Young). Pictures of the furnished rooms were posted earlier in the year. The landscaping is now complete with the exception of a picket fence that was caught in our month long postal strike.
From Carla McIntyre:
Since I was able to finish a long planned project that kept getting pushed down the to do list last year, I’m up for the 2024 challenge! My project this year is to complete my “museum” display. I’m starting with 2 four-sided display boxes from Hobby Builders bought many years ago. Each corner will be finished to display a different collection from my stash. A sewing room, a European kitchen using Reuter Porcelain, and a man’s workshop are some of my plans. I will also remove one panel to display a Chinese style dining room that was from my mother’s stash. I’ve started gathering pieces that will be in each display but, it’s also become a bit catch-all as you can see.
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March Update:
Not making a whole lot of progress yet but, my State Day project is ready for display on April 13th and my centerpiece is almost complete! Once State Day is over, I’ll be working full steam ahead on this project.
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June Update:
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September Update:
This quarter was a challenge. With out of town company for 4 weeks and being out of town for almost 6 weeks and moving my Dad in with us from Pittsburgh I had very limited time to mini. I did make some progress though! I’ve got a long way to go in the last quarter but, I’m going to get this done! Here is the progress I was able to make on my four kitchens.
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Final Update:
I’m so excited to say (after a super crappy year) that I have completed my CYLC project for 2024! I started with 2, 18 inch boxes from Hobby Builders that divide in up to 4 display areas. The first box I did as kitchens -- a Christmas Hallmark ornament kitchen, a display of Reutter Porcelain I collected over many years, an ME inspired display and my interpretation of a Brooke Tucker kit given to me by a friend. The second box I divided into just 2 sections. One side has a workshop and the other side is a sewing room.
I added a second challenge to my project -- to only use supplies in my stash, and not buy anything. My only fail was the Felix clock in the ME inspired kitchen, it just was too perfect not to “acquire”.
Even though I say this project is complete, I’m not saying finished because I KNOW there are things in my stash that will find homes in the kitchens, sewing room, and workshop that haven’t come to the surface yet.
From Ann-Cary McLain:
At the recent Quarter Connection Mini Mart I was thrilled to acquire the Charleston Single - a kit I have sought for years. I plan to assemble, electrify, and furnish the house for my CYLC 2024 project.
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March Update:
This quarter I laid out and stained two levels of flooring. All clapboard siding was attached and openings cut out. (Blue tape holds outer walls for a trial fit.) I made kitchen, dining room, and some bedroom furniture to help with the electrical plan. Not pictured -- all electrical components and a display box were purchased.
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June Update:
With my heavy work schedule this quarter, I tackled smaller tasks on the house -- even if they were out of order. All the windows have been painted and "glass" (mod podge) applied. Doors have been painted (including gold doorknobs). All shutters have been painted. All porch railing units have been painted and assembled. Next quarter I'll tackle the wiring and wallpaper.
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September Update:
This quarter I developed an electrical schematics plan and started implementing it as I assembled interior walls and applied wallpaper. Many more pieces of furniture were assembled. The living room is complete, with good progress made on dining room and kitchen. The 2nd floor (pictured in front) is starting to come together. But there is still a lot to be done in the 4th quarter!
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Final Update:
I pushed up until the very last minute, but I completed this year-long project! This was by far my most complicated 1/4" project to date, esp. the electricity throughout!
From Kathy McNeely:
I decided to make a painter's studio roombox to display my miniature paintings as I work on them. I've planned a gallery for YEARS, maybe I'll get to it at some point, lol. My roombox kit arrived yesterday.
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March Update:
I really underestimated how many bricks and mortar I would need! I just ordered more. I have widened the annex entry in the back and added windows to this part of the build. There us another front room that will be added as well.
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June Update:
No June update
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September Update:
Coming along, but I don't know if I'll ever brick an entire piece again! Lol
I still need to brick outside, add lighting, then I can add the fun details.
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Final Update:
It's finished! I've submitted for the miniatures.com "Creatin' Contest", too. The outside is completely bricked, too.
From Jan Mickelson:
I have selected the Acorn Wood Cottage in half inch scale for this year’s project.
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March Update:
I’m not as far along as I thought I would be with my half scale acorn cottage! There was the task of gathering appropriate paint colors and of course brain freeze when I even think about landscaping. Onward!
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June Update:
I have made some good progress assembling, painting, and gluing together the Acorn Cottage. The inside has one papered wall -- I may add some beadboard panel part way up the wall. The fireplace is not glued in yet -- need to do aging. The exterior will have a second color of paint so chimney has not been glued on yet but I think it turned out really nice. I'm excited to start on the paperclay trees.
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September Update:
Ugh not making much progress at all! I was worried about using paperclay so I have just done a little on that. I worked on the base carving it to shape it some more. I have done nothing on the inside but did make a little bed I might use. I can’t find the bed right now so no picture. If this is like last year the final three months is when I finally get confident enough to finish. It’s going to be beautiful.
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Final Update:
This is my progress as of December 30. I will continue to work on the trees and landscaping. It is much harder than I thought it would be! I really have enjoyed working on this half inch scale project.
Samantha Murray
Rinse and repeat. I’m continuing my challenge from last year with the Advent Calendar. 7 buildings down, 18 to go. IT WILL BE FINISHED THIS YEAR!!!
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March Update:
I have 9 buildings designed so far and an idea of how it will all go together. Gotta step up my game!
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June Update:
Progress has been slower than I hoped with real job and show prep getting in the way. Really hoping to jump in and get this finished in the next six months.
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September Update:
Checking in but nothing has been accomplished this quarter due to “Real Job”, Dallas miniature show, and new puppy getting in the way.
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Final Update:
Sadly due to many factors, some beyond my control such as my hard drive becoming corrupted and losing a lot of data, including some of my advent calendar files, I did not finish my year long project. I’ll get the files recreated and keep working on it. Next year, I’m doing something just for me.
From Linda Napier:
I was hoping to start the Adoorable shop last year after finishing the other project. Well, it's still in the box. I hope to complete it this year.
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March Update:
Progress this quarter was staining all the pieces and laying the floors.
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June Update:
Here is my photo for the end of the second quarter. Of course, I wish it was further along, but I'm happy I'm making progress.
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September Update:
I was distracted with Camp Make-A-Mini this quarter, but did make some progress.
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Final Update:
Adoorables from a kit by Debbie Young. I really like how it turned out and hope this gives you some incentive to make yours.
From Marjorie Parker:
This poor Laser Dollhouse Designs Jazmine 1/2 scale has languished for years in a coat closet. Because I started it with no skills and made a number of mistakes, I doubt I can fully restore it. Yet it deserves to be finished and inhabited by its Victorian family. I am doing hybrid battery lighting with round wire and have never ever done shingles.
I am also tickled by all the fellow challengees working on Joie de Vivre. I have one to finish, too, and would not let myself buy any furniture until it was done. Maybe that will be my CYLC for 2025. One word to you, don’t get all hung up on all the custom paint mixes … unless you want to, of course ….
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March Update:
Eeek! The March CYLC is due! I forgot! I have been working on the True2Scale lamps for my Club’s 1/48 scale project instead. So earlier, I took my Jasmine 1/24 apart and tried to untangle the wiring. I did learn that 9 Volt batteries are not necessarily compatible with all ancient 1/24 scale 12 volt lamps that I have acquired and “inherited”. Who knew? Two of the lamps failed, one battery got super-hot and some wires needed to be re-spliced. It was far easier to get the fireplace going with a reliable Evan Designs LED fire kit.
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June Update:
In this quarter of CYLC, I learned that larger scales really are unforgiving. I also learned that tabs won’t fit into paint-filled slots, nor into paint-warped wood. Actually, I already knew -- just had to remember -- painfully! I tried out two new products for me -- extra large rubber bands to use as clamps, and model-railroading’s Just Plug’s Light Block Kit. I am sure the putty in the light block kit would work even better in more patient and skillful hands than mine. It would be a great product for miniaturists in thinner strips and lighter colors. Yes, the porch roof was deliberately cut to hide the electronics underneath. Yesterday, it was deliberately snapped into three pieces because I neglected to re-familiarize myself with the directions since 2016 for order of assembly.
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September Update:
What I did in the preceding quarter of CYLC ‘24 was two kinds of shingles and a little bit on the lighting and a little bit on the front door. Shingles on turrets and dormers is not for the faint-hearted! Hoping to wrap it up in the last quarter and finish! Thanks again for extending the deadline.
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Final Update:
At long last, my Laser Dollhouse Designs 1/2 scale Jasmine is finished. I am not happy with it (my lack of expertise -- it’s a wonderful kit!); but it was a work in progress since 2015. Now my treasured dolls can move in. The best part is when I took it to a Club meeting to work on in November and the four year-old grandson of a prospective new member played with it, very gently. He was fascinated with the fireplace, which I forgot to light in these photos.
The experiences I gained were: wallpapering and flooring; 1/2 scale lighting using round wire and 9-volt battery adapters; shingling; and buying way more furniture than could fit! Of course, it needs a lot more doo-dads and hanging plants. I would have preferred wicker furniture in the sunroom, and the one Bespaq piece outshines the TownSquare pieces -- but even so, I went way over budget.
From Alician Pearce:
My main goal for 2024: I want to get the basic structure done on my book shop. If I get done early with that, then I will work on the kits for the insides ... that will be a bonus ...
These will be bonus items if I get the structure done ...
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March Update:
I have had a crazy first part of the year ... this is all that I was able to get done.
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June Update:
I did not get much done on the structure, but I did get most of the lighting in, and also got some of the furniture assembled.
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September Update:
Not much got done this quarter, as I had a ton to do getting ready for Convention and NAME day. I did get the wiring for the fireplaces done and some furniture.
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Final Update:
I did not get last year's challenge finished. Life got in the way, and the last 3 months, I have not had any time at all to work on it. So, this will also be my year long challenge for 2025 .... LOL!!!
From Melody Petlock:
My goal for the 2024 NAME year long challenge is to make some progress on this display cabinet dollhouse I built about 7 years ago. I at least want to finish whatever is needed for the dolls to move in. (Flooring, baseboards, door frames, strip lighting, stairs, and any "built ins".) I call this dollhouse the Dutch House. It is the home of a Sea Captain and his very creative wife (M'Lady). The house is in some warm Dutch colony so a lot of the furnishings are white wicker. They have been many places so have decorated their house with things collected on their travels.
The photos are a rough image that was the best I could find of the basic kit (Real Good Toys 20+ room showcase) and the current "secret shame" state of the house. M'Lady is not amused!
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March Update:
The first step was clearing out all the things stuffed in the dollhouse over time. Over these months I have painted, cut and glued a lot of doorframes and baseboards. I also worked on hallway doors -- false entrances, exits. I made 2 cheap fireplaces super fancy and upscaled a couple of shelf units. I botched hallway floors so am waiting for new lovely blue tiles. I am enjoying making progress ... thanks to this motivating year-long challenge!
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June Update:
In the second quarter I figured out and installed a lot of trim and finished all of the flooring. It's becoming a challenge to focus on architecture, walls, floors, windows, stairs and trims. I keep wanting to work on furniture and fill shelves!
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September Update:
I am seeing some progress.
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Final Update:
This display house is almost where I wanted it to be at this point. There are only a few bits of wire to conceal, baseboards to glue down, and draped windows to make before it is completely move in-ready. The dolls and I are so grateful for this challenge. Having accountability really moved my project forward!
From Cheryl Polito:
I am going to continue working on my log cabin and think I will take the advice of working on it every day from a certain time so by December 31, 2024 I will have it finished inside and out.
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March Update:
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June Update:
One side of roof is on and some ceilings done. I brought it up to the RV park but will have to take it home since it is too humid and even though it is covered and wrapped in a sheet and tarp things are not liking the moisture. I hope to finish the last two floors and ceilings so I can add the logs to the outside. Hopefully next check in I will be working on furniture.
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September Update:
I haven’t been able to work on it as much as I would like because we are living in our RV while my hubby works out of state. I actually got my log cabin with me a few weeks ago and have worked as much as I can. I again moved walls, added and subtracted from flooring, and all but a little in the kitchen has been finished. While waiting on paint in the kitchen to dry I started working on measuring logs. I am allowed to work in the rec hall of our RV park but don’t want to cut the wood inside since it would make a huge mess.
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Final Update:
I haven’t had as many chances as I thought I would but here is what I have done so far. Will be working on it when I am at my house to finish it.
From Marlene Prickett:
I am using a 7-shelf corner bookshelf to create a 6 apartment complex titled: Froxbury Mansions Phase II. So far I have assembled the bookshelf …
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Final Update:
I have finished my challenge!! The project was called Froxbury Mansions Phase II but I have changed it to “FAWLTY TOWERS” as it is rather quirky! There are six apartments for elderly people … a place to display most of the wonderful furniture that has been languishing in boxes and drawers! I still have a few details to add but the overall structure is complete and the new residents are moved in with most of their furniture. I will post more pictures on the NAME Facebook page.
From Kelle Risoli:
I really want to try and get this completed. Fantasy Cottage revised into a Gothic Chamber.
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March Update:
I have made some modifications to the size and the material that will be used. So far I have created the prototype and the patterns I'll use to cut the pieces. Doesn't seem like much but at least it's progress ;-)
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June Update:
I was able to get the furniture for the King's Scribe quarters made and prototyped the Rose Window in the curved castle wall (half of an oatmeal box). The furniture is made from cardstock and chipboard cut on my Cricut Maker. Credit for the Gothic Fireplace and the Prie Dieu goes to Thicketworks Studio (Heather Tracy) and the medieval bookcase design is from Spellbound Miniatures (Lisa Sones-Peck). Had a happy accident happen with the bookcase & the Prie Dieu when I sprayed on a light coat of Krylon clear Gloss. Don't know if it was an old can or my spraying technique or spraying in 100 degree temperatures, but the color and the texture it left is perfect! Will have to try to replicate it.
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September Update:
Sadly, I have made very little progress this quarter. I do have a pile of “stones” for the castle walls cut out but that’s as far as I’ve gotten. Hopefully more progress next time.
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Final Update:
I am reluctant to say that I have failed miserably with this year's challenge. The more I worked on it, the more I realized that it just wasn't working the way I wanted. It had gotten so big I was afraid I was going to have to add onto the house, so I have had to rethink the whole thing. I think I'm on the right track now so I will plan to keep at it for the 2025 Challenge.
From Connie Sauve:
Kringle’s Tree Farm started when my friend Don Silva, gave me the wood shack who made it from scratch. I happened to have the acrylic cover already, so I had the base made to fit the cover, which dictated the size of the project. I fell in love with the MacKenzie-Childs' colorful truck and bought one on eBay. The truck fit in great with the shack and I decided to turn the scene into a Christmas tree lot. The shack will be selling Christmas items, there will be a split-rail fence around the whole scene with a gate. There will be a family buying their Christmas tree from tree lot. There will be lots of snow and lights, creating an iconic American Christmas scene.
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March Update:
“Kringle’s Tree Farm” is coming along great so far! I made the split rail fence from old wood stakes I found in the desert. The snow has been started by laying down the first layer of styrofoam. The sales shack is in place and also the truck. I made the pine tree display shelf from scratch, which still needs to painted and finished.
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June Update:
I accomplished a few new things for my YLC, “Kringle’s Tree Farm” project. I added more snow to the base and also super fine white glitter to make it sparkle. I also made a four-sided tree shelf from scratch that will add additional display space for Christmas decorations for sale. The split-rail fence and gate are also now finished. I had a bit of a setback with the Christmas tree lights I want to swag from the top of candy-striped poles that will be positioned around the tree lot. The white lights I had planned on using looked orange instead of white, so I will have to rethink the lights. Right now I’m testing the height of the poles (they will be shorter) and the red striping. The project is coming along, although a bit slower than I would like. Hopefully the next deadline I will have much more finished!
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September Update:
I made a lot of progress this quarter on my “Kringle’s Tree Farm” project. Snow was added to the truck, market stall roof and fence. The candy cane striping (automotive car pin-striping tape) was also added to all the poles. I wired the market stall so the interior lights up. Plus filled the stall and tree shelf with all kinds of Christmas items to sell. I made a stovepipe for the stove inside the stall.
I have a few more things I still need to add to complete the scene. l have five figures to make, Kringle the proprietor and the family members that are shopping for their Christmas tree. Plus the sign over the gate and on the truck doors. Finally stringing the Christmas lights around the scene at the top of all the poles. This has been a really fun project so far!
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Final Update:
I was able to finish my “Kringle’s Tree Farm” project for the CYLC. It was a lot of work, but I love how it turned out!
From Carin Shapiro:
I will be working on installing electrical, moulding, walls, and floors in this house. Of course, there are a few other projects going on at the same time, namely a flower shop, completion of a house in my VT house, and electrical repairs on a roombox. Enough to keep me out of trouble!
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March Update:
Although my house is still a wreck, I did prime it, installed the tape wire, bought most of the wallpaper, redid the cupolas (50 cents each from a NAME garage sale), cut openings for a few new windows. I think my work will be more visibly obvious next quarter.
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June Update:
I am making slow but steady progress, with the typical electrical obstacles I have in all of my houses. In the next quarter I hope to have the rest of the wallpaper. Electrical and flooring installed.
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September Update:
Not really sure if I am going to finish this in 3 months. I have lost my motivation and am working on so many other projects at the same time. We'll see.
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Final Update:
I am just about completed. This was a bare shell to start. I installed electricity, took down walls to create a great room and completed trim work (except in one bathroom). I still have to install 3 staircases, but I am very happy with the tremendous work I completed on this massive project.
From Susan Skinner:
I would like to complete my project from the 2023 CYLC.
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March Update:
I've been tackling the trim and all the miter cuts a bit more and laid the floor on 1/4 of the upstairs. Its been very tricky doing the first back room but after I get the second back room floor laid the front two will be easy.
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June Update:
This last quarter was busy for me with non mini things so I didn't get as much done as I'd hoped but I did get more of the upstairs flooring done. One room left! Hoping to finish laying it tonight so I can stain it with the nice weather this week.
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September Update:
I finished and stained all the upstairs floors made the andirons for both upstairs fireplaces and wired 1 of them. I also ordered and received fireplace wiring kits for the other three fireplaces in the house. It's all coming along nicely.
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Final Update:
I am so happy to say I finished the challenge this year! It took me two years and 2 challenges to renovate the whole interior of this family dollhouse that was passed to me from my aunt and namesake. The floors and walls are finished and all the fireplaces working. Now the doll family can start choosing and building the furniture to move in this next year. The year long challenge was just what I needed to get this completed.
From Kirsten Smolensky:
I want to finish Santa’s house which started as a $20 flea market find 4 years ago. It’s been stripped and partially electrified, but I want to finish it this year before Christmas.
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March Update:
Created kitchen cabinets and added lighting to fridge and over faux window. Created TV from scratch. Created mail sorting center from scratch. Still a long way to go!!
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June Update:
I had a rough quarter! The electric stopped working thanks to some loose sodder spots so I had to rip out some wallpaper etc. and start over. Once that was fixed, I focused on Santa’s mailroom including the Santa tracker. Recently I started the workshop, building the first bench. Hope to get it at least presentable for conference!!
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September Update:
It’s coming along well! I now have the basics done and I’m working on finishing some kits and more mini details. I’ve spent the most time on the workshop and gift wrapping room.
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Final Update:
So, I still have some small projects I want to do, but the house itself is finished and electrified, so I'm pleased with my progress. The basics are done!! Yeah!! This was lots of fun, and I'm hoping to work on another project next year! Thank you so much for running this project/experience!
From Helen Sparks:
This year I hope to finish decorating the inside of the 1/2" scale Colonial and also assemble Kiki's Magic Emporium (a gift from my grandkids).
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March Update:
Still gathering furniture appliances and accessories!
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June Update:
Bathroom is finished and bedroom just needs a window treatment. Other rooms are still “in progress”.
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September Update:
I finished the living room and a computer area in the upstairs hall!
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Final Update:
I finished my house! The final two rooms are the kitchen and tv/game room pictured. Didn’t start Kiki’s Magic Emporium because I was not sure I even wanted to do it any more.
From Barb Striethorst:
OK, I'll bite and try to finish my not completed 2023 Year Long Challenge "Loonie Toonie PLUS" store in 2024!!
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March Update:
I have made progress! The toys are installed in the shelving unit that I almost finished last year. All the candy is in the cash counter front shelves. The Christmas display is finished. I may just get this project completed in 2024.
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June Update:
The card rack is populated with general occasion cards, boxes and 'bags of bows'. There is a box with rolls of kraft and general occasion wrapping paper. I made a 'pegboard' with shopping bags to mount behind the cash register. More pinatas and a disco ball (Christmas ornament) join the previous sunflower pinata.
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Final Update:
My Loonie Toonie Plus store is done! I may still make additional seasonal displays to change out, but the box is done. I entered it as a display at our club show and sale Sep 15, and it won 3rd place.
From Jodi St. Pierre:
This is my childhood dollhouse, at least 50 years old. It was stored in an old garage and evidently provided a home for a furry family. I thought it had been destroyed and thrown away due to flood damage. My son surprised me Christmas Day! It was packed behind some old boxes and he recently found it (and cleaned it out). I'm going to try to save what I can, including furniture, carpet, and that awesome green velvet wallpaper!
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March Update:
The 50 year old dollhouse needed a complete rehab, including a warped board needing replacement. I took it completely apart to sand and repair (it looked so sad as a stack of boards). Carpet and wallpaper were removed. Doors and windows enlarged to scale. Stairs and interior doorways added.
It is now back together and solid. By June, I hope to have all windows and door frames installed, and MAYBE walls and cleaned carpet. Collage pics show progress, before/after.
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June Update:
Did a little this quarter. The walls were originally particle board. Paint or wallpaper would have shown the roughness. Made "skins" for walls and ceiling out of very thin wood. Put together a parquet floor design for the kitchen. Made a spiral staircase for the attic. Next projects are getting everything glued down, and then paint/wallpaper ... maybe even reinstalling most of the original carpet (don't worry -- it has been cleaned).
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September Update:
Life challenges slowed down my 3rd quarter, but I did a lot of planning. Also bought some furnishing items and a vintage kit for the Living room.
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Final Update:
I didn't get as far as I would have liked, but all the structural parts are ready. This 50+ year old dollhouse spent the last 30-ish years in the back corner of a garage (not climate controlled). It was in use as a nursery for a squirrel family for a few seasons, and also suffered some water damage ... and the effects of time. I was able to save most of the basic structure, except 1 board (the area of the squirrel nursery). It was made of old particle board, so I skimmed all the walls with veneer. The ceiling have been covered in wallpaper that looks like the old popcorn ceilings. Added "to scale" windows and doors and new columns on the front (3 were missing). The original carpets were cleaned (10 times), except the kitchen. I pieced together a parquet floor pattern, and will use original carpet piece for a rug.
For 2025, I hope to finish all the decorating and furnish inside and out!
From Julie Stuckmeyer:
I started this castle in the summer of 2020 and got this far in a few months ... and it has sat on my shelf ever since!! My goal is to finish it "Hogwarts-style" as a companion to my Wandlyn Way Street of Shops (Petworth Studios' "Street of Shops for North American Wizards").
And, because I'm a glutton for punishment (or I like to really challenge myself -- we'll go with that!) I'm also going to finish my Joie de Vivre ... inside and outside!
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March Update:
My castle progress amounted to a lot of lighting work and a little landscaping. For Joie de Vivre, I completed the structure.
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June Update:
I finished my Joie de Vivre but have made no progress on my castle. Hopefully I can get back to that in the second half of the year!
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September Update:
I've made a lot of progress on my castle but I still have loads to do in the next three months!
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Final Update:
I can't believe I finished in time! Technically, I still have to put a couple of telescopes on the "Astronomy Tower" but they are on their way to me so I can't do them. Still if you had asked me last week, I would have said the odds of me finishing by the deadline were "slim and none". Whew! Nothing like a deadline to help complete miniature projects!!!
From Fran Sussman:
This year I’ve gotten smarter. I’m going to commit to finishing something that is already started. This is a Georgian Babyhouse I took in a class with Geoff Wonnacott in 2018. I’ve been lighting and gradually filling it ever since. Only three rooms left, covering the edges, and attaching the doors. This is the year I plan to finish it. Hmmm … will I make it?
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March Update:
One more room done, only 2 to go. The bedroom (top right) was challenging! Lots of experimenting to make curtains and a dust ruffle. But it will be so much easier next time I have to do it. On to the gentlemen’s study next!
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June Update:
This wasn’t a good quarter for the Babyhouse. But I have given thought and collected a few items for the next room. I vow to finish it by December 31!!
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September Update:
So I’ve been struggling — for two quarters now — with what to do with the last two rooms of this Georgian Babyhouse. I had planned a study and a music room but neither seemed to be gelling in my head. On September 29 — literally — I got the idea of making the upper room a nursery/playroom. Duh. This gives me a chance to use all kinds of children’s furniture and toy kits I have!! The room will be chock full — a bed with a rail, a shelf of toys, a dollhouse, and all kinds of toys. Oh yes, a dresser. Maybe there will be room for a rocking chair. The lower room will be a drawing room so I’ll have an opportunity to scratch build and upholster period-appropriate furniture. I’m psyched now to find the time!!! Thank you to NAME for this challenge — sometimes deadlines spark ideas. December 31st … here I come!
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Final Update:
I still have two more rooms to fill.
From Julia Tchikine:
This year, I want to finish a roombox that I started a few months ago. It is a bathroom (see the bottom image), and I am trying to make most of the accessories and pieces by hand. I have completed some of it, but I would love to have all the accessories and furnishings completed by the end of the year, and maybe even get started on the exterior.
I would also like to finish a roombox that I started recently (see the top image), but haven't made much progress on.
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March Update:
I got a surprising amount of work done these past few months! I finished painting all of the walls, built a roof, made some furniture, and glued in the wood floor. I hope that the next few months are as productive as these have been!
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June Update:
I finally finished the bedroom and all the furniture! I might still make a shelf above the bed, but we'll have to see. I hope that I can get a lot of work done these next few months!
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September Update:
The first roombox was finished last quarter, so I worked on the bathroom furnishings for the second roombox this quarter. I made a bathtub and high tank toilet, along with a few other bits and pieces. All the furniture has to be made by hand because it is a funny scale, too small to be 1:12 but too large to be 1:24. Can't wait to finish this up (hopefully!) next quarter!
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Final Update:
I'm so pleased to get both of these roomboxes done, and thus complete the challenge! I hope to rejoin again next year if this runs again; it's been such fun!
From Barbara Thornton-Hill:
This is a series of projects I need to finish. 6-1/2 book boxes to fill from 2020, 6 suitcases to fill from 2021 and 13 or 14 kits from the 50th Anniversary to put together. I’d love to finish these projects. I had to move in the summer of 2023 and had to drop out with minimal progress so I'm reusing my 2023 Challenge for this year.
The goal is to get my craft room in order by the end of 2024. This is my before collage.
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March Update:
CYLC’24 #1.
CYLC ’24. #2. WORK ROOM PROGRESS:
SAD BUT TRUE
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June Update:
Update goal 1: 2 more done. Now I have 8/22 finished.
Update goal 2: Slowly but surely
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September Update:
Here’s one more of my kits finished. Betterley suitcase from November 2021.
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Final Update:
Well, of course I did not finish my year long goals. However, I did finish my Grinch Room and almost the Camp Makamini (at least the building anyway)
From Terry Unnold:
I really hesitated about jumping in on this challenge again, so I dithered about it until the bitter end. I’ve had this plastic monster for years, ever since I told miniature shop owner, Eileen Godfrey, that I had always wanted one. They were advertised in Nutshell News, I think in the eighties, but I had never seen one in a shop anywhere. Eileen thought there was a good reason for that since she thought it was a plastic monstrosity that she would never sell. She had acquired it in an estate from another shop that wasn’t able to sell it. She happily consigned it to the trunk of my car as a gift. It has really small rooms but there’s a very elegant version of it at the Museum of Miniatures in Carmel, Indiana to inspire me. Also nudging me on are my 1/12 scale Barbies who have seen the movie and want their own house this year!
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March Update:
Not much to report this quarter. I managed to clear out the house that will be my Homage to Barbie” and bring it to my workbench. Then I located the bits and pieces that I think will go into the house and asked Barbie and Ken what they thought. Barbie is happy with the tub but they are still thinking about that painting. Next quarter, I need to get the ceiling lights to work and decide on walls and floors. How much pink??? The Barbie in the tub is a Hallmark Barbie head on an articulated body and I will continue to maim more dolls so that they are more poseable.
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June Update:
Very little to report this quarter. I had hoped to finish the entire patio, but, as you can see, the Kens are holding things up. They got their barbecue delivered and now they can’t agree on where to put it! Barbie is not happy ...
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September Update:
Sadly no progress this month. A new fireplace has arrived, but still dealing with lighting issues.
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Final Update:
Well 2024 was definitely a bust for doing much with my project so I’m going to have to roll it over again into 2025 and hopefully have a better year health and family wise to work on it!
From Marcie Van Deren:
I am going to try to finish three (3!!) projects. They have hung around way too long.
1. The 2009 AZ State Day RV ... Needs refurbishing and a landscaped base with the dust cover.
2. Lace Shop ... Inside shop walls and floor are done. Furniture is started. Piles of lace to be turned into everything a lace shop should contain.
3. The Thrifted Living Room ... Nothing is started. Have to build the room box. I have been collecting for it for a long time.
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March Update:
This has been an excellent challenge. I am further along in these three projects that I would have thought possible! The Thrift store is out of the box and put together. The trailer base just needs the hookups now. The lace shop has been painted on the outside and most everything has been made for the inside. I just need to paint the trim and put in the lights. Thank you for the encouragement!
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June Update:
This challenge has been so good for me! The camper scene is almost finished. I am just deciding if I need long grass around the boulders!
The Thrifted Living Room has become a thrift store called Treasures
The lace shop is waiting on the wiring from Evan Designs. But the trim has been painted and the ceiling done except for the lights. All the goodies inside are ready to place!
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September Update:
1. Was supposed to be a thrift type store, but it has been suggested that it would be a great soda fountain, so I don’t know…
2. A bookstore kit that I started during Covid, but I finished in August
3. RV scene is just about finished. I’m just adding the grass around the boulders.
4. Small kit for small grandchild.
5. Tiny Altoids tin kit that’s been sitting around for 5 years or so.
6. Lace shop was finished 8/12/24 and entered in the NW MT fair on the same day.
I have enjoyed this challenge! It’s making me finish projects! Thank you, NAME!
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Final Update:
The Thrifted Living room has now become a soda fountain. I will have to obtain furnishings for it. First step to get photos of soda fountains.
The camp trailer on the RV pad just needs the grass around the boulders finished.
The Lace shop was finished in August. I found the original photos and plans. Dated 2014! It hung around way too long! Thank you for the challenge to get it finished. I am so enjoying it!
From Denise Voelker:
This mess is going to be the Neverwas, which after a year has been nicknamed Never-maybe.
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March Update:
Windows are in and 2nd floor is attached to the 1st floor.
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June Update:
Well the building is done, although I need to move the front set of wheels. This summer I will work on electric and furniture.
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September Update:
Furnished and electrified!
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Final Update:
Sliding in for home -- I diligently worked all year on this project and then in September we moved out of state. That’s okay because the boxes are marked! Imagine my surprise when I opened my Neverwas box and couldn’t find my figurines and other key pieces! After unpacking several more boxes, all was found.
From Sandra Whipple:
I plan to complete my half-scale cottage by adding a second floor, roof, electricity, furnishings, and landscaping.
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March Update:
I have added a second floor, roof, and electricity.
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June Update:
I have completed the exterior of my half-scale cottage. Next is furnishing and landscaping.
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September Update:
I finished the interior of my half scale cottage and worked on the landscaping.
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Final Update:
Done at last! This project was our club challenge in 2024. I chose to do a half scale English cottage and garden. I enjoyed doing the thatched roof from balsa wood and doing the stucco with exposed brick. Perhaps my favorite part was making the rock garden surrounding the cottage.
From Cat Wingler:
I plan to take the year to build, furnish and decorate, plus inhabitants, the Fairy Tale Book Nook by Debbie Young as a street of Christmas shops.
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March Update:
I have assembled the building fronts and since this is to be a street of Christmas shops, I changed the color choices. Then I added the timbers. Next is the doors and windows and the trim for the doors and windows, and hopefully the roofs.
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June Update:
This quarters plan is doing the doors and windows and trim pieces for the doors and windows, adding the roof pieces and shingling all the roofs. I made some adjustments to the original colors after I dry fit all the pieces. I put the base colors on the roof, and will add snow later. I did the cobblestones on the floor and did the base colors on the cobblestones. Next is building the box and doing the electrical.
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September Update:
I did the electrical work before I glued the box together. I’ve glued in all the buildings. I still need to make some decisions about the box exterior just as soon as I decide whether or not I want it permanently open or closed. Next I’ll make the shop signs and then add the snow so scene will be ready to decorate for Christmas.
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Final Update:
The Book Nook is finally finished. The last quarter plan was to make the signs, do the Christmas decorations and the snow, make the people and finish the outside. First, I had to decide, whether to display it opened full or closed into the book shape. I opted for open so I could see inside better.
I hung the garlands, made of painted pipe cleaners, and added the bows made of paper. I did some highlights on the roofs and then added snow. Finally, I made Santa, his sleigh, 10 elves, and Mrs. Claus to populate the scene.
From Tammy Witthaus:
The big project that I want to complete is Petalstone both inside and outside.
My 2nd project to complete is my 1/2 scale Fairy B&B. This started as a class at 2016 Chicago International called Game of Stones that I modified. I need to complete the electrical, finish the top, complete the stone work, and the stream/water.
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March Update:
Petalstone - 1st floor basics and kitchen complete. On to the ceiling and building 2nd floor.
Added more fairies. Completed lighting, top, and added more stone work. Now trying to find a background scene picture for the top and add more water.
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June Update:
Petalstone: I have the 2nd floor just about done and bathroom furnished! Too bad it’s difficult to see after all that work. Next on to the conservatory, 3rd floor, etc.
No further progress on my 1/2” scale fairy B&B. I still need to find the perfect background and get it printed.
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September Update:
1/2" scale Fairy B&B - finished! I finally found the perfect background and at the last minute decided to add lights in the water.
Petalstone - I was able to complete building (conservatory still to come), 2nd floor railing, finished all lighting, bathroom, master bedroom, and shingled. Besides conservatory, I still need to complete siding, furnishing remainder of the rooms, and landscaping.
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Final Update:
Petalstone - completed all of the rooms that I had bought kits for. Now comes the hard part of furnishing the remainder of the rooms which will be my 2025 CYLC!
From Marty Young:
This year I want to complete the build from last year (Debbie Young’s Charleston Single). I also want to complete Birdhouse Bluff (pictured) with the landscaping. Then I want to start the Neverwas. Everything is collected and is in plastic boxes. No need to show pictures of plastic boxes.
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March Update:
My year long challenge is to finish the Colonial single etc. but this quarter I got side tracked into finishing my village houses. So here are 4 that I have completed.
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June Update:
This quarter I finished 2 of the traveling village houses and the details on the first floor of the Charleston Single. Now off to the second floor and finish more of my houses.
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September Update:
This quarter I completed the December traveling village house. The convention slowed my work but it was so much fun! 😃
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Final Update:
This quarter I finished the December house from The Betterleys. I also finished the balloons for Carl and Ellie’s house. I do not have a picture of the furniture I have been working on for the Charleston single from Debbie Young. I am in California the furniture is in Florida. I forgot to take a picture before traveling.
From Stephanie Yue:
I would like to give the 2024 Challenge a try. This is a picture of Robin Betterley’s Secret Cabinet monthly kits for 2023. I also have her 2022 kits but think maybe I can handle 2023 better.
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March Update:
I chose the biggest kit and completed the cabinet today. I have the door done, but I won’t install it until I complete 2 rooms: April and May that go behind the door. Having a deadline motivated me. I’m having fun.
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June Update:
Here is my progress on the cabinet drawers. I hope to finish the bottom middle box before the end of June.
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September Update:
I didn’t do much during the 3rd quarter. Finished up the last quarter’s but and completed 1 for this quarter.
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Final Update:
I really needed this challenge to get me to finish the Secret Spaces kit. I’d like to thank NAME for sponsoring it.
From Ellen Yunker:
I honestly can’t remember just when I ordered this lamp/roombox but I think it was 2012! Our club chose personalized kits and I think I’m the only one who didn't finish. However, I completed the French knot rug last year so I’m hoping to finish the whole piece in 2024. Thanks to the Create team for offering this incentive!
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March Update:
All I’ve done is finish off the edges of my rug, add some trees to my Putz house window display & make 14 poinsettias, finishing 2 pots! I actually made a bunch of poinsettias a couple of years ago but can’t find them, so I bought more kits at the Columbus show in November. I promise I will make more progress by June!
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June Update:
I’m cooking’ with gas! At last got the mojo goin’ and I’m decorating the tree, arranging presents, and gluing down the food. Club member Jenni will stop by to wire up my lights and then it’s GO BABY, GO!
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September Update:
I finished my mantle scarf so now the fireplace can be glued in. I really hope I will finish this project from 2012 for this year’s challenge!
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Final Update:
I’m 95% finished which is pretty good for a 12 year-old project. I picked it up from Preston today; he finished the electrical stuff yesterday. Just under the wire! I still have to finish & adjust the roof so it’s flush instead of gapping, & I want a base so the bicycle can fit in front of the house. Then I need to clean up my faux stone chimney a bit. But it’s mostly finished & I’m so happy! Thanks for running this challenge; a deadline can really motivate slackers like me!
From Estee Zeitlin:
The Year Long Challenge of 2023 propelled my progress which had me complete 4 of 6 rooms, one in each quarter. This year my goal is to continue this same Wesley Inn with the hope of designing the last two bedrooms along with two bathrooms, the hallways, the exterior, and the lighting.
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March Update:
Grand Bedroom with private bath
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June Update:
Well, it's been a busy 3 months and not much time to work on this project. The bathroom is coming together. After National, I hope to do a marathon run on completing the 2nd floor.
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September Update:
Here’s the beginnings of the third floor of the John Wesley Inn by Debbie Young. Quite exciting, I met the owner of this inn in August of this year. She was thrilled to hear details of this project.
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Final Update:
Completed third floor guest rooms for Wesley Inn.
