Turnaround staircase
A long time ago, when I was planning the Haunted Heritage, I wanted to use a turnaround staircase. I first saw this type of staircase in the Franklin Mint Heartland Hollow house that belonged to fellow Greenleaf member Jenn (Elsbeth) (see the rest of her wonderful photos here).
From the kitchen side. 
From the living room side. I was not able to use these in the Heritage for lack of floor space, but I always planned to use them someday. Well, that time has come!
My initial plan for the chalet involved a spiral staircase, but the turnaround stairs offer a better solution. Lyssa built a set of these in her Undersized Urbanite entry, so she’s done some of the heavy lifting for me already. I also want to thank Sandra for sending me additional pictures of the staircase from her own Heartland Hollow. They helped a lot with planning.
I started with a Houseworks narrow staircase kit. I used a coping saw to cut two sections: one with three steps and one with six steps.
I built a box for the landing from scrap wood.
The base has an open back because it will sit against the wall instead of being out in the open like the inspiration photos.
I added pins to help hold the top section to the base. The lower section will lean against the box.
Here’s the basic structure. I will finish the front, top and sides of the box when I get to the decorating phase.
Update: I still have this staircase but never ended up completing the chalet.
Categories: Mt. Sydney Chalet
May 23, 2013 | 0 commentsHaunted Heritage chimney, part 12
Completing work on the chimney. While I didn’t want to cover up all the lovely egg carton brickwork of the massive chimney, I did think some ivy was in order. You know I don’t shy away from cutting and shaping individual leaves, but I found something that not only looked realistic but made life easier. This is O-Scale (1:45) English Ivy from Scenic Express (Silflor Summer Ivy by Mininatur).
There are three sheets in the box. The leaves might be small for true 1:12 scale, but it worked very well. You cut and stretch it to create long vines.
I thought this store was called Scenery Express since I first started buying their landscaping materials, and that’s one of the web addresses that will get you there…but I just noticed that it is in fact Scenic Express. Maybe I always had it wrong or they changed the name or they just have two domain names for the same place. Regardless, they have a great selection of landscaping materials.
I didn’t overdo it and used just under one sheet of the ivy for the project, using Aleene’s clear gel glue to attach it to the house and chimney.
It disguises the awkward edge trim around the chimney.
Here’s the back side of the chimney.
The chimney is now complete! :D
It amazes me how each little thing changes the look of the build.
Categories: The Haunted Heritage
May 18, 2013 | 0 commentsHeritage – lawn ornaments
I added a beautiful aged metal birdbath by Island Crafts & Miniatures to the front lawn. The last time I made an aquarium, I used some leftover Acrylic Water resin to fill the bowl. The birdbath is from Dejoux Miniatures.
I also planted the shepherd’s hook on the side of the stairs to hang one of my birdfeeders. :]
Categories: The Haunted Heritage
May 17, 2013 | 0 commentsBaby Z Lap Frame
Working with French knots is different from working in cross-stitch or petit point in that it is easier if you have both hands free. I’ve been working on the Bees and Trees rug without a lap frame, and it’s hard not to start hunching forward as you work, balancing the hoop on your lap and completing each knot…not at all comfortable for long periods of time.
I bought a Baby Z Lap Frame since some fellow stitchers were talking about lap frames recently. Though the instructions for assembly were minimal, it went together easily enough. I did have to sand it in a few rough areas, but all in all the quality is good. It’s a solid frame and has a base just 11.5″ wide, so it is a comfortable weight and width for me.
It has a tray in the base for holding yarns and scissors.
Plus, it is adjustable in height, folding relatively flat for transport.
So far, I really like the frame. It will definitely save being hunched over while stitching. Here’s a photo of me sitting with the frame. I keep the knobs of the clamp facing downward so they stay out of the way when stitching.
Categories: Needlework - French knot rugs
May 14, 2013 | 0 commentsNew mini delights
In the midst of all the madness of completing The Artist’s Studio, I didn’t have the chance to write about some recent mini acquisitions and gifts.
April sent me the most fabulous orchid as a gift. I’m blown away by her mini green thumb. It’s a stunning plant! :D Thanks so much, my friend!
I bought two items from Nikki Rowe, who has unfortunately decided to stop selling miniatures for the time being. The first item is a lovely little basket. It’s calling for a chocolate bunny, I believe.
The second is a set of candied apples, one of which is loose to display however I like. :D They are wonderfully made items…very much out of a fairy tale.
I also caved in and bought the Art Nouveau Mantle Clock by Halls Miniature Clocks. So beautiful!
Categories: Flowers, plants, and trees, Miniatures
May 7, 2013 | 0 comments
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