Here are the participants in the Create Year Long Challenge (CYLC2025) who have COMPLETED their project.
Participants are in alphabetical order by last name.
Progress for participants who are still working on their projects can be found here:
Last names starting with A-C
Last names starting with D-K
Last names starting with L-P
Last names starting with Q-Z
From Barb Antol:
First up is the New York Style Building kit from Cornel’s Creations. I’m doing this one as a tribute to our rescue kitty, Bella Donna, who came from Brooklyn. I’ve wondered what her life would have been like if she hadn’t been sent to the shelter, but had lived her whole life happily in Brooklyn. This brick style building is where I imagine she shared a loving home with her original person.
The second is The Hermitage kit from Petworth Miniatures. This is a quirky little building which I plan to do in Steampunk style. I’m going to use all the kits I had gathered for the Neverwas project. (For me, it sadly never was 😔). It will be home to the little Steampunk couple that I bought from Sally Reader.
The plastic bins underneath each kit have all the accessory and furniture kits I have to build for each project, so I will be busy 🥰 Both are 1:48 scale.
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March Update:
I completed part 1 of my CYLC 2025 plan. I used Cornel Gheorgheasa’s 1:48 scale NY City apartment building kit to construct “Bella’s House”. Bella is a black cat who lives here with her person -- a female architect whose family has owned this Brooklyn building for multiple generations. The brick building is furnished with a mix of new pieces and family heirlooms, all built from kits in my stash. The top floor is her person’s home office decorated with Brooklyn Dodgers memorabilia and there’s even a rooftop patio garden. I had so much fun working on this project. The building style is unique and different from any other projects plus it’s a special tribute to our rescue kitty Bella Donna who came from Brooklyn.
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June Update:
Part 2 of my CYLC2025 is the Hermitage Kit from Petworth Miniatures. This is a unique quarter scale kit which I’ve wanted to do for awhile. It will be home to this little Steampunk couple I got from Sally Reader. I’ve completed the structure and landscaping, but still have to complete the furnishings. I’m planning to use some of the kits purchased for the Neverwas project, which for me “never was”.
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September Update:
This is my September update on the Hermitage. For September, I completed Part 2 of my year long challenge plans. This is “The Hermitage”, a quarter scale kit from Petworth Miniatures. I decided to decorate it in steampunk decor. It was a good place to use all the kits I had gathered for the Neverwas, which unfortunately never worked out for me. It is now home to the Captain & Missus, a wonderful pair of steampunk dolls I got from Sally Reader. The Captain and Missus are enjoying a night of celestial viewing through their telescope atop the tower.
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Final Update:
I completed parts 1 & 2 of my planned year long challenge work for 2025. I know it’s early. I really thought these would both take longer to complete, but they were both so much fun and once I started working on them, I couldn’t stop 
. Both projects are quarter scale. Part 1 is Bella’s House, a tribute to our rescue kitty Bella Donna who comes from Brooklyn, NY. I used the NY style apartment building kit from Cornel’s Creations (UK). Part 2 is The Hermitage, a kit from Petworth Creations (Canada). I decorated it in steam punk style and it is now home to The Captain & Missus, a beautiful pair of steampunk dolls I got from Sally Reader (UK). Once again, I’ve enjoyed the Create Challenge. I plan to use the remainder of the year to work on a bunch of smaller UFO’s.
From Marie Arighi:
I plan to turn this $7.00 thrift store dollhouse into an Italian Villa - inspired by my 1st trip to Italy this past November.
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March Update:
I painted the outside of my house white and then sprayed a textured color over it to give it a stone look. I think it turned out good. Can’t wait to see the final outcome.
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June Update:
I have completed the top story. The walls and floors are both complete. Only thing left is to decorate it.
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September Update:
I have completed the inside of the Italian Villa. I will finalizing the outside soon.
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Final Update:
My Italian Villa is complete 🇮🇹✨After a full year of dreaming, designing, tweaking, and tenderly placing every tiny detail … this Italian Villa is officially finished. Inspired by my unforgettable trip to Italy in November 2024.
From Mary Barrett:
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". I started it in 2024. I am going to finish it this year.
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March Update:
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June Update:
Where has the year gone??? Getting the basic tree done but rethinking some of the branches!!! Having fun, making a mess, but fun nonetheless....
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September Update:
No September update
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Final Update:
Not done, but looking forward to finishing next year ....
From Cassidy Beeman:
I’m planning on making the Potter half scale kit from Amy of littlevintagelane. I’m going to complete the inside and outside, making it a home decor shop.
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March Update:
Progress continues on the half scale potter house. I hand painted the floor in a harlequin pattern and made the large bookcase for the shop. Also got a great battery operated light fixture from TheModernDollhouse Etsy shop.
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June Update:
Work continues on the half scale potter house. I started bringing in accessories and made a large display table. Really liking the colors and am looking forward to filling it with furniture pieces and decor items.
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September Update:
Made some small furniture pieces for the half scale potter house. A card catalog, chair, small table, and bench help fill out the space. Added some accessories to the area too including a tiny primitive dollhouse. Will be wrapping everything up soon!
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Final Update:
The half scale potter house is complete. I added a few more items including some delft tiles. I was inspired by a trip we took this summer to Amsterdam and I thought having a few of these tiles would be perfect for the shop. The outside is all decorated for fall so I need to get some cute evergreen garland and maybe some red bows to decorate for the holidays.
From Cindy Bottasso:
I’m joining the group of people making Debbie Young’s Sweet Rose Cottage. I plan to make all the furniture myself as I’m learning about my laser cutter. Also I want to finish my Halloween house by the Stewart’s.
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March Update:
I have a lot to do. The Sweet Rose is gradually awakening.
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June Update:
Working on a reading nook with a stained-glass window.
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September Update:
I completed the interior of the rose cottage. I'm not sure how it became filled with cats. Now, I need to finish the landscaping.
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Final Update:
Yeah!! It's finished after a year of changing and fussing. I'm a beekeeper, so that's me in the front. Audrey’s garden, named after the plant from Little Shop of Horrors (and incidentally my daughter's name — haha), has trumpet flowers that I have failed to make bloom in my own garden for three years. The interior is a nod to cats, which I'm very allergic to. It was fun to place them everywhere because they own everything in a house. I also improved at making handmade pottery and displayed them all over the house, even in the bathroom sink and kitchen mixer. My favorite creation is the booknook — a special reading spot under the stairs. I installed books from floor to ceiling on all three walls and added large comfy pillows to lounge on. What a fun house!
From Jessica Boyd:
For my 2025 Year Long Project, I would like to complete this Christmas dollhouse so it’s ready for display next Christmas! 🎅🏻
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March Update:
I have cleaned out the dollhouse and have found some items that I plan to use in the house along with a Christmas baby picture of myself!
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June Update:
My update for this quarter is that I have not done anything for the Christmas dollhouse. I’m thinking that as the holidays get closer I will feel more motivated to work on it for decoration. I hope so. I have not given up yet.
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September Update:
My project update is that I got these street lamps for the house!
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Final Update:
The Christmas House is DONE!!!!!
From Jene Bondi:
I hope I don't flood like I did last year. I want to finish a few projects but I'm only going to choose 1. This is my Witch Shop that I got for a steal of $50.00 at my local dollhouse store for my birthday. I absolutely love the colors!!! It is 1/12 scale. First thing first is I got to cut away the 2nd floor. It's going to be called Wobblewand & Hootwhistle.
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March Update:
Well I wasn't able to get much done as I got the flu and it took me down hard. But here are some of the items I've collected for my witch store. And signs have been ordered as well, I just have zero clue where I put them ...
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June Update:
My life the last 12 weeks went to hell in a hand basket. Nothing got done.
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September Update:
I am a day late and a dollar short. I have not worked on my Halloween house at all. Life is still quite the roller coaster ride. I am, however, checking in.
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Final Update:
Well here she sits. Decorated. The hounds of hell have been nipping at my heels all year. Thank God this year is almost over.
Maybe next year I'll undress her and try again.
From Jackie Browder:
My YLC 2025 is to complete Debbie Young's Sweet Rose Cottage kit. The whole thing: house, landscaping, furnishings, and display case (if needed). I am trying to not get 95% done, and move on to another project! The furnishings will be a little difficult, since I did not buy the furniture kits, and I will be furnishing the house by using my swap stash, and by making my own furnishings.
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March Update:
I am not finished with my Rose Cottage, but it is moving along. Some real life household projects have distracted me. My Rose Cottage takes a little longer to make, since all the furniture (such as the kitchen parts shown in the photo) is DIY and not made from the Debbie Young kits. I have sofa and bed fabric on order, and several clear case options are in my craft room.
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Final (May) Update:
My YLP is finished! Rose Cottage was a wonderful kit which I finished with my own furniture and accessories.
From Susan Buffaloe:
Over the past few years my family has gifted me these room box kits for birthdays and Christmases. My year long challenge is to customize and complete these 4 kits.
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March Update:
This is my detective room box using the Rolife Mose's Detective Agency kit. I’m still working on it with my own touches. I decided to have a back story to give me inspiration. The detective is a woman. Her father was a cop. His watch is on the crate. He was murdered many years ago and the case is unsolved. When she isn’t on an active case she is still working on her dad’s case. She loves her cats and they even help out with her work from time to time. 😉
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June Update:
I have finished my Mose's Detective Agency including my personal touches. I am now working on the next project Duplex Apartment by Reducio. It looked like an easy build at first but I see several of the pieces arrived broken. No problem. I’ll just have to add some distressing to this “old” building.
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September Update:
My second project was The Duplex Apartment by Reducio. It’s a charming kit which you can hang on the wall. I decided to distress it a bit, replace some of the window scenes with illustrations from the Hulu show Only Murders in the Building and added a little pig. He needs a collar leash (if you’ve seen the show, you will know). The light posts will light up when I’m done. The next project will be the Friends Cafe by Reducio.
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Final Update:
I think I attempted more projects than I had time and energy for! I am happy with the 2 I finished. The Moses Detective Agency and the Apartment Building complex.
From Brenda Colby:
A favorite travel destination of mine is Quebec City, and one of my favorite restaurants there is Le Lapin Sauté. I started construction many years ago on Suzanne and Andrew’s Miniatures quarter scale (1:48) project representing buildings in Quebec City. Technology has moved on since beginning this project, so I have partially disassembled it and will begin anew by replacing the 12V lighting system with a 3V one. My goal is to finish the exteriors of these three structures, plus a fourth, and to complete the surrounding landscaping in 2025. Any completed interiors will be a bonus.
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March Update:
All structure exteriors are complete. I will now focus on facades and landscaping.
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June Update:
Let there be light! The new lights are installed in my quarter scale project, and the building exteriors and sidewalks are mostly finished. Now comes the fun part of accessorizing the exteriors and completing the vibrant street scene. See you in September!
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September Update:
Le Lapin Sauté is a jewel of farm to table restaurants. This miniature exterior emphasizes its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients in its dishes - as the exterior does in real life. My goal is to complete the street scene by the December update.
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Final Update:
I have completed my quarter scale rendition of a vibrant street scene in Old Quebéc City. This scene is reminiscent of a number of quaint shops and restaurants in the historic city, including the following: Le Lapin Sauté (bkgrd), a farm to table restaurant in Lower Town, and Aux Anciens Canadiens (rt), a historic restaurant housed in Maison Jacquet, one of the Upper Town's oldest buildings. I have taken artistic license and placed both restaurants, Le Lapin and Aux Canadiens in the same Lower Town location. While rich in history, the scene is also rich with memories, including one of my then young son having a moment of fun chasing pigeons standing on the sidewalk.
From Debbie Colombo:
I am going to work on my manor house. It's my intent to get at least the outside, the wiring, and the wallpaper done this year. I changed it because this is a wall hanging house and when it's done, it gets hung up and it's out of the way!! Woo hoo!!
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March Update:
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June Update:
This is what it looks like at the end of the quarter, didn't get much done as i would have liked, I had to wait for more stone to come in.
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September Update:
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Final Update:
From JoAnne Cutting:
Given my incomplete results for the last two years, I'm downgrading my expectations for 2025. I have boxes of unopened kits that have been set aside "until I get time." Well, I'm retired and life seems to be settling down some so Now is The Time. My goal is to finish six kits, chosen at random from the two boxes I grabbed this week. If I complete more, that'll be terrific, but since I've already proven my slow-as-a-sloth progress, I don't want to set the bar too high. Maybe the third time will be the charm! Ever in hope!
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March Update:
Success!!! I have met my goal for the quarter by completing two kits from my stash. Both are newer kits from the top of the pile: Castle Crafts Dantessa Chair and The Banshee Keen's Little Lending Library Kit that I think came from the Cape Cod Convention. I have no idea what I'm going to do with either one but they're done. It's a good feeling.
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June Update:
It's been a busy Spring, with travel and life commitments, but I'm determined to stick with this challenge no matter what. I started this flower kit in April in Florida and finished it in June in Massachusetts. So I'm halfway to my six-kit goal right on schedule. Plus I'm working on #4 now, waiting for paint to dry as i write this. Accomplishment feels good.
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September Update:
It's been a busy summer but I'm happy to report that I've met my goal of completing two kits this quarter. The first was a delightful book from a kit I bought at the Kensington Dollhouse Show in London last May: "Alice in Wonderland" in 1/12th scale on the thinnest paper I've ever handled. It was quite fiddly but I'm really happy how it turned out.
The second project isn't technically a kit, but a Mystery Box challenge for my NAME club, the Nutmeg Mini-Makers. A few months ago, we each brought in an unfinished room box filled with odds and ends of decor and swapped; mine came with wallpaper, two chairs, a table, a rug, and candlesticks, a book, a plate and a vase of flowers. Everything else came from my stash - Halloween was my late mother's favorite holiday so I have a lot to work with! I'm happy with how well "Mr. Bones' Reading Room" turned out.
It's looking like I just may complete my yearlong challenge with flying colors!!!
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Final Update:
I am thrilled to report that I've completed my goal of six kits in 2025. Attached is the photo of the set of Christmas Books in 4 scales that I finished this quarter, the second kit I bought at the Kensington show in May. I'm so happy with how they came out! My tiny library is growing nicely. I have two more in progress, one of which I might finish tonight but I didn't want to wait until almost midnight to send this update in. So here's to completing challenges and looking ahead to new ones in 2026!
From Diana DeWalt:
I'm submitting my John Wesley project to be completed this year. It's been sitting in this state for quite some time. I need a push.
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March Update:
Well not a whole lot done, sort of sidetracked by a few other projects. Put roof together including electrical. I need to furnish upstairs before it goes on. Staircases and railing pieces are stained and ready. I did electrify the back of downstairs staircase. Also painted and put together porch pieces. The next step needs to furnish the inside so all these extraneous pieces can be put on.
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June Update:
Playing around making furniture and deciding what I want where in John Wesley.
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September Update:
Here is my "progress" for 3rd quarter. A bit of furniture work on third floor. Also tying off and joining electric wires. Still a slow go.
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Final Update:
Hard to believe trim and posts can take so long to put together and paint. Not a lot of progress and certainly not finished yet. Maybe 2026 will be the year.
From Crystal Dezenosky:
I mainly work in 1:48 scale but realized I miss working in 1:12 so I bought this Beachside Bungalow on Facebook Marketplace and I have decided that will be my year long challenge. It is still in the box, never been opened. I am hoping that by the end of the year it will be built, painted, lit, decorated and furnished. Hopefully if I have time left over, I will put it on a base and landscape it as well. Looking forward to seeing if I have what it takes to get it all done in a year. Normally in the past it takes me many years to complete something like this.
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March Update:
Well 3 months down and not a lot of progress made. I’ve had so many other commitments that all I have done is open the box and make sure all the pieces are there! Hopefully I can get more done in the next few months.
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June Update:
6 months in and finally making some progress. I’ve got everything painted inside and out and most of the house built.
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September Update:
I suppose I could blame it on the summer but let’s be real…. I got lazy. The only thing that I got done in the last 3 months is put another coat of paint on the outside!
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Final Update:
Well I made it just under the wire! I have the house built. Only thing missing is the door! It’s drying! Unfortunately the porch rails did not fit (they were too small) so I might do something else but I need to think on that.
Well I didn’t do everything that I set out to do but at least I got the house built. I’m thankful for the challenge ... without it this house would surely still be sitting in the box.
From Carolyn Eiche:
For this year's CYLC I've decided to finish up 10-13 unfinished projects.
Some are partially built, some need their finishing accessories or furniture built, landscaping done. A couple others are 90-95% finished and just need that final thing done to complete it entirely. All were put aside at some point to start something new because I hit a roadblock on finishing. In no particular order:
1) Debbie Young Around the World spice shop
2) True2Scale Garden Arbor
3) Robin Betterley's Briarwood kit
4) Robin Betterley's 1/144" Cafe
5) Pet shop made from Debbie Young kit, I kitbashed
6) 2023 NAME DAY project
7) 2023 Camp Make-A-Mini Shepherd's hut
8) Mini Cousins Hot Dog Stand
9) 2024 Camp Make-A-Mini building
10) May room from Robin Betterley's 2023 club project
Not pictured, but hope to finish off:
Landscaping of the Bed and Breakfast from 2024 National and my Pink Lemonade house. 2021 Camp Make-A-Mini Cabin finishing touches.
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March Update:
So far this year I have completed 4 of my 12 listed Challenge projects. I completed the last room from the Betterley’s 2023 Secret Spaces cabinet. I've also completed my Mini Cousins pop-up Hot Dog Stand, 2023's NAME Day project, and Debbie Young's Spice Traders shop from the Around the World in 8 Days online Houseparty.
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June Update:
The first page of pictures are of my completed Robin Betterley 1/144th scale Blue Sky Cafe and Bunny Burrow.
The second page is of my finished Puppy Empawrium (it's spelled wrong on purpose) and my Shepherd's Hut from CMAM 2023.
It feels really good to have these projects done. Some of them have been languishing in my unfinished pile for years! Eight projects down, five to go. Yippee!
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September Update:
It's been a busy time around here and I have only managed to complete the True2scale garden scene this quarter. I put it in a small plastic box and added the hose, mower, wheelbarrow and tools to make a little scene. Notice the little hedgehog 🦔 visiting the garden.
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Final Update:
While I was hoping to finish up landscaping two other projects this year I am really happy with everything I did get accomplished.
I finished 11 of my 13 pieces this year. Some of these unfinished projects had been languishing for years. Feels so good to finally finish them. Now I need to find space to display them!
These last two pieces are my Arts and Crafts cabin from Camp Make-A-Mini 2024, an artist's studio, and my landscaped Pink Lemonade house, part of my original CYLC from 2023.
From Beverly Fleming:
I'm going to try & finish Sweet Rose house w/Debbie.
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March Update:
I didn't get much done this quarter. I've been working on Sweet Rose.
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June Update:
Didn't get much done this quarter just exterior windows. Hope to get more done next time.
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September Update:
Here's a picture for 3rd quarter. I haven't done anything this quarter. I've been away a lot, but I'm going to try & finish #9 anyway in 4th qtr.
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Final Update:
I didn't get anything done on my #9 of Traveling Village, but I'm checking in.
From Jean Gibson:
Here are 20-plus projects that I am going to be working on for this 2025 challenge. Large projects include a baby house along with a tiny baby house and Noah's Arc. Also, there are some theaters, cuckoo clocks, some new items, and some catchup ones as well. Good luck to all!
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March Update:
Here are my first challenge pieces of 2025. The two large cuckoo clocks are 1/12th scale. The smallest one is 1/4 scale, and was a very challenging kit to complete.
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June Update:
I did finish three items on my list and am sending a picture of them now. Maybe I can add to it before the end of June. If you would rather I didn't send twice, please let me know, and I can save them for next time.
"Three 144 scale kits: Spring Theater, Children's Theater, and Castle Theater. There is a wheel on the back that rotates the little round "stage".
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September Update:
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Final Update:
Thank you for encouraging us to complete these tasks. The first house is a 288-scale Volker Arnold kit that took longer than I expected. I am pleased with the results. The blue house is a kit that has been hiding in a tote for a very long time. The lighting is helpful for the final look, and I look forward to conquering more lighting projects next year.
From Laura Goerzen:
My challenge is to complete the structure, trim, and wallpaper of this RGT Allison Jr. dollhouse so that it is playable for my daughter. I also hope to finish it with enough flexibility so that I can change and add to it when she's done playing with it. The topping on the cake of this challenge would be to have an official spot for the dollhouse in our house other than our guest room floor!
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March Update:
Slow and steady. In the last three months I've painted, wallpapered, and assembled the third floor of my Allison Jr. Dollhouse.
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June Update:
My Allison Jr. is almost done! Just some shingles and final pieces of trim to go. And my daughter has already moved in.
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September Update:
Progress has slowed, but still coming along. Just the dormer roofs, window boxes, and a few other pieces of trim to go!
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Final Update:
I've met my goal of finishing all the interior and exterior walls, doors, trim, etc, AND finding a place for this house to live in our basement. My daughter's play and my own interior styling of this house will continue for years to come. Calico critters currently have the run of the place. I'm particularly proud of the cut-out window from the living room to kitchen, the door onto the balcony, and the ladder up to the attic. Thank you for this opportunity to participate in my first year long challenge!
From Bonnie Helterhoff:
This is small building I started long ago. I have decided to use the Autumn Pantry I found on Pinterest as my inspiration. My building is a different shape but I think having the porch area will lend itself well to this concept. I suspect I will be repainting as the red just isn’t right.
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March Update:
This quarter I repainted the shop building and antiqued it. Stained shingles and shingled the roofs for the porch. Need to stain more shingles to be able to finish the main roof. Found new paper for the inside and built a shelving unit. Have a good start on a checkout and bakery case. Cut some beams. Haven't attached the inside paper or beams as I am debating on adding lights.
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June/Final Update:
WOW! What a month! I made the decision to change the building for my Autumn Market... My original inspiration was found on Pinterest and was a crowded country store look and the building I began with was just too big to create the right look. I had played a major part in creating this building for my clubs Fun day project and decided it would work much better. And once I got into working on it I couldn't stop! So after a few very intensive weeks- it's done!!! Ta da!!! The only things that I remember going out to buy is the lettering on the sign. The jelly jars were a class I taught recently. I sell the candle jars so had a lot. Made the many many sunflowers!! I use coffee filters painted and punched; cut the leaves by hand as I didn't have the right punch and used rough sandpaper for the middle of the flower. This one was really fun and now I still have half a year to tackle something else!!
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September Update:
I finished my first project for the second update so started another -- Storybook Cottage from Greenleaf that will be done in lavender/purples as a remembrance of my mom whose name was Violet and loved to wear purple. The lady who posts as Miniature Madness had done a storybook cottage that I really loved.... mine will not have the additions hers did and my garden will be much more simple but I am using the floor plan she did. I got the cottage together; sided some and used Creative paperclay to make some stone walls. Have the roof shingled and the interior wallpapered and floors done. And got kitchen cabinets made from illustration board (still need burners and a faucet...) Having fun with this one!
Final Update:
Finished the house; added furniture. Made the sofa; fireplace; bed; kitchen cabinets from scratch. Made a gazilion flowers for the front yard. Sewed up some curtains. Added accessories. The puzzle on the coffee table is something I’ve had for probably 20-30 years waiting for the right place… Pretty happy with the way it came out. Now to decide what’s next…
From Eileen Herrstrom:
I will build and furnish a conservatory as an adjunct to the 1” scale dollhouse I completed in 2024. This will be a replacement for the greenhouse attached to my dollhouse that I lost to a fire in 2023 (left). I rescued most of the accessories and will reuse them in the new building (right).
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March Update:
I have assembled the basic structure of the conservatory and given all pieces the first coat of paint.
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June Update:
I’ve not made as much progress as I had hoped, but neither have I ceased completely. The roof needs only to have the acrylic shell glued to the wooden support structure. The walls and window frames are ready for the second coat of paint.
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September Update:
I have finished building the greenhouse! This includes exterior siding that matches the main house and interior wall tiles and flooring.
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Final Update:
I have completed the furnishing of the greenhouse. It contains a lighted potting bench and a bistro set. The lower shelves hold bonsai, and and the top shelf is filled with flats of seedlings. The bottom middle picture shows the greenhouse next to the main house. Thank you for your work on the web site!
From Lisa Holm:
Going to attempt to commit to this idea. First picture is of a 3 story San Francisco house (where I stopped when the electricity got challenging, but I’m better at soldering now) and the second picture is project number 2, finishing the 2023(?) Betterley secret calendar….
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March Update:
For the Betterley calendar one (March and April).
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June Update:
Betterley secret calendar - May and June completed.
San Francisco house - I think I took more apart than I put together, but first floor completely redone so I can move on to second floor…(and outside repainted again!)
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September Update:
Betterley calendar
And the ongoing saga of the Victorian (wait until you see the crazy ceilings underway!)
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Final Update:
Not quite finished but very happy with it!
From Carol Johnson:
For 2025 my goal is to finish the following projects: Birdhouse Bluff, Montana Homestead, Creekside Cottage, 2023 Secret Spaces, Camp Make A Mini, Stump house, Carpathian Cottage, Pickett Hill, and Debbie Young's three Shepherds Huts. It will be a fun year! 💕
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March Update:
So far for the 2025 Year Long Challenge I completed the June through December 2023 Secret Spaces so that project is finished. I also have the Camp Make-A-Mini Shepherds Huts The Middling and The Pocket Size built and just have a few furnishings to complete each of them. This yearly challenge is a wonderful way to keep projects on track and be completed.
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June Update:
I have nothing new to report and no updated photos since the March update.
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September Update:
Moved to a new workspace and still getting everything organized so nothing new to report.
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Final Update:
I did not complete any more miniatures on my list for this quarter/year. Looking forward to more time spent enjoying miniatures in 2026! ❤
From Laura Johnson:
This is my new challenge. I have assembled most of the structure. it is the B & B Thursday Night Project (by Debbie Young) from the 2025 convention.
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March Update:
I am not very far along. Hope to have a lot more done next time! Thanks for doing this.
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June Update:
Here is a picture of my B&B.
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September Update:
Here are a couple of pictures of my Debbie Young B & B.
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Final Update:
Here is my Debbie Young bed and breakfast from two years ago. I still have a bit to go on the landscaping.
From Shirley Kerasiotis:
My ambition is to build Birdhouse Bluff, make all the furniture and landscape the base but I will be very happy if I can at least get the house built. Attached is a photo showing all the kits and parts for Birdhouse Bluff.
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March Update:
I decided to start the base first (backwards, I know). I have completed the shed with lighting and started on the picket fencing.
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June Update:
So I thought I would be further along but real life has a way of creeping in.
I do have the house painted, the floors and stairs stained and now I'm ready to start assembling the house.
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September Update:
For this quarter, I have assembled the house. The shingles are ready for both the house and roof and all the windows are painted and ready to go in but before I can do that I need to put in the lights first. After that I can work on finishing up the base and landscaping.
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Final Update:
I didn't get everything done that I set out to do at the beginning of the year but I am very happy with what I have gotten done. The house is assembled all the lights are in and shingling is done. The shed and the base are also done.
From Kathy Koons:
2024 was incredibly difficult for my family due to health problems and losses. Christmas is the one season that always gives me joy, even in 2024, when we couldn't decorate. So, I've decided to make 2025 a year of joy, by completing the Christmas kits in the photo. It turns out that there are far more True2Scale micro gingerbread kits in my stash than I expected, too.
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March Update:
Thanks to a total knee replacement in January, I had time to divert myself with these minis. When I was in less pain, the Sweet Rose project kept me from making more headway toward my goal. But, that's almost finished and I can get back to the Challenge.
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June Update:
I did not realize what a Christmas market stall kick I've been on this quarter. The stalls are from Jane Harrop, an unknown maker, Robin Betterley and Mini Cousins.
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September Update:
The Camp Make-A-Mini house and trips took up a lot of this quarter. But, I did finish this house. Both it and the living room furnishings were in my things to accomplish this year.
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Final Update:
While I didn't finish all of the projects I had lined up for the year, I did get most of them done. And, considering the fact that I built a house, a service & repair garage Advent Calendar, made two centerpieces, and traveled a lot, I'm pretty pleased with what I accomplished.
From Lesia Lennex:
My goal is to finish Nick's Cottage in 2025. I think it can be done! I made the shell in 2016 at Gals, Gangsters, and Gatsby. I then spent another 6 months on finishing the shell and making furniture. It's good to take our time and finish things the right way! 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.
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March Update:
I've attached my progress photo on Nick's Cottage, back half. It's moving right along!
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June Update:
Still a work-in-progress but it's coming along! Attached are my update photos for the back half of Nick's Cottage from Great Gatsby. It's roughed in to show how it'll look.
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Final Update:
I'm finished!!! Nick's Cottage is done and in a display case. Whew! It's been nine long years but it's finally come together. I've attached front and back photos. The detail is just incredible. I think this is the most involved build I've ever attempted. Somewhere among the finicky stained floor boards and woodwork, the exacting exterior shingles, and the challenging roof line, I learned how to leave paint alone and let glue dry. I took apart many pieces and re-glued as well as repainted. It was worth it. I am thrilled with how beautiful both halves of the house look. The house, the interior, the furnishings and foods, the landscaping, just perfect. The fireplace in the back half -- my CYLC -- is stunning. The kitchen/dining area in the front half is amazing. I am so very happy with Nick's Cottage. I've been inspired to mini and share through CYLC. I hope others are too!
From Preble McDaniel:
With things I have signed up to do, I know this year is going to be crazy. However, I still plan to finish 2 of the following: Sprinkles Sundae Shop, Alice in Wonderland Cheshire Cat, Christmas Tree Shop, Camp Make-A-Mini 1, 2, 3, or 4, plus design furniture for my workshop in National, design and make another unnamed workshop. Life with a laser is fun because there are so many possibilities.
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March Update:
This year started off good with making minis for myself with working on the Sweet Rose. I got the first floor assembled, wallpapered including the stairs. Although I realized I need to work on the stairs to fit since my second floor is too tight. Sigh. Then I got sidetracked with making things for workshops. My goal for this year is to get at least one project done for myself and then let my new laser take me wherever it leads. On the latter I have definitely done that with my laundry room workshop and others that I can’t show yet.
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June Update:
In April, I worked on Sweet Rose, then got busy with making furniture for my roundtable kits for Aug.
In May, I was able to take a few days off and work on my Alice in Wonderland Cat. The table is set now except for cups.
In June, I have been working on my A-frame cabin including getting lighting added.
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September Update:
Q3 was busy for me getting ready for the Cincinnati NAME show. I designed kits for roundtables and for my sales table.
For the projects I slated to work on this year, I only finished the Cheshire Cat. The cups were broken and I had to get myself together to add some other ones.
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Final Update:
Here is my submission for the 2025 Final. This is for my Sprinkles Sundae Shop.
From Pam McDonald:
For 2025, I hope to finally finish these two small shop buildings from Sue Herber that I bought and built I think about (gasp!) 40 years ago. I began retrofitting lights last year, so that will have to be finished before I tackle furnishing and landscaping. I also plan to finally put together a 1:12th Christmas room I have been planning for many years, once I figure out how to wire the old 12v lights I have for it.
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March Update:
I made some progress on my challenge this quarter. I finished adding lights to all of the rooms. This is always difficult when retrofitting a completed structure, but by adding trim strips to the upper peaks and new ceilings to the lower rooms I was able to hide the lights. The wires run down the channels in plastic stir sticks that I painted and used as vertical trim (a trick I learned in the old QC chat group). I am now collecting furniture and accessories for the shops - some purchased, some from kits and some scratch built.
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June Update:
I had hoped to accomplish more this quarter, but I was held up finding a case for my buildings and trying to make up my mind about the layout. However I have completed nearly all of the remaining furnishings and hope to install everything and complete the landscaping in the third quarter.
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September Update:
I had hoped to complete this project by the end of the third quarter, but my summer was busy and I didn’t accomplish as much as I’d hoped. I finally mounted the buildings to the base and finished connecting the wiring. I have also started to “glue in” the furnishings, something I find essential in this tiny scale. I use Tack-It Over & Over which is a removable glue, provided you are very careful when detaching small items. I still have to finish two shops – lots of accessories left to make – and add a bit of landscaping in the front.
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Final Update:
I have finished my challenge – once more with only a few days to go. Most of the time was used to fill the ten little rooms. Each shop required LOTS of tiny accessories. I am so happy this is finally completed after having it sit on my shelf unfinished for so many years. I also set up my 1/12th scale Christmas room box. This is an ongoing project as I search for the perfect light fixtures for it. Many thanks to Debbie and the team for running these challenges.
From Carla McIntyre:
After completing my 2024 challenge (with a lot of family challenges thrown in), I am ready to start 2025. I’m way behind with the Betterley’s 2024 Calendar Club - 7 boxes left to do. This was the first year I didn’t get them done monthly. I want to do the Letters to Santa project (yes, from the Betterley’s) that I preordered before it was available on the website. I have no recollection what year that was! And also from the Betterley’s I have the “Peppermint Twist” market stall and the “A Little Harey” peddler’s cart that have been sitting on the shelf partially finished and waiting for me to unearth them from my pile of UFOs. There are plenty more UFOs but these 4 projects will be my focus this year. And I promise not to buy any more kits unless the Betterley’s or Debbie Young or Ruth Stewart or anyone else comes out with something I absolutely can NOT live without!
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March Update:
I made a lot of progress this quarter! Still have to wrap most of the “packages” for the RMB 2024 Calendar Club. All the boxes are built and furnished. Thanks to a friend’s ingenuity, I also be adding lights to each box.
Been able to do a little on the Peppermint Twist this quarter, too. I think the painting is all done, but that may not be quite true. Looking forward to playing with snow on this one!
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June Update:
Really excited with the progress I’ve made this quarter! I got the 2024 RB Calendar Club project finished. Took a while to figure out how I wanted to place the boxes and get them lighted (this idea was blatantly copied from a friend!). I was also able to complete the “Dancing Hare and Peppermint Twist” kits also from RB.
Along with these projects I also designed a Fun Day kit for our club and have started working on the 2025 Calendar Club kit from Robin Betterley. Now it’s time to start on the “Letters to Santa” kit also from RB!
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September Update:
I’ve been busy with lots of different projects but have had time to get a good start on my fourth project for the challenge. “Letters to Santa” is coming along. Making the toys is a lot of fun and I’ve found a bunch of vintage toys (in my stash!) to add to Santa’s desk. Excited to get this done for the holiday season!
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Final Update:
I did it! I finished my 4 chosen projects from the “need to finish” stash this year! Plus I designed a Fun Day project for our club and our local sister club. I’ve also been working on the Betterley’s Calendar Club but, let’s not talk about my progress (or lack there of!). Now to decide which of the many remaining unfinished/unstarted (is that a word?) projects will be my 2026 challenge.
Here’s the final project “Letters to Santa”.
From Ann-Cary McLain:
Swept up in the Bridgerton craze, I plan to make Petite Properties' new Parterre Garden with Orangery for my CYLC 2025. In addition to the structure kits, garden sculptures, urns, and all the paint colors, dolls by Pat Hamilton are patiently waiting.
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March Update:
I assembled the garden base and walls, coated all MDF with a builder's bond PVA, and applied "Spackle" to the walls. Next quarter will be scribing the stonework.
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June Update:
This quarter the garden walls were sanded, the orangery was started, a rose trellis and bench were assembled, and the topiary hedges were completed.
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September Update:
This quarter I scribed the stone walls inside and out in preparation for painting (next quarter) and applied gravel for the garden paths.
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Final Update:
My Bridgerton-inspired Orangery and Parterre Garden are complete -- and a day ahead of the deadline! I had never done "stone work" and got to try a lot of new painting techniques suggested by Petite Properties for the project. (Dolls by Pat Hamilton)
From Samantha Murray:
This year I am doing something for myself. I am going to try my best to finish this room box that I began in a workshop with Ray Whitledge. I haven’t touched this for about 12-14 years. It looks like I have collected most everything for it and mostly just need to finish the needlepoint rug and assemble it all together. I just got a new magnifying glass light so I am ready to tackle those tiny stitches!
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March Update:
Made some progress on the rug for my room box. The stitches are so dang tiny!
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June Update:
A little more than 3/4 of the design is stitched. Will go very quickly once I get to just background and border.
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September Update:
I finished my rug and all the wiring is now installed. Just adding all the bits that make it realistic before I finish the outside of the roombox. I still need to fix the round side table’s broken leg.
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Final Update:
Finished!
From Linda Napier:
I want to complete the Sweet Rose, inside and out and complete the Yankee Doodle shop.
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March Update:
I've spent a lot of time on Sweet Rose. I'm deciding if I like my electric ideas before continuing, so I got some work done on Yankee Doodle.
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June Update:
Lately, I've been distracted with another project, but the furnishing kits for the Yankee Doodle are in process. I just need to order a few more things. Sweet Rose is waiting for me.
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September Update:
I completed my Yankee Doodle and am very happy with it. Unfortunately for Sweet Rose, I got distracted with the A frame project so it's still waiting for me to get back to it.
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Final Update:
I am happy to have finished the Sweet Rose cottage. This was the other of the 2 projects I wanted to complete this year.
From Angela Neely:
This year I want to complete Stonehaven by Robin Betterley.
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March Update:
This project has been a joy! I’m working on other projects along the way so I can savor every moment. I’ve completed the table, the interior walls and most of the exterior of the house. I haven’t decided whether I will use the shutters because I love all the stonework and hate to cover it up. Next is shingles and finishing the roof top. I added a little white paint to the fire in the left side but not the right. I really like the way it draws your eye in so I’ll go back and do the right side fire too.
I’m taking my time with the furniture. The pieces have all come together perfectly as usual with Robin’s kits. I’ll continue obsessing over the furniture through the next quarter 😄
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June Update:
This project has been going along quickly! It will be completed soon so I have been working on Ravenwood to have something to show for the 3rd and 4th quarters. The shingles and exterior are done and the furniture is moving in. I need to hang the curtains on the front windows as well. Great kit!
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Final Update:
Stonehaven is complete! It was a joy to put together and even more fun to furnish. I have nearly completed both Olde Crow Apothecary and Ravenwood also by Robin Betterley and will submit them for 4th quarter. I’ve ordered the Christmas house too! 😄
From Marjorie Parker:
Thank you for another opportunity to participate in CYLC 2025. Like some, I have a lifetime of mini challenges to complete, so I am hoping this is an annual event. Especially because Real Life challenges keep getting in the way of Mini Life challenges. This year I am stepping down again in scale to quarter-scale and keeping it easy, and have been inspired to complete my own True2Scale Joie de Vivre, exterior only. My photo logs tell me I started it on November 10, 2018, and put it away on March 29, 2019; frustrated by all the extra lighting I was trying to add by myself. What it looks like in January 2025, after being packed away for five years.
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March Update:
Well, I went backwards instead of forwards. Using glue without clamps is a big mistake, which I will try to fix. I also figured out what I was trying to do with my own wiring and worked on that. It had seemed like a good idea in 2019 but really doesn’t add much in 2025. The base is glued on backwards and upside down - switches are supposed to be on the plain side. One of the switches appears to be glue-frozen and no longer works for the fireplaces. The battery drawer also appears to be glue-frozen and no longer slides out. It all seemed to work ok in February but now in April I will have to take a scalpel to it all. Maybe I will have better news for the next report. More quoins, at least....
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June Update:
Managed to check all my lighting and get it to work and added the quoins (decorative exterior trim).
Still struggling with the battery drawer, which is why all the papers are sticking out.
Added decoupage to an otherwise plain side wall. Oops, the balcony sure is crooked.
However, the dollhouse “inhabitant” doesn’t seem to mind.
Next up, complete exterior and interior, start on meager furniture.
Sending more photos than you need, but you can pick your favorites.
This is one of the most beautiful kits I have ever done, designed by one of the best miniaturists out there, but my own talent and experience weren’t quite up to the task.
Still, in person, it’s breathtaking.
Can’t wait for CYLC 2026. Already picked out my project!
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September Update:
Did not get much done since June due to many happy detours into the world of DIY:
3-D puzzles, notably the offerings by CuteBee and Tonecheer. Don’t look, or it may start a craze. For those of us in the older set, these puzzles are still miniatures (about 1/2 scale), but provide stunning scenes without any need to plan, design, create, shop (beyond the simple kit), paint, or wallpaper. You could say, then, where’s the fun? But for some of us, it’s all we can handle at the moment. Anyway, my update is that I used quilling paper to soften and unify the exposed edges of my Joie. I also finished the remaining trim for the exterior and interior and base.
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Final Update:
No, I didn’t finish all my goals; but I am very happy with what I accomplished.
PS. The foam on the side hides one of my major boo boos with the battery door. Pretend it is snow.
From Alician Pearce:
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!!!
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March Update:
Not a lot of progress, but I have gotten some of the furniture done.
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June Update:
Here is my progress for my year long challenge. Not much. Have not had time to work on it at all.
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September Update:
No update this quarter ........ didn't get anything done.
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Final Update:
I finally had a chance to work on my CYLC. This year has been a struggle, and I have not had a lot of mini time this year. My project did not get done for the second year in a row, so this will be my 2026 challenge again, and hopefully I will have a bit more time to play minis in 2026.
From Melody Petlock:
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!
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March Update:
My hope was to get the Hartman family of dolls and their helpers moved in through this year. So far I did put in a lot of furniture. I realize what I need to do is fill shelves, hutches, and other furnishings whether with toiletries, books, collections, china or pantry items. My goal was to finish the 4th floor this quarter. Instead it's at the "worse before better" stage. Thanks to this challenge I am making progress. Here are the rose and the blue suites with a lot of shelves and vanities I have bashed and filled during this quarter. I have prepared windows that need to be dressed. I am looking forward to making more progress in Q2.
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June Update:
M'Lady is very pleased her blue bedroom suite is finally complete with curtains, Marie Antoinette-inspired accessories, and all the luxury and comfort she expects.
Between the suites, in the hallway to the attic, are shelves full of lovely linen and racks for extra clothing and hats.
Miss Rose's suite is also ready for her. She will be adding more touches as time goes on. She has a collection of seashells and seaside prints to add to the bathroom for example. She is never done!
M'Lady and Miss Rose hope to see big progress in the salons next quarter.
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September Update:
I got quite a lot done this quarter, most significantly in the Library of Oddities and the Laundry. I find this challenge so motivating!
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Final Update:
These challenges have really motivated me to work on this dollhouse. There are only a few finishing touches before I will declare 4 storeys of this house finished except for upgrades. I also need to do something with the top storey!
Here is the picture of the entire house. The other 2 pictures focus where I did the most work this quarter: kitchen, pantry, Butler pantry and music room. I guess I also did a lot on the guest powder room, but I didn't photograph just that.
From Anita Pickens:
I received this Sam's Club dollhouse from my sister as a Christmas present. This will become my Christmas house. I would love to be entered in this challenge. I will not be using most of the furniture included as it is wood and not the style I'm going for.
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March Update:
I still have a lot to do on the front. I included just a corner of my kitchen. I can't decide on what to do about lighting.
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June Update:
I feel a little stuck. I have the walls, bulbs/lights for the tree and I'm waiting on a prep table. 😊but I'm enjoying every minute.
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September Update:
Slow and steady. 😄
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Final Update:
From Cheryl Polito:
Here are the kits I will be working on this year. They are all from the QC Weekend, but I can’t remember the year.
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March Update:
Here’s what I’ve got done on my salon. I was babysitting my granddaughter so I didn’t bring everything I needed. I thought I had an X-Acto knife or razor blade and didn’t have either one so I couldn’t cut the paper out the window. This kit went together really well, not finished with it yet obviously.
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June Update:
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September Update:
I hope you didn’t pass out I actually got these in a couple of days early. Sorry for all the background stuff but we were moving to a new RV park.
The log cabin was from Cincy and is by Karen Benson. I have two more structures that are kits I need to make and then some other buildings for the houses of the people. My log cabin is owned by the people who own the general store.
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Final Update:
Here are 5 out of 10 buildings I wanted to complete.
From Kelle Risoli:
My goal this year is to re-work the Fantasy Cottage (a 2022 E-3 Retreat Project) into a new version I am calling the "King's Scribe" a gothic theme in 1/2". Here is the original Fantasy Cottage that is inspiring the whole project and another reference pic for the finished room.
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March Update:
This quarter I have designed my "King's Scribe" project which was inspired by the 2022 E3-Fantasy Cottage. The main display is half-inch scale while the lower level will be quarter-inch. The structure is laser cut and engraved (inside and out) using 1/8" (3mm) birch plywood. Lots of painting ahead as well as the interior and accessories. Hope I can keep up the progress so I can actually finish this year!
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June Update:
Here is my June update for the Yearly Challenge, my King's Scribe project. I managed to get the furniture done except dressing the bed. There needs to be more hours in the day and more days in the week :-)
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September Update:
I have managed to make some progress on my project. Still need to add the lights (lights are made but there's no wiring in place yet), and fireplace to the main floor and furniture for the lower level (see June update) along with the base and some landscaping.
I want to acknowledge Heather Tracy, Thicketworks for the patterns for the window, the door, and matching surrounds. Reducing her door pattern to half-scale and retaining the detail was definitely a challenge. Tried first using my Cricut Maker but it just didn't produce the results I wanted. Ended up using my xTool S1 laser for them instead.
Here's to hoping that the Holidays will be kind and I can finish this thing. 
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Final Update:
I actually finished my project this year! Woo-Hoo!!
From Jeffrey Ritter:
Well, I did not realize I could re-initiate by completing what I failed to complete last year. So, I'm in to complete my Vermeer Residence in 2025. 80% complete on structure and 70% or more on interior furnishings. Biggest challenge is hand-painting in 1:48 4 or 5 Vermeer painting in process. With the publication of my work as the cover story in the Gazette this month (which project kept me from finishing Vermeer, I still call 2024 a success.
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March Update:
Probably 80% of the furnishings and decor for the nine rooms are completed, final assembly of the structure will be completed in the next week or so, and the detailed 1:48 reproductions of Vermeer's paintings (and the related props in his paintings) will follow. These pics show the layout of the furnishings. Christine McIntyre-Hammon has been helping me learn painting techniques. Great fun.
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June Update:
Here is evidence of 2nd quarter progress. Spent May learning sculpture and fresco and gold leaf painting in Florence. Vermeer house now wired and constructed. Starting on studios and roof now.
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September Update:
My Vermeer house project has moved quickly and I may have it done before Philly. So enjoying NAME.
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Final Update:
Well, I am pleased to report the completion of my 2025 annual project. I exhibited the Vermeer house at the Philly Show and was really humbled by the many kind words from people that know their stuff! Definitely worth all of the work.
Now, what will I do in 2026?
From Neal Rogness:
I plan on doing/completing the following four NAME-related projects throughout 2025:
* Debbie Young’s Sweet Rose QC Cottage kit (including furniture kits and added-in lighting)
* One Star Away A Christmas Story House kit (exterior only but with added-in lighting)
* Quarter scale centerpiece for NAME 2025 It’s a Small World convention in Cincinnati
* Robin Betterley’s Miniatures Ravenwo
The bin is holding various supplies that will be used for the NAME convention centerpiece.
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March Update:
* Debbie Young’s Sweet Rose QC Cottage kits (
* One Star Away A Christmas Story House kit (exterior of house is complete; kit included heavy cardboard walls and some wood trim; I painted, added in additional window treatments and paper shingled the roof; porch lighting completed; more lighting will be added including some snow and icicles)
* Quarter scale centerpiece for NAME 2025 It’s a Small World convention in Cincinnati (98% completed; no supporting pic)
* Robin Betterley’s Miniatures Ravenwo
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June Update:
Here is my first quarter update for the Create Year Long Challenge 2025 (with attached pics in support, where appropriate).
* Debbie Young’s Sweet Rose QC Cottage kits (finished including all furniture kits, added-in lighting, and landscaping)
* One Star Away A Christmas Story House kit (exterior of house is complete; kit included heavy cardboard walls and some wood trim; I painted, added in additional window treatments and paper shingled the roof; porch lighting completed; more lighting will be added including some snow and icicles)
* Quarter scale centerpiece for NAME 2025 It’s a Small World convention in Cincinnati (98% completed; no supporting pic)
* Robin Betterley’s Miniatures Ravenwood kit (house has been completed; currently working on furniture/furnishings kits; some form of exterior landscaping is also planned)
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September Update:
* One Star Away A Christmas Story House kit: As with the Second Quarter Update, next up will be snow and a few finishing landscaping touches (supporting pic provided in the next update).
* Quarter scale centerpiece for NAME 2025 It’s a Small World convention in Cincinnati: Finished (and a supporting pic is provided)
* Robin Betterley’s Miniatures Ravenwood kit: As was reported with the Second Quarter Update, I continue to spend time working on a landscaping base upon which the house will sit (supporting pic provided in the next update).
NOTE: I’ve spent time finishing up the Aspen Grove kit (Stewart Dollhouse Creations) which I started at the NAME 2025 Convention in Cincinnati; that is the reason for the lack of real progress on the other two projects; stay tuned for the Fourth Quarter Update!
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Final Update:
* One Star Away A Christmas Story House kit: Finished. This is an exterior-only kit. I added snow and a few landscaping elements along with porch Christmas lights. A supporting pic is provided.
* Quarter scale centerpiece for NAME 2025 It’s a Small World convention in Cincinnati: Finished (as reported in Third Quarter Update)
* Robin Betterley’s Miniatures Ravenwood kit: As reported in prior updates, I continue to spend time working on a landscaping base upon which the house will sit. While progress was made, it is not yet finished - mainly because I devoted time to finishing Debbie Young’s Christmas Card kit which I started in a workshop at the Philly Show in November (supporting pic provided).
All told, I’m happy with the projects I finished in 2025 and with the progress made on others.
From Carin Shapiro:
This year I will focus on renovation of a vintage dollhouse. It is missing a backwall, I will wallpaper the house and furnish with my existing vintage and antique dollhouse and accessories.
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March Update:
This quarter I repaired broken antique furniture, made structural repairs to my antique house, and made progress regarding wall paper. I am most proud of the hand painted tile kitchen floor.
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June Update:
This quarter I completed one bedroom, added a brick wall and shelving to the kitchen, and completed the parlor. I also took a lot if time looking for antique dollhouse wallpaper and ultimately found 2 borders to use in the last bedroom and upstairs hallway. I found a local printer who can make me high quality color copies 11x17" for $2 a page and he has helped me out a lot with this project. I have most of the furniture and antique dolls already, so I cannot wait to finish this project so I can put them in their completed house that they have waited approximately years for.
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Final Update:
I got this one done much earlier that my prior projects as I did not electrify this one! I really enjoyed renovating this antique house, making it into my version of an antique dolls' house. I tried to be as authentic as possible. The furniture and dolls are all antique. I used antique handkerchiefs for curtains, antique tatting made by my great-great grandmother for the kitchen curtain and some rugs, and I manged to track down original antique wallpaper borders for for the left bedroom and upstairs hallway. For more photos, visit my Facebook page.
From Melissa Simmons:
This will be my first CYLC. I want to make a large craft room for me and my mom, who passed away last year. Crafting was so important to her and always has been to me as well. I've never made a house or room box that wasn't from a kit, so this structure is going to be completely custom-made from foam board. It will also be challenging because I work full-time and I'm in school full-time for my master's degree. I even had dolls custom made to look like me and my mom.
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March Update:
I managed to get both sides of the flooring and the wallpaper and bottom trim finished. I decided I wanted a bay window so I cut out one wall and installed that. I've made the curtains and rods (which took 3 attempts!), a whole lot of pattern envelopes with patterns inside them, spools of thread and ribbon, the bookshelf with so many pieces of fabric, the little baskets sitting on the shelves of the bookshelf, the coffee table, the butcher block cutting table with pegboard sides, the little wastebasket complete with some trash in it, the butter cookie tin with sewing supplies, the cross-stitched pillow and framed picture on the wall, and the other 3 throw pillows on the seat of the window. I still have a long way to go and so many pieces to still make to encompass all the different crafts my mom and I enjoyed.
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June Update:
I feel like I haven't made very much progress on my craft room. I'm beginning to worry that due to all my work and school obligations, I won't get this room finished by the end of the year. I'm going to keep plugging along and fingers crossed!
I made a bunch of cross-stitch pictures and made frames for them. I've built a workshop bench from looking at a picture of a real-life-sized one, and also made some custom fluorescent lighting to go under the upper cabinets out of EL wire, clear heat shrink tubing, and aluminum tape. I've 3D printed quite a lot of things that will eventually make it into the room after they've been painted and finished.
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September Update:
I haven't spent as much time as I should have been on my mini memorial craft room. I always get distracted by new projects. I made about 100 miniature bottles of acrylic, they are each painted a different color and labeled. I made the "acrylic" wall shelves from acetate and super glue. It's coming along, but I definitely need to devote more time to it.
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Final Update:
Well, sadly, I did not complete the Memorial Craft Room this year. Not only do I make miniatures, but I'm also a full-time nurse and a full-time master's degree student, and both of those responsibilities are seriously getting in the way of my miniature making. I am still very happy with the progress I've made, and this will likely be my project again next year.
From Helen Sparks:
Looking forward to participating again this year. I have three projects this time. The first is a half scale version of the Ivy Cottage project by Cat Wingler that was in the Miniature Gazette in 2003-04. One of my clubs is doing the project, but we are working at our own pace so some folks have already finished theirs! The second is a simple vignette box project from Small World Miniature Club. There was no theme, although we did get laser cut window, chair and table. We are supposed to display these at our Show at the end of March, so I will be focusing on this one first. My third project is the Old Southern Charm Bed and Breakfast from the last NAME Convention. You can tell from the picture that it will be my biggest challenge!
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March Update:
I’m having a productive year so far but the hardest project is yet to come. I finished the Small World Miniature Club vignette box in time for our Show at the end of this month. The birthday table was a Chrysnbon display piece which had everything on it, even tiny mint cups and party blowers! I also finished the basic structure of the Half Scale Ivy Cottage - I just need to fill the cart with flowers and it will be complete. I “cheated” and ordered some premade flowers, but they are taking quite awhile to come from Thailand! (A friend recommended the site, so I’m not worried.😉)
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June Update:
I finished my Courtyard with a flower cart, so that one is complete. I have been working diligently on the Bed and Breakfast. Some colorful language along the way as my fingers are just too big for quarter inch! I have the porch roof and posts ready to install but thought I should wait until I finished furnishing the rooms to give myself better access.
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September Update:
In spite of being sidetracked by other projects including the Chic Boutique Thursday Night Project from Cincinnati, I did manage to finish decorating the two bedrooms and the sitting area. I have gathered the pieces I need for the kitchen/breakfast room. This has been challenging for me since 1/4” is not my usual scale and I didn’t have a “stash” to draw on. I am lucky to have friends who have shared with me!
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Final Update:
I am so excited that I finished my Old Southern Charm Bed And Breakfast, the third and final project on my Challenge list for this year. I also almost finished the NAME Day Courtyard and participated in the Winter Swap. Still have plenty of unfinished projects, though …..
Thanks to Create for the inspiration!
From Julie Stuckmeyer:
I plan to finish Brooke Tucker's Golden Christmas in 1:144 and in 1:24 scales. If I happen to be more organized than last year (finishing on December 31) I will switch to other Christmas themed minis. I'm going to emulated Barb Antol and have a CYLC that is themed.
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March Update:
I've done a lot with lighting my 1:24 Golden Christmas and pretty much finished my 1:144 -- I just need to do the exterior of my 1:144 and possibly tie the electric of all three together.
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June Update:
I've managed to work on my Half Scale Brooke Tucker Golden Christmas a bit this quarter. I'm waiting to get my lighting stuff from Evans in order to light my Christmas Tree. Progress!!
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September Update:
I'm getting very close to finishing my half scale Brooke Tucker Golden Christmas. My 1:144th scale room is finished! I still need a chandelier for the dining room, the coffee table, lights for the living room fireplace mantel, and probably crown molding. I was hoping to not have to do crown molding (because that is one of my least favorite things to do in a house!!) but I suspect I'll need it to cover inevitable gaps. Sigh. Still, assuming I can find a chandelier, I will finish this year so that's good news!
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Final Update:
I just want it on record that I finished this year ... and over a month before the deadline!!! I absolutely love this room but three scales is ENOUGH! 🙄🤣 Now to catch up on all my other UFOs!!!
From Barbara Thornton-Hill:
My 2025 submission may be the same as someone else’s. It is to make the Sweet Rose house by Debbie Young and furnish it.
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March Update:
From the box to this far!
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June Update:
I am in the same place I was in March - see pics from March.
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September Update:
Good thing I still have 3 months to finish this shell of a house. So glad I didn’t include the interior and landscaping in my goal for the year.
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Final Update:
I got so involved with next year’s Convention that, of course, I didn’t finish so my pictures would be the same as last quarter. However, I’m very close to finished, just didn’t completely do it. Now I also have to do the inside furnishings and the landscaping. But first, finish the roof.
From Terry Unnold:
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! Here’s my inspiration from the Museum of Miniatures in Carmel.
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March Update:
It was a busy first quarter working on Sweet Rose and the Cincinnati Convention favors and swaps, but I did manage to complete some furniture for my CYLC. Just two night tables and a dresser for the bedroom and a hanging cabinet and small table for the living room. Still making decisions about walls and floors. Maybe full ”Barbie” hot pink with black, gold and mirror in the bedroom or maybe not …
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June Update:
My dollhouse sized Barbie and Ken have discovered online shopping and Miniverse Appliances! Now I need a lot of shelves and cupboards for their kitchen. Wonder what’s in all those other boxes? At least they got a vacuum!
How can I make any progress when they keep buying more stuff for their house?
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September Update:
No September update
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Final Update:
Ok, not completed again but I have had two recent, major accomplishments. The original ceiling lights on a 5 watt system (the house is from the mid-eighties) are now working and I figured out how to remove the stairs and almost double the floor space on the first and second floors.
So, yes, this is once again my CYLC for 2026 but it’s looking bigger and brighter, tee hee!
Terry “Third Time’s the Charm” Unnold
From Donna Vanaselja:
I wish to build and complete the Sweet Rose Cottage from Debbie Young and actually finish last year's project of Snow White and the Seven Dwarf's cottage. Thanks for all you do.
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March Update:
Thanks to Debbie Young’s 5 zoom classes, my structure is 80% finished. I am working on the rest of the furnishings every day.
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June Update:
Though I want to add more, I think my Sweet Rose is finished. This was a joy to put together. Most of the small details were made by me. I purchased kits and 3d printed furniture from QC vendors.
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September Update:
Someone has left a basket of apples for Snow. I worked on furnishings for the house and made the 2 hanging lights. Sleepy has found his way upstairs to his bed. I hope to fill more of the spaces and find just the right places for Snow and the other six dwarves.
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Final Update:
When I started this project, I had so many ideas. After a year, I am still not done, but have a plan. This is where Snow stays while her prince travels the kingdom. Her bedroom is fit for a princess and her dwarves are not far away. I loved making the fireplace and organ. The figures are a bit small but truly need to be in this house.
From Marcie Van Deren:
I so enjoyed the 2024 challenge! I finished several projects! For 2025, I am going to complete the Bakery - a project from Lisa’s Little Things, a Coffee shop, and the 1/4” Scale Garden Shoppe which was a class in 2019 in Nashville.
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March Update:
The Soda Shoppe has not had any work done on it yet. The 1/4 scale Desert Garden shop from 2019 Nashville is at least out of the box. The Bakery Shop has some cakes now. Made in Ruth Stewart’s March 1, Zoom class. I’ll get more done!
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June Update:
It has been much harder to work on these this year. But a little at a time!
Working on the grass around the rv pad. I just have to finish it.
The garden shop in 144th is a continuing project. A little gets done.
And the bistro/ bakery, well some baked items are being made.
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September Update:
The trailer has now been placed on the RV pad and is ready to return for display in our RV park office. The 2019 Nashville 1/4 scale Garden Shop is coming along. I’m making the furnishings and the plants. The other shop is now a candy store called “The Candy Caper”. I’m attending the Spokane Mini Candy store workshop in October.
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Final Update:
Thank you for a great year! I didn’t get as much done as I hoped, but the RV is finished and waiting for my SIL to build a shelf in the campground office.
The candy shop is in progress. I am making candy.
The 1/4” project is struggling, because I am finding so much disparity in what constitutes quarter inch.
But I have enjoyed these projects!
From Sandra Whipple:
My project this year is to finish decorating the interior of my half-scale Victorian house. It is unique in that it opens on all sides.
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March Update:
I measured and cut flooring for each room in my half-scale house, and I selected furniture for the kitchen and bedroom. I’m still working on the color scheme so I can begin wallpapering.
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June Update:
This quarter I have been collecting and preparing furniture for my half scale Victorian dollhouse.
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September Update:
I finished installing floors in the remaining rooms. Next I will install wallpaper and paint and refinish furniture.
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Final Update:
I finished all 12 interior rooms of the half-scale Victorian dollhouse. The exterior was previously done. The house is unique in that it opens in four distinct sections as shown in the photos.
From Cat Wingler:
I want to finish and furnish my mill from Unicoi. The structure is built and partially landscaped. I want to finish the landscape and furnish the mill as a cider mill and country store.
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March Update:
This is my Cider Mill, started several years ago in one of the Unicoi events. I worked on furnishing the shop part of the Mill, using a few items robbed from other projects, as well as a few made especially for the Mill. Since this is a cider mill, there are a lot of apples for sale.
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June Update:
This quarter I added more to the store part of the mill and started on the living quarters. I started building the cider press and things for the basement. I still need to finish the living quarters and basement next quarter.
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September Update:
I finished the furnishings for the cellar of the Cider Mill. It is where they press the apples so there are barrels on the back wall, a cider press, and barrels of apples. I added a stone fireplace! And a couple of crates. I added a spinning wheel to the living quarters.
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Final Update:
The Cider Mill is finished. This quarter I finished the outside, mainly adding the merchandise to the outdoor market, apples and jugs of cider. I added the shopkeeper and customer to the store section of the inside and a farmer to the outside.
From Tammy Witthaus:
1 - I want to complete Petalstone. This is the hard part -- furnishing the remainder of the rooms for which I don't have kits. The conservatory, exterior, and landscaping also needs to be done.
2 - 1" scale Gingerbread Train from Stewart Miniatures - I am cross stitching a gingerbread train and want to put both in a shadowbox.
3 - Ginger Landon Siegel's Teddy Bear Shop - I had started to cut out pieces many moons ago, but need to get back to this project and complete.
4 - Frostie Fashions Paper Tole Kit that I bought a very long time ago that I will be layering and embellishing similar to what Ginger does with her kits.
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March Update:
Petalstone - a majority of the interior is complete but still need to add some items here and there. All of the lights are in and work. I have shingled the roof and sided the house. Still need to work on windows, doors, and conservatory.
1" scale Gingerbread Train from Stewart Miniatures - Completed the cross stitch and started working on the gingerbread train.
Completed Ginger Landon Siegel's Teddy Bear Shop
I have started to cut out Frostie Fashions Paper Tole Kit but not pictured as not much to see yet.
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June Update:
This quarter I just about finished this Frostie Fashions paper tole kit that I purchased a long time ago. I didn't care for the instructions and wanted to make it my own. I embellished with fabric, glitter snow, wire, embroidery thread, lace, ribbon, flocking, landscaping material, beads, and LEDs. The only thing left is framing.
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September Update:
Gingerbread train cross stitch/polymer clay display - I have completed all gingerbread train cars to go with the cross stitch and built a shadowbox with frame. Still need to paint frame, add lights, and put it all together.
Petalstone - Completed conservatory, front doors, front window, and front porch. Still need to finish all other trims, windows, base, and landscaping.
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Final Update:
Done!
From Ellen Yunker:
For 2025, I chose a less involved project, as I have some big demands on my time this year. I’m thrilled that our Louisville contemporary art museum, KMAC Museum, is mounting a “Getting Small in Kentucky” exhibit, featuring dollhouse miniatures plus scale models, fantasy builds, and basically anything small! So I’m making an artist’s loft to submit, using the easel, paint box, and stool I made in a Create class with Belinda McWilliams. I’m excited for another completed project!! Thanks, Create team!
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March Update:
Okay, barely started, but at least I put on the first coat of paint! This artist’s studio is on the beach - lucky artist! - and I’m looking forward to finishing the inside as well as landscaping the exterior with some fun beachy looks. I’m torn between leaving the roof shakes as is, or trying for a more weathered, silvery finish. We’ll have to see what works best!
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June Update:
I got more coats of paint on my artist’s retreat, now called “Sea Glass Studio”, with a shell on the door to identify it. I’ve added porch railings and am making flowers to fill a pot there. Tried stained glass in the dormer but didn’t like it, so more to come on that. I’ve finished one “canvas” and plan many more, as well as more paints and brushes. I’m having a great time and plan to finish it for a local exhibition in November!
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Final Update:
So my artist’s studio is finished! Sea Glass Studio is complete and I hope to finish another, smaller project for the final 90 days of this year’s challenge! Thanks to the Create team for helping procrastinators like me actually finish projects!
