2018 Pocket Party Classes at DT&M

January 11, 2018January 9, 2018Leave a comment

Dollhouses, Trains & More will once again host the Pocket Party Classes in 2018. The classes are scheduled for the 3rd Saturday of the month unless otherwise noted.

The first Pocket Party Class is scheduled for Saturday, January 20th, 2018 from 10AM to 1PM. This class draws its inspiration from the tiny figures used in the Train Department. While researching on the internet, Maria Creasey discovered a whole world using these tiny figures. She used the search term, “tiny people world” and there they were. WOW!
She also suggests checking out “The Surreal Miniature World of Kirill Makrov,”
“Tiny World Terrariums” and of course Pinterest for Mini People.

Inspiration for the first Pocket Party class.

The cost of the first Pocket Party Class is $25.00. Please bring your own tweezers and magnification glasses. All other supplies will be provided.

Class space is limited. You must reserve a space to attend. NO Drop-ins. To reserve your space, please call the Miniature Dept. at (415) 883-0388 Ex.106 or email.

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.

Trish Billard: Tools and Supplies Toolbox

November 16, 2017October 24, 2017Leave a comment

Trish Billard created this tool tote in a workshop.

Trish Billard exhibited the “Tools and Supplies” toolbox at the Good Sam Showcase of Miniatures. Trish created the toolbox in a workshop hosted by Suzanne-Harrington Cole, in Vallejo, CA. Everyone in the workshop finished the toolbox differently. Trish’s toolbox was painted in trompe l’oeil style, a painting technique used to give the illusion of 3D.

MiniCals Workshop: Back Porch

November 2, 2017October 24, 2017Leave a comment

MiniCals workshop, The Back Porch

Join the MiniCals club in making a 1″ scale back porch. The workshop will meet 3 times to finish the porch and create accessories:

January 13, 2018, 10 am
MiniCals Workshop: Part 1 of Back Porch Project
Construct and solder a slatted metal/wood table and chair for the outdoor garden of the porch. Cost $25.
February 10, 2018, 10 am
MiniCals Workshop: Part 2 of Back Porch Project
Construct the main body of the porch, stairs, windows, etc. Cost $45.
March 10, 2018, 10 am
MiniCals Workshop: Part 3 of Back Porch Project
Make many accessories for the garden such as containers, vines, plants, succulents and flowers. Cost $30.

The workshops will take place at M&L Precision, 18665 Madrone Parkway, Morgan Hill, California.

Bring a basic tool box and a sack lunch. A beverage will be provided. Register early. Some classes may be limited. No kits available. For more information and to register, contact Ruth Heisch.

This Weekend is the 2017 Good Sam Show

October 4, 2017September 29, 2017Leave a comment

October 7th and 8th, 2017
Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm

Show Location
Doubletree Hotel San Jose (1/2 Mile from San Jose International Airport)
2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, CA
(408) 453-4000 or make reservations online.

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. The show is a benefit for the PlaneTree Health Library.

For more show information, visit the Good Sam Show website.

SHOW EVENTS

Friday, October 6th

Good Sam Friday Workshop: Rhine River Market Stall with Luci Hanson, Cascade Miniatures

Friday Workshops
Join us for exciting workshops on Friday, October 6th, featuring prominent teachers from all over the country. Friday Workshops are held at the hotel. Workshop registration is now open. View the workshops.

Saturday, October 7th & Sunday, October 8th

Special Event
Now you can be a doll in your own miniature room. Holodeck 3D Studios will scan and print you in 3D. 1:12 custom scaled. Dress in your favorite outfit to match your room.

Sales Tables
Shop with 100 dealers featuring artisans from all over the country and several international dealers, including a number of IGMA Artisans and Fellows! You’ll find everything you need to finish that special miniature project including dollhouses, room boxes, unique furniture, beautiful dolls, food that looks good enough to eat, holiday items and much more. See the dealer list.

Exhibits
Unique and one-of-a-kind exhibits on display outside the sales floor. First-time and long-time exhibitors are strongly encouraged to bring their room boxes, structures and unusual containers to share in 2017.

Free Fun for Kids!
Children can make a miniature project of their very own at our free Children’s Workshops Saturday and Sunday from Noon until 3 pm. They can try building, landscaping, or soar with their imagination before going over to the Children’s Sales Table where we have priced miniature items for a child’s budget.

Dealer Donation Drawings
Tickets will be on sale for the Dealer Donation Drawings to be held Sunday at 3:15 pm. You do not need to be present to win.

Saturday, October 7th Only

Silent Auction
The Silent Auction will be Saturday, October 7th from 10 am to 2 pm There will be wonderful miniatures to bid on. Bid early, bid often.

Good Sam Children’s Workshop: Cookies For Santa by Cade Deverell

Pre-Registered Children’s Workshops
We have special classes for children at the show on Saturday. Children must be pre-registered for these classes. Workshop registration is now open. View the Children’s workshops.

Sunday, October 8th Only

Tools and Techniques
Sunday, October 8th from 9:30 am to 10:50 am we will have a FREE “Tools and Techniques” seminar for all. It is held at the show venue and will cover a number of power and hand tools, as well as information on roofing, flooring, wall treatments, basic landscaping, and other aspects of making miniatures. Please join us.

Dealer Donation Drawings
Our spectacular dealers donate items to a special Dealer Donation Drawing. Tickets may be purchased at the show and winners will be drawn Sunday at 3:15pm. You do not need to be present to win.

After the Show, Monday, October 9th

Good Sam Academy Workshop: Classic Country Dough Table with Ken Byers, Shaker Works West

Good Sam Academy of Miniatures
The Good Sam Academy of Miniatures offers multi-day classes taught by miniaturists that are leaders in their selected fields and have been teaching their skills to miniaturists for several years. Classes will take place immediately after the 2017 Good Sam Show. Academy registration is now open. View the Academy class listing.

For more show information, visit the Good Sam Show website.

Children’s Workshops at Good Sam Show

September 8, 2017September 8, 2017Leave a comment

The Good Sam Show is offering free workshops for little children and pre-registered workshops for children ages 9 to 14.

The free children’s workshops will take place Saturday and Sunday (Oct. 7-8, 2017) from noon until 3 pm at the Doubletree Hotel in San Jose. These workshops are for children under age eight.

Good Sam is offering three special workshops for children over the age of eight. The children’s pre-registered workshops will be Sat, Oct 7th, 2017. Registration is open. Class space is limited so be sure to sign up soon. The registration deadline is September 15, 2017.

Class #1 – Lazy Susan Potted Flowers
Class #2 – Witch’s Den
Class #3 – Cookies For Santa

List of pre-registered workshops and registration form.

For more information, please contact Lynne Hoffman.

Class #1 – Lazy Susan Potted Flowers. Teacher: Juanita Landa

Class #2 – Witch’s Den. Teacher: VG MacLean

Class #3 – Cookies For Santa. Teacher: Cade Deverell

photo of Good Sam Workshop: Artist Paint Box with Valerie Casson, France

2017 Good Sam Show

September 1, 2017September 8, 2017Leave a comment

October 7th and 8th, 2017
Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm

Show Location
Doubletree Hotel San Jose (1/2 Mile from San Jose International Airport)
2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, CA
(408) 453-4000 or make reservations online.

For more show information, visit the Good Sam Show website.

SHOW EVENTS

Friday, October 6th

Good Sam Friday Workshop: Rhine River Market Stall with Luci Hanson, Cascade Miniatures

Saturday, October 7th & Sunday, October 8th

Special Event
Now you can be a doll in your own miniature room. Holodeck 3D Studios will scan and print you in 3D. 1:12 custom scaled. Dress in your favorite outfit to match your room.

Dealer Donation Drawings
Tickets will be on sale for the Dealer Donation Drawings to be held Sunday at 3:15 pm. You do not need to be present to win.

Saturday, October 7th Only

Silent Auction
The Silent Auction will be Saturday, October 7th from 10 am to 2 pm There will be wonderful miniatures to bid on. Bid early, bid often.

Good Sam Children’s Workshop: Cookies For Santa by Cade Deverell

Sunday, October 8th Only

After the Show, Monday, October 9th

Good Sam Academy Workshop: Classic Country Dough Table with Ken Byers, Shaker Works West

For more show information, visit the Good Sam Show website.

2017 Good Sam Academy Classes

August 22, 2017August 19, 2017Leave a comment

Classes to be held Monday, October 9, 2017.

The Good Sam Academy of Miniatures offers classes taught by miniaturists that are leaders in their selected fields and have been teaching their skills to miniaturists for several years. Classes take place immediately after the 2017 Good Sam Show, in Morgan Hill, California.

Download the Registration Form Registration deadline is September 1, 2017.

Good Sam Academy Workshop: Lit Tissue Box with Jim Larson, Jim Larson Designs

Lit Tissue Box with Jim Larson, Jim Larson Designs

Scale: 1:24th (1/2-inch scale), finished tissue box is approx 9 by 9 by 12 inches
Skill Level: All Skill Levels Welcome
Cost: $229
Class Duration: 6 hours, 1 Day Class, Monday, October 9
Registration Deadline: September 1, 2017

Jim Larson Designs presents a delightful and practical miniature that is sure to enhance any collection. This lighted, charming half inch tissue box features a tissue rising from its chimney, masquerading as a puff of smoke.

It is of basic construction for students of varied skill levels and to be decorated to the builder’s personal taste. Shingles, windows and door make it a treasure to display anywhere in the home.

Good Sam Academy Workshop: Classic Country Dough Table with Ken Byers, Shaker Works West

Classic Country Dough Table with Ken Byers, Shaker Works West

Scale: 1:12th (1-inch scale)Skill Level: Some experience to skilled.
Cost: $195.00
Class Duration: 9:00am to 6:00 pm, Monday, October 9
Registration Deadline: September 1, 2017

We will be building from scratch an exact 1/12th scale copy of one of the most often ordered piece in my line. This is a most unusual piece yet one that almost everyone recognizes as having been in grandma’s kitchen or back porch. Also sometimes known as a Houser table, this table was a very popular kitchen fixture until the advent of commercial bakeries. This is a copy of a beautifully functional antique that will bring smiles to your heart. Its natural pine finish and real metal bins add to the fantasy. Even the drawer handles are specially cast, made to the original specs. The bins are aged and dented tin and the bread boards are scarred from decades of use.

Many of the primary wood elements are pre-cut and all assembly is straight forward under your experienced instructor’s supervision. All parts are included and the student will leave the class with a treasured finished product. The student should be familiar with using the basic tools of miniature building. No power tools will be used.

Students will learn creative assembling secrets and the basis of the renowned Shaker Works West finishing process as well as many other tricks of the trade.

More information about the classes.

Coming Up: Summer at Tahoe State Day Workshop 2017

July 4, 2017June 30, 2017Leave a comment

“The Getaway” Summer at Tahoe State Day Workshop

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.

Full Class: 1″ Scale Shop

April 17, 2017March 28, 2017Leave a comment

MiniCal’s June workshop

The MiniCal’s June workshop is a wonderful little shop with a back porch. Participants will complete the exterior, porch and lighting during the class.

Designed and taught by MiniCal’s member, Karen Laisure.

SORRY, THIS CLASS IS FULL.

Workshop: Raggedy Ann Trunk

April 14, 2017February 26, 2017Leave a comment

1″ scale Raggedy Ann in a trunk. Workshop by Deb Laue.

Workshop date: May 20, 2017

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

MiniCals have been so thrilled to have so many great folks enjoying our workshops. Our original intent was to be able to save some of the monies to hire guest teachers or subsidize classes for you. Our club voted to do just that for our May workshop as a “thank you ” to our supporters and any Newbies who would like to attend our Morgan Hill class on Saturday, May 20.

Join Deb Laue in the wonderful world of Raggedy Ann as we assemble a tiny doll in a 1-3/4” high trunk. Dress a porcelain doll in special printed fabric that is scaled just right for the doll then create a trunk decorated just for her. Top it off with a special hat.

The MiniCals is offering this class for $40, a great price for our mini friends.

Please signup before May 1, 2017. Email Ruth Heisch.

MiniCals Workshop: Needlepoint Pillow

March 31, 2017March 26, 2017Leave a comment

Hong will be showing participants how to stitch this needlepoint pillow in their choice of colors.

Join the MiniCals as Hong McKinsey will teach a 1″ scale needlepoint rabbit pillow workshop. Everyone is invited. Cost $25. Contact Ruth Heisch for more information.

Date: April 29, 2017
Location: M&L Precision, 18665 Madrone Pkwy, Morgan Hill, CA

Workshop participants will receive the pattern to create this pillow at home.

Shabby Chic Shelf Workshop in a Lantern by Juanita Landa

Juanita Landa: Shabby Chic Shelf

February 16, 2017April 26, 2017Leave a comment

At a recent gathering of the MiniCals, Juanita Landa showed her shabby chic shelf that was created in a MiniCals 2016 workshop. Juanita displays her shelf inside of a lantern, and calls the piece, “Through the Looking Glass.”

“Through the Looking Glass” is based on the MiniCals 2016 Shabby Chic Shelf Workshop. Created by Juanita Landa.

A Close-up of the interior of the MiniCals 2016 Shabby Chic Shelf Workshop in a Lantern by Juanita Landa.

Rhona Lee: Set of Mini Lingerie

February 9, 2017January 25, 20171 Comment

Rhona Lee participated in the MiniCals “Making Lingerie” workshop taught by Ruth Heisch. Rhona made a corset, bra, nightie, pantaloons, petticoat, and decorated the items with silk roses.

Lingerie by Rhona Lee. Created in the MiniCals “Making Lingerie” Workshop taught by Ruth Heisch.

Corset by Rhona Lee.

Close-up of the corset by Rhona Lee.

Corset Front.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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: 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

MiniCals 2016 NAME Day

October 20, 2016October 5, 2016Leave a comment

On October 1, 2016, The MiniCals and Through the Looking Glass hosted a “Backwoods Bunks” NAME Day. The event was held in Morgan Hill, CA. A light breakfast, lunch, gifts galore, shoebox sales, project exhibits, silent auction and lots of FUN was enjoyed by all. Thank you to Rhona Lee for the photos.

Judy Pick’s version looks great!

Questions anyone?

Some of the MiniCal members at NAME Day 2016.

Lisa Panken is smiling….she’s got it!

This is Beth Newick’s layout. By golly, she’s got it, too!

1/4″ Scale Christmas Box

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

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.

2016 Good Sam workshop: Sewing Box with Monkey Wrench Quilt Pattern on Lid by Pam and Pete Boorum

2016 Good Sam workshop: Garden Potting Shed with Carlene Brown and Veggie Maclean.

2016 Good Sam workshop: Russian Punchneedle Schooner Rug with Sallie Evans , Strawberry Creek Designs.

2016 Good Sam workshop: Art of Petit Point in Miniature with Natalia Frank, Natalia’s Fine Needlework

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

2016 Good Sam workshop: Cabinet with Luci and Dick Hanson, Cascade Miniatures, suggested finishing

2016 Good Sam workshop: Everything Old is New Again! with Karen Laisure

2016 Good Sam workshop: Millinery Delight with Silvia Leiner, Cinderella, and Deb Laue, Dragonfly International

2016 Good Sam workshop: Apple Harvest Baking Vignette with Jasmin Schwarz, Bitty Bits and Bobs

2016 Good Sam workshop: Elegant Sofa with Diane Zammito, VegasAIRS

Workshops and Dealers Announced for Sacramento Houseparty

August 26, 2016August 22, 2016Leave a comment

The workshops and dealers for the Sacramento Houseparty have been announced. Sign-ups for workshops will be accepted after registration.

You may register by downloading the registration form and sending it to the NAME Office with your payment.

Pre-Registered Workshops

View the pre-registered workshops.

Registered Workshops

View the registered workshops.

Dealer List

View the list of dealers attending.

Photos from the 2016 NAME Seattle National Convention

August 10, 2016May 25, 2017Leave a comment

The 2016 NAME National Convention was held in Seattle, Washington, July 18-24. Many N2 members took part in the events and camaraderie.

Thanks to Karen Tomajan, Nancy Wantiez, Laurie Parker, and Carol Kubrican for sharing photos from the convention.

To view more photos, please click here.

Exhibit created by Angelika Oeckl and shown at the 2016 Seattle Convention. Photo by Nancy Wantiez.

Jeff Packard in costume. Photo by Laurie Parker.

Centerpiece. Photo by Nancy Wantiez.

A photo of Charlotte Atcher’s workshop sample at the 2016 Seattle Convention. Photo by Nancy Wantiez.

Suzanne, Margo, Karen and Carolyn – San Francisco Bay Area

To view more photos, please click here.

2016 NAME Day Events

August 6, 2016August 15, 2016Leave a comment

NAME Day is BACK!

Put October 1, 2016 on your calendar! This year’s event is “Going Bunkers” and features a bunk bed in several scales. Here are several different examples, created by JP Sligh:

Finished Quarter Scale bed by JP Sligh

Finished One Inch Scale bed by JP Sligh.

To participate in NAME Day, contact one of the N2 region members who are hosting an event (below). If you are unable to attend a local event, kits are available to order (click on “NAME Day Cutters List”).

Quarter Connection is also hosting an online event for quarter scale miniaturists (see below).

Events in the N2 Region

Benicia, CA
October 1, 2016
A variety of scales will be offered.
Contact Suzanne Harrington-Cole for more info.

Fresno, CA
October 1, 2016, 9 am – 3 or 4 pm
Participants will meet at HobbyTown (Blackstone and Barstow) at 9 am. Kits will be ordered ahead of time so anyone can contact Barbara about the scale they desire. Sweet rolls for breakfast, make the kit, break for lunch, back to work, then an afternoon treat.
Contact Barbara for more info.

Morgan Hill, CA
October 1, 2016
The MiniCals and Through the Looking Glass will be hosting a “Backwoods Bunks” NAME day event. We are also offering an optional twin bed kit if that is preferred. Please join us for light breakfast, lunch, gifts galore, shoebox sales, project exhibits, silent auction and lots of FUN! Email Ruth Heisch or call 408-386-4515.

Sacramento, CA
October 29, 2016, 9:30 am – 4 pm
Potluck lunch (bring enough to serve 10 people), drawing for prizes, gifts given throughout the day, NAME grab bags and lots of fun. Cost: $15.00 plus the cost of the kit; 1″ is $15.00, 1/2 ” is $10.00, 1/4 ” is $8.00 and 1/144 th is $6.00. Arden-Demick Library, 891 Watt Ave., Sacramento. Email Pattie Hong or call 530-432-3271.

Hawaii
October 8, 9 am – 5 pm
Naomi Losch is hosting a NAME Day at her home for everyone located around the islands. Kailua, Oahu. Email Naomi or call (808) 261-9038.

Online Event

Quarter Connection
October 15th and 16th. Registration opens June 15th.
Cost will be $15 plus $5 shipping (anywhere in the world). All proceeds from the NAME Day weekend will go to NAME. More info

General information about the NAME Day project is available on the NAME website.

DHTM Miniature Class Announcement

August 3, 2016July 26, 2016Leave a comment

August 20, 2016, 10 am – 1 pm
Dollhouse Miniature Pocket Party Class at Dollhouses, Trains & More, Novato, CA
The theme is Let’s Go Grocery Shopping! Remember to bring along your crafting tools including: scissors, tweezers, polymer clay tools, patience, and magnification glasses if needed. All items necessary to complete projects will be supplied. Cost of the class is $25.00. You must reserve a space to attend. NO Drop-ins.To reserve your space, please call the Miniature Dept. at (415)883-0388 Ex.106 or email Maria.
Dollhouses, Trains & More, 300 Entrada Drive, Novato, CA 94949
More info

Karen Tomajan: Shabby Chic Garden Shelf

July 29, 2016August 2, 2016Leave a comment

Karen finished her Shabby Chic Garden Shelf on a Door project that was part of the MiniCals Spring workshop. She gave this piece as a table gift during the NAME Convention in Seattle.

Karen Tomajan’s shabby chic garden shelf

Making Camellias with Lynn Miller

July 15, 2016June 21, 2016Leave a comment

Camellias made by the Mini Attics club.

Camellias in a bowl

The Mini Attics Club enjoyed a camellia workshop taught by Lynn Miller. Club members created camellias floating in bowls and camellias on branches/bushes.

Doll Exhibition and Workshops

July 13, 2016July 12, 2016Leave a comment

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July 23 – Sept 25, 2016
Gallery Exhibition: Journeys Through Light and Dark: Dolls as Tellers of Stories
Doll exhibition, workshops and more at the Petaluma Arts Center. Curated by Geri Olson and Sherri Morgan. The dolls, from 6 inches to 4 feet high, are created from a wide range of media, including metal, porcelain, polymer, wire, paper, cloth, wood and combinations of innovative materials. Some were several years in the making.

Artwork and photo: Toby Froud

Opening artists reception July 23, 5 pm.

Exhibit events include:

“Three Muses: Elinor Peace Bailey, Barbara Willis, Anne Klocko” from noon to 1 p.m. Aug. 13, followed by an indoor and outdoor trunk show.
Curator tour with Sherri Morgan and Geri Olson at 7 p.m. Aug. 19.
Stephanie Blythe, “The Dolls of NIADA (National Institute of American Doll Artists)” at noon Aug. 27.
Performance with Sha Sha Higby at 8 p.m. Sept. 9 at St. John Episcopal Church, 40 Fifth St., Petaluma.

Workshops include:

Toby Froud Rod Puppet Workshop, July 23 – 24, 2016, 9am-5pm
Fabric Doll Workshop with Christine Shively, August 20 – 21, 2016, 9am – 4:30pm
The Sculptural Character with Kate Church, September 23 – 25, 2016, 9am-5pm.

Fabric Doll Workshop with Christine Shively.

Gallery hours: Thurs-Mon, 11am-5pm; closed Tues, Wed and holidays.

Admission to the Petaluma Arts Center is $5 general; $4 senior, student, teacher, military.

Petaluma Arts Center
230 Lakeville Street
Petaluma, CA, 94952

find out more

Event info and workshop listing.

An article about the exhibition written by The Press Democrat.

True2Scale Workshop Announced

July 8, 2016July 12, 20161 Comment

1/4 Scale Kids’ Clubhouse

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True2Scale Workshop: 1/4 Scale Kids’ Clubhouse

t2s_clubhouse_interior__59731.1427927930.1280.1280

Interior of the clubhouse

In this workshop, we’ll recreate the bygone days when kids spent their summers playing pirates, cowboys and Indians; practicing with a slingshot, and playing checkers. As we reminisce about our childhood summers, we’ll assemble a 1/4 scale clubhouse, learn aging techniques for the exterior and interior, create “overgrown” landscaping, and have fun with local miniaturists. You’ll take home a completed structure and extra aging products. Cost: $80. Includes everything shown and lunch.

Saturday, August 20, 2016, 10 am – 3 pm
Petaluma, CA

Email Carol for more info or sign up online.

Miniature Class Announcement

June 30, 2016June 28, 2016Leave a comment

July 15 & 16, 2016, 10 am – 1 pm
Dollhouse Miniature Pocket Party Class at Dollhouses, Trains & More, Novato, CA
The theme is Summer Fun. Bring tools. Cost of the class is $25.00. You must reserve a space to attend. NO Drop-ins.To reserve your space, please call the Miniature Dept. at (415)883-0388 Ex.106 or email Maria.
Dollhouses, Trains & More, 300 Estrada Drive, Novato, CA 94949
More info

Marge Milani: Shabby Chic Garden Shelf

May 8, 2016Leave a comment

To celebrate Mother’s Day, we are posting a photo sent by Meg Milani. The project was created by her mother, Marge Milani, in the MiniCals shabby chic garden shelf workshop.

Marge Milani created this scene in the MiniCals shabby chic garden shelf workshop.

Photos from MiniCals Workshop: 1/4 scale ski lodge

April 24, 2016May 25, 20171 Comment

On Saturday, April 23, 2016, MiniCals hosted a 1/4 scale ski lodge workshop, Part 1 of 2, at M & L Precision in Morgan Hill, CA. For Part 1 participants built, electrified, and chose their interior wall treatments.

M & L Precision, courtesy of Karen and Mark Laisure, is ideal for hosting the MiniCal workshops. The atmosphere for the MiniCals workshops is so conducive to working on miniatures that inevitably miniaturists come just to finish other projects, socialize and share. Lunch time drawings are always exciting. The small drawing gifts are wonderful artisan quality items donated by generous individuals. Mini table sales throughout the day are always welcome.

The Ski Lodge – Part 2 will be held on Saturday, May 21 at the same location. Participants will furnish their projects with laser cut pieces.

Click on the photos to view them larger.

Diane Phillips and Lynn Miller…”I think this goes here…”

Beth Newick and Judy Pick working on their ski lodges.

Gerry Silberstein working on her ski lodge.

Marge Milani

Meg Milani working on her ski lodge.

Dale Burgei (grandson) and Carol Walls working on their ski lodges.

Pat Iannucci and Sue Sterling working on their ski lodges.

Lisa Panken working on assembling her ski lodge

Betty Jang, Liz Gerat Carpenter and Nancy Wantiez socializing.

Summer at Tahoe State Day Workshop

April 15, 2016July 26, 20162 Comments

Summer at Tahoe project

August 6, 2016, 8:30 am – 4 pm
23rd Summer at Tahoe State Day Workshop
South Lake Tahoe, CA

A door to welcome the pixie that lives in your home and helps with everything – especially miniatures.

This workshop is suitable for all levels, included roombox, materials, food, gifts, laughter and fun!

Entire workshop is limited enrollment and is subject to cancellation if not filled. So register early! Payment arrangements OK!

Registrants will receive the workshop materials and display materials, door prizes, gifts, raffle prizes, breakfast snacks and lunch, complete with beverages. The fee for the whole day of workshop will be $65.00.

Contact Mary Ann Van Buskirk. Space is limited.

More info and registration

Nancy Wantiez: Shabby Chic Shelf Project

April 8, 2016March 12, 20161 Comment

Nancy created this piece in the MiniCals shabby chic garden shelf workshop.

Nancy Wantiez’s shabby chic garden shelf.

Sacramento Houseparty: Apply to be an Instructor or Dealer

April 1, 2016March 9, 2016Leave a comment

Application postmark deadline: May 4, 2016.

Apply to teach a pre-convention and/or registered workshop, present a theme luncheon, or be a dealer in the sales room. Log into the NAME website and download an application form (click on “Convention & Houseparty Applications”) or contact Barbara Lundberg or Leanne Kirsch.

Houseparty information:

March 24-26, 2017
Sacramento, CA

The theme is “ABCs of Miniatures” with emphasis on tools and techniques in the workshops and activities. This will be primarily a 1″ and 1⁄4″ Houseparty but 1⁄2″ and 1/144″ will be juried for workshops, dealers and roundtables just as every other scale. Souvenirs, doorprizes, tables and swaps will be only in 1″ and 1⁄4″ and you will have to declare a scale when you register. This is a new concept and we hope you will all enjoy it.

Karen Tomajan: MiniCals Shabby Chic Project

March 31, 2016March 12, 2016Leave a comment

Karen created this piece in MiniCal’s shabby chic garden shelf workshop.

Karen Tomajan’s shabby chic garden shelf project.

Barbara Adams: MiniCal’s Shabby Chic Project

March 24, 2016March 11, 20162 Comments

Barbara Adams created this Springtime vignette during the MiniCals shabby chic garden shelf workshop in Morgan Hill, CA. Barbara is a NAME State Rep for California—South Bay /Peninsula.

Hippy-hoppity, Springtime is here!

Barbara Adams created this Springtime vignette.

barb-adams2 barb-adams3 barb-adams1

Suzanne Harrington-Cole & Karen Tomajan: Shabby Chic Shelf Project

March 18, 2016March 11, 20161 Comment

Karen and Suzanne attended the MiniCal’s shabby chic garden shelf workshop and were inspired to create these pieces based on the project from the workshop.

Karen Tomajan’s shelf with mirror.

Suzanne Harrington-Cole created this shabby chic shelf with mirror.

New Pics: MiniCals 1/4 Scale Ski Lodge Workshop

March 12, 2016Leave a comment

“These photos are of the April/May 2016 MiniCals ¼” furnished ski lodge workshop. We regret any confusion with our inspiration of Debbie Young’s chalet class of many years ago.” —Ruth Heisch, Workshop Organizer

1/4 scale ski lodge workshop by the MiniCals.

Interior of the 1/4 scale ski lodge workshop by the MiniCals.

Workshop Date: April 23, 2016
MiniCals Workshop: Build a Furnished 1/4 Scale Ski Lodge
A two session workshop. The finish day will be May 21. This class is by special request from many 1/4 inchers, so sign up early as space will be limited.

M&L Precision, 18665 Madrone Parkway, Morgan Hill, CA
Contact Ruth Heisch for more info.

MiniCals Workshop: Build a Furnished 1/4 Scale Ski Lodge

March 7, 2016March 12, 20161 Comment

April 23, 2016
MiniCals Workshop: Build a Furnished 1/4 Scale Ski Lodge
A two session workshop. The finish day will be May 21. This class is by special request from many 1/4 inchers, so sign up early as space will be limited.

M&L Precision, 18665 Madrone Parkway, Morgan Hill, CA
Contact Ruth Heisch for more info.

Click on the photos to enlarge.

1/4 scale ski lodge workshop by the MiniCals.

Interior of the 1/4 scale ski lodge workshop by the MiniCals.

MiniCal's 2016 Shabby Chic Shelf Workshop

Photos from MiniCal’s Shabby Chic Workshop

February 28, 2016May 25, 20173 Comments

On Saturday, February 27, 2016, MiniCals hosted a shabby chic garden shelf on a door workshop at M & L Precision Machinery, Inc., Morgan Hill, CA.

Starting with a stock Houseworks six panel interior door, participants assembled shelves, painted, applied decals, decoupaged, and then aged the door with chalk paints. Using simple card stock, various sized planter pots, including faux galvanized French botanical buckets were cut, shaped and then colored with stock acrylic paints to resemble aged and moss covered terra cotta pots. Instructions were provided for simple flowers, placards and a laser cut wreath. A small plastic display case was provided to showcase each finished project.

Karen Tomajan showing her shabby chic project.

Suzanne Harrington-Cole displays her partially finished project.

Fun and sharing were the theme for the day with the added excitement of Deb Laue of Dragonfly on hand, who provided a surprise gift for each participant, as well as optional coordinating accessories for purchase.

Thank you, MiniCals, especially Karen Laisure and Ruth Heisch, for coordinating, setting up and hosting this very popular event!

Upcoming Spring Fling Potluck and Flea Market
On Saturday, March 19th, 2016, MiniCals will be hosting their annual Spring Fling Potluck and Flea Market open to the public. It will be held at M & L Precision, 18665 Madrone Parkway, Morgan Hill, CA and will start at 10 a.m. For more information contact: Ruth Heisch.

Click on the photos below to enlarge.

MiniCal’s 2016 Shabby Chic Shelf Workshop

MiniCals Feb 2016 Workshop

January 31, 2016January 31, 2016Leave a comment

MiniCals is hosting the “Shabby Chic” workshop. The workshop is based on an exhibit from the 2015 Good Sam Showcase of Miniatures.

MiniCal Workshop: Create a Botanical “Shabby Chic” Door/Shelf/Table
Date: February 27, 2016
Space is limited so you must sign up ahead. Workshop fee $40.00.
Location: M&L Precision, 18665 Madrone Parkway, Morgan Hill, CA
Contact Ruth Heisch for more info.