Make Your Plans for NAME Day 2017

March 29, 2017March 8, 2017Leave a comment

The purpose of NAME Day is to unite and involve all NAME members by doing the same project on the same day at different locations throughout the US and internationally. Participation in an event may occur in clubs, locally, statewide, regionally, or online.

NAME Day will take place on Saturday, October 7, 2017. Expanded events (or areas with conflicting dates) should occur as close to this date as is reasonably possible.

Project: All events will center on the same project – “BEDROOM – PART II: The Armoire”. Plans for the armoire will be provided in 1”, 1⁄2” and 1⁄4” scale as soon as they are available. Some cutters will produce kits for 1/144” scale. This armoire has been designed to coordinate with the bunk beds from 2016. The bunk bed kits will also be available this year. In 2018, the final piece for this room will be available.

More info is available on the NAME website.

Deadlines

April 1, 2017 – List Event
Are you organizing an event for NAME Day? Let Ruth Heisch know the details so that your event can be listed in the Gazette, on the NAME website, and on the N2 Region’s website. Email Ruth.

August 15, 2017 – Order Kits
Official deadline for ordering from the cutters. However cutters may opt to accept orders later. Watch the listings in the Gazette for individual deadlines.

August 31, 2017 – Cutters Ship Kits
Date when the cutters can ship the kits. International shipping dates may be earlier.

October 7, 2017 – NAME Day
Some groups may set a later date to accommodate other considerations.

More information about NAME Day in the N2 Region will be posted as it becomes available.

Fun and Centerpieces at the Sacramento Houseparty

March 28, 2017March 28, 20171 Comment

Mealtimes at the Sacramento Houseparty were a chance to view the different centerpieces, win prizes, and spend time with fellow miniaturists.

On Saturday evening, some of the houseparty guests chose to dress for dinner in the spirit of the theme, “ABC’s of Miniatures.”

The centerpieces at the NAME Sacramento Houseparty were created by Vegie MacLean and Liz Driver. Each table contained centerpieces in both 1″ and 1/4″ scales.

Thank you to Trish Billard, Suzanne Harrington-Cole, and Nancy Wantiez for the photos.

1″ and 1/4″ scale textile-theme centerpieces at the Sacramento Houseparty.

1″ and 1/4″ scale garden-theme centerpieces.

1″ scale centerpiece.

1/4″ scale centerpiece.

DIY’ers are dressed for the theme, “ABC’s of Miniatures.”

Barbara Thornton-Hill, Dan Stewart, and Bruce Steinke dressed for the theme.

Dressed like tool bags.

Getting into the DIY-er spirit.

Rosie the Riveter gals.

“Tool Time” at the Sacramento Houseparty with Barbara Thornton-Hill and Luci Hanson.

A prize from the Sacramento Houseparty.

Do you have photos from the Sacramento HP?

March 27, 2017Leave a comment

Please share your photos from the Sacramento houseparty. Many of our Members were unable to attend the NAME event and may enjoy seeing the wonderful exhibits, photos from workshops, friends having fun, centerpieces, etc.

Please email your photos so that they may be distributed through the N2 website and the N2 newsletter.

Send your photos to: Carol Kubrican, n2regionwebmaster@gmail.com

Visit the Hospitality Room at the Sacramento Houseparty

March 17, 2017March 8, 2017Leave a comment

screen-shot-2016-12-27-at-9-17-00-am

Our “Mini Learning Center” Hospitality Room will be open to Registrants of the Sacramento Houseparty.

Want to know what a wonderfully fun hospitality room looks and feels like? Then, come on down. We look forward to welcoming you and providing a friendly, comfortable atmosphere where you can just sit back, relax and visit with old friends and new. Maybe you would like to learn one of the various techniques we’ll be demonstrating? Each day, we will feature another exciting demo. We want to offer each guest the opportunity to roll up her/his sleeves, sit down and join in on the fun. Scattered throughout the room, you’ll find make-it and take-it stations set up with different projects for your amusement. Or, if you don’t have much time, just peek-in and check out our how-to storyboards, watch a video, or browse through our helpful book collection. We encourage one and all to stop by and enhance your mini making abilities!

Hospitality Room hours will be posted at the houseparty.

Nominate N2 Members for the Hall of Fame Awards

March 13, 2017March 9, 2017Leave a comment

Please help NAME to recognize people who give their time and energy to support our region. There are six categories for nominations (explained here).

Due dates:
March 15 – Regional Ambassador
June 15 – Hall of Fame

Download the Regional Ambassador Nomination Form >
Download the Nomination Form for the Hall of Fame, Club of the Year, Youth Mentor, Rising Star and Helping Hands Awards >

More information about the awards and previous award winners >

Sign up for the 2017 Summer at Tahoe Workshop

March 10, 2017February 19, 2017Leave a comment

The 24th Annual Summer at Tahoe State Day Workshop will be held August 5, 2017. The event is sponsored by the Tahoe Miniacs.

The theme is “The Getaway”. Commune with nature and get away from you daily routine. A romantic hideaway!

Cost: $65. Includes: project, breakfast, lunch, gifts and more.

Contact Mary Ann Van Buskirk for more info: 530-541-0891.

Saturday, Aug. 5, 2017
Multipurpose Room at the Sierra House Elementary School
South Lake Tahoe, CA

Visit the website.

This information is offered as a service to the community of miniature enthusiasts. If you know of a miniature related event or have information/photos to share, please contact the N.A.M.E. N2 Region Webmaster.

Public Day at the Sacramento Houseparty

March 10, 2017February 19, 2017Leave a comment

Not registered for the NAME Sacramento Houseparty? You may still visit the Sales Room with vendors from around the country. Many wonderful exhibits will still be there for you to see, and a small Make ’n Take activity will be in the lobby outside of the salesroom.

Sacramento Houseparty Public Day
Sunday, March 26, 2017; 11:30 am – 3:30 pm
The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sacramento
2001 Point West Way, Sacramento, CA

Join us on the lower level in the California Ballroom.

Parking: $4.00/day. Park to the left of the main part of the hotel and enter through the side door on the lower level.

Free admission to the Exhibit room and Sales room.

No strollers please.

Contact Barbara Thornton-Hill for more information.

March 18: MiniCals Flea Market

March 8, 2017February 26, 2017Leave a comment

2016 MiniCals Flea Market

The MiniCals Flea Market and Potluck is coming up on March 18. Clean out your stash to make room for new minis that will be be available at the Sacramento Houseparty.

March 18, 2017, 10 am – 2pm
Sales tables are available. Bring a dish to pass. Door prizes. Prepaid tickets $6. Tickets at the door $8.
M&L Precision, 18665 Madrone Parkway, Morgan Hill, CA
Contact Ruth Heisch for more info.

CHAMPS Show: Workshops and New Website

March 3, 2017May 21, 2017Leave a comment

The 2017 CHAMPS Show will be at the same time and location as previous shows:

September 8- 9, 2017 (the weekend AFTER Labor Day)
El Cerrito Community Center
7007 Moeser Lane
El Cerrito, CA 94530

workshop

Workshop: “Making A Mini doll with Dana Burton”
Join Dana Burton of Miniature Art for her live class!

Workshop: “Halloween Hutch or Vanity” with Jil Weisz

Workshops will be held Sunday, September 10, 2017, 10am to 4pm

More info about the workshops and signup

Auction
A sealed bid auction of wonderful room boxes are being donated by Joan Kunzel, a member of MiniDreamers. All proceeds from the auction and show will go to Childrens Hospital Oakland.

Visit the new CHAMPS Show website.

Terezinha Justino is taking over the CHAMPS Show. Diane Walter will be working with Terezinha during the transition year.

A Free Project, Giveaway, and a Discount

March 1, 2017February 26, 20171 Comment

Alcohol inks create interesting patterns on mini dishes.

Free Project
A new mini project has been posted on the NAME Special Events page. Jane Sanem has provided instructions for creating interesting patterns and effects on miniature dishes using alcohol inks.

Read the tutorial here. The instructions are based on NAME Region A1 Regional Coordinator, Barbara Anderson’s workshop.

Jane Sanem is offering a giveaway.

Giveaway
Jane is having a giveaway. If you would like to take part in the drawing, email Jane, and put “Alcohol Ink” in the subject line. The deadline to enter your name in the drawing is March 20th, 2017.

Supplies needed for the project.

Discount on Miniatures and Craft Supplies
Looking for dishes to use alcohol inks on? Factory Direct Craft is offering a 15% discount on all purchases. They offer white porcelain platers, bowls, teapots, etc. The 15% discount is good through May 21, 2017. Enter MINIATURES as the coupon code to receive the discount.

This information is offered as a service to the community of miniature enthusiasts. If you know of a miniature related event or have information/photos to share, please contact the N.A.M.E. N2 Region Webmaster.

Registration is Open for NAME-Alexandria

February 23, 2017February 9, 2017Leave a comment

Welcome to the Circus

The National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts will hold their national convention July 27-30, 2017, in Alexandria, Virginia. The week will feature dollhouse exhibits, miniature-making workshops, and a vendor salesroom.

Registration is now open for the NAME 2017 National Convention.

Download a registration form.

View the dealer, workshop, and theme luncheon lists.

Workshop: Under Dome Art

February 6, 2017January 30, 2017Leave a comment

Pocket Party February 2017 Class

When: Saturday, February 18th from 10 AM – 1 PM.
Where: Dollhouses, Trains and More; Novato, CA
Cost: $25.00

Two Under Glass Dome projects will be made during class.

The first will be the mini Under Glass Dome project shown below. Participants will be provided with everything needed to make this for a 1″ scale dollhouse.

img_5361_a7b127ab-6e30-4ea8-a320-91d7b04394f0_medium

The second Under Glass Dome project display will be up to each student’s imagination to fill. This glass dome is 3 1/4″ tall at the center, and 2 1/2″ tall on the outside. The glass dome base diameter is 1 3/4″. The glass dome sits on a wood base. Students are encouraged to bring the item(s) which will be placed in the dome.

Participants are asked to bring tweezers and magnification glasses. All other supplies will be provided.

Class space is limited. Reservations required. NO Drop-ins.
To reserve a space, please call the Miniature Dept. at (415)883-0388 Ex.106 or
send an email. More info is available on Dollhouses, Trains and More website.

Theme Luncheons at the Sacramento Houseparty

February 2, 2017December 26, 2016Leave a comment

Saturday, March 25, 2017 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

TLS1 – The Antique Dolls’ Houses and Miniature Structures of Moritz Gottschalk by Lew Kummerow $130.50 Moritz Gottschalk was one of the more prolific of the early toy makers, and his business was one of the most long lasting companies. He created nu- merous small structures including dolls’ houses, stables, kitchens, shops and other unusual items that were representative of the changing periods from the late 1800’s to WWII. Today his antique pieces can be seen in museums and are also part of many private collections. Each attendee will receive a miniature of one of Gottschalk’s rarer pieces.

TLS2 – Powering Your Miniatures with LED by Luci Hanson $80.50 Now that LED has been around a while many are ready to learn about what can be done with it and how they can apply it to their homes, rooms and displays. Join Luci as she shares how to mix LED lighting with the olds style lighting. Learn about the latest innovations and supplies that are availa- ble to use in miniature displays and dollhouses. Learn how to convert some of your old lamps and lighting to LED lighting. Luci will also share with you how to adapt some of the old style components with LED lighting. You will receive a 9-volt power system, a 3-volt power system, a 12-volt power system and lights to go with each system as a gift for attending.

TLS3 – ABC’s of Small Scale Food by Janet Smith $85.50 Come hear about the ABC’s of making small scale foods. We’ll discuss different clays, paints, glues, tools, materials, etc. Go home with a quarter scale replica of a luncheon based on the actual luncheon for the day as well as a printed booklet with all the information covered during the luncheon. You will receive a quarter scale luncheon based on the actual luncheon menu that you will be served.

TLS4 – Capturing Your Miniatures Using Photography & 3D Scanning by Ruth & Dan Stewart $114.50 Explore your world of capturing miniatures with us. Learn about ways to improve your photographs and explore new methods of capturing or creating your miniatures in 3D. Questions are encouraged so bring your list! You will have a choice of a 1” or 1⁄4” 3D special made item you won’t want to miss!

To attend the Theme Luncheons, participants must be registered for the NAME Sacramento Houseparty. More info and houseparty registration.

Download the Theme Luncheon Registration form.

Photos from the MiniCals “Making Lingerie” Workshop

January 31, 2017January 25, 20171 Comment

The MiniCals club hosted a workshop on January 21, 2017. Ruth Heisch taught participants how to make a corset, panties & bra, nightie, bloomers or pantaloons, petticoats, and decorating with silk roses. In addition to making the lingerie, students received a mannequin, a vintage corset box, a glue applicator and a rose maker.

Thank you to Rhona Lee for the photos.

Sample lingerie pieces at the MiniCals 2017 “Making Lingerie” Workshop with Ruth Heisch.

Margaret Crossland and Betty Jang make lingerie pieces.

Lynne Hoffman hanging out and making her mini lavender.

Lingerie by Rhona Lee.

Diane Piziali makes lingerie pieces.

Juanita Landa cuts out the lingerie pieces.

Sign Up for a Workshop Tour During the Sacramento Houseparty

January 27, 2017May 25, 2017Leave a comment

Drive-It-Yourself: Tour of Workspaces & Collections
Wednesday, March 22, 2017 8:00AM – 5:00PM during the NAME Sacramento Houseparty

This is a “do-it-yourself” opportunity to visit some of NAME members’ workshops and collections. This is an optional tour, and there is no fee. Tour participants must be registered for the NAME Sacramento Houseparty. More info and houseparty registration.

NAME members are opening their workspaces and their miniature collections to the attendees of the Sacramento Houseparty. Tour participants may enjoy seeing how other miniaturists make their workspaces more efficient, gather a few storage tips, learn ideas of where and how to set up tools, etc. So, here is your chance!

Several of the homes on the tour are located In the California Gold Country of the beautiful Sierra Nevada Foothills; including: Nevada City, Grass Valley and Auburn. These cities are about 1.5 hours from Sacramento. If you wish to take a tour closer to the convention hotel, you may visit a couple of homes in the immediate area of Sacramento.

The committee needs to have some idea of how many people are interested in this activity, so please download and fill out the form below.

Download the tour registration form.

Mail or email the form by March 1, 2017 to:
Denise Sanders
604 Matadero Ave Palo Alto, CA 94306

Workshop: Cinderella Table and Wall Shelf Set

January 24, 2017January 10, 2017Leave a comment

Cinderella Table and Shelf Set

Workshop date: Feb. 18, 2017

Location: M&L Precision, 18665 Madrone Pkwy, Morgan Hill, CA

Adventure into the land of magical fairy tales with this child’s table and wall shelf set. Deb Laue will show you how to create 1″ scale pieces for the fairy princess in your dollhouse. Set includes a table to decorate with theme miniatures and a peg shelf that will hold a silk princess dress you will make in class.

Cost: $35. Mail a check to: Ruth Heisch, 7197 Wooded Lake Dr., San Jose, CA 95120

Questions: Email Ruth Heisch or call 408-997-1004.

Theme Dinner, “Tool Time” at the Sacramento Houseparty

January 20, 2017December 27, 2016Leave a comment

Please join us for an evening of “Tool Time” with Luci, the Toolperson Hanson and Alberta Thornton-Hill, her loyal assistant and protégé

Friday, March 24, 2017 5:30 PM – 7:15 PM
Fee: $35.00 per registrant (participants must be registered for the NAME Sacramento Houseparty). More info and houseparty registration.

Luci and Al (for short) will take you through several safety tips and useful hints for shortcuts in your toolbox, along with a few unusual tools and uses for tools. This is not your everyday beginners lecture on tools so don’t miss this one.

What is included?:

A full plated dinner
A little entertainment & education from Luci & Al
Special Gifts
A tool exchange at each table (optional) but fun – bring small tools to swap with the other 9 people at your table and you will receive 9 small tools. Also bring one nicer tool and we’ll play pass the tool present as we do with the regular exchange at the Saturday night banquet. If you’re unsure about this activity just read page 3 of this packet, Houseparty Terminology, about the ban- quet table exchanges except this will be tools (you can never have enough emery boards, rulers, etc.) Non-exchange tables will be available too.
Perhaps a Hostess presentation at your table if there is time.

Questions? contact Janet Smith (575) 532-5432

Download the Theme Dinner Registration form.

Participants must be registered for the NAME Sacramento Houseparty. More info and houseparty registration.

Invitation to Vendors: Sell at the Stockton Show

January 19, 2017January 7, 2017Leave a comment

Vendors/individuals are invited to sell at the 6th Annual Dollhouse Miniature show and sale presented by Miniatures on the Waterfront.

When: Saturday June 03, 2017, 10:00am to 4:00pm

Location: Scottish Rite Masonic Center located at 33 W. Alpine Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204.

Sell your dollhouse(s) on Real Estate Row. Please let Leslie know how many you will be bringing so she will have enough tables for everyone who wants to sell their “Real Estate.” As usual, Real Estate Row is free to contracted vendors, and $20 for those who are not participating as a contracted vendor.

There will be food available for purchase at the show. Free pastries, muffins and coffee will be provided on Saturday morning.

For overnight accommodations, call the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel: 877-957-2378 or 209-323-3057. Other hotel options are available.

Please e-mail Leslie Flint or call 209-406-1206.

For more information, visit the Miniatures on the Waterfront website.

Exhibit Your Miniatures at the Sacramento Houseparty

January 17, 2017December 27, 2016Leave a comment

Please join us in sharing the miniatures you have created at the houseparty. We welcome all scale projects including houses, room boxes, domes, shops or any other setting you may have created in 1”, 1⁄2”, 1⁄4”, or micro-scales. Exhibitors must be registered for the NAME Sacramento Houseparty.

Exhibits may not be for sale, nor can they be shown as an example of the exhibitor’s work with the intent to solicit orders. We would like exhibits in place between 10:00 am Friday, March 24th until 4 pm Sunday, March 26th.. Advanced arrangements may be made for early removal on Saturday evening for those leaving immediately following the Sunday Brunch. The room will be locked and volunteer monitors will be present during viewing times. Table covers and electrical power will be provided, but YOU MUST SUPPLY YOUR OWN HEAVY-DUTY EXTENSION CORDS AND ANY SPECIAL LIGHTING, RISERS OR DRAPING IF NEEDED.

Please download fill out the form below (1 PER EXHIBIT) and mail by January 17, 2017 to:
Lynn Hamel, 14654 Guadalupe Drive, Rancho Murieta, CA 95683

Download the exhibit form.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact: Lynn Hamel or LaVerne Munz.

See the 2017 Antioch Historical Society Miniatures Exhibit

January 13, 2017December 26, 2016Leave a comment

The Antioch Historical Society with the Delta DooLittles presents the fourth (and final) World of Miniatures Exhibit at the Antioch Historical Society Museum.

Exhibit Location
Antioch Historical Society
1500 W. Fourth Street
Antioch, CA 94509

Exhibit Hours
Open to the public, at no charge, February 1 – 18, 2017. We will be open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m.

In Memoriam
This is a very special event for us as it will be our final exhibit and is in memory of a very special miniaturist – Nancy Thomas, our mentor, teacher and friend, who passed away in May of this year.

Interested in exhibiting your miniatures?
Download an application form. Completed forms, with pictures must be received by January 17, 2017. The form may be saved to your computer, filled out using Adobe Acrobat, and saved. Attach the form (along with a picture) in an e-mail to cammini@aol.com, or mail the form to the address below. Exhibit intake is Sunday and Monday, January 29 and 30, 2017.

For more info, contact:
Carole Ann Davis, Delta DooLittles
phone 510-501-3957
cammini@aol.com

Radio by Don Silva

Call for Volunteers for the Sacramento Houseparty

January 12, 2017January 8, 2017Leave a comment

Help to make the Sacramento Houseparty a success! The following volunteers are needed:

GOLD STAR VOLUNTEERS

The Gold Star volunteer program allows you to earn a Gold Star Pin for volunteering a minimum of two hours during the Houseparty. If you volunteer for multiple jobs, it will be greatly appreciated, but you will be given only one Gold Star Pin. Please consider being a part of the Houseparty Behind the Scenes Workforce by completing and returning this form to be a Gold Star Volunteer. If you prefer a volunteer job that allows for sitting, please check the appropriate line on the form below. First timers are not only welcome, but are encouraged to volunteer, as this is a great way to meet other miniaturists. Remember to check the enclosed Houseparty Schedule to determine your availability. Your volunteer schedule will be included in the packet you receive at Registration; however, if you include your email address, we will confirm your volunteer assignment in advance. Please return your form by January 17, 2017 so that you can be formally acknowledged. However, we will accept forms up to and at registration.

Please download the form here, complete the form and send to:

Barbara Fairbanks
4698 N. Zediker Sanger, CA 93657-9124

HOST/HOSTESS

You are invited to serve as a host/hostess for “ABCs of Miniatures.” We are looking for friendly, outgoing people who can make others feel welcome. Meals have always been one of the highlights of the NAME Conventions, offering an opportunity to make new friends and get reacquainted with old friends to share our mutual love of miniatures. Meals are fun times packed with good food, favors, prizes, gift exchanges and souvenirs.

We are looking for friendly, outgoing people to act as hosts/hostesses to lead the fun at each table. The job includes:

You must attend all three meal functions.
You must attend a brief meeting at least a half hour prior to each meal for directions.
You will be asked to pick up a bag containing souvenirs and an attendance list.
You will greet each guest at your table, introduce them to each other, and make them feel welcome.
You must have a good time and smile a lot.
After the meal, you personally must return the attendance sheet, and souvenirs & gifts for table mates who did not attend the meal, to the Host/Hostess Chairperson. This is critical for Operations to confirm who the remaining souvenirs and gifts should be shipped to or held for.

All Hosts/Hostesses will receive a Gold Star Volunteer Pin. If you would like to sit with a group of your friends and serve as a Host/Hostess, please return the “Advanced Table Seating” form along with the form below. Be sure that your friends have registered for the same scale as you have. Everyone must sit at a table (1/4” or 1”) that they originally registered for.

If this sounds like something you would like to do, please download the form, complete it, and return by January 17, 2017 to:

Leslie Swager
PO Box 1090, West Point CA 95255-1090

We appreciate your assistance in making our houseparty a success!

Register for a Mini Lingerie Workshop

January 11, 2017January 10, 2017Leave a comment

Workshop date: Jan 21, 2017, 10 am

Location: M&L Precision, 18665 Madrone Pkwy, Morgan Hill, CA

Ruth Heisch will be guiding participants in the making of a corset, panties & bra, nightie, bloomers or pantaloons, petticoats, and decorating with silk roses. Students will receive a torso-only mannequin, a vintage corset box, a glue applicator and a rose maker. Bring a lunch. Snacks and a beverage will be provided.

Cost: $25. Mail a check by Jan. 18, 2017 to: Ruth Heisch, 7197 Wooded Lake Dr., San Jose, CA 95120

Questions: Email Ruth Heisch or call 408-997-1004.

Reminder: Swap Deadline for Sacramento is Approaching

January 10, 2017January 7, 2017Leave a comment

For those of you who are new to the idea of a mini swap, it is an activity in which you swap miniatures that you have made for those that others have made. First, you must decide in which scale to participate. You may participate in more than one scale, but only once in each scale. When you are thinking about a swap item please consider our convention theme, “ABCs of Miniatures: Tools & Techniques.”

Bring 21 identical items to the houseparty, labeled with your name, address and e-mail. These should be completed items (no kits or printies please) and should be something that everyone, including you, would be happy to receive. 20 of your swaps will be used in the Mini Swap and the remaining item will become part of a Houseparty Helper. Please pack each item in sealed clear containers or bags (to be able to see that all items are the same) as compactly as possible. We don’t want anything to fall out during the swap.

Swap items will be received during registration hours only. Your swap items will be counted as you turn them in. In the end you will have 20 new items to take home!

When you receive your schedule at the Registration table, please pay careful attention to the times we will be accepting swaps as well as when you should return to claim your filled bag. No swaps will be mailed!!

If you are late turning in your items, you may miss the chance to participate. Please note that you may not turn in swaps for a friend. All participants must turn in their OWN swaps.

Please download the swap form, mail or email your completed form by January 17, 2016, to:

JoAnn Jacot
673 Joette Dr. Gardnerville, NV 89460

Reminder: Dollhouse Tool Box Workshop

January 5, 2017October 12, 20161 Comment

Tool box workshop sample

During this workshop, participants will spend the day decorating the outside and small window display of the pre-built tool box.

Interior of the tool box

February 4, 2017
10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
734 Marin Street, Vallejo, CA

Cost: $60.00. Morning coffee with rolls and lunch are included.

Space is limited, so please reserve early. Contact either:

Suzanne Harrington-Cole 707-647-1928
or Karen Tomajan 925-825-7345

Sacramento Houseparty is Accepting Donations

January 3, 2017December 27, 2016Leave a comment

The NAME Sacramento Houseparty is looking for donations for door prizes, houseparty helpers and tote bag favors. Donations help to make our houseparty an exciting experience for all. Please consider donating your miniatures, tools, materials, etc. for other miniaturists to enjoy.

Door Prizes

Door Prizes are a wonderful part of any Convention, especially if there are enough for everyone to receive one. Isn’t it delightful to hear your number called and realize you’re about to receive an unexpected gift?

With that in mind, we are asking for your help, along with your club members and other mini friends to donate a door prize(s) in 1” and/or 1⁄4” scales

The guidelines are simple:
1. Door Prizes don’t have to be theme related.
2. The value of each Door Prize should be between $10 and $50.
3. Door Prizes should be unwrapped and identified with your name and address.
4. Think of Door Prizes as a gift that you would be proud to give and thrilled to receive.

Please download, complete and return the form below by January 17, 2017 to be recognized in our Souvenir Book. You are welcome to still donate after this date, but it will only be recognized by its winner.)

Download the form.

Mail this completed form to:

Ruth Heisch
7197 Wooded Lake Dr. San Jose CA 95120

If you would like more information about door prizes, contact Ruth.

Houseparty Helpers

Help to make the 2017 N2 Regional Houseparty, “ABCs of Miniatures” a huge success. We are looking for donations to be raffled at the end of the Saturday night banquet. It would be great to have ‘theme’ related items, but any donations in any scale will be most welcome!

Donated helpers are designer and/or handcrafted items valued at $150.00 or more. Items valued less than $150.00 are gladly accepted and will be combined with other donated items to make their combined value reach $150.00 or will be utilized in other fund raising activities.

Companies, clubs, shops or individuals may donate a vignette, room box, dollhouse or a very special piece of furniture or accessories. Cash may also be donated for a shopping spree in the Sales Room.

Houseparty Helper tickets will be sold on all donated items, with the proceeds used to benefit NAME. We hope you will share your talents, creativity and generosity in your donations to make the 2017 Houseparty Helpers a success.

If you wish to participate and be recognized in the Souvenir Book, please return or email the completed form below, along with a picture of your donation, to Ginger Anderson no later than January 17, 2017.

Please download the houseparty helper form, complete the form and send it to:
Ginger Anderson
515 E Carefree Hwy #113 Phoenix, AZ 85085

Tote Bag favors

Tote Bag favors are small, inexpensive, well-crafted gifts donated by clubs or individuals and given to each registrant. We will be filling 250 Tote Bags. We realize that not everyone will be able to donate 250 items, but we would appreciate a minimum of 100 of any one favor. Though this form should be mailed by January 17,2017, You should plan for your favors to arrive at the address below no later than February 20. 2017. This will allow us time to fill the bags.

Please feel free to use your own ideas for favors. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Mini Rulers
Mini X actos
Mini cutting mats
Mini Paint bottles
Mini Glue jigs
Mini cans of stain
Mini Xacto blades
Plastic boxes out of pill containers
Mini Dremel tool
Mini Saw blades
Mini or real size Tweezers
Mini needle nose Pilers
Sanding block
Mini paper towels
Mini work light
Tool holder
Mini or real size Paint brushes
Small project in process
Tiny plastic bags
Sid sticks, real size
Snacks for your workbench-real or mini
Boxes of scrap wood – mini
Mini strips of wood
Mini chopper
Mini glue bottles
Mini wood bin
Mini work apron
Mini waxed paper

To receive recognition in the souvenir book and to let us know you intend to participate, please complete and return the form below by January 17, 2017 to:

Download the form.

Carol Carton 13184 Hoot Owl Rd.., Nevada City, CA 95959
530-272-8849

More info about the Sacramento Houseparty is available here.

Free Project: Topiaries

December 30, 2016December 26, 2016Leave a comment

Jane Sanem has created a tutorial for making topiaries.

Jane is also giving away a topiary. To enter the drawing, email Jane by January 20, 2017.

2015 Hallmark Ornament Contest Third Place Winner: Claudia Heckert of Allyn, WA for her entry “Night Before Christmas”

Enter the NAME 2017 Hallmark Ornament Contest

December 29, 2016December 26, 2016Leave a comment

With the holiday season drawing to a close, it will soon be time to pack up the decorations and ornaments.

STOP!! DON’T PUT THEM AWAY …until you have picked one or two to use as your Hallmark Ornament Contest Entry.

View the contest rules.

Download an entry form.

Contact Luci Hanson with questions.

2015 Hallmark Ornament Contest Second Place winner: Vickie Skidmore of Whittier, CA for her entry…”Captain Jack”

2015 Hallmark Ornament Contest First Place Winner: Ruth Mason of Columbus, OH for her entry…”Poppies will put them to sleep”

Don’t Forget Your Tools!

December 27, 2016December 27, 2016Leave a comment

A Basic List for the Sacramento Houseparty

Here is a list of items you may want to include in your basic toolbox. This is only a suggested list, there may be additional items you want to add or some you may not want to include at all. However, these are generally the things an instructor will expect you to have with you. If you need specific tools beyond this list, your instructor should let you know in advance. Your tool box will evolve over time and reflect your personality as you make your miniature creations.

X-acto knife with #11 blades
Small notebook and pencils
2 pair scissors (paper & fabric)
12” and 6” cork-backed rulers
Toothpicks
Sandpaper (medium/fine)
Needle nose pliers
Masking tape
Tacky Glue
Emery Boards
Small cutting mat
Paint brushes- various sizes & styles
Small spring clamps
Fine point tweezers
Glue spreader/old hotel keycards
You may wish to bring a work light and extension cord as hotel lighting isn’t always the best for Miniaturing.

Below are additional supplies that you may find are helpful to have:

Steel wool 0000
Wire cutters
Pin vise and drill bits
Utility knife
Super glue
Squaring jig or Legos
Small T-square or right angle
Band-Aids
Rubber gloves
Wood glue
Cement for plastic
Plastic “zip” bags
1” foam brush
Damp cloth or wipes
Q-tips
Ball stylus
Mouse pad
Small screw drivers
Container(s) for project
Pins, needles, thread
Wax paper
Small bar clamps
Miter box & saw or a chopper
Black “Sharpie” marker

BASIC SKILLS
These are considered the basic skills necessary for a productive, enjoyable workshop experience:

Use basic tools confidently
Cut accurately with an X-acto knife
Read rulers and mark lengths accurately
Have knowledge of basic glues and how to apply them
Know how to paint smoothly

When asked to list the skills needed beyond the basic ones, most instructors reply that they would be more than prepared to teach whatever their students do not know how to do. What they would like students to have are some “Opens” – open minds, open hearts, open eyes, open ears and an open —— smile!

Registration Opens for the 2017 NAME National Convention

December 16, 2016February 9, 2017Leave a comment

Welcome to the Circus

The 2017 National Convention will be held in Alexandria, VA, July 27-30, 2017.

The theme is Welcome to the Circus.

Registration opens January 27, 2017. You may mail your registration form between December 30, 2016 – January 27, 2017 for it to be considered 1st day postmarked (no earlier).

Download a registration form.

Visit the NAME website for more convention information.

Visiting the Christmas House in Novato, CA

December 14, 2016Leave a comment

Photos: marinmommies.com

Edmundo Rombeiro and his family have been putting together this Christmas house to for the past 24 years, and every year it gets bigger.

There are about 140,000 lights as well as countless figurines, dioramas, and decorations adorning the front and side yards, walls, and roof of the Rombeiro house. Apparently they start setting the whole thing up in August.

The Christmas House is located at 34 Devonshire Drive, off of Center Road, in Novato, CA

The house is open nightly from the first Saturday in December through January 6 from 6 to 10 pm, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. Donations are accepted.

More information

Free Project: Container Displays

December 9, 2016December 14, 2016Leave a comment

Jane Sanem has created a free project for making containers to display treasures. Visit the N.A.M.E. website for the tutorial.

Assorted treasures and keepsakes from houseparties displayed in plastic containers. Project and photo by Jane Sanem.

The Antioch Historical Society with the Delta DooLittles presents The World of Miniatures 2017 Exhibit

Show your Miniatures at the 2017 Antioch Historical Society Exhibit

December 1, 2016November 30, 20162 Comments

The Antioch Historical Society with the Delta DooLittles presents the fourth (and final) World of Miniatures Exhibit at the Antioch Historical Society Museum.

You’re invited to show your miniatures in the World of Miniatures –Part IV Exhibit!

Download an application form. Completed forms, with pictures must be received by January 17, 2017. Intake will be on Sunday and Monday, January 29 and 30, 2017.

The Holidays are already here, but we hope that you’ll take a minute to remember the awe and joy that you brought to visitors at the 2014 exhibit. The Riverview Room was a palace of imagination, creativity and memories for young and old!

Now you’re invited to share your new treasures with us for the 2017 Exhibit. We know that you’ve been busy these past three years and we can’t wait to see your new creations! We encourage you to ask fellow miniaturists and/or club members to exhibit their pieces in February also.

Nancy Thomas

So, Happy Holidays and Merry Miniaturing! And don’t forget to mail your completed forms, with pictures, to be received by January 17, 2017! We look forward to seeing your creations in the World of Miniatures –Part IV Exhibit!

Exhibit application
Download an application form. Completed forms, with pictures must be received by January 17, 2017. The form may be saved to your computer, filled out using Adobe Acrobat, and saved. Attach the form (along with a picture) in an e-mail to cammini@aol.com, or mail the form to the address below.

Exhibit Intake
Sunday and Monday, January 29 and 30, 2017.

Exhibit Location
Antioch Historical Society
1500 W. Fourth Street
Antioch, CA 94509

Exhibit Hours
Open to the public, at no charge, February 1 – 18, 2017. We will be open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m.

For more info, contact
Carole Ann Davis, Delta DooLittles
phone 510-501-3957
cammini@aol.com

Photos from the Carmel Doll Shop

November 25, 2016November 8, 2016Leave a comment

While on the “Do you know your way to San Jose” tour, Julie Johnson visited the Carmel Doll Shop with Molly Cromwell. Thank you, Julie for sharing these photos from the visit!

Reminder: Deadline for Roundtable Workshop Applications

November 18, 2016November 8, 2016Leave a comment

Roundtables and Mega Roundtables

Application postmark deadline: December 1, 2016.
You’re invited to apply to teach a Roundtable or a Mega Roundtable Workshop at the 2017 NAME Sacramento Houseparty. Workshops are a “make & take” project which, under your supervision, can be completed in 2 hours or less. Roundtable Workshops cost no more than $5.00. Mega Roundtable Workshops cost no more than $10.00.

For examples of previous roundtable and mega roundtable kits, see issues of the Miniature Gazette.

Download a roundtable application form

Download a mega roundtable application form

More information about the Sacramento Houseparty.

Mini Contest at the 2017 CHAMPs Show

November 11, 2016October 12, 2016Leave a comment

New to the show CHAMPs Show in 2017, a miniature contest.

The 2017 theme is “TREE HOUSES.” Enter today and start building your tree house. All tree houses will be judged by the public. All paid attendees of the CHAMPs Show will be given a voting ticket to cast their votes for their favorite tree house. The 1st, 2nd, 3rd winners with the most votes wins.

Prizes:
1st Place – 1 Electrify Dollhouse 2 story with attic.
2nd Place – CHAMPs Fun Bucks, accepted at all of the dealer tables.
3rd Place – CHAMPs Fun Bucks, accepted at all of the dealer tables.

Contest Rules:

Any age accepted.
Any scale accepted.
Treehouse theme.
Contest entrance fee $10.00 (includes 1 free admission). Payment may be made by personal checks or thru Paypal.
Your tree house must be delivered on Friday, September 8th, between 10am-6pm or Saturday, September 9th between 9:30am-10am. Judging will take place on September 9, 2017 at 1pm.

If you are interested in entering the tree house contest, contact Terezinha Jusino.

More info about the CHAMPs Show.

Sell Your Minis at a New Show

November 4, 2016November 8, 2016Leave a comment

The First Renaissance Miniature & Fairy Show and Sale will take place on May 20, 2017, in Modesto, CA. The show is part of the Peer Recovery Art Project.

Vendor tables are available for $40 inside of the building and $30 outside.

For more info, contact Betty Kenney 209-505-7553
or Anna McCuistion 209-499-8913

Crossroads Doll & Teddy Bear Show

October 29, 2016November 8, 2016Leave a comment

Antique, modern and handcrafted dolls, teddy bears, miniatures, clothes, furniture and accessories will be available at the show and sale.

Nov 5, 2016; 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Family Community Church, 478 Piercy Road
San Jose, CA

Admission: Adults $8.00, Children under 12 $4.00. Free parking.

More info

CORRECTION: Sebastopol Mini Sale NEXT Weekend

October 28, 2016October 28, 2016Leave a comment

Don’t miss the Mini Sale and Flea Market in Sebastopol, CA on Saturday, November 5! New and gently used minis. Dollhouses, tools, and much more. Free admission. Dealer tables are available for $35.

Saturday, November 5, 2016; 9am – 1 pm
Masonic Hall, 373 N. Main St., Sebastopol, CA
Call Cary 707-484-8986 or Lori 707-829-0795

Reminder: Last Days of Smallsea Sale

October 27, 2016October 12, 20162 Comments

Smallsea Dollhouse Museum is closing November 30, 2016.

Prior to closing there will be three sales:

September 8-10, 2016
October 6-9, 2016
November 3-5, 2016

Sales are cash or checks.

The Smallsea collection of buildings, dolls, furniture and accessories will be auctioned in early 2017.

Smallsea: A Metropolis in Miniature
The Barnyard Shopping Center
Hwy 1
Suite F-22
Carmel, CA 93923

Hours: 12:00-5:00 | Wed thru Sat and by appointment

Check the Smallsea website or call 831.250.7666 for more information.

Mini Sale and Flea Market

October 15, 2016June 8, 2016Leave a comment

Don’t miss the Mini Sale and Flea Market in Sebastopol, CA. New and gently used minis. Dollhouses, tools, and much more. Free admission. Dealer tables are available for $35.

Saturday, November 5, 2016; 9am – 1 pm
Masonic Hall, 373 N. Main St., Sebastopol, CA
Call Cary 707-484-8986 or Lori 707-829-0795

Holiday Open House at My Friends and I

October 12, 2016October 12, 2016Leave a comment

My Friends and I gift shop will have a holiday open house to include miniatures. 10% off of everything in the shop. $100 gift certificate drawing. Local miniaturist, Lynne Hoffman, has a space at the shop.

Oct. 14, 6 pm – 9 pm
Oct. 15&16, 10 am – 6 pm

My Friends and I
37521 Niles Blvd., Freemont, CA

Call 510-792-0118 or email for more info.

Dollhouse Tool Box Workshop

October 7, 2016September 14, 2016Leave a comment

Tool box workshop sample

During this workshop, participants will spend the day decorating the outside and small window display of the pre-built tool box.

Interior of the tool box

February 4, 2017
10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum
734 Marin Street, Vallejo, CA

Cost: $60.00. Morning coffee with rolls and lunch are included.

Space is limited, so please reserve early. Contact either:

Suzanne Harrington-Cole 707-647-1928
or Karen Tomajan 925-825-7345

Update: Smallsea Museum Sale

September 30, 2016September 26, 2016Leave a comment

Smallsea Dollhouse Museum is closing November 30, 2016.

Prior to closing there will be three sales:

September 8-10, 2016
October 6-9, 2016
November 3-5, 2016

Updated info:

Two large bins of Bespaq and JBM furniture are being added to the sale. Some if it is vintage and long discontinued pieces.

Other items include:

Additional furniture & decorative items, artist made and stock from the Smalls Collection.
Artist made dolls from the Smalls Collection.
Decorating: wallpaper, molding, trim, wall panels, stairs, windows, doors etc.
Fully stocked market stalls and wagons from Smallsea’s Summer/Christmas markets.
“All you can stuff in a bag” for $5 (small bag) and $8 (large bag) of Christmas and Halloween mini decorations and flowers, foliage etc. for outside scenes.
7 fully furnished buildings for silent auction; including a new 3 story, corner shop with an elevator (non working).

The Smallsea collection of buildings, dolls, furniture and accessories will be auctioned in early 2017.

Smallsea: A Metropolis in Miniature
The Barnyard Shopping Center
Hwy 1
Suite F-22
Carmel, CA 93923

Hours: 12:00-5:00 | Wed thru Sat and by appointment

Sales are cash or checks.

Check the Smallsea website or call 831.250.7666 for more information.

Reminder: Children’s Workshops at Good Sam

September 24, 2016September 26, 2016Leave a comment

Children are welcome to join in on the miniature fun at the Good Sam Show. Kids may attend Children’s Registered Workshops and Children’s Free Workshops (descriptions of both are below).

Class #1 – Tiny Snow Scene in an Ornament

Class #2 – 1:12 Bird House

Class #3 – 1:12 Dog House

Class #4 – 1:12 Halloween Nesting Tables

Children’s Registered Workshops

Four special workshops will be available at the Good Sam Show. The workshops will be for children over the age of eight, and will take place on Saturday, Oct. 8.

The registration deadline is October 1, 2016. Class space is limited so be sure to sign up soon. Registration Form.

More info and workshop descriptions are available on the Good Sam Show website.

Children’s Free Workshops

Children may make a miniature project of their very own at the free children’s workshops being held at the Good Sam Show. They may try building, landscaping, or soar with their imagination before going over to the children’s sales table, where there are miniatures priced within a child’s budget.

The children’s free workshops will take place on Saturday and Sunday from Noon until 3 pm.

Good Sam Show
October 8th and 9th, 2016
Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm
Doubletree Hotel San Jose (1/2 Mile from San Jose International Airport)
2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, CA

Sacramento Houseparty: Thursday Night Event

September 23, 2016August 22, 20162 Comments

Join miniaturists on Thursday eventing at the Sacramento Houseparty for a special event:

Thursday Evening From A to Z
Thursday, March 23, 2017; 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM
$61.00 per registrant

We invite you all to join us on Thursday Evening for a fun, entertaining and educational event organized by Debbie Young.

Dealers, Instructors, Committee and Registrants have been invited to fill a letter of the alphabet with their area of expertise. For example:
“B” is for Bows might feature someone demonstration bow making
“L” is for Lighting might feature someone demonstrating and teaching about LED lighting.
“W” is for Wicker might feature a fabulous wicker maker answering questions and demonstrating.
These are just examples of what might be there. It will be a surprise who will be doing what when you get there – there will be 26 tables (one for each letter of the alphabet) with each letter featuring a tool or technique useful in the creation of miniatures.

You will be able to work your way through the 26 alphabet themed lectures and demonstrations receiving handouts and small gifts along the way from each presenter. There will be a separate area with tables and chairs for rest, relaxation and light refreshments – ice cream sundaes!!!! Yummmmmm! There will also be opportunities to purchase drawing tickets to win spectacular prizes.

How can you miss an evening of 26 ideas or techniques, 26 specialists, 26 gifts, handouts or kits, AND ice cream? AND then the opportunity to win prizes!

More information about the Sacramento Housparty.

Good Sam Volunteers Needed

September 22, 2016September 26, 2016Leave a comment

Would you like to be part of the community that helps make the Good Sam Show a success? We are looking for volunteers to help during the show. Volunteer shifts are available for Saturday or Sunday and you will receive free entry to the show. Please contact our Show Chairman, Ruth Heisch for more information.

Good Sam Show
October 8th and 9th, 2016
Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm
Doubletree Hotel San Jose (1/2 Mile from San Jose International Airport)
2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, CA

Visit the Good Sam Show website.

Sacramento Houseparty Hotel Info

September 16, 2016September 26, 2016Leave a comment

Hotel reservation information for the Sacramento Houseparty:

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sacramento
2001 Point West Way
Sacramento, California 95815
phone 916-929-8855

To get our special room rate, please make your reservations here.

More information about the Sacramento Houseparty.

Sacramento Houseparty Roundtable Info

September 9, 2016August 31, 2016Leave a comment

Roundtables and Mega Roundtables

You’re invited to apply to teach a Roundtable or a Mega Roundtable Workshop. Workshops are a “make & take” project which, under your supervision, can be completed in 2 hours or less. Roundtable Workshops cost no more than $5.00. Mega Roundtable Workshops cost no more than $10.00.

For examples of previous roundtable and mega roundtable kits, see issues of the Miniature Gazette.

Download a roundtable application form

Download a mega roundtable application form

Application postmark deadline: December 1, 2016.

More information about the Sacramento Houseparty.

Good Sam Showcase of Miniatures Show

September 2, 2016May 25, 2017Leave a comment

October 8-9, 2016
Good Sam Showcase of Miniatures
41st Annual Show & Sale

Sales Floor & Show Hours: Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm
One Day Workshops: Friday, October 7th, 2016
Free Tools & Techniques Seminar: Sunday, October 9th, 2016 at 9:30 a.m.

Show Admission: Adults $7, Seniors (62+) $5 , Children (5-12) $3, Children under 5 free (no strollers please)

Free Door Prizes! A special children’s drawing each day!

Doubletree Hotel, 2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, CA
More info

2016 Good Sam workshop: Mallard Duck Family with Beth Freeman-Kane

Reminder: Sign up for Good Sam Workshops

August 31, 2016September 26, 2016Leave a comment

Registration is open for workshops at the Good Sam Show. The workshops will take place on Friday, October 7, 2016, at the Doubletree Hotel San Jose, CA.

View the classes and download the registration form.