Dolls House World Magazine Issue 381 Back Issue

When we talk to miniaturists I’m always amazed, and often touched, by some of the fascinating stories that come out.
Alongside details of how room boxes went together unfold stories of how the build helped with their mental health at the time. Talented makers will often tell us the secret intricacies behind their work, but also share how an immersion in the hobby helped them get through some tough times.
Take a look at Minell’s Cottage in this issue. It’s a beautiful modern home full of calm spaces and exquisite design touches. There’s even a cushion in the kitchen with the message: “Take time to make your soul happy.”
But the cottage isn’t just a wonderful house full of detail and personality — it’s a dream escape for Jane Thörnblom after the loss of her and her husband’s full-size home, “the place where we had planned to grow old together.” Jane’s therapy was to create “the small homes of my dreams.”
Imagination can be a powerful thing when creating miniatures. Mikako Nishi tells us she felt like she was “actually renovating a warehouse and preparing to open a real cafe” when she was putting together her latest project.
Ursula Brown, whose skill with polymer clay has taken her from hobby to career, loves making minis because the possibilities are endless. “I can make a house or a dragon; whatever pops into my head.”
By all means make whatever you think of, but if you’re stuck for inspiration we’ve got a lot of projects for you to choose from this issue.
But whatever you take on, remember one thing. You might not think it when the lighting isn’t working no matter how much you swear at it, or you’ve just superglued a spindle to your finger (yes, me) but minis really are good for your health.