Auction catalogs have frequently been a source of inspiration for me. A couple of years ago, in a toy auction catalog, I found photos of old
Erzgebirge village sets, complete with tiny trees and their original chip-wood boxes and wondered how hard it would be to make something like that in 1/12 scale.
I looked on-line for more photos and eventually bought a set of
vintage buildings and trees on E-bay. With some actual pieces in my hands, I started digging around in my bag of wood scraps. With a scrap of basswood stock wedged in my mitre box I was able to use my handsaw to cut a decent roof line. Basic
craft paints worked to give them color, and another small piece of wood served as a ‘stamp’ to add window and door blocks of color to the basic shapes. A fine paintbrush added window and door frames and mullions. Not easily.
My little buildings still seemed to be lacking something, so, using light card stock, painted, I cut roof panels to overhang the edges just slightly.
I experimented with churches and barns and even tried trees shaved from a toothpick. The ‘chip-board boxes were made from card stock and brown paper.
I love the little ‘little village’ you created. Not only is it fun for Christmas, it can spread into January and February as well. Always good to have extended seasonal decor!