Shrunk: Issue 4 by Shrunk Magazine

ISSUE FOUR

Shrunk. magazine is a quarterly print publication, with Issue 5 coming to you in November 2021. Why just 4 issues a year? Well, we’re currently a very tiny team. We also believe that less is more. More original features, more projects, more fun. It also means less waste. We’ll only print what we really need, so pre‑orders are important. We want our print copies to be treasured by the paper‑lovers among you, enjoyed and passed around to friends, well‑thumbed. And if you miss a print issue, don’t panic! Digital editions are available via Issuu.com

This publication was made possible by the 199 backers who pledged to our Kickstarter launch campaign in the Summer of 2020. Thank you so much for helping bring Shrunk. magazine to life. www.shrunkmagazine.com

Shrunk. Magazine is a trading name of Four Little Walls. Published quarterly by Shrunk. Magazine.

Mailing address: Unit 285, Regency House, 91 Western Road, Brighton, BN1 2NW, UK. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, distributed or reproduced without permission from both its publisher and original author. 2

Shrunk.

Cover image by Phillip Nuveen

Editors Note

Welcome to Issue 4, This issue marks a new season and Shrunk. magazines first full year in print. What a twelve months it has been!

Kat Picot, Editor kat@shrunkmagazine.com

We’re indulging in a touch of glamour from decadent mini macarons by Esha Bijutkar to our most involved DIY yet, a vanity table with a working light‑up mirror by talented Canadian artist, Wei. Beth Krum shows us how to create a realistic marble paint effect, perfect for transforming your miniature interiors and accessories. Meanwhile, we celebrate innovation and technology with a brief introduction to the art of 3D printing courtesy of Amanda Kelly and Briana Sepúlveda. I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with artist Phillip Nuveen for this issue’s cover feature. Phillip has made his mark within the miniature world with high‑end, contemporary pieces alongside establishing a successful career creating scale model artwork for some of the worlds most recognisable luxury brands. He shares some insight into the highlights and challenges of navigating both of those spaces.

Becca Parker, Assistant Editor becca@shrunkmagazine.com

In this issue, we’ve been fortunate enough to welcome Becca Parker to the team as Assistant Editor. Becca is a writer and designer‑maker, championing contemporary crafts and humans that create them. Becca runs her own small business, To Be Adorned, selling patterns, kits and handmade accessories. Her first feature for Shrunk. takes a look at how makers can prepare themselves and their shops for the fast‑approaching Christmas retail season. We’ve really enjoyed putting together this issue and hope you’re able to find some time to sit back, relax and enjoy our latest edition.

Emilia Kalyvides, Designer www.designbyemilia.co.uk

Ka t

Shrunk.

Issue Four Contents

Features 14

An Interview with Phillip Nuveen

Shrunk. chats with the New York-based miniatures artist

Miniatures of the Future: A Brief Introduction to 3D Printing

Panda Miniatures talk us through this innovative technology

Shrunk.

Make 50

Photography 101

DIY: Vanity Table

Tips and ideas to help improve your photography game

DIY: Paper Clay Macarons

Monetising Your Makes

Technique: Marble Paint Effect

Prepare your small business for the festive season

DIY: 30 Minute Make

e l ly aK

A ma

Issue Four Contributors

Read Amanda’s feature on 3D printing on p.43. Connect with Amanda at pandaminiatures.com. Instagram, TikTok & Youtube: @pandaminiatures.

B et

tkar iju

Es h a

Beth is a collector and creator of modern 1:12 scale miniatures based in the UK. On p.38 Beth shows us how to transform our miniatures using a realistic marble paint effect. You can connect with her on Instagram @myminimaisoninsta.

Amanda creates 1:12th scale miniatures and dioramas that challenge the idea of the “traditional” dollhouse, drawing inspiration from her personal experiences with mental health, pop culture and her environment.

Esha is an engineer by profession and an artist at heart! A self‑taught miniaturist and currently based in India, she works in 1:12 scale creating one of a kind miniature food, furniture and dioramas. Esha shows us how to create the most delectable miniature macarons on p.32. Follow Esha on Instagram: @pink_petit_rose.

Shrunk Loves

House Hunter

A Fashion Moment

Suppliers & Mini Mag

Shop ei

Wei is an artist based in Canada with a love for colour, composition, stop‑motion animation, and of course, miniatures. You can find her posting sporadically on Instagram @honey.thistle. Turn to p.26 for Wei’s fantastic DIY: Vanity Table & Light‑Up Mirror.

Shrunk.

#ishrunkthis Instagram Edit

It’s time for a change of season and Shrunk. readers are already giving us big Autumnal vibes! In this issue, we’ve curated your snaps into a little celebration of rustic materials and Fall charm. Mini fashion and interiors are channelling gorgeous shades of russet, while tiny chefs are serving our favourite comfort foods. And of course, it’s never too soon to choose between trick or treat when the ghosts and ghouls are this cute!

Show Us Your Minis!

@mustardminiatures Styled-up skeletons adorn the porch

Shrunk.

@shrunkmagazine #ishrunkthis

@miniminifarmhouse is setting the scene for a cosy autumnal duvet day, complete with morning coffee and beautifully styled pumpkins. @minis.by.l is serving fall fashion with a perfect clothes rail stacked with tiny shoe boxes and shopping bags. @modlfowers created the most charming and impossibly small pumpkins.

@gillbayesminiatures Gorgeous handcrafted mini couture.

@loriemarshceramics Continuing our love affair with tiny ceramics, but now with added cats.

@minteriorminidesigns Imagine a moment of calm and serenity in this impeccably styled 1:12 scale bathroom.

@reviveminis The most adorable scratch post for your mini feline friends.

6–7. @magnolia.minis is well and truly bringing the seasonal spirit with adorable shiplap ghosts to adorn your mantelpiece. It’s hard to keep those adoring paws off!

Shrunk.

Journal Autumn 2021

The Shrunk. guide to mini happenings Delivered to your door: Everything you need to join the online craft workshops.

Seasonal Workshops — Online with Hobbycraft With the most wonderful, and arguably the most crafty, time of the year just around the corner, what better way to get into the spirit than with some Christmas makes? Hobbycraft are offering a range of seasonal online workshops that definitely appeal to our miniature‑loving hearts! Our top picks include the adorable Advent House. The price includes a DIY kit, delivered to your door, containing everything you need to complete your own Advent House to be treasured or gifted. Think how many minis you could fit in those little drawers! Workshop dates are available to book from 20th September for any early birds, or you can join the waiting list for later dates. £35, DIY kit and online workshop, various dates available.

Shrunk.

Equally festive is the Fillable Decorations workshop. It’s also online with a DIY kit delivered directly to you. Create your own tiny scenes inside glass ornaments using the charming miniatures and materials provided (or you add your own for a more personal touch). £25, DIY kit and online workshop, dates available from November 2021 www.hobbycraft.co.uk Suite City Woman: A New Miniatures Range Maker and re‑imaginer Roxanne Brathwaite is launching a new miniatures store on Etsy this September. Known on Instagram under the moniker Suite City Woman, Roxanne’s miniature work showcases a variety of craft techniques, textures and materials. She’s been able to transfer many of these skills from her career in upholstery and furniture design. The range features an eclectic mix of original handcrafted accessories

Advent House: Book your workshop place from 20th September

Fillable Decorations Workshop: The perfect mini gift!

Original, framed artwork

Some of the handcrafted miniatures available from Suite City Woman’s new collection Image credit: Roxanne Brathwaite

and decorative accents and there are some real treasures to be found (Shrunk. was especially excited about the removable wall murals — the perfect innovation for those of us plagued by perpetual decorating indecision!). Roxanne was kind enough to share some of the inspirations and themes that have informed her debut miniatures collection: ‘I’m drawn to spaces that are rich in texture and in culture. Texture is achieved through interesting textiles which I love layering. Cultural object, I can achieve through iconic pieces, art and book selections. I love spaces that look like they’ve evolved over time, so that the painting on the wall may have been bought ten years ago on a trip abroad, the couch may be inherited from a

grandparent and the rug could have been picked up at a vintage flea market. My miniature décor style is best described as a mix of vintage furnishings and artisanal accessories “sourced” from the second‑hand economy, global travels and local craftspeople. Silhouettes lean towards mid‑century modern with some icon designer pieces of the same period. Decorative accessories are a play of tonal textures and natural materials with a preference for earthy hues. Original art is a curated collection of local and global creators. Together the miniature interior look is creatively curated, relaxed, and timeless. I think the best way to avoid cultural appropriation is to learn the origins of a particular piece and make sure you pass that knowledge on. I don’t use terms like “ethnic” as a descriptor when it comes to

Self‑adhesive, removable wall murals

décor because it lumps, in some cases, centuries of richly distinct cultures and traditions into one pigeon‑hole. For my launch, the online store will stock arched and arabesque brass antiqued mirrors; self‑adhesive, removable wall murals featuring 1800s landscapes by John James Audubon; a series of 2" x 2" limited edition, signed and numbered, black and white original photographs; surface‑printed pillows on organic hemp cotton/ linen mix and stuffed with organic buckwheat hulls, featuring textiles from around the globe; and original acrylic double‑framed paintings.’ Shop the new collection at: www.suitecitywoman.etsy.com Connect on Instagram @suitecitywoman Shrunk.

Journal Autumn 2021 Instagram challenge #winterminimakers After the success of the May Mini Makers challenge over on Instagram, host Jennifer (AKA @littletreasuretrunks) is challenging the mini community once again to craft and share this winter in a celebration of creativity and connection. With a month of daily image prompts, you’re invited to post photos throughout November using the hashtag #winterminimakers. Explore the hashtag to get involved and see the exciting range of projects being shared among mini enthusiasts on Instagram. Here’s the list of prompts for anyone keen to get a head start. Connect on Instagram: @littletreasuretrunks

Please continue to support your local and loved miniature events where you can. Details are accurate at the time of going to press but do check up‑to‑date information with organisers before travelling. UK Events: London Doll’s House Showcase — 17th & 18th September It’s happening! The long‑awaited return to in‑person shows for London Dollshouse Showcase events begins with Kensington Doll’s House Festival. As if that wasn’t exciting enough, this will also be Shrunk. magazine’s first ever live event. Come find us and say hello! Looking ahead to the festive season, a Winter show is scheduled to take place on Saturday 4th December 2021. Organiser Charlotte Stokoe shares further information ‘Our Christmas Festival is an action‑packed day with approximately 170 carefully selected craftsmen from all over the globe attending, who specialise in miniatures of all kinds. During the afternoon, the Gingerbread Craft Club opens its doors. This is where young miniaturists can learn skills to make miniatures of their own and

become the craftsmen of the future. Entry tickets include a beautiful A4 catalogue listing full details of all the exhibitors and easy to follow floorplans. There is a free cloakroom to leave as many bags and coats as necessary. Our pop‑up cafe The Miniature Kitchen is open throughout the show, serving delicious homemade sandwiches and snacks, hot and cold drinks plus their famous hot dogs.’ Visit: www.dollshouseshowcase.com for full and up to date information regarding the events and ticket bookings. USA Events: Philadelphia Miniaturia — 5th, 6th & 7th November This three‑day event is the perfect opportunity for a mini‑break, in every sense of the word! Wishing our friends across the pond and show organiser Cathy Miller‑Vaughan every success with the return of this much‑loved event. For info and ticket bookings: www.philadelphiaminiaturia.com International Market of Miniature Artisans (IMoMA) – February 23rd – 27th 2022, Las Vegas, USA Visit: www.imomalv.com

Get in touch!

Do you have some mini news to share?

Shrunk.

kat@shrunkmagazine.com Or good old‑fashioned snail mail: Shrunk. Magazine, Unit 285, Regency House, 91 Western Road, Brighton, BN1 2NW, England, UK

Shrunk. Loves My Papercut Forest

here’s something so enchanting about papercut art and we absolutely fell in love with this new kit by My Papercut Forest.

Artist and owner Silvina creates each of her original designs from her Brighton‑based studio (hey, neighbour!). She uses high quality recycled paper in her intricate sculptures, greetings cards and kits as sustainability is one of the core values of her business. My Papercut

Forest offers a range of whimsical, miniature papercut products as well as personalisation options if you’re looking for something extra special. The new kit arrives in a lovely sealed box and includes everything you need to create this charming scene: mat, craft knife, extra blades, a big plastic dome, all the templates, some pre‑cut pieces, wire, florist tape, a practise sheet and an instruction booklet.

Kits are £49 complete with tools (there is the option to purchase with or without tools). Free shipping within the UK. And yes, to our overseas friends, My Papercut Forest does indeed ship internationally.

Kits are available to order via: www.mypapercutforest.co.uk Instagram: @mypapercutforest Shrunk.

Shrunk.

House Hunter Mini Modern Farmhouse

he simple yet versatile design of the new Mini Modern Farmhouse has huge appeal! While this 1:12 scale home has just two rooms, it still manages to ooze character from its wood beam detailing down to the sweet awning above the double door.

making it a very manageable size to work with. Meanwhile, the room dimensions are generous enough to properly display your miniatures. This is the ideal kit for someone just starting out with the hobby, as well as those with more experience but perhaps less space to store a new project!

It’s an original design from the creative minds of Jess and Robb, the duo behind American small business Jessica Cloe Miniatures; a name now synonymous in the miniature world with contemporary doll’s house interiors. The farmhouse is described as having “minimum footprint, maximum style”. Part of the enormous appeal of this little house is that, unlike many 1:12 scale options, it has a compact floorplan

The Mini Modern Farmhouse is available to purchase in three formats: kit, assembled or furnished. And great news for those of us residing across the pond, international shipping is available!

Order online at: www.jessicacloe.com Prices start from $250 (approx. £183) Shrunk.

Phillip Nuveen

An interview with Phillip Nuveen: The rise and rise of a full‑time artist, blurring the lines between fine miniatures and real‑world Haute Couture Words by Kat Picot Images by Phillip Nuveen

Shrunk.

Feature An interview with Phillip Nuveen

f you’ve been browsing online for modern miniatures at any point in the last eight years, then chances are you’re already familiar with the work of Phillip Nuveen.

Nuveen’s distinctive aesthetic combines monochrome colour palettes with pristine, glossy finishes a signature style that’s ever‑present through his impressive portfolio of commissions, personal projects and indeed his real‑life. Speaking from his New York City apartment and workshop, Nuveen says; ‘It’s just how my brain works. If you saw my living room you’d be like “Oh, he lives in one of his models!” It’s just who I am. At age nine I was making streets of boutiques out of Legos and they were all white. I wasn’t just the normal “Let’s put some stuff together” No, it has to all match and be beautiful. So that’s kind of the through‑line from my brain.’ Describing his high‑school identity as “the art geek”, Nuveen’s passion for creating lead him to study for a BFA in Visual Communications at Columbia, Chicago. During this time Nuveen enjoyed exploring a variety of mediums; exploring larger scale disciplines; creating paintings and designing items of clothing; graduating with a solid understanding and aptitude for design and print. These skills would later prove intrinsic to creating the pristine packaging and paperwork that he has become so well known for within the miniature community. 16

Shrunk.

When college ended, Nuveen took a leap and made the decision to move to New York City in search of new opportunities. It was during this next chapter that he would start to make models just for fun. After a day of retail shifts at the Apple store, he would spend evenings building small furniture items and little sofas and give them to friends. It was after a period of experimenting with scratch builds such as the iconic “Barcelona Chair” that Nuveen created his first mini house. Designing a night‑light of sorts, the project culminated in a 6ft tall tower. A high‑rise building based on a townhouse with multiple rooms. It was the piece that would kickstart a creative evolution for Nuveen as he began to really explore miniatures as an art form. While client commissions can see him creating across a whole spectrum of scales, for his own miniatures, Nuveen prefers to work to 1:12 scale as well as the odd 1:6 piece for play‑scale collectors. Personal projects showcase pristine, luxury interiors. This is where Nuveen truly channels his passion for great design and fine detail. The Chanel Boutique was a personal project. The hand‑built, abstract structure houses the most stunning miniature retail displays. Impossibly detailed, 1:12 designer outfits hang from clothes rails, while tiny shoes and handbags sparkle under bright, LED lights. Mannequin figures pose playfully in their outfits, taking center stage in the window display

A t age nine I was making streets of bout iq ues out of Legos and they were all white. I wasn’t just the normal “let’s pu t some stu ff together” whilst back inside another two are climbing ladders in their high‑heels and handbags. The figures embody so much character you almost don’t notice that they’re headless! Every angle and elevation of the model reveals further perfect, glossy detail. After encouragement from fellow miniature bloggers, Nuveen took the step of opening a miniatures store with online marketplace, Etsy. The name Phillip Nuveen rapidly became synonymous with contemporary miniatures. Drawing inspiration from the full‑sized world of high fashion and design, the store boasted an exciting range of perfectly executed designer handbags and iconic furniture pieces alongside Nuveen’s own original designs. Unsurprisingly, these items proved incredibly popular among collectors. Paired with an increasingly popular Instagram account showcasing his latest projects and prototypes, Nuveen soon began to secure freelance creative work from some

Shrunk.

Feature An interview with Phillip Nuveen

Previous page: Le Bureau Parisien – interior detail. A personal project This page: Pop Art Pill Sculpture, in situ at the Phillip Nuveen Gallery, and hand built miniature space Opposite page top to bottom: Designer Clothes Rack, an original item from the PN miniatures range, Architectural model of a contemporary office building, Settees and chairs original designs from the PN miniatures range

Shrunk.

of the globes most prestigious fashion and luxury brands who happened upon his work thanks to the social media platform. To date, Nuveen’s corporate portfolio reads as a Who’s Who of the fashion elite; from 1:6 pastel accessories for Vogue Italia; rows of paperwork boutiques playfully showcasing Chanel cosmetics, to exquisite Miu Miu handbags to name just a few. Another highlight includes creating artwork for fine jewellery house, Harry Winston. Of the second project he undertook for the brand, Nuveen says, ‘I love being in NYC; you get these crazy experiences. So, it’s the actual Harry Winston store in 5th Avenue, they have the whole building and I think Cartier is right across the street, and they were like, “Bring the artwork over, we’re just gonna shoot in Harry Winston’s old office!”.’ However, commercial success and increased visibility have proven to be something of a double‑edged sword for the artist. When so much inspiration comes from internationally recognised brands, you become easy to find. A blessing when the call comes from new clients wanting to commission you, less so when it’s a corporate lawyer who has mysteriously managed to track down your mobile number. After navigating nearly, a decade of what he describes as “playing cat and mouse” Nuveen is now well-versed in how to avoid or appease luxury brands taking a less favorable view of the miniature incarnations He describes how, most often, being discovered by a big brand that he’s emulated in

miniature goes one of two ways. If there’s a problem it’s usually because the item is for sale and will bring objections to the use of logos. He says, ‘They [corporate brands] hate it because it’s copyright infringement! I’ve been learning. I know now I probably shouldn’t put certain logos on because I’ll get into trouble, but yeah, I’ve been slapped on the wrist many, many times.’ On the other hand, pieces featured on Instagram, and most crucially, not for sale, are received very positively. Companies have even been known to reshare Nuveen’s images of miniaturized versions of their products across their branded social media accounts, demonstrating that there is an appreciation there, it just has to be on their terms. In an effort to strike the balance between staying out of trouble with the large fashion houses whilst still meeting the demand for mini‑Haute Couture, Nuveen has gone back to the drawing board with his pieces repeatedly

I’ve been learning. I know I probably shouldn’t pu t certain logos on because I’ll get in to trouble, bu t yeah, I’ve been slapp ed on the wrist many, many t imes Shrunk.

Feature An interview with Phillip Nuveen to “dilute” a design down enough that it’s no longer infringing on copyright, but still communicates a certain aesthetic. That’s proven to still not always be enough to stay off-radar. After over eight years of trading on Etsy, totting up over seven thousand sales, Nuveen’s storefront has closed. Welcoming a fresh chapter, at the time of writing Nuveen is building his brand new, stand‑alone miniatures store, set to

Shrunk.

open its virtual doors in September 2021. Carrying some favorites, as well as many new designs being added to the range of original pieces, production is in full swing. Currently all PN miniatures are created in his home workshop at his 5th floor apartment. Often working fourteen‑hour days, it’s clear to see the role that Nuveen’s tenacity and discipline have played in carving out this uniquely blended

career allowing the cross over of miniatures and real‑life design industry work. Championing the innovations afforded by 3D printing technology, Nuveen describes how even this slightly elevated level of production has played a part in making his miniatures a financially viable business that simply would not be achieved through crafting each piece from scratch. Whilst far

Opposite page: Chanel Boutique – A hand‑built structure paying homage to the high fashion and luxury retail spaces. This page top to bottom: Detail of Le Bureau Parisien, Detail from a Hermes inspired boutique Next page: Interior details from the Chanel Boutique

Shrunk.

Feature An interview with Phillip Nuveen

I’m just really thrilled tha t I’m able to do this for a living. I’m so gra te ful for tha t and tha t it’s going well! from being mass‑produced, being able to automate the production of components or indeed whole miniature pieces affords makers like Phillip valuable time when it comes to fulfilling customer orders. He says, ‘I look at my day, I’m up at 7 and in the workshop by 8. If an order has 4 items, I know it’s gonna take 2 hours because I know that task takes half an hour, this one takes twenty minutes, this takes another thirty minutes. You have to be really automated if you’re getting that flow of orders.’ 22

Shrunk.

You only need to spend a few minutes scrolling some of the hobby groups on platforms such as Facebook to see how passionate the discussion around 3D printing vs handcrafting can become! There is space and excellent merits for both; and whilst enjoying the efficiency and creative scope that comes with utilising newer technologies, Nuveen shares that in actual fact the tools he reaches for the most are still a metal ruler and craft knife. In fact, the clean, sharp lines of his own doll’s houses, such as the Chanel Boutique, are all hand‑cut. Usually created from a combination of base layers of foam‑core and plywood, Nuveen’s miniature structures display exacting precision, all channeling the pristine, high‑end aesthetic he has become known for. The original and highly‑stylised designs of his doll’s houses have proven just as popular with collectors as the

smaller, accessory and furniture items, however, there are space and logistics constraints that come with living in a walk‑up apartment. Nuveen shares that given more space, the range would ideally carry 10–15 houses, along with larger‑scale items. So, what’s next for the artist? The dream: a dedicated dual‑purpose workspace and miniatures boutique, ideally at street level so the courier can wheel right up to collect orders, no more wrestling giant boxes up and down the stairs! For now, he says; ‘I’m just really thrilled that I’m able to do this for a living. I’m so grateful for that and that it’s going well!’

To view more of Phillip Nuveen’s portfolio and shop the new collection visit: lmpn.shop Connect on Instagram: @phillipnuveen

Shrunk.

DIY: V anit y Table Is there anything more glamorous than a light‑up vanity? Build your own in 1:12 scale

By Wei

Ma terials

Tools

o Wood sheet, ¹⁄₁₆" thick

o Square brass tubing, ¹⁄₁₆" or ³⁄₃₂" in width

o Craft knife or scroll saw

o Cardstock

o Wood glue

o Multi‑surface glue o Sandpaper

o Acrylic paint

o Circular mirror — I used a circular one that is 1 ½" in diameter

Pencil

o Ruler

o Cutting mat

o Hand or powered drill with a 3mm (⅛") drill bit o Wire cutters

o Flat‑nose pliers o Paintbrush

o Copper foil tape

o 12 3mm LEDs — I used 12 for the size of the mirror I chose o Small switch

o 3V coin cell battery o Battery holder

o Strong tape or soldering iron and solder o Electrical wire

Connect with Wei online: www.honeythistle.com Instagram: @honeythistle Shrunk.

DIY Vanity Table Cut from wood

⇨ First, draw around your mirror onto the wood sheet with the pencil, then draw an outline ³⁄8" (10mm) out from the first outline. Draw a ¹⁄2" x ¹⁄4" box connected to this, for connecting the mirror to the vanity table. ⇨ Cut out the outline using a craft knife or scroll saw, then draw around it onto the wood sheet and cut out again so you have two of the same shapes. ⇨ For the vanity tabletop itself, cut the following shapes as in the diagram 1.

⇨ Glue the LEDs into the drilled holes and bend the positive wire towards the outer copper tape ring and the negative wire towards the inner copper tape ring. Some LEDs will have the positive and negative wires clearly marked, by colour or with one wire slightly longer than the other. A quick way to check if they are unmarked is by holding the coin cell battery in between the two wires. The top of the battery is positive, and the bottom is negative. ⇨ Cut each of the LED wires so they cross over the copper tape but do not stick out past it. Secure each wire with strong tape or solder in place. Either will work, although soldering may hold the wires in place more firmly.

Wire and assemble the mirror ⇨ Take one of the mirror outline pieces and mark where the 12 lights will go, then drill holes on all the marks.

⇨ Cut out a strip of cardstock ¹⁄4" in width and long enough to go around the wood mirror piece. Paint the cardstock the same colour as the two wood mirror pieces.

⇨ Paint both mirror pieces in an acrylic paint of your choice. ⇨ Create two parallel rings of copper tape on one side of the drilled piece, making sure the circles don’t touch. Leave a little gap in each ring and trail the ends toward the edge of the wood. Do not trim the copper tape — we’ll use it to connect the LEDs to the battery later.

⇨ Line up the two wood mirror outlines, sandwiching the copper tape and wiring in between. Glue the cardstock strip around the two wood pieces as an edging band. Leave the bottom edge open where the copper tape hangs out.

Diagram 1

¼"

1 ½"

x 1 table top

1 ⁷⁄16"

1 ½"

½" x 1 bottom edge

1¼" 3 ¼"

3 ¼"

⁵⁄16"

1 ³⁄8"

³⁄8"

x 1 front edge 3 ¼"

x 1 bottom slot

x 1 back edge 3 ⅛"

³⁄8"

Shrunk.

3 ¹⁄16"

B uild the table ⇨ Glue all the vanity table pieces together except the back edge and bottom slot. The back edge piece will be glued on later, and the bottom slot piece will be slotted at the end to allow the replacement of the battery. ⇨ Sand the edges of this box, then paint in any colour of your choice using acrylic paint. Paint the other two pieces in the same colour and let them dry. ⇨ Glue the wood mirror piece to the table box. It should fit into the ¹⁄4" cutout in the tabletop piece. ⇨ Insert the battery into the battery holder, then connect the battery holder and switch together by wrapping electronic wire around one of each of their legs using a pair of flat‑nosed pliers. Refer to the diagram 2 to see how the whole circuit is wired.

tI ’s at this point that I test the circuit to agure out how to wire and solder everything together. Sometimes the batery holder or switch may be marked with a + or - for which wires are positive or negative, but sometimes they’re not. The easiest way to agure this out is to agure out the batery holder on its own arst (with the batery inserted). Touch one end of the holder to one copper tape strip, and touch the other end to the other copper tape strip, and one orientation will light up the LEDs while the other won’t. Make a note of which way works. Then add the switch to the circuit and turn the switch on.

sU e the same testing method and make note of which orientation works. The switch I use has three wires poking out, and one of them is the grounding wire so that one was leA alone while the other two were atached to the circuit.

Diagram 2

switch

LEDs battery copper tape Diagram 3

1 ¾"

1 ¹⁄8"

1 ¾"

⇨ Take the hanging copper tape and continue taping it inside the table. Make sure the two strips don’t touch, and the way you tape it should accommodate the layout of the battery holder and switch. ⇨ Tape or solder down the battery and switch to the copper tape strips. If you choose to tape the connections, make sure there is direct contact between the wires and copper tape otherwise it will not work! ⇨ Glue the back edge piece to the tabletop, then insert the bottom slot piece.

Att ach the legs ⇨ Take the brass tubing and mark out where the corners of the legs will be. The measurements I used are shown in diagram 3. ⇨ Take the scroll saw and cut out a square corner at each of the corners, leaving only one side of the brass tubing uncut. ⇨ Bend the tubing gently to form right angles. Be gentle because the metal will break if it is bent too many times. ⇨ Attach the tubing to the bottom of the table using multi‑surface glue. To make the attachments extra sturdy, cut tiny square holes at the edges of the table bottom to insert the tubing into before gluing into place. Glue on the mirror and you’re done! Shrunk.

DIY Vanity Table — Illustrated Guide

Shrunk.

DIY: P aper Clay Macarons Have you ever seen a sweeter treat? Learn how to create these delicate desserts

By Esha Bijutkar

Ma terials

Tools

o White Air Dry Clay (I have used Sakura Paper Clay)

o Clay roller

o Acrylic Paint

o Needle Tools

o Gloss or Satin Glaze o Cling film

o Small circle cutters

o Paint Brush

o White PVA Glue o Water

Connect with Esha online: Instagram: @pinkpetitrose Shrunk.

DIY Paper Clay Macarons Colouring the clay Take a small amount of white air dry clay and use acrylic colours as per your choice to colour the clay. *Note: You do not need to use a lot of acrylic paint, it dries out air dry clay faster and would make the colour of the macarons darker. Do also keep in mind that as the clay dries and the water from the clay evaporates. The final colour of the clay will turn a bit darker as it dries. Test with a few sample pieces to be sure.

Colour P ale tte Brown Macarons White clay + Raw sienna + Tiny bit of Burnt Umber + A dot of black Green Macaron White Clay + Sap green + Tiny bit of Burnt Umber + A dot of black Lemon Yellow Macaron White Clay + Tiny bit of Chrome yellow + A dot of black Lavender Macaron White Clay + Tiny bit of Cadmium red and Persian blue + A dot of black Mustard Yellow Macaron White Clay + Chrome yellow + Raw sienna Dusty Pink Macaron White Clay + Tiny bit of Cadmium Red + A dot of black Pink Marbled Macaron White Clay + Tiny bit of Cadmium Red. Mix and knead a little to create a marbled effect

Cutt ing the macaron shells Take your desired colour of clay and roll it into a thin sheet. I have rolled mine into a thickness of 0.15cm. Use a circle cutter of the size you want your macaron shell to be to cut circles from the clay. I have used an old paintbrush head as a circle cutter, but a drinking straw would work too. You’ll need to make two shells for one macaron. o Tip — Covering the clay with a piece of cling film and then cutting the circles gives the circles an 34

Shrunk.

instant dome shape! It is easier than cutting the circles and then sculpting the circles into a dome shape. o The width of my finished macaron is approx. 0.6cm and the height is 0.35cm. (These are slightly on the larger side).

Transfer the macaron shells Transfer your macaron shells to a flat working surface where you can sculpt. You can use a tiny dot of water to make the clay stick to your surface so that it doesn’t move whilst sculpting. Apply some water using a paintbrush on the edges of the macaron shell.

Adding texture

dry out. Check your clay manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on how long your clay usually requires. Your macaron is done!

Maker Musings ❤ If you want to make the macaron look as if it has been eaten or pressed so it has a cracked surface, here is a tip: o Apply gloss glaze on the macaron shell while the clay is still soft and hasn’t fully dried. Wait until the glaze fully dries and the clay is dry to touch but soft from the inside. Gently try removing or peeling the macaron shell from the surface. Whilst you do that, the top glaze layer being fragile will naturally crack as the clay underneath is still soft and you will get natural‑looking cracks on the macaron!

Using a needle tool, gently make holes on the bottom part of the shell to make the macaron feet. For a more realistic look, make holes and drag the clay a bit as you go along the circumference of the macaron, all around it. Using a needle tool again, gently tuck the lower edge of the macaron shell inside. A classic macaron has feet rising upward and not outward, so tucking the outward edges in will make it look neat and classic.

Making the macaron filling To make the cream that goes in between the macaron, roll out a sheet of clay a bit thinner than the sheet rolled for the macaron shells. Using a circle cutter smaller than the first one, cut out one circle for the cream.

Assemble the macarons After the macaron shells have dried, gently remove them from the surface. Using white PVA glue, stick the cream filling circle in between the two macaron shells and press both shells slightly so that the cream circle sticks better and oozes slightly from the sides.

Glaze to finish Finish your macaron by glazing the shells using a gloss glaze on both sides. Leave the macarons to thoroughly Shrunk.

DIY Paper Clay Macarons — Illustrated Guide

Shrunk.

Shrunk. goes digital

Shrunk. magazine is now available to purchase via Issuu.com Download the app for a seamless viewing experience. Connect with makers and retailers with just one tap of the page.

issuu.com/shrunk Shrunk.

Dirty Rotten Doll’s Houses Technique: Marble Paint Effect

A realistic marble effect to take your projects to the next level By Beth Krum

This painting technique is wonderful for upcycling a piece of old furniture, creating extra detail in a fireplace surround, making a bespoke backsplash for your kitchen, or a multitude of other uses — the sky is the limit!

Ma terials o Item for upcycling

o Acrylic paint — Black, White, Grey o Flat plastic dish

o Small round paint brush paintbrushes o Small wide paint brush o Resealable bottle o Pigeon feather

o Water spray bottle

First layer If you are starting with a white surface such as an ornate resin fireplace, you can skip this step. ⇨ Start by painting the surface you want to marble with two thin coats of white acrylic paint. Make sure the surface of your item is well‑covered with the paint, with none of the original colour showing through. ⇨ Once the paint is dry, you can give it a light sanding to eliminate any raised wood grain or paint lumps, all the while ensuring you are left with an even white surface. Don’t forget to paint any sides, for example, here, the tabletop would be a circular slab of marble in real life, so I painted the sides too.

o Gloss or matt spray sealant

Applying the marble “veins”

o Sandpaper

Once you are happy with the coverage of white paint on your item, you can start the first layer of marble effect.

o Kitchen roll

o Sharp scissors 38

Shrunk.

Maker Musings ❤ If you choose to mix your own paint colours, I’d advise saving it after your project in a small bottle. That way, if you want to repeat your technique with the same colours, you will have the exact mix to work with again.

Connect with Beth Krum online: www.myminimaison.etsy.com Instagram: @myminimaisoninsta Shrunk.

Dirty Rotten Doll’s Houses Marble Paint Effect

⇨ Very lightly spray your item with your fine water spray from a distance. ⇨ Spread some grey paint onto your flat plastic surface and using the side of your feather, gently touch the feather into the paint. ⇨ Lightly touch your project item with the side of the paint‑loaded feather, with a very soft stamping gesture. Do not try to “paint” with the feather, or drag the feather, just touch the feather very gently and softly on the surface. Don’t forget to make marble veins in the same way on the sides of your project, too. ⇨ Depending on the type of marble veins you want to achieve, you can apply the paint in diagonal lines, adding cross sections randomly.

Blending the veins Your project should have a good number of lines, some slightly thicker than others. Now you can blur some of them to get the effect of wider marble veins. ⇨ To do this take your small paint brush and snip the end off straight with a sharp pair of scissors. ⇨ Lightly spray your piece again from a distance, and at right angles to your piece, dab the end of your “doctored” paint brush along the lines you want to blend. Leave some of the thinner lines as they are — variation is key when it comes to marbling. ⇨ While the paint lines are still lightly dampened, you can dab the surface of your project very gently with some kitchen paper. 40

Shrunk.

⇨ At this point, you can choose to do the whole process again with the same paint colour, or you can add more feather lines with black paint if you want variation in the vein colours. For my tabletop, I chose to only add a couple of very thin lines of black paint.

Layering the marble e ffec t The second part of the marbling process is very simple. ⇨ Wait until your first layer of marble vein is completely dry, then spray your piece very lightly from a distance with a matt‑effect sealer. ⇨ Leave to dry and then paint over your project with a white acrylic wash. I used one part paint to one part water for this, but you can adjust this mix depending on how vividly you want your marbling veins to show through.

Third layer (op t ional) This step is a matter of preference. If you are happy with the look of your project at this point, then you can do a final seal using either a matt sealer spray or a gloss sealer spray (depending on the final effect you are looking for) and then your project is complete. If you would like more veining detail, you can repeat the feather step again followed by the white paint wash, finishing with a sealant of your choice.

⇨

Below is an example of a piece that could be used for a fireplace insert.

Shrunk.

Miniatures of the Future A Brief Introduction to 3D Printing Written and edited by Amanda Kelly & Briana Sepúlveda from Panda Miniatures

here is a common misconception that 3D printers are intelligent machines. Although their purpose is a remarkable advancement in modern technology, it’s the miniaturist who operates the machine that holds the intelligence. Like building a miniature from scratch, a digital designer must have patience, an eye for detail, and an understanding of scale in order to create adequately sized miniatures.

The digital workspace is very similar to that of your typical work desk; there is a controlled perimeter on the surface (the ‘X’ and ‘Y’ axis) and space allowance

to build up vertically (the ‘Z’ axis). So much time is saved by designing miniatures digitally because measurements and error corrections can be done at the click of a mouse! There are no wasted crafting materials, and failed prints can be recycled for future projects. While your 3D printers are physically building your creations (which may take hours depending on complexity), you have some time at your leisure to work on unfinished projects or more digital creations. 3D printing can be such a beneficial and essential tool in any miniaturist’s studio. 3D printing, also known as “additive manufacturing”, is the process of creating a physical object from a

Like building a minia ture from scra tch, a digital designer must have pa t ience, an eye for de tail, and an underst anding of scale in order to crea te adeq ua tely sized minia tures

This page: 1:12th scale mini 3D printer printed on an FDM 3D printer

Shrunk.

digital three‑dimensional model. The origins of modern 3D printing can be traced back to 1981 in Japan where the process of adding material layer‑by‑layer with resin was first documented. This process wasn’t patented until 1986 by an American furniture builder who coined it Stereolithography (SLA), with the first commercial SLA printer being released two years later. During this time, other printing methods were also being produced such as Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). Instead of UV light and resin, FDM printing uses heated nozzles and plastics. In 2009, the patents that were filed in the 1980s expired, which allowed 3D

printing to become more affordable and accessible to the general public. In the past decade, 3D printing has advanced quite a bit with manufacturers printing parts with metal and the medical field even printing human tissue. However, the two most commonly used at‑home printers are SLA (resin) and FDM (plastic). Commercially available SLA printers use a chemical process by which ultraviolet (UV) light shines through a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen that solidifies photopolymer resin into a 3D shape. Since this process takes place in a vat full of liquid resin, your miniature will be printed

upside down and lifted out from the vat when it’s finished. Resin is a hazardous chemical and needs to be handled safely with proper ventilation and the use of a mask and nitrile gloves. Your print will also require post‑processing which includes a careful rinse in Isopropyl Alcohol, the removal of support materials, and a final cure under a UV lamp. Once cured, you can handle your creation safely and sand away any imperfections before painting. You can buy resin in many opaque and translucent colours, or you can use resin dyes to make your own custom shades. Resin printing is more precise, prints at a higher resolution, and is perfect for highly

Above: 1:12th scale key printed on a resin 3D printer Opposite: 1:12th scale hoarder’s porch with resin 3D printed bottles, cans and ashtray

Shrunk.

Feature Miniatures of the Future

detailed miniatures, especially in smaller scales. Examples of resin printed miniatures include 1:12th scale house keys, 1:24th scale chess pieces and 1:144th scale furniture. FDM printing is significantly different in that it uses a continuous filament that is fed from a spool through a moving, heated extruder head and is deposited from above in layers on a warm build plate. FDM prints are created through the aid of gravity and are ready to handle as soon as they’re finished printing. You can also sand and paint your FDM creation as you would with post‑processed SLA prints. Plastic FDM filament comes in a vast array of colours and types. For example, wood filament contains wood fibres which means prints can be sanded and stained like real wood. There are also carbon fibre, glow‑in‑the‑dark and flexible filaments. FDM printers are ideal for larger prints such as basic dollhouse furniture, windows, and other structural materials. 46

Shrunk.

I previously mentioned the ‘X’, ‘Y’ and ‘Z’ axes that are available in your digital workspace, but how do you actually start designing 3D models? There are many different browser‑based modelling programs that have an easy learning curve like TinkerCAD or Sketchup. There are also more advanced modelling softwares such as Blender or Fusion 360. These programs allow you to design miniatures of your own from scratch. Alternatively, you can download other artists’ creations through model sites like Thingiverse or MyMiniFactory. When you download a model created by someone else, you may be limited to the design parameters and would not be allowed to sell the miniature depending on its copyright license (make sure to read the fine print before downloading!). After creating your 3D design in your digital workspace, it must undergo a series of exports, settings adjustments (scaling, rotating, etc.) and the addition of supports before finally

reaching the 3D printer. A great way to learn more about the entire process is by getting stuck into YouTube tutorials, online forums, classes, and Facebook groups. It’s also important to read through online reviews from other creators before determining which 3D printer is right for you and the miniatures you want to create. For decades, there have been many advancements in miniature‑making through the use of smart technology like ink‑jet printers, smart cutting machines, and laser cutters. 3D printers are yet another tool for miniaturists to utilize when designing tiny creations. Some miniatures (especially modern ones) are not always available for purchase in dollhouse shops or online. 3D printers grant miniaturists the creative flexibility to make anything in miniature with professional‑grade details, scale, and functionality. Once you’ve mastered 3D printing, the possibilities are endless!

Opposite page left to right: 1:12th scale personal massager, mug and bong printed on a resin 3D printer This page right: 1:12th scale virtual teacher desk designed in TinkerCAD and printed via resin or plastic 3D printing (excluding paper items) This page below: 1:144th scale cat tree printed on a resin 3D printer

Check out my curated Amazon supply lists to get started in your 3D printed miniature journey: SLA Resin Printer supplies: www.tinyurl.com/pandaresin FDM Printer Supplies: www.tinyurl.com/pandafdm Shop Panda Miniatures at www.pandaminiatures.com

Shrunk.

Feature A Fashion Moment

A Fashion Moment: When you find the perfect shoe and get a pair in every colour

Peep Toe Stiletto Shoes — Metallic Blue or Black with Red Soles. £23.00 each Stilleto Shoes — Gold, Hot Pink & Rose. £23 each Shoe Box (empty). £2.20 Shoe Box Carrier Bag (empty). £1.50 Fashionista Dress Form Box (empty). £1.20

All available from www.shepherdminiatures.com 48

Shrunk.

All the stiletto shoes pictured have been 3D modelled by Shepherd Miniatures and meticulously hand‑finished Measuring in at 15mm from toe to heel the shoes are 1:12 equivalent of a UK size 6

Shrunk.

Feature Photography 101

Photographing Your Minis Documenting projects on social media or capturing products to sell online; the key to great photos might already be sitting in your pocket

or many of us, a lot of the joy of creating our doll’s house interiors or diorama scenes comes from being able to share the project with others, often via social media apps such as Instagram or offering items to sell online. Online platforms play an invaluable role in connecting hobbyists from all over the world. Whether you’re creating for the enjoyment of it or running a small business, good quality images have never been more important to make your work truly stand out.

If you’re wondering where to begin or perhaps just want to polish up your current photography game, here are five ideas we recommend trying out to put your minis in the spotlight.

Get to know your smartphone No fancy camera? No problem. So many phones now come with integrated cameras, good ones at that. In fact, the size of a phone really lends itself to getting up close and personal with doll’s house interiors in particular. Have fun experimenting with angles and shots that a larger, traditional camera just wouldn’t be able to reach. A personal fave here at Shrunk. is peeping through doorways or down and around tiny stairwells, putting the viewer literally inside the doll’s house. Fun, right?!

Shrunk.

While taking a fan tast ic pho to to begin with can be hal f the ba ttle, the e ffec ts tha t you can achieve using various app s and software are pre tt y magical

Mobile photography is incredibly popular and there are many free resources to be found online. Just start searching for tutorials that relate to your specific model of phone and see what there is to know about your existing camera capabilities and features.

Get focused Smartphone lenses can be so much fun. Why not try experimenting with some new effects? There are some inexpensive options available that easily slot in front of your phone’s existing camera lens. Try a macro if you’re looking to capture very fine details, or perhaps a wide‑angle lens if you’re looking to preserve depth of field and take pulled out shots; an entire doll’s house in situ, for example. There are hundreds of options available, depending on your budget and desired effect.

Let there be light Achieving the perfect lighting to photograph your miniatures isn’t always easy. If you have time constraints that mean you can’t always shoot during prime daylight hours, investing in some sort of lighting doesn’t have to break the bank. Once again, there are options that can attach directly to your phone or, if you’d like something a bit more substantial, a table‑top ring light is a great way to brighten things up.

Create a mini studio If you’re regularly photographing small items to sell, then a small lightbox could be a worthwhile investment. We’ve tried and tested the pop‑up style boxes with integrated LED and found them to be super effective. Many of them come with free background boards which is great to get you started and good for consistency throughout your images. It’s also very easy to add your own customizable backgrounds into pop‑up light boxes for a more bespoke approach. Alternatively, it’s simple enough to create a makeshift lightbox yourself using

white foamboards or card. You will still need access to a light source, unless you’re lucky enough to be using a consistently, naturally, well‑lit space!

Editing your images You don’t need to be an expert Photoshop user or have access to a desktop computer to be able to create effective photo edits. While taking a fantastic photo to begin with can be half the battle, the effects that you can achieve using various apps and software are pretty magical. If you’re not confident editing with more complex image settings, you can simply add a pre‑made filter to achieve your desired look. Maybe you just want to brighten up an image or prefer to make a more dramatic transformation to communicate your business branding and aesthetic? Your phone’s own image editing options may already offer the features you want. If not, then there are many photo editing apps available. Some of our favourites include: A Color Story: Easy to use and designed by blogging sensation A Beautiful Mess, many of the features and effects are developed with content creators and lifestyle subjects in mind. The option to combine filters means you can experiment to your heart’s content and save your favourites for consistency. VSCO: First launched nearly a decade ago, VSCO is one of the OG photo editing apps. Offering a range of pre‑sets and effects, there is also in‑app purchases and video editing functionality. The app is free, but you may be prompted to create an account in order to use it. Photoshop Express Photo Editor: The lite version of Adobe Photoshop, the app is, again, free with options to purchase specific features later. Features include selective editing, removing red‑eye (not so much an issue when photographing miniatures but handy to have!) and a range of filters. Got some mini photography tips you’d love to share? Let us know at kat@shrunkmagazine.com Shrunk.

Image credit: Rachel Boxall‑Lawrence, The Dorothy Days

Shrunk.

arker ca P c e

Monetising Your Makes Are you thinking of selling your handmade items this Autumn? We hear from some experienced small business owners on how to prepare your small business in the run‑up to the festive season

et you’ve heard that enthusiastic refrain before: ‘Ooh, you should sell these!’ Perhaps you’re already building your tiny empire or contemplating selling online. But what does it take to make a success of selling handmade minis? Let’s find out how to kick things into high gear, and why right now is the right time to go for it.

‘We prepare all year for the autumn/ winter season,’ explains Rachel Boxall‑Lawrence of The Dorothy Days, ‘and can make a month’s worth of sales in a day during the lead up to Christmas!’ Rachel leads the Dorset Etsy team, organising events as well as running her own online store on the platform. She understands the value this corner of the calendar holds for small businesses. ‘Often, customers who have come to us for a Christmas gift will return to shop for themselves, or other occasions, and become long‑term customers.’

‘Tis the season

Connecting online

Christmas isn’t the only C word that plays into the season’s power, though. There’s craft and cosiness.

It’s an opportunity that’s too good to miss. So how do we get a slice of that pie?

Dwindling daylight hours have many of us curling up indoors again, rediscovering beloved creative hobbies. Then we’re stocking up on supplies and starting new projects while looking out for gift ideas. Let’s face it, sweater weather season is where the retail heat is.

Miniature seller Kathryn Watson’s Oh Sew Rosie business is thriving online, and she adores the freedom and scope it offers. ‘Customers anywhere in the world can buy from me and I love sending my miniatures across the globe. The Liberty print fabrics I use are very popular with the American market in particular.’ At the heart of it is connection, because selling handmade is the overflow of a creative passion. ‘A presence on Instagram and online marketplaces helps me connect with other dollhouse enthusiasts and the miniature‑making community,’ shares Kathryn. ‘I love chatting all things handmade, cute and tiny!’

Zoom further out again and you realise it’s coinciding with the wider cultural shift in shopping habits. ‘It’s hard to ignore the movement for gift‑buying away from Amazon and the big brands,’ says Ruth Southorn, Etsy coach at Swallowtail Social. ‘The popularity of hand‑crafted, artisan items, and the importance to buyers of supporting independent businesses with known provenance, are sky‑rocketing. I think the pandemic has accelerated the online trend and buyers’ confidence levels.’

Ruth’s in complete agreement. Alongside coaching, she also sells online. ‘Building those human connections and growing the Shrunk.

Feature Monetising Your Makes

A t the heart of it is connec t ion, because selling handmade is the overflow of a crea t ive passion understanding of someone deeply interested in handcrafted items… doing it all virtually, has been transformational for my business!’ For her, selling online is ‘how makers can reach a far wider audience than being reliant on a bricks‑and‑mortar presence.’ Using an established online marketplace like Etsy is a wonderful place to start. The e‑commerce functions are already in place so you can focus on showcasing what you do best. For Rachel, preparation is vital: ‘Clear, well‑lit product photography and a thought‑out selection of products is key so it feels cohesive, consistent and professional. You want to be able to offer great service from the start. Make sure you have everything ready so when the sales roll in you’re ready to make, package and ship!’

Working smarter Once you’re happy with what you offer, the next step is getting more eyes on your creations. Strong SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is the gateway. ‘I’d recommend checking out YouTube 54

Shrunk.

videos to learn how to set up your shop and listings in the best way for Etsy SEO,’ advises Kathryn. ‘It’s about using the best keywords to be seen at the top of the search pages.’ This is an area Ruth’s hot on too, whether you’re new to the game or a dab hand. ‘The hurdle to be conscious of is not evolving your business once you’ve started,’ she says. ‘Keep developing your SEO. It’s vital for any seller to improve the way their listings are displayed when a customer searches. Any change to your shop or new listing will take weeks to bed in. Working on it now, over September and early October, is how sellers can make sure they’re not left behind during the Christmas peak.’ Any seller will tell you that the festive rush can be hectic. Kathryn’s on a mission to simplify her processes this year. ‘Find ways to save time on the admin and logistics side to free up time for making,’ she urges. ‘For example, I wish I’d used the Post Office Drop and Go service much sooner. Queuing at Christmas with bags of parcels and a baby in tow was not fun or festive! I’ve tried to forecast how many of each product I may sell over the last quarter, and started making stock and buying in advance the materials I need.’ Flexibility, originality and putting yourself in your shoppers’ shoes will keep things moving. “Think like a customer,” is Rachel’s word to the wise. ‘They can’t pick up your products like at events, so use your photos and descriptions to answer questions they might have. Show the product from different angles, highlight its key features and what makes it really special and

unique.’ Rachel advises leaning into what makes your heart sing above all else. ‘If you love doing it and feel passionate about it, that’ll shine through in your shop and make the day‑to‑day running so much easier and worth getting out of bed in the morning for!’

The human element Events are an amazing way to share your passion. Markets and craft fairs are high on most people’s festive bucket lists, but 2021’s events are set to be particularly meaningful. After the prolonged months of restrictions we’ve all lived through, there’s a longing in the air for community and in‑person experiences like never before. While she sells primarily online, Ruth understands the joy and significance of events as opportunities ‘to make a genuine connection with buyers and for people to be able to pick up and really understand your makes.’ When it comes to the stand itself, you’ll want to balance standing out with a customer‑ready approach. ‘Having a really eye‑catching display is so important,’ shares Rachel, ‘and having clear labels and pricing. You want your stall to be on‑brand so if someone looks up your shop online (take lots of business cards — people often buy just after the event), it’s consistent with what they saw in person.’ Bold is the aim. Rachel recommends making the most use of the space under your table for storage. ‘Less is more! Add height to get more products

Image Credit: Oh Sew Rosie

on your stall without the cluttered feel. It helps if the event gets busy too as you can see your work from afar.’ And beforehand? ‘Prepare as much as you can in advance. Make sure you have plenty of stock ready and let your customers know you’ll be selling at the event. People love coming along and meeting you in person. Do a test run of your stall before the event to see how it looks. Take a photo of it for reference so, on the day, you can easily put together your stall and know exactly where you want everything.’ There’s value to in‑person selling that stretches beyond the immediately monetary. For Rachel, it’s a space for conversations. ‘I enjoy the sense of community, chatting

Image Credit: Rachel Boxall‑Lawrence, The Dorothy Days

to fellow creatives, finding out about their work and meeting like‑minded people. It’s inspiring and people are so supportive of one another. I love that you get to speak directly to customers and get instant feedback. This is useful for new launches and planning future product ranges. Some products have come to be from chatting to customers on the stall about what they’d love to see next!’ Are you fired up and feeling equipped to sell handmade? Over and above cashing in on a trend or turning a profit from your skills, the glowing truth is this: handmade can only be done well with your whole heart. The ticket to thriving and surviving as a miniature seller lies where

passion and connection unite. Kathryn’s business is guided by a simple rule: ‘Find your own unique style, stick to it and do what you love. The passion you have will shine through and the sales will come.’

Connect with Rachel of The Dorothy Days; www.thedorothydays.etsy.com Follow Ruth Southorn on Instagram; @Swallowtail_Social Find Kathryn of Oh Sew Rosie; www.ohsewrosie.co.uk Shrunk.

30 Minute Make Polymer Clay Pumpkins

The humble pumpkin. Perhaps a little predictable for the Autumn issue? Yes. Are we obsessed and making hundreds of them regardless? Also Yes.

Real pumpkins and squash grow in such a wide range of colours, shapes and sizes so the scope to just experiment and not worry about a “perfect” outcome makes for a low‑stakes, seasonal mini‑project. This is a great project for practising polymer clay techniques and using up scraps of clay that may otherwise go to waste.

Ma terials o Polymer clay — Here we used Fimo in a range or rose, orange, yellow and white o A clean work surface o Cocktail stick o A ceramic tile

o Balling tool (optional) o Acrylic paint

o Small paintbrush

Condit ion the clay Take the time to properly condition your clay, kneading and rolling it until it reaches a soft, mouldable 56

Shrunk.

consistency that’s easy to work with. If you’re using up clay scraps this may take a few more minutes if the clay has dried out a little.

D ivide the clay Divide your clay into sections, these can be any size you desire. As a guide, for the larger, pale pumpkins pictured here, we began with sections measuring between 3–5cms.

To add the stalks, take a small piece of your scrap clay and roughly shape into a conical shape. Using the sharp tip of the cocktail stick attach the stalk into the indent at the top of you pumpkin. Use the cocktail stick to add some texture to the stalk. Bake your pumpkins according to the clay manufacterers instructions.

Roll each section into a ball shape. It doesn’t need to be perfectly round. Leave a scrap of clay to the side to model your stalks from later.

Finishing touches

S culp t your pumpkin

Here we used brown paint to shade the stalks and add a very light wash on the pumpkin surface to highlight sculpted details. Leave to dry thoroughly.

Gently press the top of your pumpkin to make a slight indent, this is done easily with your fingertips or you can use a small balling tool. Using a gentle rocking motion, lightly press the length of the cocktail stick to create subtle indents around the edge of the pumpkin. Transfer the pumpkins to your ceramic tile and add any further detail.

Once the pumpkins are baked and cooled, use acrylic paint to add finer details and shading.

Your seasonal minis are now ready to display.

Shrunk.

Issue Four Suppliers

Spotted something you love? Here are all the retailers featured inside the issue.

Astrid Wilk Studio www.etsy.com/shop/AstridWilkStudio

Panda Miniatures www.pandaminiatures.com

Delph Miniatures www.delphminiatures.co.uk

Philadelphia Miniaturia www.philadelphiaminiaturia.com

Itty Bitty Mini Mart www.ittybittyminimart.com

Phillip Nuveen www.phillipnuveen.com

Jessica Cloe Miniatures www.jessicacloe.com

Shepherd Miniatures www.shepherdminiatures.com

London Doll’s House Showcase www.dollshouseshowcase.com

Suite City Woman www.etsy.com/ca/shop/SuiteCityWoman

My Mini Maison www.etsy.com/shop/myminimaison

Tiny Universe Miniatures www.tinyuniverseminis.com

My Papercut Forest www.mypapercutforest.co.uk

Tiny Workbench www.tinyworkbench.co.uk

And of course, we couldn’t forget the mini mag! Tag us so we can see yours #myminishrunk

Shrunk.

⇨

Cooee... Your ad could be here To discuss rates and opportunities, email: kat@shrunkmagazine.com

www.shrunkmagazine.com

www.shrunkmagazine.com Independently produced in Brighton, England