Here are the participants in Create's Year Long Challenge (CYLC) 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 have so many projects to choose from, but I finally decided on this one I’ve been trying the longest to complete. It is a 1/12 scale house for Santa and Noel Claus. I began over 25 years ago. Many life events have caused this to drag on but my inability to make decisions and then stick to them is probably the biggest slow down. The bathroom is the only room that has pieces glued in place and it still needs lighting to be done. The attic is going to be Santa’s workshop office. I worked on it a bit this December. I hope this challenge helps me get it finished this year!
March Update:
I got off to a great start on my Challenge project. I had made a detailed plan to add crown molding, baseboards, and lighting during the first quarter. I cleared the house contents into storage boxes by room. It was almost like a real house reno! I started with the crown molding but work stopped when I received the news that my mom had passed unexpectedly on February 17. Now in mid March all her final arrangements are complete but I will probably not get back to working on the house before the 31st. I am submitting a few progress photos of what has happened so far. My mom and I shared a love of miniatures so I’ll be recalling those happy memories while I finish this project.
June Update:
Finishing Santa’s house is more challenging than I expected. My husband had shoulder surgery in March and I’ve been taking him to physical therapy three times a week starting the day after surgery. I have completed the crown molding and baseboards. The bathroom is finished except for adding lightly fixtures. (I am watching CR2S videos to learn and get brave enough to add them.) The more I do the more I realize there is left to do!
September Update:
I’ve not made much progress but I’ve done a lot of planning and reorganizing. I discovered I didn’t put acrylic in two windows so that’s getting done by month end. I’m still dragging my feet over installing lights. I bought all the tools to make it easier but now I’m not sure I even put the tape in the right places. I just may not put them in at all. 😳
December Update:
_________________________________________
From Barb Antol:
I’ll be working on a Quarter Scale Gypsy Caravan Scene. This is a project I’ve wanted to do for some time, so this challenge seems like the perfect opportunity for me to finally get it done. The scene will be mounted atop a round filigree cake stand and will feature 3 or 4 little Gypsy Caravan Wagons (all different). I have various kits from BJ Minis, Seaside Miniatures, and others, so I will build them and see which ones work best. One of the most fun parts of this project will be deciding on the color scheme for each of the wagons. I’ve been collecting photos of caravan wagons and I find them so beautiful and colorful. To complete the scene, I have three little Gypsy figures I commissioned from Sally Reader. I also have several little Gypsy Vanner and Friesian horse figures which will be part of the scene. I’m really looking forward to this project.
March Update:
Here’s a photo of my Year Long Challenge project, which I completed much earlier than expected. This is a project I wanted to do for several years, so thanks to the Create Team for this challenge which prompted me to finally do it! I had intended to work on one wagon kit every couple months, but I had so much fun, I did one after the other and finished them in two months. For the remainder of the year, I plan to work on additional 1:24 caravan kits I have in my project stash.
June Update:
Since I finished my 1:48 scale Gypsy Caravan Camp project in March (way earlier than I planned), I decided to continue with some additional caravan kits I had in my stash. The two on the left are 1:24 scale. The one on the right is a 1:50 scale kit, i.e. 28-33 mm gaming scale. They were all fun!
_________________________________________
From Brandi Bacon:
My goal is to finish my Disney scene. I started it a few years ago as a tribute to my kids and my mom. I made the Bippidii Boppidi Boutique. It's the girls favorite thing at DisneyLand and my mom makes them costumes. It is almost finished, lol. But THEN .... I bought samples from Sue Herber at a miniature show and while I used a lot for kids' projects, I could clearly see them as Disney Stores. And so began Fantasy Land. So now I have finished a Disney Pumpkin photo spot, a Mickey Mouse playground is almost finished, a Mad Hatter House, and A Winnie the Pooh photo spot and shop. When it is finished it is going to be all the FantasyLand shops -- the Mad Hatter's hat shop, the Villain's Lair, BBB, a Christmas Store, a Disney Store, and multiple other stores.
March Update:
I have worked a little on the buildings. They are already built, but they need the painting, trims, windows, etc. Some of the styles and colors have changed and I'm trying to decide if I want to redo them. Finished completely are - Winnie the Pooh Meet and Greet and kiosk (except for characters and signage), Pinocchio the real boy puppet theater for the parade, and the chain link the Halloween Pumpkin photo spot.
June Update:
For the first half of the year I focused on the inventory, the decorations, shelves, furniture, etc. There are over 10000 items, so far. The last couple of months have been spent on the exteriors. I've actually added a few extra buildings. I don't have a particular plan in mind for them and may not use them. But I did find that it is much harder to start over mid project -- matching paint colors, wood colors, sizing etc. it is easier to paint and shingle them all at once, instead of trying months or years later.
Most recently I have stained dozens of beams, cut pages of shingles. I am cutting and fabricating windows, doors, and frames from scraps and laser poop. I went back and pulled the "stone" from the Castle (where the princesses will perform) and the meet and greet house. I also completely bashed the Christmas Shoppe, made a roof from scraps, the second floor from scraps, and the railing from trims.
The Villains' Shoppe is done once I place the interior items. I am pleased with the windows (stained glass villainesses). I am on track to finishing!!!!!
September Update:
The Christmas Shoppe is part of the traditional part of Fantasy Land stores. The facade is the same Tudor/European Village that the other shops feature. I have finished all the decorations and am now busily placing them.
The Disney Store is getting decked out with thousands of items. There are toys, clothes, costumes, snacks and more. I finally affixed the Mickey dome. It is a unique store on Main Street (one of the few stores that don’t or haven’t really existed at Disney in this form). But it is designed that the majority of the front is a massive Mickey dome where shoppers and cafe goers can view the parades and fireworks indoors.
My proudest area right now is the Princess Area. This is the area of Fantasyland where the princesses meet and greet. I’m excited about how it’s turning out.
December Update:
This challenge has been amazing. While I finished what I had intended -- this is a project I intend on keeping forever and adding to and adapting forever. So the Disney Store with its parade viewing area is one of my favorites. It has the store, bakery and parade viewing. My absolute favorite is the Bippiddy Boppiddy Boutique (which I spell differently each time). My kids have been there so many times and have the best memories.
The Christmas shop was so much fun making. Added to the project was the carriage to be placed by the outside princess cart. And the shops from fantasy faire. Those shops are only facades adapted into my scene from Debbie Young’s book nook kit. And Cinderella's tiara shop. There’s also the Mad Hatter's hat shop, the princess meet and greet pavilion, the fairy tale theater, and the villains' lair. I’m working on a mini parade where Pinocchio’s theater will go down the street, as will Jack Skellington's lab, and more.
And I have to thank CREATE for making this happen!!!
_________________________________________
From Alice Barber:
It was hard to pick just one unfinished project but this is what I’d like to do-Ruth Stewart’s Yule Log House and furnishings. As you can see, nothing has been started yet.
March Update:
June Update:
Here is my progress on the Yule Log House kit by Ruth Stewart. My biggest challenge was the Fimo house covering which I initially burned when my toaster oven got too hot. After chiseling away the worst of the burned areas, I had to reapply and re-bake another Fimo layer. I plan to finish all the interior furnishings in the next quarter.
September Update:
All the furniture is glued and it is electrified. I’m so grateful for this year long challenge to give me deadlines.
December Update:
I finally finished my Ruth Stewart Yule log home. Nothing like waiting till the last minute. This was a wonderful idea and I hope we do it again next year. The background is a calendar picture.
_________________________________________
From Cassidy Beeman:
I am hoping to start and complete a Real Good Toys 1:24 scale farmhouse kit. I plan on making it more modern and trying new techniques. I build most of the furniture from scratch because it can be difficult to find pieces that will work. I enjoy the smaller scale because I don’t have a lot of space and this allows me to have a few houses to try different styles on.
March Update:
I haven’t had a lot of time to work on this project but I did order a new double door for the front. I also set up the shell to get an idea of layout: the first floor will have the living room and kitchen, second floor will have the master bedroom and bathroom, and the third floor will have 2 kids’ rooms and a book nook in the middle.
June Update:
I expanded the front door opening and decided on wood doors with white trim. I painted the entire bottom floor, wallpapered the 3rd floor, and am struggling with the 2nd floor. I might end up changing the wallpaper in the bedroom and floor tile for the bathroom, but in the meantime, I’m going to work on painting the windows and priming the exterior.
September Update:
The exterior is all painted, windows and doors are installed. I added numbers and (non-working) lights to the front. I was able to paint the front porch roof and add a wood ceiling underneath. Also did a lot of staining for the front porch beams and posts. I bought a turntable for a small TV and it’s a great addition for working on the dollhouse. I’m hoping to have the entire shell complete by the end of 2023.
December Update:
The exterior is complete and I’ve begun working on the interior. Most of the 3rd floor is furnished and I made a fireplace with bookcases on either side. I'm really happy with all of the work that was completed these last 3 months of 2023.
_________________________________________
From Jene Bondi:
My year long project is a cactus boot. It was given to me 10 years ago. My fellow club member bought it in April of 1999. I have never done anything with it as nothing really ever appealed to me as I don't like to do "normal" in an unusual container. I was talking to another mini friend and she gave me some great ideas. It will be decorated inside and landscaped as well.
I got the inhabitants of my stump house, coming up with ideas of how I want to dress the cockroaches and what they are doing in their lives and ideas for the nuisance creatures (fairys), manage to drop the stump house after the picture and break it.🙁 And trying to find a container to fit it in and realized I'm going to have to have one special made unless I stick it in a glass fish tank. That might work now since it's broken.
June Update:
Well the tip of the shoe is broken, but I still am too afraid to cut the cactus boot. I don't want to ruin it. Any suggestions anyone? I have the naked fairies and wing material, have some furniture that I will embellish. Cockroaches don't like plain brown furniture. Leaves they like leaves. Just need to actually get cutting ... after I finish a few more other projects ...
September Update:
Here are prototypes of my fairly wings for the annoying fairies that is bothering my cockroach family. I like about 2 or 3 wings so far and will tweak them so my fairies can be as annoying as they possibly can to the poor cockroaches.
Right now all the cockroaches have insisted that they aren't wearing clothes. Wrong .. they WILL be dressed like good little proper cockroaches. After all they won't be scurrying about in the dark.
December Update:
The fairy are busy annoying the cockroach family. The fairies are stealing the toilet paper, getting hit by a fly swatter, taking a bath, writing on the walls, hanging out, taking a nap in the flowers & "watering" the flowers.
_________________________________________
From Cindy Bottasso:
I’d like to attempt to finish something each deadline. I like to build houses and never finish them/decorate them.
Betterley's Petalstone -- it’s missing pieces so I need to laser cut the sunroom and finish furniture.
March Update:
- Debbie Young’s Cape Cod beach house, all the furniture and landscaping
June Update:
-Debbie Young’s Aurora, all furniture and finish porch and landscaping
September Update:
I’m keeping up with all this. I do love actually completing something for a change so thank you for doing this!
- Michelle Miller’s steampunk train, fix lighting and all the furniture
December Update:
Yeah! I did it. When I started this project I had no idea what steampunk was or that I could build a project with wood and matte board. Thank you Michelle Miller for all your encouraging words.
_________________________________________
From Barbara Bower:
Bramble Wood from Indy Houseparty
March Update:
I need to add more accessories and then I will glue the appliances into the kitchen. I am also working on one bedroom and the dining room. I have been having trouble with the roof. Hope to get it on by June.
June Update:
I need to add accessories and finish dressing the beds. Also I need different glue for the lamp -- which is laying on its side.
September Update:
Here is the Living Room of my house. I need to put the cushions on the sofa and the rocking chairs.
December Update:
I never finished my project. I did get the furniture finished. I had the roof shingled in early June but it warped. I had a friend cut out new pieces - then I lost them. She then cut new pieces again.
The past six months have been busy with surgeries and chemo. I did have my last chemo on Dec 14. I will find out the results of the scans I had on Dec 28 on Jan 2. Most of the time I was too tired to do anything. I will continue to work on the project in 2024 because I really need to finish it.
_________________________________________
From Jackie Browder:
My husband's family once owned a house of some small fame. Built in 1872, the outside of the house was the filming location for a movie in the 1970s, and was the subject of a painting by a distant cousin of some artistic renown. All we have left of the house is an artist's print hanging on our wall, a commemorative plate illustrating the house, a mantle clock that once lived inside the house, and clips from the movie. The house is now gone, and so are the memories of its interior. I have drawn a rough interior floorplan in a manner that will function as a dollhouse with fifteen rooms. I have NO kit, and NO cut pattern for this house. My goal for this year to to draw a dollhouse pattern, hire someone to laser cut the pieces (or cut them myself), and assemble the house (no furnishings, out buildings, or landscaping).
March Update:
I started by doing some research and gathering all the old photos and movie clips that I could find of the house. None of the historic photos had the chimney that was shown prominently in the painting. Since the finished dollhouse would be displayed near the framed print, and the second chimney would be useful for wiring, I decided to add it. I got a few small hints from family members, like "I remember rain on the roof being very loud" (It had a tin roof!). I measured all the scanned photos, to get dimension estimates. I was surprised to discover that the first floor had ten foot tall ceilings, but the second floor ceilings were less than eight feet! I made a computer drawing of the entire house's floorplan, taking a few small liberties to make it work as a dollhouse, or guessing when my research left gaps. I assembled all three floor bases, printed wallpaper and fabric rugs, and started collecting furniture (love the peacock chaise lounge!). The floorplan is complete, and the first floor only lacks the staircase.
June Update:
For the second quarter, I finished the wallpapered interior walls for all three floors, two interior fireplaces with hollow interiors for wiring, interior doors, and two staircases. The doors are layers of printed paper with "cut glass" broken jewelry doorknobs. I have also continued to collect furniture and accessories (not part of my year long goal). I decided to alter the floorplan to include two more rooms for a total of 14 rooms. I have not decided how to decorate or use most of the rooms, but I intend to stage the house for a family of seven with parents, four boys, and one teen girl.
September Update:
For the third quarter, I finished the interior floors/walls/ceilings, added most of the unfinished exterior walls, and did the electrical wiring. I had to custom draw and 3D print the front windows, which were very distinctive. In the real world they would be two feet wide and seven feet tall. I held the dollhouse up to the print of the old house to check the window design, and was shocked to discover that the print of the house painting was almost exactly quarter scale! Did the painter enjoy O scale trains as a hobby in the early 1900s? I think that I will add a trainset to one of the upper rooms. The house now has 15 rooms, and the back lean-to addition will be removeable to access the main bedroom. Only three months are left to finish this project. I need to fix a few more wall/trim issues, do staircase railings, finish the roof, add shingles, build the entire front porch including the very unique gingerbread trim, design and 3D print the exterior doors, add the chimney with two more fireplaces, and install all the exterior siding.
December Update:
My Year Long Challenge is FINISHED!
The finished dimensions of my quarter scale house is 9 inches deep, 10 inches wide, and 8 inches tall. It should fit nicely inside a 12x12x12 inch display case. The front porch flooring is painted wood coffee stirrers. The siding is thin pieces of cardstock cut into rectangles with a Silhouette machine. The doors are modified Grandt line stock, or just cut matboard. The gingerbread trim is very unusual, so I designed and printed them with my 3D printer. Most of the trim is simply white cardstock cut very carefully. The porch poles are 1/8 inch square wood stock that I carved with a knife. I couldn't buy the porch poles, because they were unusually tall.
I suppose that there are advantages to buying a kit or taking a class, but I have seen kits/classes for a small house with only a couple of rooms posted for sale for $100-$200. I can not imagine how much it would cost to buy a kit for a 15 room Victorian Farmhouse. It wouldn't be a sentimental recreation of a family home, either. It would have been nice, however, to at least have a pattern!
I made this house using basic items from my stash: free matboard scraps from a local frame shop; scrap lumber left behind from other projects and yard sales, a handful of Grandt line windows from an auction; a couple of small bottles of white craft paint; an old string of miniature Christmas lights; and a few items that I made with the machines that I own, and some wallpaper printed with a color computer printer using free downloaded files. The only item that I bought was the porch railings. I could have designed and 3D printed them for free, but I was running short of time, and they were inexpensive to purchase.
My total cost to build this dollhouse was $5.94 for the porch railings.
_________________________________________
From Brenda Colby:
A miniaturist friend gave me a half scale unfinished house that she no longer wanted. Because I love this scale, I was happy to give it a home. Thank you, Pat! I disassembled the original structure and will add a floor or so to what will be a Charleston style house. I hope to finish it (mostly) during this challenge!
March Update:
Order is beginning to emerge out of chaos. The architectural details of the lowest floor of this half scale house is generally finished, and the wiring is in place for the other floors. There is a lot of work yet to do, but I am hoping to have the next floor completed by June.
June Update:
I completed the interior of the 2nd floor of this house just before the June deadline. It took longer than expected because of the wiring and the porch rails. My goal is to complete the 3rd floor and to begin work on the rooftop garden for the September update.
September Update:
I have finished, as promised, the architectural design of the upstairs rooms of my Charleston-style house. Furnishings, where shown, largely relate to lighting design. I am moving on now to the "rooftop" garden and roof structures, which I hope to have completed by the December deadline. Furnishings will be added after all design work is completed. Hint, hint - I am hoping there will be a 2024 Year-Long Challenge which would most likely be dedicated to furnishings and finishing touches for this home! Thank you NAME; this project would still be languishing in the March update state if not for this challenge!
December Update:
The Charleston House is finished and ready for all furnishings! It was a pleasure to work on and was certainly a challenge. Thank you, NAME.
_________________________________________
From Debbie Colombo:
I have been working on this together with Alician Pearce, on and off for 2 years!!!
March Update:
These are the kits I got done for Cranberry cottage this first quarter.
June Update:
This quarter's progress on Cranberry Cottage.
September Update:
Working on the landscaping components.
December Update:
Woo Hoo!!!
_________________________________________
Tai Corraggio:
I'm attempting to build a 1:24 scale model of the Popular Mechanic's Famous Concrete Block House, using as many real materials as possible, including real concrete. It isn't very far along yet, since I just started making blocks at the beginning of the year, and it takes about 24 hours to make one batch.
March Update:
Since January, I've made 940 concrete blocks out of the 2024 I'll need. I also laid footings and drainage pipes, and started building up the foundations and air ducts. (Editorial: Love the people sitting on the concrete blocks!)
June Update:
I finished the foundations, cold-air returns, and underground piping, so now I'm building the main walls and the main heating system. I'm hoping to finish the walls and maybe start the roof this quarter!
September Update:
This quarter, I finished the exterior walls, including installing homemade windows and doors. The exterior walls are coated in stucco. To complete this challenge, I intend to build the roof and finish the heating system this quarter, leaving the house ready for its new residents to move in. (Decorating and building furniture will be next year's challenge!)
December Update:
This quarter, I finished the roof (it's removable) and house exterior, so the house is ready to be moved into! For next year's challenge, I'll decorate the interior.
_________________________________________
From Pat Creagh:
I have been putting this 1” scale project off for a long time. It is the Twin Shops designed by Connie Reagan. I need to build it, choose all design elements and fill it. Here is a picture of my newly opened kit.
March update:
June Update:
I plan to replace the sidewalk. I have partially dressed the one shop as a bakery. The second side will be a gift shop.
September Update:
I have replaced the sidewalk, “baked” some new items for the bakery and significantly redesigned the floral/gift shop.
December Update:
Twin Shops is built and finally filled. One side is a bakery, the other is a flower and gift shop. The shops are filled with 1” scale gifts from the Fitch House mini club and 1” items I have completed and lovingly stored in plastic bins. At long last these items have found an appropriate home to honor them.
_________________________________________
From Judy Doe:
I plan to build, furnish and hopefully landscape the Hart’s Desire Miniatures St. Beckham Gothic Victorian house kit. It is still in the box. Having just been in Galveston Texas at Christmas, and seen the beautiful Victorian homes there I plan to make it a Galveston Seaside Mansion from the late 1800’s.
March Update:
Here is my house - coming along, but at a standstill now because the next step involves contact cement. And because that has to be used in a well ventilated space, I am waiting for the weather to improve so that I can do it outside.
June Update:
My Victorian house is built and landscaped, and the interior is wallpapered. Now I have to furnish the rooms before the end of the year.
September Update:
I have furnished 4 rooms in my house - the bathroom, 2 bedrooms, and the eat-in kitchen. I still have the living room/dining room, the child’s room, and the 3 stair wells to finish before the end of the year.
November Update:
I have finished what I set out to do at the beginning of the year! Which was to build Hart’s Desire St. Beckham Victorian house. Since the last quarter I have added some more landscaping and furniture to the outside, and furnished the last two rooms on the interior. I am pleased with the outcome!
_________________________________________
From Pam Doran:
I would like to complete this roombox inside and out as a bookstore. I started with making some bookshelves a few years ago and then stalled from there. This challenge (and especially the quarterly “reports”) is the push I need to continue to work on it throughout the year and finish it.
March Update:
I’m finishing up the bookcase to put in the roombox. I started out small, but the bookcase started to evolve and grow. I now have to add 2” to the wall height and 4” to the wall length just to get the bookcase to fit in the roombox. You can see the “now too small” roombox just behind the bookcase. I’ve now put myself on a schedule so that this project will get completed by the end of the year. Next up - complete the bookcase, enlarge the roombox, decide/install flooring, and install the bookcase. June is going to come very fast!
June Update:
Roombox enlarged by 4” all around, wallpaper done, flooring done, chimney breast done. Staining everything next. Real life got in the way, but I'm ready to finish interior this next quarter and hopefully most of exterior.
September Update:
This was a challenging quarter working on miter cuts for the baseboard and ceiling, but with Murphy’s Law and numerous boards to keep me company the inside “bones” are now completed. Now to work on the facade and top, then onto finishing touches.
It’s coming together! 😊
December Update:
It took the entire year, but I am done. Everything kept getting larger and taking longer than I thought. Wrote my list of what to accomplish and followed it through.
_________________________________________
From Carolyn Eiche:
I'm going to work on my Debbie Young Lemonade and Lace house. I started it last year and stalled out when I had a problem with the bathroom walls. It needs all the furniture, accessories and possibly landscaping.
March Update:
I added the bed loft to the house and painted installed the kitchen pieces (sink, frig, stove and cabinet) and the bath fixtures.
June Update:
Some of the completed furniture pieces for my Debbie Young Pink Lemonade house. Getting there, just a few more pieces to go plus accessories for the house.
September Update:
I've finished and upholstered the sofa and 2 chairs and made the entertainment center. All the furniture is now finished, I just have to accessorize.
November Update:
Finished!
_________________________________________
From Cathy Ellison:
I will be assembling a Magic Wand Shop.
March Update:
Here is my finished year long Magic Wand Shop. It was a fun build.
Since I finished so quickly I am going to finish my Tufty Burrow by the end of December. I hope we do this again next year!
_________________________________________
From Kellie Ellison:
I will be assembling a witch’s cottage in 1/4 scale.
March Update:
This is the progress of my Witch's Cottage. Slow going but I am determined to get it done.
June Update:
Well, slow as usual. Planning my wedding got in the way. Lol
September Update:
December Update:
I finally finished my year long project; The Witch’s Cottage!
_________________________________________
From Jean Ellsworth:
My project is a 1:12 scale replica of the Dollhouse/Miniature Shop I owned from 1976 - 1982 in Madeira, Ohio. It was called Manor House Miniatures. Two local men made the room boxes I sold in the shop. They made me a replica of my shop. I kept the unfinished shop box safely put away for 40-45 years. In the spring of 2021, before my move, I got it out and painted the outside. It is time to get it finished. Hopefully the challenge will encourage me to accomplish that goal.
March Update:
I have found all the kits I have been collecting, for 40+ years, for my dollhouse shop. They are finally all together. I have not counted them, but it is obvious that I cannot use all of these in my shop. Guess I will have to pick and choose. Hope I can get a few of them put together in the next 3 months. This is beginning to feel like a 5 yr project!
June Update:
I have been working on the contents for my dollhouse shop. Some are kits I have put together and a few of the items were gifts I received.
September Update:
Been a busy summer, but finished a few more Mott Miniatures kits for my dollhouse shop.
December Update:
I did not finish completely, but I have come a long way. It was a big project. I did not get all my shelving finished. Hopefully I will get it finished in 2024.
_________________________________________
From Barb Engel:
I just inherited this kit from a dear friend. She envisioned it as an elegant home, not haunted or enchanted. During the year there will be much kit bashing to get to my vision and her vision for the project.
March Update:
The build continues and now has a theme. This is now The Pines B&B. Five bedrooms and a guest parlour are in planning stages.
June Update:
The main building and tower Are now attached with electrical wiring running between them. I have finished the landscaping and construction part of the project. Next I will work on decorating and furnishing my B&B.
September Update:
The Pines B&B has been totally renovated and is open for business. Each room has a different theme and some rooms are more luxurious than others. This gothic house is a Petite Properties kit that is usually turned into a haunted house. I loved the basic structure and decided to make it a renovated B&B. Imagine that it is in a forest setting located near a lake for fishing and relaxing in northern Wisconsin.
_________________________________________
From Kirsten Enzinger:
1. Remake 3 horses plus English tack for one. One will be a replica of my daughter’s horse, another a replica of a friend’s horse, and then to try to remake the 1/4 scale horse (its so tiny!}.
2. My other big project for the year will be to finish my tiki bar. Will it be on a base, or in a room box? I don’t know yet. I will have to dress and wig two dolls representing me and my husband on our diving vacations. Needs a thatched roof table, lounge chairs, drinks – lots of drinks! Lots of plants need to be made – palm tree, hibiscus, etc. I have lots of ideas, now just need the time!
3. The contemporary furniture set was bought many years ago, waiting to go in a doll house. I still don’t have a dollhouse and I’ve been in miniatures for over 30 years!! So, I’ve decided to make room boxes instead. I hope to make a roombox for this furniture set but will not plan to complete the scene this year. Next year’s project!
4. And Heather wants her room finished too! This is the other roombox I want to make this year, and again I’m not sure I can manage anything besides getting the box made. Decisions still need to be made about electrifying or not, plexiglass lid or wood lid, etc. before the design of the boxes can be made.
Whew! It’s going to be a busy year!
March Update:
I haven’t made much progress on my goals for this year yet ... too many side tracks! I have started working on one of the horses but waiting for better pictures of the real horse before I can continue. A little work has been done on the tiki bar-- roof supports have been installed and the roof cut and stained. Cabinet door installed. Made a cocktail shaker, blender, drink umbrellas, cut and punched leaves and petals for hibiscus, finished the cooler. Still trying to decide if this will go in a room box or on a platform. Most of the year has been focused on designing and making a patio which is being taught to my local club. Prototypes made, 18 kits made by Suzanne Spooner Munch and me, and first part taught at last meeting.
June Update:
I worked on my tiki bar, the thatched roof took a long time! The two flamingos sharing the rum punch are Barney and Wilma ... they have many interesting stories to tell!
September Update:
I made two coconut palm trees and taught this to my club over two workshops. I finished one bay horse. Two more have had all the prep work done and are now in the process of getting painted.
I also decided on how to display the tiki bar, so can now go forward with getting the scene finished.
December Update:
This was a busy year and although I didn't get all my projects finished, I feel that I made good progress. Besides finishing these projects, I taught 7 workshops to 2 clubs and submitted an article to the Gazette on making a butterfly weed plant. I didn't add the dolls to the Tiki bar, they didn't look right. The ¼ scale horse is the wrong type of plastic to be able to work with so I couldn't do that one. But Heather is happy with her new room, the three 1" scale horses and tack were finished, and I'm pleased with the tiki bar scene. The only project I didn't get done is the master bedroom room box. Guess that goes on next year's list!
_________________________________________
From Diane Fisher:
I rarely do challenges, but this one sounds engaging. I just started Petite Properties Turrim Castle. This is what my project looks like at the beginning.
March Update:
This castle is a delight. I have created the five towers and the dungeon level. Furnishing has begun. Next is to complete furnishing and assembly, then landscaping and hiring a staff!
June Update:
Whew! My castle is completed. I’m so happy with it.
_________________________________________
From Bev Fleming:
I want to finish my unfinished kits from the 2022 calendar club. Here is what I have left to do -- the last six buildings and the first four months furnishings only The first four buildings are done.
March Update:
Here's my progress on Robin's traveling village. I've finished #5 & # 6.
June Update:
September Update:
I finished the roof and the first floor. I got some of the 2nd floor furnishings done.
December Update:
I almost finished #7 end of 2023 progress
_________________________________________
From Paula Francis:
Thirty-two years ago at a local flea market, I noticed the saddest of sad dollhouses sitting in the back of a truck. Since I can never pass by a once loved dollhouse, I instantly bought it. It has been silently sitting in my basement all these many years, waiting to be loved again. This challenge is the perfect time to bring it back to life.
March Update:
So challenging and rewarding … seeing a discarded dollhouse start to come back to life. Rotted, warped wood, rooms that are not square, screws, and nails sticking out everywhere. I refuse to be discouraged. New roof, reinforced sides and base, and one room finished (the kitchen). See you in 3 months with more updates.
June Update:
Moving along with the restoration of my Baby House. I have finished 2 more rooms … the Dining Room and the Parlor. I have one more room to complete and it’s on to the front which will be a center opening, two door facade.
September Update:
I'm getting so close to finishing my year-long project. All the rooms are finished, the exterior is sided and painted and the apex of the house is done. The only things I have left are the 2 large front doors that will show the windows and the front door. I can't believe it's been 9 months since the challenge started. What an adventure.
November Update:
Finally finished…. You and the Create team came up with the most creative idea to help keep us all connected. Thank you.
The end of a “challenging” year. From a neglected, worn out shell to a fashionable 19th Century home ... my goal was to prove that no once loved dollhouse is beyond repair. A true labor of love.
_________________________________________
From Carol Gambrill:
My big project for 2023 is to construct and furnish my Pickett Pond kit. Attached is a picture of the furniture and accessory kits in their pristine packages. It will take me a few days to unearth my kit for the Pickett Pond structure, also still in a box, so I’m just sending the one picture.
March Update:
February 3, 2023 I opened the large parcel post box from Betterley Miniatures. The postmark date was January 6, 2014! I reviewed the instructions and ordered, again, paints for the Pickett Pond structure and for all the furniture kits. To get back in the swing of quarter scale I decided to start with the furniture kits. So far I’ve done the bathroom and the stove. Moving onward!
June Update:
I made great progress on the Pickett Pond structure! The main building is almost complete. The inside just needs the fireplace and upstairs railings. The outside needs railings, chimney, aging and landscaping. Many thanks to those who've posted tips on completing this kit. Most notably Jenn's Mini Worlds and whoever advised installing the bathroom furniture before adding the room to the house!
September Update:
I finished the Pickett Pond structure - WooHoo! Then I was totally distracted by Debbie Young's shepherd's hut. Since my craft table was full of paints and supplies from Pickett Pond, I used them for the hut. Soooo, now I have to rethink the landscaping. In the next few months, I'll work on the furniture kits.
December Update:
My GREAT 2023 accomplishments: OPENED the box and FINISHED the Pickett Pond Structure. Only the third 1/4 scale house I've completed! Even better, I actually completed at least one furniture kit for each room! So, though I didn't get to do the landscaping, I'm proud of what I've done. This was fun. I'm already planning my 2024 Project!
_________________________________________
From Jean Gibson:
I love this concept and would like to enter two items. They are two complete house kits that I have been meaning to do but the process is a long one and I haven't taken the time. Now I have to! One is the Veranda house including a garden, and the other is the Pocket babyhouse.
March Update:
I started with the 144th Baby House by Volker Arnold. There were 6 rooms of furniture and all the extra toys that needed to be painted. Still needs quite a bit of work on the furniture before moving into the house and am curious to see how much is going to fit. Then the plan is to decorate the interior and fill the window boxes outside for the next time.
June Update:
I am finished with my first project (Pocket Baby House designed by Volker Arnold). The kit was a cute idea and involved more hours than I thought. Very fun and challenging. Even though it is 144th scale, it was a huge project! I love the smaller scales and thank you for offering the challenge.
September Update:
My progress on this 144th scale House with a Veranda. Everything is assembled and ready to arrange on a base and to decorate the house interior. There are four rooms of furniture and an outdoor garden area that are included in this complete house kit by Volker Arnold.
December Update:
I am pleased to be finished with the challenge for this project. It took much longer than it would seem. Happy dance.😃
_________________________________________
From Ruth Goodger:
I’ve had the kit since before the pandemic and then could not find the paint I wanted. I have it now, so time to move on it.
March Update:
I'm waiting on furniture to add the roof on the creek side project.
June Update:
I still have the kitchen area and the landscaping to do.
September Update:
I did the landscaping, but still have to finish the kitchen. It’s so tiny.
December Update:
The Creekside by Suzanne. I bought it just before she retired and finally completed.
_________________________________________
From Sandra Hambley:
I have my childhood dollhouse made by my dad (55 years ago). Thought I’d aim for renovating the whole house but it was daunting to think about. I think I will aim for just redoing the living room. It needs it!
March Update:
I keep thinking I’ll make a wee bit more progress before sending my update photo in, but the time has come. Added flooring, wallpaper, and wainscoting. Next up baseboard, chair rail, and fireplace! Great idea for a challenge. It keeps me going!
June Update:
Coming along, slowly! The curtains and fireplace are just perched there right now. I have to figure out how to attach them.
September Update:
Pretty much done! I'm going to have to start another room!
December Update:
This was a great boost to getting my living room done. Thank you!
_________________________________________
From Pat Hartman:
Well, nothing like a deadline for motivation so, I’m up for the challenge. I’ve been planning to do one more large project and this is the perfect opportunity.
I’ve been collecting (for a long time) to make a Santa’s workshop based on a picture I saw of a Christmas window display in Toronto, Canada. Primarily it is in a very large box in its current condition🤪
March Update:
I've been building the main furniture pieces.
June Update:
I haven’t had time to do much but will have more time to work now that many of my prior commitments are over.
September Update:
Here is a picture of my Santa’s Workshop as it is now. I have completed the construction, the next thing is to decorate and finish a few kits to go in the structure.
December Update:
_________________________________________
From Bonnie Helterhoff:
I am hoping that since this is sort of a competition and I happen to be extremely competitive that this will spur me on to do this project. I found this Real Good Toys house for $40 at a miniature flea market. It has some but not all of the floors, no wallpaper, and the outside is just primed. My goal is to redo it as a Mary Engelbreit themed house. I would love to see this happen but I just keep putting off starting ... We all know how that goes…lol. I’m hoping that by committing now I’ll get it done!
March Update:
I have gotten the exterior painted white; the trim painted black, and the roof shingled with black paint wash and a wash of red over that (may need to add more red later). I’ve decided which rooms will be what; bought wall paper, and found some furniture that I can redo in the Mary Engelbreit style. Real life has taken much of my time and will also dominate the second quarter so most of my progress will be the last half of the year. I’ll do what I can the next quarter and then one room each month along with unfinished bits for the balance of the year.
June Update:
Second quarter was hard as I had two shows; two classes, a fun day, plus projects I needed to complete to display at my club's show ... so actually pretty proud of myself for making some progress. I decided I needed to paint the roof red and did that. Painted and added the porches; wallpapered inside (actually so that I could just glue in the windows); added tiny checks and other trim; got the cool windows with flowers (Miniature Designs) - painted and added gallery glass. The door is missing the plexi as I hope to do a leaded design on it if I can figure out that something that will work. I made shutters; glued them on, and hated them. Sometimes life goes that way. I've found a couple more pieces of furniture that I will be redoing in Mary style. There are places that need touching up but I plan to catch all of them at the end. Actually pretty pleased with where I'm at and looking forward to some interior design.
September Update:
I added the staircases and walls next to the stairs on the first two floors and enclosed the stairway on the third floor for more wall space. I printed some rugs (need a few more). I’ve used mostly furniture found cheaply and painted it/added paper detailing. I dressed the bed and recovered the living room set. Built the kitchen cabinets from illustration board. The kitchen table was a plastic set painted and the dining room was from Hobby Lobby - painted and trimmed.
For the fourth quarter I plan to complete furnishing, add lamps, accessories, and wall décor. It’s exciting to see the house taking shape and I hope that I can manage to finish this by the end of the year.
December Update:
I will admit that somewhere down the line I will probably add to my Mary house as I find things that will work. It’s pretty hard to call anything “over”. The outside didn’t change much except I added the porch chair with a needlepoint pillow (yes I did that!). I planned for my curtains and spent days making them only to decide I really didn’t like them! Ditto several other things: this has been a one step forward - two steps back kind of project, but I’m happy with where it’s at now.
_________________________________________
From Eileen Herrstrom:
I started this Jamestown dollhouse from the Real Good Toys New England collection in 2021. Its current state: the exterior is done; some rooms are nearly complete, one is barely started, and most are somewhere in between. I plan to complete the interior this year, although I suspect the house will never be “finished”, and landscaping will be added later.
March/April Update:
I had intended to work on completing my big dollhouse for the Year-Long Challenge. However, we had a house fire three weeks ago. I haven’t been able to inspect my dollhouse closely and in good light, but it’s definitely damaged. My husband and I are living in a small apartment temporarily, where there is no space for the 1” scale dollhouse.
All of this is a long way of asking, may I switch my focus for the challenge? I’ve started working on a 1/2” scale Japanese dollhouse kit and will continue with that for the remainder of the year. (Editorial note: Special circumstances are ALWAYS considered!)
June Update:
Here is the completed tea house for my Japanese dollhouse. I’m still working on the main house, but the tea house will be in one corner of the garden.
September Update:
My 1/24-scale Japanese dollhouse project is coming along, although work space is tight. Since our house fire in March, we have been living in a 1-bedroom apartment while we rebuild. Our real-life house now has walls and a roof, and so does my dollhouse. Electrical work comes next. The inhabitants of both houses are eager to move in!
December Update:
_________________________________________
From Kristie Horrell:
I am going to complete Carpathian Cottage. I want to have it completed by the end of this year. It is still in the package.
March Update:
June Update:
I completed a little more on the house.
September Update:
December Update:
I only made it this far. Maybe next year I will have it done.
_________________________________________
From Carol Johnson:
My goal is to complete the Picket Hill house and all its furnishings. My kits finally arrived and here they all are.
March Update:
I have attached a couple of photos of my progress on my Pickett Hill house. I have completed most of the interior accessories and am about to install the second story in the Picket Hill house. I am enjoying every moment of this challenge. 😊
June Update:
I was able to do some work on the first floor of the Pickett Hill and installed the hallway on the second floor.
September Update:
I have completed the Pickett Hill house and accessories and am now working on the landscaping.
December Update:
I finished my Year Long Challenge. It is my Pickett Hill house and all the furnishings. I also made all the flowers from kits for the flower beds and throughout the house and portico. It was a great project!
_________________________________________
From Julie Johnson:
This beauty is a Joseph Angel house signed by Clell Boyce, #10. I purchased this at the NAME convention in Alexandria. I had to dismantle it to get it home. A year later I put it mostly back together and did some work on it. It has now sat for two years. It survived a move, but the electrics didn’t fare so well. I have spent last year trying to wedge my minis in a small garage space. Everything I unpack needs fixing, so that’s what I do. Unpack, fix, and try to find a spot for them. Here are pictures of my storage house.🤣😂 it became the repository for everything I didn’t know what to do with!
March Update:
Thanks for doing this.
June Update:
I have made progress. First picture is an almost finished laundry room. Next a chandelier has been painted. Installed a pie cooling window in laundry room. Siding going on. Repainted the shingles … only for the third time🤣
September Update:
Laundry room, done! Turret railing is hard! I cut it wrong, didn’t have any more, glued my pieces back together, fingers crossed, but the floor and walls are done. The kitchen is progressing ... stove and sink installed. The game room is close too. I'm painting the window frames. The floor is laid in the turret. So much to do and lots more painting!
December Update:
Sadly I did not finish…but very happy with progress made. Maybe another year🤣
_________________________________________
From Laura Johnson:
I intend to finish a bridal accessory shop.
March Update:
My latest photo. The challenge was a great idea!
June Update:
September Update:
Here is what I've done so far.
December Update:
I finished my Carl Bronsdon workshop that I made into a bridal shop.
_________________________________________
From Tina Kase:
I spent a lot of time last year thinking about this project. I'm hoping this challenge and just knowing other people are waiting to see what I can finish, will provide the additional incentive I need to let me finish the first part of it. (The whole project should take me and my grandkids years. 😂) The first part of the project is to create the base of a tree that will contain living quarters for my grandkids Sylvanian family (calico critters) dolls. Aside from building and decorating the tree house it will also involve creating a lot of the furniture. There will be the additional challenge of making it playable and safe and engaging for toddlers and up. It would be nice, but unlikely, if I could start on some of the structure for the rest of the tree, which will include spaces for me to create rooms and houses thereby satisfying my miniature hobby (perhaps with the help of my grandkids as they grow up if they become inspired to join me in my hobby.) I will consider this year's project project complete if the toddler section of the tree is completed this year. I have no photos. I've not started. Everything is in my head.
March Update:
I have tested materials, methods and "playability" by making a set of chairs and a table for the (Sylvanian Family) tree dollhouse and squirrel drey -- which ultimately will sit on the tree. I discovered a few things that really will work, and quite a lot that won't. Also discovered that it's a very time consuming project. 🤗 Looking forward to getting rid of the huge pile of cardboard boxes that I've collected for the tree.
June Update:
A very busy couple of months, wherein I completed 2 projects unrelated to this challenge, (Ramadan box and 3 x 2023 advent calendar gifts) and now I'm on a month holiday. For this year long challenge I finished off a few minor details on the squirrels' drey and constructed the framework for the tree base. (That's the part of the tree I want to complete for this challenge.) It completely monopolizes my craft space. It feels a little daunting and more than a little crazy. This segment is hopefully going to fit through the doors to get to its home place if it is turned on it's side. It's made of wood, hard and soft plastic water pipes, and joints and is nailed, screwed, and wired together. I had some assistance from my son with this part.
September Update:
The skeleton of the tree house and 5 of the 6 sylvanian family dollhouses (the 6th house is the squirrel drey completed first) have been covered in paper, some also with joint compound. I've started on a few pieces of furniture and decor like these stained glass bits that are pretty much child poking, dropping and punching resistant. (She writes with crossed fingers.) I've also completed one 'stone' and 'wood' floor covering for one of the houses. I plan to have at least one 'architectural feature' and one 'personality imbued' piece of furniture per dollhouse completed by the end of the year, even though I want the entire structure to be "complete" and playable by then too. (Having said that, Miss 2.5 (oldest grandchild whom I babysit daily) now regularly plays with one dollhouse or another and daily asks if her house is finished yet. 😂) My current big challenge that I'm grappling with is making child safe doors on all the future secret nooks and rooms that I'm trying to provide all over the project. These will be "filled in" with scenes from books etc (I have a bunch of ideas for these including automata and holograms😂😂😂) as my grandkids grow and have favourite books or interests. 2 or possibly 3 will be completed this year, including lighting. Lighting is the other enormously challenging problem my brain is focusing on now too... As it is now time that I should have figured out how to put child safe, and yet still accessible (for maintenance) lighting everywhere. 🙄🙄😂😂
December Update:
Well, I didn't finish ... but I'm so happy and thankful for this challenge. Thank you so much to the admins who put it all together. Without it there were a few times during the year that I felt like the whole thing was the biggest personal folly on the planet. But by pushing myself to do as much as possible in a year I now have all 6 doll houses ready to be furnished. I expect a few more months will see them all finished. The stump (kids playhouse - not miniature) part of the tree is almost complete with painted window and door, falcon shaped roof over door and stained glass skylights and blue led lights in the ceiling. (Glow worm colony😂) I have made (and adapted) several pieces of furniture and floors and walls for the different houses, completing one whole room, hallway and front door (the rabbits' home) That was a pleasant break from the constant paper mache work! As well as the 6 dollhouses, spaces have been made for 5 booknook type scenes including a 1/144 scale space, a shop, a playground for the sylvanian family kids with a tunnel into a secret crystal cave (finished) with 'amethyst' crystals lit by fairy lights and glow in the dark crystals when the lights are off. Another tunnel is available for toys and matchbox cars to slide down, ending with a 'stone' birds head. The squirrel drey has its own branch to sit on, which ends in a burrow for the owl baby hand puppets. 😂I really have a few months of great fun left, since 2/3s of the the hard construction work is all done. (And then hopefully years and years of fun as the tree changes and develops with my grandkids help!) Best of all my eldest grandchild (who just turned 3) loves it and has already helped with the construction. So again thanks. 🤩
_________________________________________
From Kim Kehoe:
I want to build the living room and kitchen from the TV show Home Improvement. All I have done is take a picture of my wood and making a list of ideas and sketching it out.
March Update:
I am working on the Home Improvement TV show house. This is the stairs and the desk area that is behind the kitchen in the show.
June Update:
September Update:
The living room and dining room for the Home Improvement house.
December Update:
I completed my scratch made Home Improvement house. What a fun build. Thanks for the fun for a whole year of building one project.
_________________________________________
From Carol Kira:
This is a department store window which I started a couple of years ago. This is a great opportunity to get me started on it!
March Update:
I completed the class offered by Ginger Landon Siegel “Annabelle Goes to Paris” luggage which will be an integral focus of my project.
June Update:
This quarter I added to walls, framed out the window space, and base coated the outside. Much more to do - watch for September report!
September Update:
It’s September and I thought I would have my project finished, but some medical issues slowed me down. One quarter to go. Moving along and still a bit of finishing touches on the building needed and complete the window dressing.
November Update:
When I picked this project to finish, I didn’t anticipate it taking all year to complete. It is an original design and so working to get the look I wanted took time. My niece in Chicago sent me a gift box with the logo which became the upper facade of the building. A paper mini gift box is the base of the famous Fields clock. But the real challenge was learning to design the window display. I had the luggage and doll but designing the backdrop and lighting and placement from front to back was a new experience for me. After three separate designs, I finally settled on this one and feel it is what I wanted.
_________________________________________
From Katie Kirby:
In 1976 I became involved in two lifetime pastimes - miniatures and genealogy. For the past 15 years I have been planning (in my head) a way to combine these two pursuits. I will be kit-bashing Laser Dollhouse Designs’ Craftsman Garage into my dream genealogy space with an office/workroom downstairs and a sitting/reading room upstairs. I expect to make 90% or more of the furniture and accessories. Time to get started!
March Update:
It doesn’t look like much, but I scanned, printed and assembled copies of 150 books in my “real” genealogy collection, cut, sanded, and stained all the furniture and started assembling some of it, scanned, printed and framed family photos, artwork, and painted the marvelous Esther Marker Tiffany lamps.
June Update:
The building is 99% finished; now on to the furnishings and landscaping!
September Update:
Both the exterior and interior are finished, as is the furniture. Now I need to add more accessories. In the last quarter, I also plan to make a winter landscaped base.
December Update:
_________________________________________
From Kathy Koons:
In 2021, I was fortunate enough to get one of Petite Properties' 1:48 scale Advent calendars. I faithfully built them until the middle of December, when I realized that I did not know what color to paint these pieces of furniture because I didn't know what I was going to put them in. I got the 2022 Advent calendar, too. During 2022, I got their June Cottage, as that is my birth month. My resolution is to build the June Cottage and all the rest of the Advent calendar kits and fill the cottage with as many as will fit. Some are exterior items and I hope to get landscaping done to include them.
March Update:
I've made my Petite Properties' bathroom fixtures, most of the kitchen ones, and the dining table and chairs. I discovered that I have no stove, so I ordered one from PP. I've decided that this June cottage will be "Rose Cottage" for me -- my favorite flower and the birth month flower for June. Planning the actual construction and look of the cottage has been exciting!
[I work on this project as a palate cleanser after working on my backlog of Robin Betterley's Secret Traveling Village from last year. I have 3 more of those to go!]
June Update:
I am still working on the Challenge each month after completing one of the buildings from last year's Robin Betterley Secret Traveling Village. Well, not last month, because the second half of May was spent cruising the Rhine and Mosel rivers. But, here are the photos of the April and June completions.
September Update:
A trip in July and another in September plus doing the Bunny House project for the Quarter Connection have really cut into getting things done on this project this quarter. I began to be concerned about how much of the furniture would fit into Rose Cottage and went ahead and built it. The front is removable and the side room was a lean-to shed that I had to seal the door of and hide to become the bath that will be glued on the right side, but needed to be off for you to see. The outside needs a finish of spackle and I was right - a lot of the currently finished furniture will not fit in these rooms. Luckily, there is plenty more to make.
December Update:
I am so very glad that we've been sending in photos of what we've gotten done quarterly. With 50 Petite Properties Advent Calendar kits AND a cottage to put some of them in, they'd never fit in one photo. Happily, this evening, I did the last bit of landscaping on the cottage, after gluing in the last of the furniture that fit in it, along with a few pictures. My daughter was instrumental in helping me get all the kits I've done since September that wouldn't fit into the cottage into the lower levels of this photo, as well as on the front yard and next to the cottage.😄
_________________________________________
From Debra Kuckuck:
I’m so excited for this challenge to give me the push I need to finally open some of my many, many kits! If I can get these finished this year I will be a happy camper. Of the three dozen unopened kits I chose for this year, 29 are 1:12 scale. Six Cat’s Paw trunks, two Mini Cousins kits, and a bunch of miscellaneous. The final 7 will be my first attempts at 1:48 scale! (gulp!)
March Update:
I still have a ton of kits to finish for my challenge, but here are a few I got accomplished so far!
June Update:
Progress continues! Thanks for the continued motivation!
September Update:
At the end of the year I’m going to be so happy to have all of these kits finished! This challenge has been so helpful.
December Update:
This challenge has been so much fun! I never would have had all these kits finished if not for the challenge. And I already have my goals figured out for next year if we get to do it again! Thank you Debbie, and the whole Create team, for giving us so many fun ways to play together, and with our minis. Happy New Year to you all!
_________________________________________
From Sherri Lackey:
I have decided to do the Elegance Book Nook by Petworth Miniatures. It was a Christmas present from my husband.
March Update:
I had the inside and outside walls prepared. I wanted the outside walls maroon and used Rustolium 2 in 1 on them. I felt the maroon was too red so I gave them another coat of Expresso Rustolium and I am happier with it. I really like the details on the inside walls.
June Update:
Slowly but surely!
September Update:
I was able to get almost all of the furniture made except for 2 chairs and my chandeliers and wall sconces. Still need to be painted and upholstered.
December Update:
I finally finished my Elegance Book Nook from Petworth Miniatures. It was such fun!
_________________________________________
From Lesia Lennex:
I've agonized over which of my projects should be tackled for 2023. While this won't be the only project, it's a large one and has never been out of its mailing box: The Pickett Pond and furnishings. I have several of the interior and exterior furnishings kits and subbed others that I thought might look good. None of them have been started. I felt awful when I looked at the box mailing label -- June 2017. It's time to work on it and hopefully finish it this year.
March Update:
My photo doesn't show this but I've also glued together the house frame. I'm happy with the progress!
June Update:
Since I've been in TN, I've been mostly doing the furniture for the Pickett Pond. I've completed quite a lot of furniture. Good thing I brought the structure with me so I can work more on it!
September Update:
I'm making progress! I've shingled the downstairs, installed the first floor paper, and finished the chimney. I'm ready to start first floor wallpaper and planning the lighting.
December Update:
I've finished the Pickett Pond! And just in time with a couple hours to spare! Yes, it's been a real challenge between travel, work, and all that painting! I'm happy Create had this challenge and that I met it with the Pickett Pond.
_________________________________________
From Doreen Lindsay:
I have decided to enter the year long challenge with two kits - the Summer Cottage by Debbie Young and the Rivendell Cottage by BJ Miniatures. Hopefully this will get me back to doing miniatures again after the loss of Pat.
March Update:
I have built the first house and am working on the interior kits.
June Update:
I have started on the second house. Next are the windows. As I have asthma I cannot spray them so I am waiting for my niece to help.
September Update:
Not much has been done over summer - life sort of got in the way.
December Update:
I have completed both houses and furniture. Still have to put the furniture in the Southern cottage. I will be completing the landscape and accessorizing in the month of January and then to start my new projects for the 2024 challenge.
_________________________________________
From Cindy Loman:
I am so excited by the year long challenge. After all the holiday madness, it is just the kick in the pants I needed to work on my mini projects. I bought the Emily Flower Shop kit recently and it has a zillion pieces. It will certainly take a year to finish what with all my other hobbies and sewing projects.
March Update:
I was so intimidated by my kit that I kept putting it off until I knew that I had a quarterly deadline coming soon. In the beginning of March I started laying out all the pieces and parts. It was confusing at first, but now that I’ve got it figured out, I am so addicted and having so much fun! Thanks for organizing the challenge. Working on it has been such a joy that I’ve barely noticed the dreary weather outdoors.
June Update:
I finished more of small items and furniture. I especially like the rack that holds ribbons and paper and the little oil can and lantern which I have sitting in the foreground for now. The shop looks crowded and cluttered, but I have a lot more stuff to make!
September Update:
This quarter I focused on making the flowers for my flower shop. It will be a challenge to get it all together by the end of the year, but I look forward to finishing it. It would be nice if I finished it before the holidays hit, but I doubt it!
October Update:
I finished my year long project at midnight on October 24. I am so grateful to NAME for creating this challenge! Otherwise, it would probably be still sitting in a box. Instead, I learned a lot of new things and am excited to work on more minis.
_________________________________________
From Sally Lonn:
I've put this off long enough ... this is a home for my many, many dolls that I have collected around the world, made, and had kits for. The dolls got finished during Covid, now they really need to be displayed.
March Update:
No progress update from me for one reason, I am working on the centerpiece for the convention, and if you haven't seen it it is a complicated piece with many, many little cubbies to fill on two sides. It can't be done haphazardly, so my project is sitting there yelling at me!
June Update:
Today I laid out all of my pieces for my corner store. Sealed both sides and went to trial fit it all together! I AM MISSING a whole wall on the right side. I am so bummed!!! Anyway, here are my trial pictures. I've contacted the company online, they are in Victoria BC, online only. So maybe I have a chance. I think when I bought it ... it was a close out. Waiting to hear.
Working on corner shop with missing wall ... all painted, ready to floor and wallpaper. I decided there is plenty of light and may not need electrical.
September Update:
Being gone most of the summer hasn't helped my miniatures. Here is what progress I have been making. The Corner Doll shop is coming along, tricky flooring with the angle to work on. Hope to complete it soon.
December Update:
It is with a sigh of relief that my year end project is about 99% finished!!! I am very pleased with the results. It is hard to get such a big shop all in one picture. There are many more dolls since I have been collecting for years. The wall paper was designed by Annie Willis of England and she passed away about two years ago. I was thrilled I could get one more sheet for the trim on the outside. The colors are from the wallpaper. This shop had nothing but construction problems with a missing wall and a roof piece that refused to fit .. thank you to a kind friend who has full size tools and helped me out. I love all the windows, because I certainly did not need to light it. The roof is also clear.
_________________________________________
From Pam McDonald:
I have had this kit for Debbie Young’s Visalian for a very long time. I’m not committing to furnishing or landscaping by the end of the year, although I will try.
March Update:
I’m off to a slow start with my house, but have finally got some of the prep work done. I always spend more time thinking about a project than building it. At least I have chosen an exterior colour and have started choosing/printing wallpaper. I’ve also finally committed to lighting the house (because the siding has to be added before the house is assembled I’ll need to have two battery packs -- one in the attic and one in the foundation). I’ve primed the windows and doors -- look at them all! Aren’t Debbie Young’s kits amazing? And I've assembled the foundations.
June Update:
September Update:
This project is going very slowly - I hope to really speed up in the fall in order to complete the house by Dec 31. The interior finishes are done on the first floor and I think I have finally settled on where to run the wires for lighting. Laying the wood floors was time consuming due to all of the angles in the house and the need to cut around moldings.
December Update:
I finished my quarter inch scale Visalian house with little time to spare. I’m glad I didn’t commit to furnishing and landscaping it – maybe that can be part of my entry for 2024. Thanks to the Create team for organizing the challenge. I don’t think I would ever have finished this house without it.
_________________________________________
From Ann-Cary McLain:
Last fall I attended Debbie Colombo's Lunch and Learn - Making a Window Shopping Vignette - and came away with lots of creative ideas. Since then I have continued to just add items to a pile. I want to expand the basic plan into a two-sided window display (one Edwardian, the other more modern) and create a doll to include on the Edwardian side.
March Update:
Created cardboard patterns and made several adjustments before cutting the foam core. Assembled basic structure, printed and installed stucco wallpaper. Located brick wallpaper.
June Update:
I added the brick paper to all sides of the venue and assembled, wigged, and dressed my Edwardian shopper (Dana Burton's "Honey" kit). Next quarter I'll fill the shop windows on both sides with merchandise.
September Update:
I have finished my year-long challenge project! Both the Edwardian and more-modern windows of this 2-sided display are now filled with merchandise for shoppers. The front and back of the box are picture frames. The top has a brick paper-edged clear plastic sheet (removed for photos) to keep out pesky dust.
_________________________________________
From Carla McIntyre:
This is my challenge project. It had been sitting around for way longer than I’ve been doing minis. My Aunt Dot (Moore from Cincinnati) had my grandfather work on these kits when he wasn’t able to get around without oxygen anymore. He built several of these stores. Looks like I have 2 sets of kits here. My plan is to make it look like the ones Grandpa made so many years ago.
Here’s my progress pictures for March! Yes, the box is upside down so the glue on the light and beam can dry!
June Update:
I have finished my year long challenge project! Except for the light (LED strip from Amazon) and the signs (Michelle’s Miniatures-she was really great and easy to work with!) everything else I used was in my stash! The store is a tribute to my maternal grandfather, Robert Wardwell. He had severe emphysema. To keep him busy, my aunt (Dot Moore, a member of Cincinnati Miniature Society) had him build some Realife Miniature kits. They decorated the room boxes together. I’m not sure where his room boxes ended up but, some of the kits came to me. Looking at my project reminds me of him sitting at his kitchen table and building the tiny pieces with his great big hands!
Next up on my work table is one of the prototypes for 2024 Carolinas State Day. Watch for information, it’s going to be a great project!
_________________________________________
From Kathy McNeely:
I am going to join your group in the year long challenge. I will rehab this dollhouse I bought from Facebook marketplace last year. It needs a LOT of work and I haven't touched it since I got it.
March Update:
The girls (April and May) got a slow start on their fixer upper they named "Buttercup Cottage". They have torn out floorboards and carpet. They removed a lot of yucky old wallpaper. In doing so, it was discovered that they need all new wiring which will be the next step once the place is cleaned up. Spring will be here soon, so April started cleaning the siding and prepping it for paint.
June Update:
Lots of grunge work going on during this phase of the Buttercup Cottage rehab. A new base was made to give room for addition and landscaping. Part of the kitchen wall was removed to make an entry to the conservatory addition. Attempts to remove remnants of old landscaping ... it's harder to remove than I expected! Electrical added and stucco walls started. Stone floors have been created too. Hopefully it starts coming together soon!
September Update:
The girls have been busy the past few months. The electrician ran the wiring and they plastered the walls, added floor molding, and got the garden room addition on the house! They added a small bathroom on the second floor, and built some bookshelves in the living room next to the fireplace, too. They love the wallpaper on the back that has tiny birds on it. The stove has been brought in and the hood placed over it. It's very convenient for their pots and pans.
The electrician needs to come back to install the pretty lights they chose. After that the flooring goes in upstairs. Then they can work on painting outside and landscaping. They are hoping to be all moved in for Thanksgiving.
December Update:
I am proud to say I finished my year long project, Buttercup Cottage at 4:45 pm Dec.29!! I actually made the deadline!
April and May started to move things into the house right before Christmas. They were so excited, they even got a tree! After a long day unpacking more boxes, they are having a simple dinner of Mac n cheese and going straight to bed. They deserve a rest! This has been really fun, thank you for hosting the challenge.
_________________________________________
From Janette Mickelson:
I am building an entire town in half inch scale. The kit I am going to be working on in 2023 is MacGreedy’s emporium. I got this kit recently on Etsy. The pieces all seem to be there. I will definitely change the name. The building itself should not be too hard but the first floor is going to be a grocery store and probably the post office. I can picture shelves full of food, a frozen and refrigerated section, as well as fruits and veggies. I am not sure about the second floor. I would love to do a miniature shop but this is half scale so that may be a real challenge.
March Update:
Yikes. I have been working so much that I have not gotten very much done. I started picking out wallpaper this week so hopefully will see some progress soon. I also assembled some store fixtures, too!
June Update:
It is slow going! I had to adjust some of the tabs and slots for a better fit and also changed my mind on first floor wallpaper and redid it ... luckily before the paste had dried. I decided to use a brick wallpaper on the outside and am very happy with it.
September Update:
The outside is papered and windows and doors installed. I have left windows and doors unpainted and really like the look. I will finish the sidewalk to look like cement. And now on to the interior!
December Update:
I have finished my half inch scale general store that will be in my half inch scale town. This is Meese General store. You may see Mr. Meese at the check out counter. I will be adding little bits over time and of course changing out the window displays they are winter/ Christmas. This has been a super fun challenge. I love to see everyone’s projects.
_________________________________________
From Samantha Murray:
My yearlong challenge is to get the kit designed for an advent calendar based on the German Christmas whirl gigs using these as inspiration.
March Update:
It’s been a crazy 3 months but I did manage to get the base structure pieces figured out and design 3 of the houses.
June Update:
Checking in for the challenge but I have not been able to get any work done this quarter. Real work keeps getting in the way.
September Update:
I got all the houses sketched out and have completed the design of the pieces for the base houses. I have completed the design of two houses and the church. Only 21 more houses to go plus Santa’s workshop.
December Update:
Design for the first 5 buildings is finalized. Each building has a footprint of 2" x 2" x 3" and have a door on the side for the gift. There will be 5 layers total, four for the village and Santa's workshop on the very top. Only 20 more individual buildings to design. This is definitely my biggest undertaking yet and while I haven’t finished, I am pleased with the results so far.
_________________________________________
From Grace Mlynowski:
I am going to finish Tufty Burrows. It's in the second stage as all the Pringles tubes are cut and painted and glued together.
March Update
June Update:
I've been inspired and have finished my Tufty Burrows. It's from a starter kit by Petite Properties. All I need now are the critters that will inhabit the home.
_________________________________________
From Mary Myers:
I bought this Seabrook kit a couple of years ago and have been collecting pieces and kits to go in it since then. I probably have enough accessories for three sea shacks; but that’s the way I work. I am anxious to try to get the structure to look old and weathered. I can see the seagulls and smelly fish scattered about in my mind.
March Update:
Here are my progress pictures for my Challenge Project. The structure is up and I love the way it turned out. It still needs a bit of aging, landscaping, hardscaping (the egg carton sidewalks) and some more junk around the perimeter. I broke the metal table but it fits with theme on an old barrel. I loved making the fishing rods. I was in Florida a few weeks ago and collected some shells for the outside and on the shelves. I am going to make some fishing knives and, and, and ... I'm just having too much fun with this project. I have some fly fishing things, but I think that will have to go into another project.
June Update:
Ta da. My shack is up and open. I’ve even got my first dollar pinned to the wall. I’m mostly finished. I need to do some grubbing up things a bit. Some half eaten fish tacos on the table that kind of thing.
September Update:
Between gardening and the Cape Cod convention, I didn’t get much done on my fishing store. But I did add this lovely ship bell and hanger round table kit by Debbie Young. I think it is perfect.
December Update:
I added a back dock/landing/porch. So it is finished enough for now. I tend to add items as I see them at shows, etc, so my projects are rarely ever done. I doubt I’m alone in this and as a matter of fact I see some tweaking I could do even now. Oh please make it stop!!! lol. Such a fun hobby.
________________________________________
From Linda Napier:
I have had the "Southern Cottage" kit partially done for a while and really need to finish it because I've told myself repeatedly that I can't start the next one until that is finished. So in case it isn't a "big" enough project for the challenge, my photo includes the Adoorable kit. I've only opened the box so far. I'll be very happy if I finish the Cottage and get the Adoorable house kit done in 2023.
March Update:
The lights are in, the ceiling is attached, and the roof started. I also watched the video of the flower cart project since I plan to have hydrangeas in my landscaping. I've never tried alcohol ink on flower petals, so we'll see what happens.
June Update:
I didn't make much progress. I did start making hydrangeas after watching the alcohol inks being used on one of the Create videos. I hadn't tried them before for coloring flowers.
September Update:
Here's is my photo for this quarter. I was hoping I'd be further along, but so far so good.
December Update:
I don't qualify, because I didn't finish my landscaping, but wanted to share my interior photos. The challenge helped me move this project along and if I had put in a couple of days of additional work on this, I could have made it. Thanks for all you do for Create and NAME.
(Editorial Note: You absolutely DO qualify. Progress not perfection.)
_________________________________________
From Sue Ostheimer:
Back in 2009 I did a workshop with Philippa Todd who taught us how to make raw meats and fish using polymer clay. I have been meaning to make a meat and fish market ever since then. I have a Fern Vasi doll from the 'lunch 'n learn" on Create who will be my shop keeper, and 2 years ago I finally made the display cabinet and some shelves. I also cut walls from gatorboard and started to make some boxes and jars of things for the shelves. Then other projects came along and it got put aside. I am getting close to finishing my Tiki Bar and hope to get my market finally finished this year!
March Update:
I’ve completed the counters, shelves, sink, door, (all made with basswood, silver color is Design Master Super Silver 732 spray paint), flooring, window & tile (purchased and stained/painted) and painted the walls and trim. Next: glue walls in place, add a ceiling or plexiglass cover with a ceiling light (LED strip) and make items for sale for the shelves.
June Update:
Walls inside and out finished and glued on, ceiling/roof with glass panel & LED lights finished, Corn/tomatoes/onions/potatoes finished, added items to back prep counter. Need to make some things for sale (bread crumbs, condiments, etc), a shelf for the back wall, & scale for the counter. Also need to add signs to walls. I haven't figured out a front but thinking a plexiglass slide in panel, rather than a store front. The name will probably be "Luca's Prime Meats & Fresh Fish".
September Update:
I am finishing up the trim work and sign, and added some provisions for shelves (need to make some more). Also put up some signs, shelf, and paper towel holder on back wall. I decided to add the boar’s head that we made in the same weekend class when we made the meats and fish, and also added the “Today’s special: BOAR’S HEAD” sign! Luca’s shop will be open in time for the Christmas rush!!
December Update:
Luca's Meat and Fish Shop is open! My CLYL project was modest compared to some of the amazing things that people have submitted - wow!! Well done, everyone! I only had to add few things to complete my shop, the scale on the counter being one of them (simple wood pieces with the display cut out of an online image). Thank you to the Create team for the push!
_________________________________________
From Marjorie Parker:
My entry for CYLC is a 1/12 scale roombox, gifted to me by my parents, years ago. I am relatively new to miniatures and prefer to work in micro scale. I had a considerable amount of help from a dear friend, now sadly departed, for my only other 1/12 scale room, and expect to beg someone for help with this one, too. Wallpapering! Eeek!
My earliest receipt for collecting goodies for this project is dated 12/30/19. That’s how long it has been collecting dust, and how long I have been doing micros instead. A whole wall of boxes of micros fell down as I tried to lug down this heavy room box off the shelf to be photographed.
This project is called “Christmas 1962” and is a mix of memories of my arrival f
or my first remembered Christmas in the United States (Army brat) and also lots of fantasy - so I can incorporate some fun lighting and gadgets (my very favorite part of minis).
March Update:
So for “Christmas 1962”, I stained the interior and exterior of the vintage 17”x 11.5” room box with gel stain, studied how to do wallpaper (I always fail), and applied the ceiling, wallpaper, and flooring. (Editorial: I think it looks great!)
June Update:
It did not go well for me this quarter. In addition to a ceiling leak in May over much of my miniatures, supplies, and tools, I experienced a lot of frustration in working with 1” scale for my first attempt at ceiling cove, baseboard, and stairs. “Oopsie”. One-inch scale is SO unforgiving of booboos! (Quarter-scale CREATE class Christmas Cart shown for a happier distraction.) The ceiling trim is even worse and I got so mixed up trying to use miter shears. But I loved the shears so much that I bought my own, after borrowing a friend’s. The stairs need a lot of clean-up, too.
September Update:
Due to family illnesses, I just had time to throw together some things for a photograph in my 1/12 scale room box, “Christmas 1962”. Staircase needs repairs and various things need to be glued. The project will be much less ambitious than I had hoped but I still love the Christmas glow.
December Update:
I can’t say I am ever finished. I am really enjoying this “Christmas 1962” room box this Holiday season. So I am going to call it “done”. It has lots of little details that have special meaning for my family. It also has the work of many talented miniaturists, especially Jean Gibson.
As for me, I muddled with wallpaper and making stairs from a kit, and trying to keep everything glued down. Did not succeed in keeping everything glued straight. This has got to be the easiest way to decorate for Christmas and the glass front keeps it safe from the cat. Every time I look at it I am reminded of the first Christmas I can remember.
The mini lighting attracted the attention of a real-life electrician who had come to work in my full-size house. So I gave him as much information as I could. Hopefully we will add another miniaturist.
_________________________________________
From Debbie Patrick:
This year I’m committing to finishing this 1/12” store kit as a Quilt Shop in honor of my mother. She made beautiful quilts which her children and grandchildren received for Christmas or as wedding presents. A friend’s daughter had purchased this kit but never got very far. She gave up after a rough assembly, a coat of paint on the outside and gluing rectangles cut from strip wood to the roof. I’ve had it in a storage closet since 1998 and got it out last year. I first had to take the structure down to the original wood (which required lots of putty and sanding). So far, I’ve added the siding and painted the inside. Now I need to add flooring to the upstairs, install lighting, build cabinets & the kitchenette. Thanks to the wonderful members of the Raleigh & Cary clubs, I have dozens of fabric scraps to put on fabric bolts plus some finished miniature quilts. I have been collecting sewing kits for years in anticipation of making the quilt shop a reality.
March Update:
I am sorry to say that I have not progressed much on my project. I had two other projects that I was determined to complete before turning my attention to the quilt shop full time. Luckily I was able to get back to the quilt shop last week and was able to finish the flooring. I was almost through with the porch railing but I realized that the doors were in such bad shape that they had to go. I’ve removed them and have the molding ready to make new doors. Now that everything else has been moved off the work tables, I expect to make a lot of progress in Q2!
June Update:
I’m very pleased with the progress I’ve made on my Quilt Shop. This kit was from the late 1980s (maybe early 1990s) and had been assembled by a friend who was very new to miniatures. She quickly lost interest and gave the structure to me, at which point it sat in closets & attics for >20 years. Numerous structural problems were encountered as I’ve worked on the building and when I added the roof back onto the house, I found a big one. The roof caused the 2nd floor walls to bow! After a weekend of TLC involving liquid nails and 3 ft long clamps, the roof is stable, and the walls are straight! I still have a lot of things to do before it’s finished but I wanted to stage the rooms for this month’s photos so you could get a feeling of how the finished product will look.
I made the refrigerator & kitchen cabinets with scrap gator board, bass wood, and wood molding. A (very) small powder room was made from gator board and is waiting to be glued in place. I’m eager to finish the structure so I can get all my shelves stocked with the items I’ve collected over the years! During the roof debacle this weekend my husband commented that he was impressed that I had not tossed out this building due to the frustrations I’ve had. Today when looking at it staged, he realized why I’ve kept working on it.
September Update:
This quarter has been very busy for me but I’m happy to report my structure is complete. Q4 will be spent completing kits & filling shelves with bolts of cloth & notions.
December Update:
I’m very pleased with the project and although I still have a few things to make and add (like rugs), I think it’s in presentable form now. This challenge really pushed me to make a battered up hand-me-down building in to the quilt shop I’ve been wanting to make in honor of my mother.
_________________________________________
From Kathy Patrick:
I have a challenge for this year. I’ve had a dollhouse for over 40 years and the only construction on the bare shell has been a few pieces of lap board siding. My goal after over 40 years it to have this dollhouse mostly, if not completely, finished inside and out. Here is the current state of inside.
March Update:
For 2 months I worked exterior lap board siding, trim, shingles on the peaks, and the porch area. I installed the porch light and running tape wire to it. I painted all of the windows. I began one room in the interior with wallpapering, window trim, and made a chandelier and sconce.
June Update:
This quarter I finished the living room in my dollhouse. I put carpet and some hardwood on the floor, wallpapered, crown molding and baseboard trims, made drapes, and wired the lamps, fireplace, and ceiling fan. I also finished the front porch with railing. I began painting furniture for the dining room, taking the dark brown wood into a cream color, which took about 6 coats of paint. I still need to reupholster the chairs but am waiting to purchase trim for it first. I also began painting the cabinets and dining table for the kitchen, as well as assembly of the refrigerator.
September Update:
The last 3 months didn’t allow much time to work on my project. However, I've nearly completed another room. Painting, wallpapering, flooring, window and door trims, electrifying, and hanging lamps. I painted and reupholstered the dining chairs. I assembled and painted the stairs but will wait to install them when the upstairs is put together. A lot of time was spent putting the next room together (kitchen) with assembly and painting cabinetry. I’m also working on stained glass for the window but didn’t get it done yet.
December Update:
I’m SOOOO happy to finally get out of the kitchen! This one room has given me more grief and problems then I’ve ever encountered on any other project! Only 6 more rooms to go, so I didn’t completely the entire house, which was my projection.
_________________________________________
From Alician Pearce:
I would like to finish Cranberry Cottage. I still need to finish the furniture, fill the house, and do landscaping.
March Update:
I got 3 more kits done on my Cranberry Cottage this quarter.
June Update:
September Update:
December Update:
_________________________________________
From Chris Peherzewski:
I want to make a TEA TIME roombox inside this clock. I got the clock at a lawn sale and cut it down to size using the base and the top only -- not the long part with the pendulum. The inside is all that I have done so far. It has been sitting for 4-5 yrs or so and I want it done.
March Update:
I have the floor and sideboards in now. I am trying different ideas for painting the outside. The door is loose for now. I have a lot of light sanding to do!! I am trying different layouts to see how I want to do the inside. I'm also working on the sign for the door but not sure how i want the lettering to look. It is not glued yet.
June Update:
I am getting more done on my tea Time project! The upper part painted and a light switch added (the kind you use with a turn knob battery operated you can buy at the Dollar Tree.) I have some more things I need to add to the walls too and paint the lower base part.
September Update:
It's been slow going. I had a lot of touch ups to do and decide how to layout the wooden letters
for Tea Time. I painted the base but it needs touching up!! Thank you 3 more months to go!!!!
December Update:
_________________________________________
From Caryn Pitts:
I have always loved miniatures, since my grandmother let us play with her handmade dollhouse when we were children. I have wanted to get into crafting my own for years but never took the time. This year however, one of my goals is to start this new hobby. My husband bought me "Sam's Study" two years ago. I didn't like the finish on some of the pieces, so I never really started on it. I inherited "Happy Corner" from my sister, who started it but decided she wasn't interested. So, I have two projects to complete this year and this challenge is even more motivation to get started!
March Update:
I've made lots of progress and changes so far. I didn't like the color of some of the bookshelves, so I sanded off the paint and stained them. Then I decided to lean toward this room being a library so I added wallpaper that I love and coordinates with the painted bookshelves. Finally, I've been making a lot of tiny books! I want to change the flooring and need to find a desk that fits. I'm loving how it's turning out.
June Update:
Life has certainly gotten in the way this 2nd quarter. My only accomplishment was making the chair. I'm auditioning legs to see what I like because I don't like what is in the kit. Hopefully next quarter will be more productive.
September Update:
I've made lots of books and working on a new ceiling. The white object is half a ping pong ball that will be a chandelier. I'm also auditioning knickknack items for the blue & yellow shelves.
December Update:
Unfortunately, I had no time to work on my project in Q4 so I still have lots to work on in 2024.
_________________________________________
From Connie Sauve:
So many projects and kits to choose from for this year long project! I received these kits for The Merry Peddler by Robin Betterley for Christmas 2022. My plan is to finish all the kits and put the finished wagon on a landscaped winter base, with a woodsy Santa type peddler selling his wares to a few customers. I found the horse on eBay and he was absolutely perfect for this project, so I just had to have him. Merry Christmas to me!
March Update:
I chose Robin Betterley’s “The Merry Peddler” as my year-long project. I had a bit of a slow start, as I was finishing up a project I was previously working on. I was able to finish 2 of the many kits that are included with this project. I finished a set of 3 tiny trees and also a reindeer. The kits are wonderful, and go together beautifully.
June Update:
I was able to finish all the accessory kits that go with The Merry Peddler wagon project I’m making by Robin Betterley. They went together extremely well and were fun to work on. The peddler wagon comes next! Fun challenge!
September Update:
I have now finished the wagon and all the accessories in the wagon. I also painted a bunch of nutcrackers and some of them will be going in the wagon. Next, I will be finishing the landscaping and all the figures that will go in the scene.
November Update:
Here is my finished NAME Create Year-Long Challenge. It’s called “The Merry Peddler”. I made all of the accessory kits and wagon which were from Robin Betterley. Nutcrackers and sled with presents were kits from Janny Warnaar from Art of Mini. I costumed all five figures. I also made the bird feeder from scratch and all the landscaping. The animals are from various artists. The snowy pine trees are from Lemax. This was a wonderful challenge! I enjoyed it very much. It’s a great way to get a larger project finished.
_________________________________________
From Carin Shapiro:
This year I will complete this house that I have been working on for 2 years. I bought it used for $60 and have successfully removed the mouse droppings and cat urine odor ... now it is on to bigger and better things! I still have L-shaped stairs to make, complete a 24 count petitpoint rug, install 24 windows which will be stained inside and painted outside and will need to make curtains, bedding, refurbish an old kitchen, 4 porches, install the house on a special stand with legs and finish making and installing some lights. It is a good thing that I absolutely love doing all of this.
March Update:
For the past 3 months I have finished purchasing the 32 windows I needed and stained and sealed the insides and painted and sealed the outsides. I have also completed making an L shaped staircase out of a straight staircase. I am going to install windows and make some of them leaded stained windows with golfers tape before installing them and then onward to the 4 porches. This is definitely keeping me on track.
June Update:
For this quarter I made 24 leaded glass windows and installed them, I made an L shaped staircase and I dressed 2 of the 4 beds in my house. This challenge is definitely helping to keep me on track.
September Update:
I have made curtains for 4 of the 6 rooms requiring them. I hope to find suitable fabric at the IGMA or Philly show. I also have blocked and started working on the tabby weave and fringe on my petitpoint rug. I have been distracted by the NAME convention and my messy workshop. As usual, I hope to get more organized the next quarter!
December Update:
I'm done!!! I have put so many hours and days into this! The petitpoint is completed, I made 10 wood floors, suffered through mitering wood for corners that were not right angles, and wallpapers for rooms that were not square or rectangular, figured out so many electrical issues, made a staircase that turns a corner, made 4 bedding sets, made 24 sets of curtains, made 14 lights (some on my own, some we rehabbed and some were from Esther Marker). I learned a lot and stayed on track thanks to the challenge. I am not sure if I will take on so much work for a single year again, though. I am exhausted!
_________________________________________
From Susan Skinner:
This is a dollhouse that my grandfather built from Women's Day Magazine plans for my aunt somewhere around 1945. It was passed on to me to finish a few decades ago but not much has been done on it. My plan is to finish the interior walls and flooring this year. I want to make some real progress on it while my Aunt is still alive to see pictures.
March Update:
Real life has been busy but I did make some progress on my big dollhouse project. I got the ceiling beams in, finished wallpapering the downstairs and finished laying and then stained the floor.
June Update:
Second floor walls planned and cut, fireplaces figured out, stair railing chosen. Next, I will paint the walls to prep for wallpapers and paneling, work on the doors, and actually making the second floor fireplaces. Feels good to finally be making progress on this project!
September Update:
The upstairs room divider walls are primed, window frames cut, glued and painted for gentleman's parlour. Wainscoting also cut and first coats on for that room, not glued in yet as I need to wallpaper first. Two identical fireplaces for the bedrooms finished except wiring. And window frames for two front bedrooms cut and glued together waiting for paint and wallpaper.
December Update:
Well I guess I have to admit defeat. I worked feverishly the last few weeks but I did not finish all the walls and floors. I am very happy with how far I did get though so I feel like I accomplished my goal anyway. I will just continue with this dollhouse this next year too as a personal challenge.
_________________________________________
From Helen Sparks:
Here’s my project. A bargain from the Yard Sale in Indianapolis last summer.
March Update:
My “bargain” house didn’t seem like quite such a bargain when I realized that it didn’t include any components! Luckily I had 11 of the 16 windows, one door and the hard-to-find staircase in my stash. It took quite a while to gather the remaining parts, but I did manage to make some progress on basic assembly. Now if I could just decide what paint colors to use ...
June Update:
Thanks to a three-day club “retreat” my house now has all of the windows installed plus most of the wallpaper and flooring. Wahoo!
September Update:
Well, this house kit has defeated me. Nothing seemed to go together well and I found myself stressing over it and doing nothing with miniatures because it was “hanging over my head”. Not how a hobby should make you feel! I am actually going to give it away, not trash it, and I still want to do a house in this color scheme, so I am starting over with the RGT 1/2” scale Colonial. Probably won’t finish it by December, but who knows? (Editorial note: 😭😟)
December Update:
As you know, I trashed my first project and started over. I have company coming who will be staying until after New Year’s, so I won’t have any more time to work before the end of the year. Still, even though I didn’t finish, I am pretty pleased with my progress. I started in September with the Real Good Toys 1/2” Scale Colonial still in the box and have managed to complete the outside and do all the wallpaper and flooring inside. I am now constructing kitchen cabinets. I wouldn’t be this far if it hadn’t been for the challenge!
_________________________________________
From Barb Striethorst:
I started this 1/12 scale dollar store almost 20 years ago. It will be called "A Loonie Or A Toonie" (Canadian $1 and $2 coins). My original plan was, for many items, to use the store to house things until they were required for other projects. I have since moved more to doing 1/48 scale, so my choice will likely be to glue down rather than have movable. There will be one changeable area for seasonal display.
March Update:
Having taken everything out of the box, I realized that many of the shelving units that I had stashed in the box really would not work well. (I also now knew why I could never find some of these when working on other projects!) At least I kept my drawing for the homemade shelving, so I will be making more. Almost every time that I go looking for something for any project, I find potential stock for my store. The pile grows. I think all my shelving will have to be extended to the ceiling! I have a computer file and file folder filling up with potential printies for store inventory. I have started the actual making with my card/wrapping paper and other gift supplies unit. I remember being so pleased when I finally got the card shelves figured out. I had planned on having one section of this unit for seasonal items. It soon became apparent that I would need a separate unit for each seasonal display!
June Update:
I have populated one shelving unit, primarily with porcelain items. I then thought that there should be something on the top of unit. Hmm - how about Pinatas? The sunflower is my first effort!
September Update:
Spent most of the last quarter getting a display and sales items ready for my mini club annual show and sale mid September. So got some planning and gathering done, but not much assembly. Some stocking of the 2nd large shelving unit - need to dig up some more feminine toy items; many more printies to assemble. "Regular" card stand, seasonal display stands (Fall/Halloween, Xmas, Spring/Easter, Canada Day 1 July. Lots of strips for more pinatas.
December Update:
Sadly, I must report defeat in finishing my project. I have had too many 'irons in the fire' this year! With just over 3 days left, I am not going to get stressed trying to finish everything that I intended to do. Progress picture attached. I don't want to count the hours that I have spent finding, sizing, printing, cutting out, and assembling all the household items in the shelving unit. At least I have made some headway, and hope over the next few months to leisurely complete my "Loonie Toonie" (now definitely PLUS) store.
_________________________________________
From Julie Stuckmeyer:
I'm going to finish my beach/boardwalk scene this year.
March Update:
I've spent the largest portion of the last three weeks trying to get ocean waves I like. I'm sick to death of resin!! That said, I've made good progress everywhere else and still hope to finish it by June. Yes, I have two more projects picked out to do after this as well as my next two year long projects! 🤣🤔🤪
May Update:
Woo hoo! I finished. So so so happy with how it turned out.
_________________________________________
From Terry Unnold:
While it’s hard to pick out just one of the many, many big projects I want to work on, I finally decided to see if I can finish this “Collectibles Cabinet Shell Kit” from Real Good Toys. It’s a one inch project that I bought in 2015, I think. The kit is a three story shallow house with a stack of three 6”X15” rooms. There will be a parlor, bedroom, and nursery. Only vignettes because the rooms are so small, but for now that’s the plan!
March Update:
Finally warm enough to finish priming the interior, put the house together and make some progress. Next steps: chandeliers, wood flooring, and ceiling paper are ready to go in as soon as the fireplaces/chimney breasts are located. I’ve also managed to lose the directions!
June Update:
“Let There Be Light” and not much else! Planned to at least finish floors, wallpaper and fireplaces but got hung up on selections. I really need to figure out what I have for each of these small rooms before l put in the chimneys and fireplaces. It’s so small that it may just be a place for homeless dolls and dogs. Frustrated again.
September Update:
Only a little progress - the floors are in on the second and third floors.
December Update:
I managed painting, lighting, paper, and flooring but kept getting stuck on how to furnish its three tiny (for 1:12 scale) rooms! Then came Cat Wingler’s wonderful Elf class and I just left it all to Digby and Figby ... my magic Christmas elves. They demanded a place to live and moved right into my year-long project. They created a Sugar Plum Parlor, a perfect place for Mrs. Claus to serve Christmas goodies, an office for Santa who seems to be overwhelmed with all of his Christmas mail, and then they moved in on the third floor to work hard on more tree decorating, training baby Rudolf, and piling gifts into Santa’s Magic Sleigh.
I always wanted a Santa House for a pair of Godrun Kolenda dolls and have collected oodles of Christmas themed miniatures, fabrics, and dishes, at least ten boxes or so. I’ve made and taught Christmas trees and wreaths, so I have a few cartons of those supplies, too. That’s why I have decided to call my CYLC finished, for now. I’m sure I will continue to add to it over time but for now it is ready to be on display for Christmas at my house.
Thanks to the Create Team for coming up with this wonderful challenge and especially to Cat Wingler whose Elf Class moved thing along for me!
_________________________________________
From Denise Voelker:
This is a project that I started at my 1st workshop ever during the Rochester Houseparty. This is the first house that I ever tried to make myself. Since I have built several houses but never finished this one.
March Update:
House electric fixtures are done, wallpapering is done and roof is on. Everything is going as planned.
June Update:
Staying on schedule, finished the base and outside of building.
September Update:
Everything is on schedule, interior is complete.
December Update:
Landscaping of finished project
_________________________________________
From Logan Wilhelm:
Here is the project that I am going to work on. It is an antique 1/12 scale dollhouse. I have done a little work by adding flooring, but has been years. I would dearly love to get it done so that I can finally put the 20 years plus of collecting furniture and accoutrement inside and play with it now and then.
March Update:
June Update:
September Update:
Bedroom in antique 1" dollhouse.
December Update:
_________________________________________
From Jackie Williams:
I plan to finish these three projects: the Thursday Night Project from ‘Come Fly with Me’ and the Bunny and the Heart Ferrero Rocher boxes which I plan to fill with miniature scenes.
March Update:
One of the three chosen projects to complete in 2023 is my heart shaped Ferrero Rocher candy box. I completed it.
June Update:
Completed the Project of Furnishing a miniature home for Bunnies in a Ferrero Rocher Easter Candy Acrylic Box.
_________________________________________
From Cat Wingler:
I want to landscape and furnish my Bavarian project from Unicoi.
March Update:
I have spent the last few days working on furniture for the beer garden part of the project. Before that I made agonizing decisions about the store and upper levels, then sorted kits, tentatively chose which kits I wanted to use and am now working on kit assembly.
June Update:
I have begun assembling the furniture and placing it the rooms of my Bavarian project. Here is the nearly finished Rathskeller. Next to the owner’s quarters.
September Update:
This is the owners quarters and the beginning of the downstairs Christmas Shop. Next is finishing the Christmas shop and the artists studio above.
December Update:
I am completely finished on the Bavarian that I started at Unicoi in 2010. This quarter I finished the Christmas Shop, built the furniture and decorated the artists studio and added the final touches on the landscaping. Mission accomplished!
_________________________________________
From Tammy Witthaus:
I am going to rehab and finally complete my mom’s ½” scale Elizabeth Anne. The interior is done. In 2015, I re-wired with LEDs (had also removed all siding) and started having connection issues. I just stopped working on it as I became overwhelmed. I left it in somewhat of a mess (rats' nest!). I'm thinking this is a perfect opportunity to get motivated to get this project done once and for all since my mom started this kit over 2 decades ago. Here are the things that need to be done: Lights (approx. 26 interior lights): I need to back track and determine what lights are currently working and for those not working, determine where issue is and attempt to re-wire. I also need to install 2 porch lights, merge all wiring together and solder, and redo any of the interior as a result of fixing any of lights. I also need to put new siding on house again and paint, install most exterior windows, install front and side doors, and build the porch from scratch since I cannot find those pieces.
March Update:
26 leds now light up and appear to be stable and connected to one power source. New ceiling put back up in the kitchen after having to tear the old one out due to lighting issues. Exterior wall templates created, siding cut out of cardstock, siding glued to templates, painted, and then glued on structure for four walls. Door and windows glued in on those same walls.
June Update:
All siding and shingles are now cut and glued on in front. The front porch is built and attached. Now it is time to determine the trim I want to use, porch posts and railing, and then finish the shingles on the other side, and trim each room out! I can see the light at the end of the tunnel!
July Update:
23ish years in the making and she is finished and is now my very favorite of all of my finished projects. Would have never finished this if I didn't have this push with this yearlong challenge. It really helped me focus!
Now to clean up the workroom so I can decide what to work on next.
_________________________________________
From Estee Zeitlin:
March Update:
What an amazing idea - this year long project has gotten me moving along and progress is visible. By now the first floor of both the Bramblewood and the Stanton Inn are completed with furniture in each. Most fun was trying out new ideas and learning skills I had not previously known. I would love to add some life into those rooms but that will be for another time.
P.S. Can you guess what the tub under the stairs is made with?
June Update:
Second floor completed in Bramblewood along with all the furnishings. Wesley Inn is coming along as well. Room on the right of second floor is a library. Furnishing completed for that as well as close to a hundred books. To be continued…
September Update:
There is much yet to be done, but I am thrilled to be at this juncture of working on the needed accessories to make the Inn a living space. All that’s left to completing the library is designing the bookshelf arrangement. I own more books than can fill the shelves. Interesting what I have learned in the process of searching for models. Seems to be a true science - not just an art- to putting it all together. In regard to the master suite; the French canopy bed awaits its canopy and pillows. The rest of the room‘s contents is still in the evolutionary process.
December Update:
Though I have not gotten to complete the Wesley Inn, two more rooms are in place; the Library and the Grand Bedroom. This year-long challenge moved me along at a steady pace.
_________________________________________
