My Petit Parterre

Watching from the Sidelines

2011-08-26T20:35:00.000+10:00

This is my beautiful boy who has been in boarding with a foster carer for a few weeks (I look a little like a mad woman!). Unfortunately he was a bit naughty and the carer had to return him to board with the RSPCA. We can't wait to get our babies back with us.

I may not have posted for some time and have been unable to do any mini making, but I have been occasionally looking at your wonderful blogs from the sidelines, for inspiration.

It has not been a good year for me, with searching for a new place to park ourselves (my partner Brad and our babies, Ollie the cocker spaniel and Puddles the cat), then in May the bad news that I was sort of expecting, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I can only say girls, please don't miss your all-important check-ups, I hadn't realised it had been about five years since I'd had my last.

It was five months between seeing my GP and getting the diagnosis, but I must say I feel so fortunate to have received treatment at Sydney's Royal North Shore Hospital. The treatments are the latest available and the doctors and nursing staff are the best anyone could hope for. The radiation oncologist was most encouraging when he told me my particular cancer was curable. I underwent five weeks of chemo-radiation, and have just had my first brachytherapy treatment this week, another to go next week. Not the most dignified of procedures to go through, but made tolerable by the great support of staff and of course family and friends.

If any of you have gone through this or have been diagnosed, I would love to hear from you.

I hope to be settled soon and able to get back into mini making.

As usual,

A bientot!

Hello Again

2011-05-05T10:36:00.000+10:00

Hello to everyone, it's been such a long time since my last post and I would like to welcome all my new followers. I will be catching up on all your blogs, slowly and I hope to get back to making minis before too long. I have had some changes in my situation and it takes a while to get settled again. I hope you are all well, I have been checking out your posts occasionally and I have seen some fabulous work. Found this great shot of a parterre garden I wanted to share with you, it looks so lush and green.
Until next time,

A bientot!

Welcome!

2011-02-05T18:11:00.000+11:00

I know I haven't posted since last year, sounds ages when you say it like that. There's been lots going on and I have only been able to make the occasional comment on your blogs. The heat is getting to me this summer too, it's been over 43 degrees celsius here today, must be a record.

Welcome to all new followers of my blog, there hasn't been much new to see but I hope you will stay in touch and come by occasionally. I am trying to catch up with what you've all been doing, so inspiring, and I hope it will inspire me to get myself back into making some minis. Until then, keep up all the great work everyone!
A bientot!

300 Followers!

2010-12-03T11:20:00.000+11:00

I have reached 300 followers - can't believe it. I welcome all newcomers and will enjoy catching up with what your are doing. I hope you will find something of interest here from time to time and I love hearing your comments too.
A bientot!

Mini Wreath etc ...

2010-11-30T19:45:00.000+11:00

Well I had to try a mini version of the paper wreath, the first was rather gigantic, the second more in scale. The paper was not so good so it isn't perfect but I can live with it. I found these old mirrors in a Brocante, don't you just love old mirrors. What images may they have reflected, what faces might have peered into them. Well only mine so far, they are quite age-worn but I think they have some real character.
A bientot!

A Diversion ...

2010-11-24T11:07:00.000+11:00

I saw this project on Paint Me White
the other day and had to dive straight in and make one. I didn't have any old hardcover books that I could carve up so made do with some old photography mags I acquired a while back. The paper isn't as firm so not quite as neat as Sandy's but I quite like it on our big mirror. The centre bit is my own creation. Oh, and I am sporting a couple of whopper blisters from the hot-glue gun (ouch) hadn't used it for ages.

Also dived in and made this low, long stool from ice-cream sticks I bought last week. A spur of the moment idea and not much pre-planning but there will be a use for it in the Petit Parterre I am sure. I made lots of pitchers a couple of weeks ago and I have added some patina of age since I took the photo, they look a bit too new.

Oh, and just to let you know where the giveaway items are headed, the chandelier is going to Ewa, The Sunny Hours in Poland, and the bed to Patty, Mini Babies in the USA.

Welcome new followers, I am slowly catching up on everyone's blog, it is great to see what projects everyone is working on.

A bientot!

The Winners Are ...

2010-11-21T11:30:00.000+11:00

Sorry everyone for the delay in announcing the winners. A combination of computer trouble, a very sore wrist from tendonitis and a bad headache has conspired to slow the process. After my partner Brad printed out all the comments of everyone wishing to enter the competition, I cut out all the entries and drew two winners.
The first drawn from the first 200 followers chooses which prize she prefers, the second drawn from all followers receives the remaining prize. I must wait to hear the decision of the first prizewinner, who is ...
Ewa, The Old Maid.
Second drawn is ...
Patty, Mini Babies!
Congratulations to you both, I hope you are happy with your prizes. Thank you everyone who entered, it would be great to be able to give a prize to all of you. You may have better luck next time.
A bientot!

Giveaway Ends Friday 19 Nov!

2010-11-18T23:09:00.000+11:00

Shabby Chic Electrified Chandelier


The two giveaways finished.

They're finished. I made some cushions for the doll/miniature antique-style bed and completed the electrified chandelier I promised. I had to settle for a single light one or I may never have finished it. The light is at the base, with some hanging crystals to add some glitz. Of course it is very distressed, something you might find in a brocante. If I weren't making these as a giveaway I may never have finished them, so I am glad I did and hope the winners will enjoy them.

As I said, the first drawn winner from the first 200 followers gets to choose which they prefer. The next draw from all followers who entered the competition will receive the remaining prize.

Ending 7pm Friday 19 November, Sydney time. I will email the winners to advise of their win. Good luck!
A bientot.

Reclaimed Mirrors and Welcome

2010-11-05T03:57:00.000+11:00

This is one of the pair of mirrors I painted and distressed, also experimenting with aging the actual mirror as a brand new one didn't seem appropriate for these frames. I think they look like 'reclaimed' frames, once gilt now painted 'shabby'.

Also, welcome new followers, things have been moving slowly here lately but hope you will visit again and I would love to hear your comments.
A bientot!

Tweet, tweet ...

2010-10-26T19:15:00.000+11:00

No I'm not referring to Twitter, this is my new, 'old' aviary I may include in the Petit Parterre. It is fairly high so a decent size bird would be happy residing there, smaller ones would just fly between the wires anyway. I'll be on the lookout for something unusual.

I didn't make this I bought it from a decorating shop. It was shiny black so I had to age it a bit, give it some patina. I also bought some plastic Christmas tree decorations that I will use as mirror frames. I have painted and distressed them somewhat and I am quite pleased with how they turned out. I think they will be great when I find mirrors for them. I will show them on a post when finished.

Now I must welcome all you new followers, I have been a bit remiss lately. I am so pleased to see the numbers growing and everyone is welcome to enter the draw for my giveaway, which you'll find a few posts back. I messed up a little with the chandelier and am now waiting on more lights!#* Won't be too long before I can finalise the date for this, promise.
A bientot!

Shelf unit

2010-10-02T08:06:00.000+10:00

This is the bedroom set so far, the shelf unit was originally going to be an armoire, however I didn't like the way the doors were fitting so decided to leave it as it is. I will try another armoire, changing the dimensions slightly to fit the doors. I just need to add a little trim to the bottom shelf to neaten it. I would love to make a small bedroom chair to match too. Sorry to bore you with all this furniture making, but I really enjoy putting it together. I will build myself a bed the same so I can use the set somewhere in the future.
Welcome to all new followers, I will enjoy visiting your sites too, hope everyone has a lovely weekend.
A bientot!

Bed almost finished.

2010-09-26T20:48:00.001+10:00

Thought I would show my giveaway bed almost finished. Had to find suitable legs and ended up cutting some ballastrading to suit. Have only finished one bolster cushion, will make another and maybe some plain pillows too. Still waiting on some parts to help me make the chandelier. Have enjoyed making the bed and have also made a screen and almost finished an armoire to match. Will show them when they are totally finished.

I had a query about where to buy the bed. I will probably make another and put it for sale in my etsy shop, maybe the screen and armoire too, will see how they turn out. I think they would be really cute as accessories for small dolls, perhaps antique dolls.The bed is a size to suit a young girl's bedroom for 1/12th scale miniatures.

A big welcome to all new visitors here, I hope you come back often and leave a comment. I have been slowly making my way through all your blogs too. It's great seeing all the fabulous things others are up to and always inspirational, it's good to share isn't it.
A bientot!

Part of my Giveaway!

2010-09-08T11:54:00.000+10:00

I know it has been ages since I announced my 200 followers giveaway and asked everyone to be patient while I honed my technique for the electrified chandelier and hinted at a second choice. Well the photo I showed was an antique doll's bed that I wanted to try and make as a mini. Finally I am near to finishing that part of the giveaway. Naturally I have given it an aged look, that's what I love. It took a while to work out how I could do it and I just made it up as I went along.
Some steps along the way below.

It still isn't finished, I will put some feet on it and make a couple of little cushions, maybe think of something else to finish it off. But I wanted to show that I am true to my word and at least part of the giveaway is almost ready. Still waiting on some parts for the other half so I"ll have to ask you to be patient a little longer before the draw.
New followers are still free to enter, as I mentioned the first drawn of the first 200 followers will have first choice of which prize they prefer, the next drawn of all followers will receive the other prize. Will keep you posted. I think this will be a combined 200 and 300 followers giveaway!
A bientot!

Last Garden Swap

2010-09-08T08:29:00.001+10:00

This is the swap gift I have for Wanda, something to put in her potting shed. She liked the birdhouse on my blog, I also add a base to the cage I made a while ago, although I don't know what sort of bird might live in it, would have to be pretty big not to escape through the wires, hehe. They look quite nice with a small plant in them though. I am quite happy with the lavender I made, thought she could hang it to dry from the rafters. Also a weathered box always comes in hand in a potting shed. Hope she likes them.
Below is the lovely package I received from Wanda. She made the hyacinths at the front and added loads of bits and pieces to make up. I already have plans for the stack on the right of the photo and will post a shot of it when finished. Plus there are some printy boxes for me to make up. Thank you Wanda they will be great for the shop!

A bientot!

Celebration of Spring

2010-09-01T10:54:00.000+10:00

It is the first day of Spring here so I thought it fitting I show my beautiful display of flowers the Shop gardener has been tending all through winter. Some of them have bloomed early!! Flowers were part of the garden swap, posted earlier, with Sylvia's jug taking pride of place on the weathered desk, alongside one of my candelabras.

Welcome to all new visitors to the site and thank you all for your comments, I really appreciate them and read them all. Will give an update on the prize deadline soon hopefully!
A bientot!

A Gift, Welcome & Giveaway Update!

2010-08-22T10:34:00.000+10:00

I am so thrilled at receiving this lovely gift from Sylvia at lotjesdollshouse. She wanted an appropriate name for her amazing bedroom scene 'Chambre de Seraphine', and I was chuffed when my suggestion was chosen. I had just watched the film about the life of the French artist and found it very moving, and Sylvia's room is one I am certain Seraphine would have lived in happily, with lots of light streaming in and private at the same time.
Sylvia's pitcher and embroidery are gorgeous and will certainly find a place in the Petit Parterre. Thank you so much Sylvia.

I also welcome all new visitors here. I have been holidaying in Perth, WA for just over a week, visiting my sister, nephew and his little daughters and his new partner, so I haven't had much time for blogging or miniatures, although I did sneek a few peeks at what everyone was doing here and there. I had a busy time exploring coffee shops, shopping centres (and there are lots of them in Perth), being driven around Perth's lovely waterside suburbs and seeing amazing houses, and getting to know my 'grand nieces' - aged 8 and 5 - a little better. I had a great time but it is always nice to be home.

I am still accepting entries for my giveaway and will update you as to a deadline and photo of my prizes when I can, so please be patient, as they say, good things come to those who wait - well I do appreciate your patience and hope the finished items will be pleasing.
A bientot!

Garden Swap Gifts!

2010-08-06T08:21:00.001+10:00

Look at the beautiful flowers I received in the Garden Swap organised by Ira of Merry Jingle Crafts.
First came the unbelievably beautiful poppies growing in pots, on the right, from the very talented Michelle of Little Rabbit Miniatures in Greece. They are so delicate and detailed, with buds about to open and a couple of spent flowers, in two shades of pink and a pretty orange. Close up below, thank you Michelle.

Then the next day, from Janice of On Being a Mini Mum in the UK, I received the rose stems in shades of pink and mauve, as well as some sunflowers, all beautifully shaded and closely layered petals that must take so much work and a really steady hand. I displayed them in some of my first pitchers.Close-up of Janice's gorgeous flowers below, thank you so much Janice, they are just exquisite!

There is enough to open Le Petit Parterre already, except the interior work has been held up by conflicts between the owner and the interior designer, hopefully they will sort things out before too long!
A bientot.

Almost 200 - Giveaway time!

2010-08-04T13:01:00.001+10:00

I love this antique doll's bed and must have a go at making one in miniature.
As you may have noticed, the number of people following my blog is almost 200. I announced a while ago that I would offer as a giveaway to the first 200 followers, an electrified chandelier. I am still working on the design and will post a photo of it when I can, but it won't be for a while yet as I am going away next week for over a week.
There will actually be a choice of two prizes, so you can decide which you prefer if your number is drawn first. The second drawn will receive the other item. If you would like to go in the draw for the chandelier and have the patience to wait, please leave a comment here. You must be one of the first 200 followers to be in the draw. The second item will remain a mystery for now, just to keep you guessing. Good luck!

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT: The Giveaway will now be open to all followers. The first drawn entry from the first 200 followers will get the choice of prizes, the second entry from all followers will receive the second prize. I think that is only fair after considering, it is a long time to wait to the 300 draw!

Welcome New Followers

2010-07-23T17:08:00.001+10:00

I am delighted to welcome a number of new followers, I hope you will find some interesting things here and I will enjoy following your blogs too. Isn't this the most divine chaise, I would love it in miniature.
Forgot to mention, we are getting awfully close to the 200 followers giveaway, must get working on the electrified chandelier I promised some time ago. Hope it works out OK!

A bientot!

My Garden Swap Gifts!

2010-07-23T15:28:00.000+10:00

Yesterday a small parcel was delivered to my door, all the way from Finland, from Ira of Merry Jingle Crafts.
Look at all the lovely flowers she sent me, with her own matching handmade vases. Plus some great little metal stands that can all be used in PP. There is also a small potted fern, on the right, a little journal made from really soft leather which is hardly visible under the printed boxes and seed packets that I will put together. Oh and the large potted greenery, and two unpotted ones at the back also. They are all fantastic, thank you, thank you Ira :D I will work on yours on the weekend.
A bientot!

New Purchases from Glenda

2010-07-21T16:46:00.000+10:00

My little purchases from Glenda (Peppercorn Minis) arrived yesterday and they will be perfect for the PP. I can put flowers in the baskets and I think the mat will go inside the door. Glenda kindly added one of her amazing journals which is made from the softest leather. Thank you so much Glenda I love them!

Remember Me, a Giveaway!

2010-07-19T14:24:00.002+10:00

The note found with these beautifully embroidered gowns, contained in a case found at auction in 2010. My story for the Giveaway at My French Country Home

30 June1909

My name is Martine Bonaparte, and yes, the great Napolean was my great-great uncle, thus I have grown up in a very traditional French family with a long association with the armed forces. I am writing this note as a way to tell my story, the very personal story, to someone who may open this case in the future.
This small package of linen robes is not so important as the rest of my estate which will go to members of my family when the time comes, but it is very close to my heart, so much that I will never open the case again in my lifetime, however long that may be. So whoever is reading this note, you may know something about me, about why I made these linens and the love story associated with them, in the hope you will find value in them and hold them dear.
I know I am not the only young woman whose life has been changed by war, and the loss of a beloved. I hope that this will be the end of war, for whatever perceived good that may come of it is far surpassed by the sorrow and grief caused. I have cried my tears and will continue to cry for my most loved Henri, whom I was to marry in the Autumn of 1909. He was called away to fight in January last, to serve his country bravely, but alas never to return. I spent the months preparing for the wedding and many an afternoon I sat quietly at the window in my room, embroidering these linens nightgowns to wear as a wife, and perhaps as a mother, with my heart almost bursting with love and excitement for what the future may hold.

I grew up in this chateau which overlooks the beautiful Loire river, often a favourite retreat of my famous ancestor. I loved this time I spent sewing, feeling close to my Henri and awaiting his return. This morning a rider delivered the message advising my beloved had been killed in battle - my life stood still. My dreams for the future are have turned to ashes. I wrap these garments and lock them away in this small case as a memento to the life that will never be. Perhaps some young lady may find this and I wish her every happiness and joy in her life and hope she will appreciate the many hours I spent lovingly stitching these, so she may experience all that love too. Please don't feel sad as I will live my life honestly and my love will never die, I wait until I am reunited with Henri and I trust that a love like mine will be experienced by many in the future, for love is the most important thing in life and this is something that should be recognised before it is too late.

My love to you,

Mademoiselle Martine Bonaparte

Once there was a wardrobe ...Welcome

2010-07-19T13:28:00.000+10:00

The lovely little wardrobe on the right of the photo is the one Linda (Une Petite Folie) had for sale a while back and it was intended for a future bedroom. However as I am impatient when I get an idea and with nothing else to work with I decided to transform it into a shelf unit for the shop and this is the result (so far, for now). I kept the colours neutral as I have yet to decided on the wall coverings for the shop and with next to no experience I am reluctant to commit to a particular look as yet. So I'll continue to fiddle with the smaller things :)

While cutting out the shelves from fine mdf I realised I am hopeless at cutting a straight line, at least the front is straight and I managed to sand the cut edges fairly smooth. I really need an electric saw if I am going to do much in the way of furniture making! Appears rather dull in the photo but is a little 'fresher' in reality. I added the little metal finding as moulding for a 'Frenchy' look.

Now I would like to welcome all newcomers to my blog and I hope you will find something to enjoy, as I continue to discover new and exciting projects on all of your blogs.
A bientot!

My Holiday Swap Gift from Nina

2010-07-17T09:36:00.000+10:00

Finally time to open my holiday swap gift from Nina, for my holiday with her at the Northsea. What gorgeous little things she has made me.
A pretty swimsuit with matching carry bag - inside the bag is a towel and a bottle of coke for refreshment and a German treat, pommes frites, to eat while we walk along the beach at the water's edge. After that we fly the lovely red kite in the breeze. Finally it is back to the hotel for a shower and with my new soap, Syreeta, made in Germany. What a great day to remember at the Northsea with Nina, thank you so much Nina!

What the Mailman Brought Me!

2010-07-15T16:50:00.000+10:00

Today I got a parcel in the mail from Nina at MiniMumm, all the way from Germany. All these pretty little packages were inside but I cannot open them yet. She is taking me on a virtual holiday to the North Sea and has posted lots of lovely photos of the area on her blog. Thank you Nina, can't wait to see what you have made for me!

All is Not as it Seems ...

2010-07-09T12:36:00.000+10:00

On the surface everything seems normal in the topiary garden, but all is not as it seems. Something very strange has been happening, one of the plants seems to have morphed into a strange being, heard snoring softly early this morning.

I think it is harmless enough, I certainly hope so, don't want rumours to spread about the Petit Parterre having dangerous plants for sale.

This one was inspired by all the witchy and creepy themes of so many blogs and I couldn't resist seeing what I could create, he is my first attempt, maybe I'll make something else later on.
A bientot!

My American Immigrants

2010-07-06T15:46:00.000+10:00

Today I am so pleased to welcome my new little friends all the way from Portland, Oregan USA. When I arrived home from the shops there was a small box left on my doorstep, and this is what was inside, and it made my day! I was the lucky winner of Kristy's fabulous giveaway, the prize being the Raccoon which I chose from Kristy's fantastic menagerie of tiny critters. She also made me a Koala to keep Raccoon company as well as the little overnight bag for them. Racoon looks right at home while Koala is busy checking out this new place that seems strangley like home already. My photos do not do them justice, they are so perfect, thanks Kristy. If you want to check out more of Kristy's amazing animals, go to her blog http://minimenagerie.blogspot.com

They are photographed on the table of the setting I made the week before last. It is a prototype and needs some adjustments, I have simply put some paper circles on the seats as I haven't made cushions for the chairs yet. It is something I need to work on a little more to improve.

A bientot, from Petit Parterre

Greetings from Sydney

2010-06-30T19:15:00.000+10:00

This is the wonderful view of Sydney that Janne may be lucky enough to see when she arrives for her shopping spree while all the department store sales are on. As she will only be in town a couple of days there won't be much time for sightseeing as she will be spending most of her time in the shops. Of course I couldn't go shopping in Sydney without calling in first to my mecca, David Jones on Elizabeth street. I discovered it is the oldest store in the world that is still trading under it's original name, fancy that! This particular store is really special, the building I believe dates to the 1920s and in Spring there is always an awesome floral display on the ground floor. The windows displays are something to see at Christmas time too! You can always identify a DJs shopper by the black and white houndstooth patterned shopping bags.

Janne's treats are on their way to faraway Norway, but she may have to wait six to 10 days for them. Hope she likes the results of her shopping!

Monika's Giveaway!

2010-06-30T05:33:00.000+10:00

Check Monika's great giveaway at http://puppenstubennostalgie.blogspot.com
You can choose between two gorgeous hat and bag packages, don't miss out! Draw ends 11 July.

My Lucky Week

2010-06-23T14:14:00.000+10:00

I have to say this has really been a lucky week for me. First I win one of Susan's (http://minicrochetmad.blogspot.com) lovely little boxes of embroidery thread, shown above. I used Susan's photo as I don't think my camera would show it too well it is sooo tiny and delicate. Thank you Susan, it arrived so quickly.
Then today I learn I am the lucky winner of Kristy's (http://minimenagerie.blogspot.com) fabulous giveaway and I chose a racoon as I just love them. I will try to photograph him/her when he/she arrives. Thank you Kristy. They have both come at a good time too with my birthday coming up!

And welcome to all new visitors to my blog, I hope you will leave a comment from time to time!

A bientot.

Caterina's Holiday Swap

2010-06-17T14:12:00.000+10:00

This is where Janne http://jannelandet.blogspot.com will be coming to for her shopping spree holiday, beautiful Sydney, Australia. I think she believes she is going to Japan, I hope she doesn't get lost. This is one of the shopping centres she will visit in the heart of the city.

It is a stunning shopping centre created within a historic building, the Queen Victoria Building which was completed in 1898 as a monument to Queen Victoria. It was threatened with demolition in the 1950s but survived to be restored to its former glory. It takes up one entire city block and has many great boutiques and coffe shops.

I will be going on holiday with Nina http://minimumm.blogspot.com and can't wait to find out where we are headed.

I must get working on my surprise for Janne, some others have already completed theirs!

Share Time

2010-06-15T09:50:00.000+10:00

I have just come across this great blog by doll sculptor Cristina Caballero. She makes gorgeous miniature dollshouse dolls, like the beautiful one above, as well as some unbelievable, life-size animal character dolls. Check out her site, you are sure to enjoy it.

Glad to See You!

2010-06-14T10:48:00.000+10:00

Isn't this wreath just wonderful, I am not sure whose blog I found it on otherwise I would link to it. If the owner sees it I hope you don't mind.

I would like to welcome all the new followers, I love to see new faces and I will catch up on your blogs too if I haven't done so already.

I'm working on a wire table and chairs at the moment, the first chair turned out a bit small as I didn't do my measurements before I started:( The next ones are a bit better, will show them when I finish.

Going for a walk in the bush now, looking for a good vantage point for my partner to take some photos of the lovely Hawkesbury River that he crosses over every day on his way to work at about 5am. It's still dark now in winter but he sees fabulous scenery in the summer months, awe-inspiring. Will take the dog, he loves sniffing around in the bush.
A bientot!

My Miniatures Now on Etsy

2010-06-05T18:13:00.000+10:00

I have just listed some of my candelabras and wall sconces on my etsy shop. I'll see how they go. You are welcome to visit and let me know what you think.

Now, a big welcome to all the new visitors, it is so good to see so many people like to visit my site. I am slowly making my way through all your blogs too, which I am thoroughly enjoying.

My Petit Parterre hasn't progressed much, although ideas are going around in my head. I enjoy putting together little pieces bit by bit, but will have to decide on the interior decoration soon. With so many of you creating such fantastic houses, roomboxes etc, it is easy to get distracted from working on my own. And some of you work so fast, with several projects going at one time, I feel worn out just thinking about it. Well, not really, but some of us work at a much slower pace I guess.

A bientot!

I'm still here ...

2010-05-27T09:56:00.001+10:00

I can hardly believe it is so long since my last post. I have been a bit busy and I want to have something to show when I do post, so here is what I have been working on. I know, more candelabras. I have gone back to my original more rustic style and made them much smaller than the first ones. The off-white one is about 6cm high, the next one is 5cm and the smaller pair is 4.5cm. The earlier ones were large, suitable for outdoor rustic dining, similar to ones I have in 1:1 so the candles are over the diners' heads.

These are for indoors and won't take up the whole table. There is also an old birdcage in the photo, missing its base but has a certain rustic charm, may look ok with a fern poking out perhaps.

I would also like to offer a warm welcome to all the new visitors to my site. I will be visiting all your blogs to see what you are doing. I hope to have some interesting things to show you soon.
A bientot.

Candelabra Frenzy

2010-05-12T19:42:00.001+10:00

That is how it's been lately, working on candelabras whenever I can. Have had quite a few problems but think I have worked out a major one. I was having a lot of trouble with the solder not 'taking' properly. I had noticed a funny waxy residue around the soldered areas and thought it must be residue from the flux. It suddenly dawned on me that when I was busily making candles I had dripped candle wax all over my work area, including the little container of flux I have been using. It was contaminated with candle wax.

So I cleaned it all out, filed off the dirty solders which were a bit wobbly anyway and started again. A little easier this time but still have a few problems. This one is a little smaller than the first few which were made to go on larger outdoor tables for casual summer dining. his one is sort of shabby chic. I may add little brass candle holders tomorrow, haven't decided yet.

The wheel on the barrow goes round and round ...

2010-05-09T15:24:00.000+10:00

This old wheelbarrow should come in handy for displaying plants in bloom in the Petit Parterre. It has a very distressed paint finish, from years and years of hard yakka. Now it can rest in retirement in the comfort of the shop, its subtle green colour being ideal for holding plants.

(It was nice as it was but I couldn't resist giving it a hint of colour.)

Antique Bronze and Dieppe Carving

2010-05-07T12:26:00.000+10:00

Well that's what the owner of Petit Parterre says, they look somewhat like some reproduction cameos I have seen somewhere. The quite heavy bronze plaque on the right is probably French, by some famous bronze sculptor, it may be the most expensive piece in the shop. The stone carving on the right seems to depict youth and age. Both would be quite nice to hang on a wall in the garden I think. The rustic (rusty) candelabra is the first one I made which I photographed earlier. Had fun playing.

Welcome to all the new followers, I hope you enjoy dropping in occasionally and I am busily catching up on everyone's blogs too. Such fun!

A bientot.

Third Incarnation

2010-05-06T17:03:00.001+10:00

Well I warned you I have trouble making up my mind, so here is my second version of the little desk. The topiary trees are the ones I made a while back, lovely pot from Small Pleasures, owned by Neridah O'Callaghan who organises the Sydney Miniatures Fair.
The desk looks like it has seen hard times, is well weathered but suits the owner of the Petit Parterre to a tee. It has been cleaned up and may need just a light coat of varnish to give it a slight sheen. Don't want to use wax as, you never know, 'the owner' may decide to re-paint it. I think the contrast of crystal handles will compliment the rustic look of the desk.
A bientot.

First Reincarnation

2010-05-05T11:51:00.000+10:00

Had some fun with paint this morning, the birdhouse is suddenly covered in some type of fungal growth from being outside in damp conditions for many years, how time flies. Not to mention bird droppings, well what would you expect!

The desk has simply a light wash of greyish white over it and rubbed off a little but I think I will be doing more to it later. I removed the tiny drawer handles and I may replace them with crystal ones perhaps ...
Later.

My Fair Booty

2010-05-05T08:57:00.000+10:00

As promised these are the little pieces I bought at the Sydney Miniatures Fair last Saturday. Of course the wardrobe and desk I bought from Linda's sale (Une Petite Folie) and she kindly carried them to Sydney for me. She also generously included two of the wire chairs (one shown at the back) for free!

I bought just some small things for the Petit Parterre, a ladder and paint tin for the painter to work with; a large wooden barrel for one of my large trees (it is really a washbowl for an old-fashioned laundry); a lovely old-style English wheelbarrow and a birdhouse, all these from the same gentleman, I think he is Mr Courtney from Mt Colah in Sydney; and some metal buckets and washtub in which to display flowers. That's it. Oh, I forgot the lovely little petit-pointe embroidery, it may turn into a few cushions, chair or stool cover, we'll see.

I have shown a view of my shop interior, rather plain. The painter came to look at it, ready to start work. I have already had a go at the windows which were painted a shade of green I didn't much like. Then I decided I may have to get the builders in to put in a French door at the back of the shop, it is so dark and the door will lead to the outdoor garden area that may come in future. Also perhaps a window at the back of the top left-hand room where customers can plan and discuss their garden designs. It will also be a display room. Haven't quite decided on the smaller room, it's a little too small for a double bed, have to think on it. Might need a window there also. Of course there will need to be a door leading to the stairway behind??

Welcome Newcomers

2010-05-04T22:59:00.000+10:00

Wouldn't this be a lovely house to make in miniature? It's compliments of TGF. The fine details would be a bit difficult to replicate though.

I am so pleased to welcome new followers, steaming towards 200. As I have given you all pride of place at the top of my blog it is so easy for everyone to visit you too. I have been making my way through all of your blogs but it takes so much time when you are easily distracted, as I am. I see a blog you are following and have to investigate. Three cheers for the internet, so much to enjoy.

I hope you will find some items of interest as you follow my blog, I haven't been making much of late, working on candelabras, they seem to have taken over my free time. I still have my pieces from the Miniatures Fair to photograph, as well as the goodies I bought from Linda of Une Petite Folie that she kindly brought up to Sydney with her. Tomorrow!

Baskets & Beds

2010-05-03T14:25:00.000+10:00

Another great table at the Sydney Fair that I didn't manage to get a photo of is Nambucca's Little Shoppe, I found their business card and checked out the website. The various baskets are so well made, they also sell the beds made by Robert and Linda Prentice. If you would like to check them out go to: www.intominis.com

Hope I'm Not Boring You ...

2010-05-03T11:29:00.003+10:00

Sorry about the quality of the photo above but I just loved that little roombox, by Cassandra Stevens I think, and the one below, by the same talented artist, was also one of my favourites.

These traders were from New Zealand but I cannot find their card. (Just checked and they can be seen at http://www.kimsminis.com thanks to Linda's info). Absolutely unbelievably good fish, plus fruit displays and I think the hats and shoes were from the same traders. The little crochet rugs they had for sale are by a Swedish miniaturist, Gullvie Larsson, perhaps some of you know her.

A bientot!

Coaches, Saddles & Brass Beds

2010-05-03T11:11:00.000+10:00

I thought you might enjoy shots from they Sydney Miniatures Fair, of this stand by Robert & Linda Prentice. Their work is simply amazing. Fabulous old coaches and wagons were on display, the oh-so-realistic saddle caught my eye and I would love to have bought it, even though I don't have a mini horse for it, but my budget was fairly restricted so a photo had to suffice.
They also made beautiful brass beds, mattresses etc.Great work.

Our Day at the Fair

2010-05-02T19:54:00.001+10:00

Well, we had a great day at the Sydney Miniatures fair, met Norma, Linda and her friend Jo, had a lovely chat and a few laughs, it was so good to talk to them in person.
There was much to see and so many gorgeous things, I bought just a few goodies that I will photograph tomorrow and show you.

The first photograph is from a local miniatures group, Alice in Wonderland. Following are a few shots of the trading tables. The roombox is by Adelaide Cann, for display only, not for sale; little dresses made from antique lace by Tasmanian miniaturist Helen Davies of Launceston, my home town; next shot is also from a Launceston miniaturist, I don't seem to have her details at the moment; the Jacobean, or is it Tudor, furniture was really good quality and the gentleman, whose card I cannot locate, also had some great houses that I will post tomorrow; the last trader had some great pot plants etc, but she only sells at fairs and doesn't have a website. I bought some nice muddy gunboots from her for the owner of the Petit Parterre.

The Clock is ticking ...

2010-04-30T09:25:00.000+10:00

Tomorrow is the big miniatures Fair in Sydney and I will meet up with Sydneysider Norma of 'Make Mine Mini' and fellow Tassie girl Linda of 'Une Petit Folie'. Hopefully I will be able to take some nice shots of trading tables.

Also, I am thrilled to welcome so many new followers, now past the 100 and heading for the 200. I'll be working hard on my technique so I can offer the promised chandelier as a prize to my first 200 followers. Stay tuned for some good pics next week and have a lovely weekend everyone.

And the Winners are:

2010-04-23T22:53:00.000+10:00

I managed to print out all the followers who left a comment on my Giveaway post to be in the draw. All the entries were cut out and folded, then the first draw would be for the candelabra which was the most popular choice, the second draw was for the fruit. My little doll that I made several years ago (still wearing a crochet dress that is way to big for her, but she doesn't know it) was excited about the whole thing.

I'm please to announce the winner of the candelabra is Karin at: http://minitutesfromorrlake.blogspot.com
The winner of the fruit display is Daisy at: http://antiquedaisy.blogspot.com

Please contact me with your postal details and Karin, let me know if you'd like me to remove the spikes and put mini candles on the candelabra (though I have yet to make some, hope they work).

Thanks to everyone who left their comment, if you didn't win, perhaps the 200th follower giveaway won't be too far off.

Mini hugs, Margaret

Glad You're Here

2010-04-22T18:04:00.000+10:00

Welcome all new arrivals, I hope you have left a comment on the post below to be in the draw tomorrow for one of my giveaways. I will enjoy visiting all your blogs too.

I haven't been posting a lot lately, working a bit and sweating over my metalwork too. Trying to improve my technique has turned out to be a bit of a nightmare, but it won't beat me, I'm determined to find a way to make it work. Hopefully I will be able to show the results soon. Still making candelabras, or at least trying to. Also started a French-style outdoor chair, like an old full-sized one I have. It is a little too complicated and time-consuming but will finish it eventually. My shop interior is at a standstill until I buy some wiring, I expect that would be the first step. That is a task that seems rather daunting. I would love to be able to make chandeliers for it ....
A bientot.

An Award from Carol from true2scale!

2010-04-16T10:33:00.002+10:00

Many thanks for this Award to Carol from true2scale who makes fabulous miniatures and I just love her Seamstress store, she is also most generous in sharing her skills in photoshop, which I have yet to explore in depth.

The 10 blogs I follow that I would like to pass on this award to are:
Daisy at: http://antiquedaisy.blogspot.com/
Casey at: http://caseymini.blogspot.com/
Gonda at: http://gondasminiaturen.blogspot.com/
Anna at: http://miniannalee.blogspot.com/
Kris at: http://1inchminisbykris.blogspot.com
Chadina at: http://visionaryinminiature.blogspot.com
Roxanne at: http://bakinginminiature.blogspot.com/
Jeannette at: http://gardenofminiatures.blogspot.com/
Evelien at: http://ejacreates.blogspot.com/
Anneke at: http://pieplyts.blogspot.com/

Happy mini hugs, Margaret

A Tardy Welcome

2010-04-15T10:02:00.001+10:00

I have been a little slow in welcoming all my new followers, now there are too many to go through. So happy to see you all here and wish you all good luck if you enter the giveaway draw. The lovely chandelier above is a project I would love to tackle as my metalwork skills improve. Wouldn't it look great in a French rustic mini setting? Electrified too, have to think how I could do it. Perhaps for a 200 followers giveaway?

Giveaway

2010-04-14T21:39:00.002+10:00

In celebration of reaching 50 followers I want to give something back. Well it's a little late, but as they say, better late ...

I actually have two prizes on offer, so just choose if you would prefer the candelabra or the fruit platter. Now you probably know I haven't been making miniatures for long so please don't expect these to be totally perfect, they're not.

The candelabra is brass and other metal, primed and painted with hobby products especially produced for metal applications. It is a pewter colour and is designed and made by me. The 'candles' are part of the base, I painted them to look like candles but if you prefer, I can remove the spikes so you could place real (very tiny) candles on instead. The fruit is made from Super Sculpy and I hand-painted the finish, then sealed it with varnish.

If you would like to win either, please leave a comment here and indicate what your choice would be, and follow my blog. I will draw the two winners Friday week. Good luck!

P.S. Sorry, the photo isn't the best, I was in a hurry to catch the last glimmer of sun.

Soldering On

2010-04-08T14:01:00.001+10:00

My second shot at candelabra-making, this one hasn't been painted yet, perhaps I'll leave it raw, just age it a little with chemical I used to use on stained glass, if I can find out what it is.
You can see what the candle holders are - brass tacks. Brad will file off the spikes with his trusty Dremel, then I can put candles on it. I think this one is a little neater, I used a finer wire to wrap around the soldering.

Also, welcome to Carolina and Anna, good to see you here as I learn more about miniatures and the making of them. I really want to find a particular skill that I enjoy and that I can 'perfect' if that is possible. Can only do that by trying a few different things and practice makes perfect.

Rustic Candelabra

2010-04-05T19:11:00.002+10:00

My first attempt at mini soldering. I did some stained glass many years ago so wasn't totally new to soldering, but making something in miniature is a new experience. After much bending, twisting, fluxing and soldering, with a few expletives mixed in, I came up with this. The design is based on a rustic wire one I bought in France on my last trip back in 2001. My version is very rustic so I painted it to look like rust. Quite enjoyed the experience and will try another one.

Welcome to three new followers, Roberto, Nuria and Sylvia, will enjoy following your blogs also.

One shot is the newly finished candelabra, second shot painted (have difficulty positioning the pics). I've added a better shot of the finished piece to show the size and I don't think the previous one did it justice!!

Scary Bunny

2010-04-04T14:05:00.001+10:00

Found this image on the Petit Parterre CCT security video - a giant bunny delivering a gift, must pop around to the shop and check it out. Hope they are Easter Eggs he's left on the doorstep!
Apologies in my last post for not properly welcoming my new followers, Contar, Margarita, Carol, Carmen, Daisy and Synnove, and now Roelie as well. Hope you'll enjoy dropping by occasionally.

Reverse Facelift for the Shop

2010-04-01T16:35:00.002+11:00

Well you could say that, in fact I have made it look old with some antiqueing effects. It was looking a bit too clean for a real building, which is what I want it to look like. Painted the woodwork a light green but looked too pepperminty, so daubed antiqueing over it, then rubbed it off. Maybe I went a bit too far, but I'll see how I like it in a day or two.
First is a close-up before I finished the top, second shot is the finished look.

Another big announcement - welcome to another six followers, making it a grand 50. I promised a giveaway, but will have to think what I can offer over the Easter break. Hope you don't mind waiting, I'll try and make the wait worthwhile! Do all have a very HAPPY EASTER!

try not to eat toooo much chocolate!

A bientot!

Kreativ Blogger Award

2010-03-30T12:54:00.000+11:00

Thank you so much Marlene of http://marleensminiaturen.blogspot.com for giving me this award back on March 19 (my time). Marleen has just soldered together the most beautiful metal bed. Finally finding my way around a PC as I'm used to using my Mac laptop computer which is still in pieces unfortunately.

The rules for the award are:

1. Thank the person that gave it to you.
2. Copy the logo and place it in your blog.
3. Link to the person who nominated you.
4. Name 7 things about yourself that nobody knows.
5. Nominate 7 kreativ bloggers.
6. Post link to the 7 blogs that you nominate.
7. Leave a comment on each of the blogs letting them know that you nominate them.

Seven things nobody knows about me, ummmm?
1. When I was about 13 I was in love with Ilya Kuriaken from a show on telly. One morning before school I slipped his photo in my bra next to my heart. When I undressed that day I thought I had some terrible disease as all the black and dark print had come off on my skin!
2. I love to watch 'Big Love' on telly, the latest season has just finished here though.
3. I'm a bit of a chocolate addict, I can never stop at one, in fact once I start I can't stop until I feel quite ill. Thankfully that doesn't take too long, which reminds me, there is some in the cupboard.
4. I have already started eating Easter eggs and it is still lent. Lindt dark choc. eggs the best so far!
5. I talk to my dog and cat when I'm home alone and they're very good listeners.
6. I can sometimes become a bit obsessive-compulsive and have to watch that I'm not overdoing things, like reading blogs.
7. I love old black and white movies with Bette Davis, Katherine Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, Gregory Peck, Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Ingrid Bergman, etc etc, but they are difficult to find now.

It is difficult to choose just seven but I'd like to nominate the following people for the Kreativ Blog Award:
1. Norma who passes on her great finds: http://makeminemini.blogspot.com
2. Linda, awaiting her next project: http://une-petite-folie.blogspot.com
2. Muriel who makes wonderful mini displays: http://lecoffredemilie.blogspot.com
3. Ana at: http://tinydelights.blogspot.com
4. Sylvia at: http://lutjeboudel.punt.nl
5. Eliza whose mini paper chateau is amazing: http://wasting-gold-paper.blogspot.com
6. Jean who shares her skills generously: http://jdayminis.blogspot.com
7. Lisette whose miniature shop I love: http://lisettesminiaturen.blogspot.com

Mini hugs, Margaret

Parterre Gardening

2010-03-28T22:46:00.001+11:00

I've attached a photo of part of the garden where plants for the shop are being nurtured in readiness for display (just to show I have been doing something, although the shop hasn't progressed any). While parterre gardens generally only exhibit perfectly symmetrical specimens, the petit parterre will include those that are downright wobbly, even odd, but all will be healthy, carefully tended and clipped.

We like the weathered look for terracotta pots so they are left outdoors until they have just the right degree of moss and mould on them. Some of the plants are in root-control bags at the moment, until a suitable pot is found for them. Flowers are in another part of the garden that will be ready for showing before too long.

I'd also like to welcome three new followers, thank you for coming by, Jonna, Catherine and Obsidian Hall (I can't find your site and cannot remember your real name, sorry).

Hope you enjoy the results of my mini greenthumb!

Help!

2010-03-26T12:24:00.000+11:00

I've been trying to add a google translate gadget to my blog but can't figure it out. Anyone out there who can stear me in the right direction?

I'm thrilled to welcome new followers, Muriel, Victoria, Coby, Chadina and Glenda, I'll be following your posts too. I'll have to think of a giveaway when I reach 50 followers, but don't think my skills in miniatures are at a level where I could inflict them on anyone - except my sister who received some of my first mini fruit!!

Must put the thinking cap on. I've added some more photos from my last trip to France and one from Dusseldorf, hope you like them. The first is a wonderful old church in Dusseldorf; the second is you-know-who's house in Giverny, lovely garden; the third a house in Paris, it looks like it's out in the country and it was all locked up as evidently the Parisians desert the city in summer when all the tourists swarm there; and lastly the vision I got home to, my precious Ollie had torn something to shreds in his excitement at seeing me after three weeks away. He's looking a little older now - aren't we all.
A bientot!

Struggling on

2010-03-24T10:17:00.000+11:00

My computer is in pieces at the moment with not a very good prognosis, meanwhile I am using Brad's PC intermittently. I am happy to welcome four new followers to my blog: Mina, Anthoula, Sylvia and Evelien. Wow I have almost 40 followers now, hopefully soon I'll have some interesting items to show you. I'll also enjoy reading your posts regularly.
xxxx

Dreaded computer problems

2010-03-21T03:13:00.000+11:00

Disaster has struck, my laptop computer seems to have lost its marbles. Sorry I haven't been able to welcome two new friends to the site, Eva and Ascension. Thank you for your comments and hopefully I will be able to get back to normal soon. I am used to using a Macintosh and don't know my way around a PC, so unable to load any photos or retrieve information from my own files.

My clever half, Brad will hopefully find a solution soon and all will not be lost. Fingers crossed!

Waiting for the Fair

2010-03-16T09:26:00.000+11:00

I'm sorry for being a little slow in saying hello to four newcomers, Carmen, Ana Rosa, Marleen and Mar. It's good to have you here and I'd love to hear your comments from time to time.

There's not too much happening at present. I'm fairly new to miniature making and just trying out different things to see what I most enjoy. At the moment I think it's creating the dolls house – I just love the look of them and I think they are a fabulous decorating item.

We have a big miniatures fair coming up at the beginning of May in Sydney and a few of us are meeting up there. Hopefully I can save my pennies to enable me to buy a few mini treasures for my shop, or for use in the future. I'm hoping I can take a few shots of the fair for everyone to enjoy.

As I don't have any miniature projects to show right now, I thought you might like these. I love antiques and wish I could create this look with my miniatures one day. First is an antique Dutch vitrine, then a French vitrine and a Sevres box. Aren't they to die for?

Welcome to the site!

2010-03-12T21:03:00.000+11:00

In my previous post I omitted to welcome Lisette and Marivigano to my blog. It really is growing and I am so thrilled to have you all visiting from time to time from around the world. I'll enjoy following all your blogs too.
Bye for now.

Summer Fruit

2010-03-12T20:32:00.001+11:00

Not much work to do today so I decided to make something. I'd been looking at the packet of Sculpy I bought at a doll show a couple of years ago. A lump of it has been sitting on the coffee table for longer than I care to admit to. I sculpted a couple of odd faces a while back then left the blob sitting there. Then I thought of something I could try – fruit!

This is my first attempt so they aren't perfect. When my partner came home from work I told him I'd made a nice platter of fruit – cruel aren't I. But he thought they were quite good. They will be good for a mini kitchen I might have in the future.

What do you think? You can be honest.

Recovering from blog burnout.

2010-03-11T20:39:00.000+11:00

After spending over a month familiarising myself with the workings of 'the blog', and losing track of the hours while browsing through blog after blog and seeing so much fantastic 'stuff', I needed to take a break and try to get something done myself.

Having returned to my blog I am thrilled to welcome six new followers: A big hello to Karin, Sonia, My Realitty, Kate, Ana and lastly, The Brocantess. I also have lots of your postings to pour over as I don't want to miss anything.

Well I haven't done a lot of miniaturising this week as work had to take precedence. However I did make my way to a great little miniatures store in Sydney, name Small Pleasures, where I bought a kit and put together a dear little bed. I have a photo of my first creation, and although it was made from really quality wood I couldn't resist painting it. Once I have the look I want I'll post the photos. Unfortunately it looks way too large for the little room upstairs in my petit parterre that I had planned to make into the bedroom. I do have an idea for a small vignette that I would like to create around it though and can't wait to start.

Until next time,

Au revoire (Is that how it's spelled, forgotten my French!)

How could it be that time?

2010-03-05T13:36:00.000+11:00

I sat down to look at my blog and found I have eight new followers! That was about 2 1/2 hours ago. While I was looking up everyone's names I got side tracked, looking at their blogs and at blogs they list as favourites. I couldn't believe I've been sitting here so long, but that's what happens when you can see such fabulous work on the internet.
Anyway, I would like to welcome Jean, Debbie, Michelle, Ingrid, Ira, Maria, Lara and Angeles. I've been so busy admiring everyone's work I haven't gotten around to doing any myself.

My next task is painting the rest of the exterior of the shop. I was going to do a brick effect and just have the facade sandstone. Now I've decided to paint it all with a sandstone effect. I'll have to match the colours up with the front. Only problem is, I'm not sure what the other walls have been finished with, seems to be a slightly shiny varnish and possibly not water-based. Have to think how to solve this problem so I can get it painted. Can't wait to make a start on the interior.

Ideas for Petit Parterre

2010-03-01T16:28:00.001+11:00

First I'd like to welcome Linda, Eliza and Anneke to my blog. I hope you'll find something of interest from time to time. I have some inspiring photos that I would love to be able to create in my mini shop - a kind of outdoor/rustic decorating/plant shop. Even more, I'd like to create the look in my home, but for now I'll have to be content with the miniature version.

What a great shop window!

To Paint or Not to Paint?

2010-02-28T15:38:00.000+11:00

Recovering from a couple of days of heavy smoke as bushfires came a bit too close for comfort. We live on the edge of a small suburb north of Sydney, next to the bush which is lovely to look out at and to hear all the birds, but can be a worry in the dry weather.

Just thinking about my little shop and my last painting experiences. I decided to paint the exterior with a sandstone effect as the shop was fully constructed and I couldn't think of any other way to give it a satisfactory finish. I know some miniaturists don't believe in painted effects, they will only use real miniature weatherboards, bricks etc. Being fairly new to miniatures, I don't know what the guidelines are, but I know of quite a few miniaturists who use various means to achieve the look they want.

I'd love to hear some comments on this. I've added a photo of my painting process, in addition to my various painted finishes I have done before finally settling on the sandstone finish. I achieved the effect by cutting thin strips of masking tape and creating a grid, measuring up the area to be painted to get a fairly balanced look. It was quite time-consuming. I know it's possible to buy stencils with the various types of faux brick finishes but I thought that might be more difficult to get right. The background colour, which becomes the mortar, is quite important and needs to match the final colour nicely. The finished surface has some texture to it as there were a few layers of paint before I achieved the colour and look I wanted.

While researching sandstone finishes on old buildings I thought of my paternal grandfather, whom I never met. He was a stonemason and I wondered what he would think of my project and what comments he might make.

The thin strips of masking tape were laid out horizontally first, then the vertical strips were applied individually.

Welcome friends.

2010-02-25T20:21:00.000+11:00

I've been busy the last few days and every spare minute, or hour, I've spent re-painting my little shop. It came close to becoming the 'little shop of horrors', trying to achieve a sort of realistic sandstone effect. I finally got to a stage that I thought it looked OK. Anyway, that will be it. The next step will be painting the interior, fitting lighting, which I haven't yet bought, deciding on flooring etc. A photo of the final, final exterior is on the right, below several earlier versions.

When I opened my blog I had a wonderful surprise to find five followers - thank you Norma, Josje, Cheryl, Lisa and Sylvia - I hope you may stop by from time to time, I'll certainly be visiting your blogs.
It's so great to see what others of like interests are up to and there are certainly a lot of talented people out there. For someone like me, just taking their first steps into the world of miniatures, of blogging too for that matter, it's encouraging to see what others are doing. I'm still learning how everything works, blogging was a complete mystery to me before now. So you're never too old to learn!
Cheers,

The Trials and Tribulations of painting my shop.

2010-02-20T12:40:00.000+11:00

I've lost track of the number of hours spent painting the shop so far. As I bought it complete with windows, doors etc. I couldn't see any alternative but to paint on an exterior effect and didn't like the option of gluing on paper. So I started out with the goal of creating an old sandstone effect. My first version looked like brickwork but the bricks were just a bit too large for the scale of the building. Didn't think that one out very well before I started. Photos can be seen to the right of the screen.

The next attempt resulted in larger stone blocks, but looked too blue. I later added some warmer tones but didn't take a photo of that, didn't like the colour combination at all.

My last version I think I'll keep. I think it's limestone, quite pale and neutral in colour. I added some nicely aged cast iron detail. Have some tidying up to do - need more practice with miniatures, whenever I fix up a spot of paintwork, I mess up an area next to it and have to clean that up - a bit clumsy in such a small scale.

Can't wait to make a start on the interior, still thinking about the look I want.

My Antique German Kitchen Roombox

2010-02-10T18:59:00.000+11:00

Some of you miniaturists may be interested in seeing this amazing antique German miniature kitchen I bought a couple of years ago. I found it at an amazing estate auction in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney. I later sold it, but I still enjoy looking at the photographs.

Notice the fabulous matching dresser, wall shelf, table and chairs. Nice window treatment and great detail with many accoutrements.

The buyer, from Perth, Western Australia, was lucky as I was about to embark on a road trip to Perth with my sister who now lives there. The room box took up most of the back seat of the car and was quite heavy. A whirlwind trip that took five days, my sister was determined to set a record.

Took a few great photos on the way and stayed at one of the most remote road stops in the middle of the desert. The road signs along the way warned drivers to watch out for camels, kangaroos and dingoes but we never spotted a camel.

Extremely high temperatures, thank heavens for air conditioning.

Tres Sophisticated - Not!

2010-02-07T12:10:00.000+11:00

Came across these photos taken in Paris in my search for my trip to Perth shots. You might think two grown women would be more mature, but no one else was around, surprisingly. We couldn't resist a photo opportunity! What would Marie Antoinette have thought?

Dreaming of France

2010-02-01T19:04:00.000+11:00

While sitting ruminating on how to decorate my little shop - I'm leaning towards a French look and decided to name it Petit Parterre - I started reminiscing about my last trip to France. I've been twice, the first time was too many years ago to mention. A quick few days in the middle of winter and Paris was the coldest city I had visited on that trip - colder even than the north of Scotland.

The last trip was in 2001. My sister met me in Paris and we hired a car for a whirlwind tour of France. I was the first behind the wheel and amazingly got us out of Paris safely, around the Arc de Triomphe - terrifying. We're both Francophiles so there was a lot of pointing and oohing as we drove along. This time it was hot, very hot, and a lot of the places we stayed weren't air-conditioned. Loved the fact that people could travel with their dogs and keep them in their rooms at some hotels, even take them to dinner. Very well behaved and well groomed though.

Tested out my new digital camera after reading up on how to use it on the flight over. A first for me - not good at reading instructions! That will have to change as I think I'll be using some kits to furnish my little plant and flower shop. I've included a before shot of the shop as I bought it several years ago. I spent a lot of time thinking about what I could do to personalise it and will post a good shot of my efforts when I have one.

Have added some pics taken on my last trip - so inspirational! Ideas for lots of miniature projects.