INSTRUCTOR: Diane Almeyda, Artisan
COURSE: Metal/Glass Enamel
PROJECT: Stained Glass Dome Shaped Ceiling or Wall Light
“Light it UP!” What room doesn’t look better with lighting? Whether lit or not, lamps add reality, color, and life to miniature settings. Create a lovely stained glass ceiling light using silver and real glass. The class will involve forming a design with thin ribbons of silver, using a high temperature torch to solder the wires together, then forming it into a slight dome. Ground glass (enamel) will then be melted into each of the openings creating a lovely and unique shade. This can be illuminated with a battery or wired directly to a ceiling/ wall in your room box, vignette, or dollhouse.
Students will learn how to use high temperature silver solder with a torch, as well as how to prepare enamels for melting in a kiln. An LED light disc will be provided to illuminate the shade. A selection of different colored enamels will be available so everyone’s individuality shines.
Students should have very good vision (magnification recommended) and good use of their hands in manipulating small parts.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: Acetylene torch, kiln, flex shaft
SKILL LEVEL: All levels
MATERIALS FEE: $125 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Morgen Bearse, Artisan
COURSE: Flowers
PROJECT: A Basket of Lavender Parrot Tulips
Dive into the delicate world of miniature flowers! In this class, students will use Japanese Crepe Paper to craft a charming basket overflowing with 1:12 scale soft lavender tulips.
The instructor will teach the techniques that bring miniature flowers to life—from precise cutting and shaping to layering petals for depth and realism. Students will learn to create the lush greenery that frames and elevates the blooms, and will discover subtle finishing touches to make the tulips come to life. During class, students may complete a bouquet of up to a dozen parrot tulips, depending on the speed at which they work. The instructor will give each student a handmade basket in which to display the finished tulips.
This class is perfect for beginners, seasoned crafters exploring miniature flowers for the first time, and advanced artisans looking to add another flower or expand their skill set. Students of all levels will go home having learned something new and with the skills to continue creating captivating floral arrangements at home.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: None
SKILL LEVEL: All levels
MATERIALS FEE: $50 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Barbara Brear, Fellow
COURSE: Book Binding
PROJECT: Character Trapped in a Book
in a Matching Clamshell Box
Books are an essential part of so many miniature settings and this special book could go in any setting that is spooky or simply eccentric.
The book is an original story written at the instructor’s request by Wanna in El Paso, to accompany the cover that was already designed and created. The book is fully printed and will be sewn in class. The book has a face that appears to be trying to escape the confines of the book. The super-thin black leather cover allows the face to seem to emerge from the book. The end papers will be black and white marbled paper designed by Jemma Marbling.
After completing the book, students will learn how to make a clamshell box to hold the book. This box will be covered with the same black and white marbled paper as is used in the book and lined with black leather. This type of box has many potential uses, and its method of construction is a skill that students can use at home.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: None
SKILL LEVEL: All Levels. Although previous book-binding experience is not necessary, the ability to follow instructions is all that is required for success. A steady hand, extra light and good eyesight (or good glasses) will make life easier.
MATERIALS FEE: $40 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Alexandra Cantatore, Artisan
COURSE: Mixed Media
PROJECT: Old Wooden Crate and Forgotten Treasures
Have you ever explored an attic and discovered an old wooden crate full of long-forgotten objects and treasures that bring back memories of grandparents or moments of the past? This project is inspired by memories like those. Students will build an old wooden crate filled with small objects: candlesticks, a paint can, paint brushes, watering-can, a wooden box of old kitchen utensils, and letters and notebooks.
In this class, students will transform and customize wood, modeling sheet metal, and small metal hardware to bring unique objects—objects that tell a story—to life. During the class, each element will be customized and incorporated into a composition that reflects each student’s taste and sensibility. The goal will not simply be to reproduce objects, but to create an atmosphere of a bygone era, and a project made up of memories, details, and small signs of the passage of time. By the end of the class, each student will have created their own crate as a unique and personal composition.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: None
SKILL LEVEL: All levels
MATERIALS FEE: $55 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Linda den Besten, Artisan
COURSE: Metal and Wood
PROJECT: Telescope on Tripod
In this (mostly) metalworking class students will build a telescope on tripod legs from scratch. The style of telescope is representative, rather than a reproduction of a specific item, and is suitable for a range of interiors, from the contemporary to the historic.
During construction students will develop a wide range of useful skills: using calipers for measuring, marking, sawing, filing, sanding, drilling, milling, threading tube and rod, knurling, soldering with a torch, and much more! The instructor has developed jigs that will assist students when building the telescope, and will provide instruction on the use of power tools throughout the class.
The lathe will not be used for actual turning, but for threading, knurling, and finishing the different pieces of the telescope. A totally different way of using the lathe! Students will use a milling machine to make the wooden adjustable legs. They will also make tiny brass bolts to hold the legs (and the telescope) in position.
This is an ideal class for students who want to learn more about working with metal and/or using different kinds of (specific) power tools. It will be a demanding class with a fairly high pace, but…demanding work pays off!
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely, but a steady work pace is necessary.
POWER TOOLS: Metal lathe, milling machine, drill press, flex shaft
SKILL LEVEL: All Levels. Some experience with the jeweler’s saw and torch firing is very helpful.
MATERIALS FEE: $90 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Christine Hannon, Fellow
COURSE: Acrylic Painting
PROJECT: Tea Time by Richard Edward Miller (1911)
In this class, students will use professional-grade acrylics and glazing mediums to recreate the impressionist garden scene in the painting, Tea-Time, complete with a lovely figure. Following the under-painting technique used by Richard E. Miller, a member of the Giverny Colony of American Impressionists, students will focus on capturing this early 20th century painting’s style and color palette. Art history, materials, brushwork, color mixing, and methods for design transfer will be covered, giving the student the tools to continue painting minimasterpieces on their own. The completed 3" x 2.5" painting will be finished with a gilded custom wood frame.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: None
SKILL LEVEL: All Levels. A steady hand and the ability to see subtle colors will be helpful. Students will receive emails in early spring so they can practice color mixing prior to the class, and can explore art history relevant to the class.
MATERIALS FEE: $130 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Phyllis Hawkes, Fellow
COURSE: Oil Painting
PROJECT: Full Sail at Sunset by Edward Moran (1870)
Edward Moran (1829-1901) was a renowned Englishborn American maritime painter known for his dramatic scenes of ships, naval battles, and coastal landscapes. As a prominent 19th-century artist, he specialized in capturing the “sublime beauty” of the sea. Influenced by J.M.W. Turner, his works were characterized by masterful handling of light, atmosphere, and complex compositions of ships in various weather conditions.
In this class students will learn traditional oil painting techniques, including layering, glazing, brush handling, color mixing, shading, and blending. The instructor will provide particular instruction on painting sunsets and ocean waves. Students will approach the work in a stepby- step fashion, from transferring the image to a gessoed board and initial color blocking, to adding levels of detail each day. Students will be amazed at the results this method produces.
Included in the materials fee are three miniature brushes to keep, a step-by-step illustrated booklet with photos taken as the instructor painted the prototype, and a miniature wood frame that students will paint in class. The completed painting will be 2.375" x 2.875" including the frame.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: None
SKILL LEVEL: All Levels. Some experience in brush handling is helpful.
MATERIALS FEE: $95 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Daniela Kiefhaber, Artisan
COURSE: Metal Sculpting
PROJECT: Silver and Copper Clay Sculpting
Discover the exciting world of metal clay in this handson class, where students will explore the creative possibilities of silver clay, copper clay, and decorative silver and gold plating. Whether the student is creating miniature teapots, bowls, frames, jewelry, or other unique pieces, this versatile medium allows imagination to come to life.
Metal clay begins as a soft, slightly moist clay that can be shaped, textured, and sculpted just like traditional clay. Once dry, it can be refined by filing, carving, and sanding before being fired in a kiln. During firing, the organic binder burns away, leaving behind solid metal—99.9% pure silver for silver clay or solid copper for copper clay.
Students will be encouraged to design and create their own original projects while learning essential techniques for working with both silver and copper clay. The class also covers combining metal clay with readymade pottery and other mixed-media elements, using commercial molds, and creating custom molds for truly one-of-a-kind designs.
To add the perfect finishing touch, students will also learn silver and gold plating techniques to enhance selected pieces with beautiful metallic finishes and decorative accents.
Creating with metal clay is always an adventure! With expert guidance and plenty of room for creativity, everyone will complete their projects during class and leave with beautiful handcrafted pieces to treasure or give as gifts.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: Dremel tool, kiln
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS FEE: $95 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Hiroyuki & Kyoko Kimura, Fellows
COURSE: Plants/Polymer Clay
PROJECT: A Potted Ivy in Stand
In this class, students will create and pot a realistic ivy plant using versatile, advanced techniques for crafting miniature vines and foliage. Leaves will be fashioned from polymer clay, pressed ultra-thin, and precisely shaped using specialized punches designed by Hiroyuki.
For the stems and vines, students will learn to heat and stretch plastic rods to achieve a delicate, natural look. The project involves detailed work, including replicating a large number of leaves and meticulously gluing stems to the main vine. While these methods require patience and practice, they also provide invaluable skills for future miniature projects.
Students will plant their ivy in a pot that is then hung from a stand, both of which will be provided by the instructors. The pot and stand will be made in advance by Hiroyuki.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: Toaster oven
SKILL LEVEL: All levels
MATERIALS FEE: $95 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Hiroyuki & Kyoko Kimura, Fellows
COURSE: Mixed Media
PROJECT: Small Garden Scene
In this class, students will create a small garden scene on a 10 cm square decorative base. The main tasks will be: (1) creating three types of plants using resin clay; (2) building a base designed to look like a wooden deck; and (3) creating other small accessories.
In the first task the students will learn how to use air-dry resin clay to create lifelike and vibrant houseplants. (This clay will be familiar to students who have taken classes in the past with the instructors.) The finished plants will be “planted” in Hiroyuki’s original pots. These very special pots are designed to look like ostrich eggs, and are popular items that have previously only been used in completed artwork.
In the second task, students will build the deck using precut, thin wood provided by the instructors. To reproduce the grain and knots appropriate to 1:12 scale, students will learn a meticulous technique to create fine wood grain and small knots on the wood, ensuring that the choice of material does not compromise the sense of scale.
In the third task, students will give finishing touches to two of Kyoko’s original (unpainted) rabbits. Finally, students will apply weathering effects to complete the project.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: None
SKILL LEVEL: All levels
MATERIALS FEE: $95 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Iulia Chin Lee, Artisan
COURSE: Vase Hollowing
PROJECT: Variation in Vases
This class focuses on how to combine different elements in vase turning to achieve a desired shape. Students will progress from the basic techniques for creating a hollowed vase in wood to developing more complex vase shapes that combine different components. These components will be joined using turned mortise and tenon joints.
Students will be instructed on the proper use of specialized hollowing tools (created by Harmony Water), which will allow them to make the precise cuts needed to construct the vase. These custom tools will be available in class for students to use with an option to purchase. Vases will be constructed from mahogany, cherry, maple, and exotic woods.
The class will begin with a review of basic spindleturning to allow students to accustom themselves to the tools and materials. Once students are comfortable with the cutting implements and the methods, they will learn how to cut the vase neck, shape the body, and hollow the vase. Finally, students will develop and fine-tune the technique for turning mortise and tenon joints. This will allow students to seamlessly transform three individual pieces into one beautiful final vase. Most students will make more than one vase.
This is an intermediate class and prior wood-turning experience is necessary. Students must also provide their own turning tools. Turning tools are not all alike; the instructor recommends Sorby’s Micro Turning Tool Set HS45. These tools are superb and their blades remain sharp for a long time.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: Lathe
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate and advanced
MATERIALS FEE: $55 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Marie-Louise Markhorst,
Artisan
COURSE: Silverwork
PROJECT: 17th Century Silver Candle Box
In the 17th century, wealthy Dutch women collected exquisite miniatures, often crafted by renowned artists. Displayed in elaborate cabinet dollhouses, these luxury items were considered status symbols; they showcased exceptional craftsmanship and could cost as much as—or even more than—a full-sized house.
Several of these extraordinary dollhouses can still be admired today in the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam in the Netherlands. One belonged to Petronella Dunois, and inside her house is a delicate silver candle box, whose maker remains unknown.
Inspired by this 17th century object, students in this class will learn traditional silver-smithing techniques while creating their own miniature silver box. They will solder the silver using a torch, learn basic engraving techniques, and construct a working hinge so the lid can open and close. Students will also shape, saw, and file the decorative backplate, gaining hands-on experience in detailed metal craftsmanship while recreating a piece inspired by Dutch Golden Age miniature art.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: Soldering torch, flex shaft, drill press
SKILL LEVEL: All levels, but some experience in using a jeweler’s saw is recommended. Good eyesight and steady hand/eye coordination is required.
MATERIALS FEE: $90 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Marcia McClain, Artisan
COURSE: Fabric Upholstery
PROJECT: Lady’s Lounge Chair
and Ottoman
This chair and ottoman are a replica of an actual chair and ottoman used as a lady’s lounge chair. The actual chair and ottoman are owned by the instructor and sit in her bedroom as a comfortable place to read. The chair seat is a T cushion and the back cushion is shown as a loose cushion. The method taught by the instructor to “box” these is unique to her, honed by years of attention to details of real upholstery. The accent band of color on the skirt is a simple yet elegant contrast of color. The student’s choice of placement of this accent can be very traditional or it can create a more contemporary look. Learning to apply this accent is a skill a student may use over and over again. It is not as easy as it looks!
The instructor will provide upholstery fabric and accent trim after communicating with students prior to School.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: None
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner
MATERIALS FEE: $60 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Annie Ogg, Artisan
COURSE: Wood Turning
PROJECT: Split Turned Frames, Sconces, and Shelves
Split turning involves temporarily gluing two or four pieces of wood together, turning them, and then splitting them apart. It was a popular method for adding a decorative effect without the weight of a complete turning, and was used from the 17th to the 19th century for embellishing furniture.
In this class, students will “warm up” on pieces of wood, practicing bevel-supported cuts (beads and coves). They will learn how to prepare the wood for split turning. They will then learn the split-turning process and turn the pieces needed to construct a mirror frame, a set of sconces, and shelving for miniature objects.
The mirror frame will be constructed from two turnings: the sides and the top/bottom. The instructor will provide sample antique mirror frames as examples, and each student will create a story-stick, or guide, to mark the wood blank before turning. This method ensures a uniform look for the sides, top, and bottom. Students will cut mirrored glass pieces to fit their frames, and attach a backing.
Split turning is also useful for making duplicate wall sconces and shelves. In making these items, students may choose to replicate antique shapes or may make more modern objects. Students should be able to make two sets of wall shelves.
To complete the project, students will learn about various finishes for the wood, including shellac-based friction polish, walnut oil, and different kinds of waxbased finishes. As time permits, students will be able to use these different finishes to finish their projects. The instructor will also discuss how to sharpen turning tools. Students may either use turning tools provided by the instructor or may bring their own.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: Lathe, buffer
SKILL LEVEL: All Levels
MATERIALS FEE: $40 to be collected at school
INSTRUCTOR: Bill Studebaker, Artisan
COURSE: Furniture Construction
PROJECT: English Work Table
In this class, students will construct a table that is inspired by various original pieces on display at National Trust properties in the United Kingdom. Rather than reproducing a specific example, the table employs design and execution typical of the late 16th and early 17th centuries, and is representative of the Jointer’s craft. Similar examples of work tables would have been found in the early American Colonies.
Working with cherry lumber as the primary wood, students will prepare their parts at the table saw, working from a cut list. Students will turn segmented legs on a duplicator lathe and shape the base stretcher with a jeweler’s saw. The cockbeaded drawer will be fitted with supplied brass pulls. A simple lacquer finish will be applied.
TIME: 24 hours. Completion is likely.
POWER TOOLS: Table saw, duplicator lathe, drill press
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate and advanced
MATERIALS FEE: $30 to be collected at school