This is the first in a series of posts where I interview dollhouse enthusiasts who are expert miniaturists. They share their tips and experience with us, as well as some incredible pictures!
Terry Cline Burrows is based in Florida and runs the page This Old House on Facebook, a treasure trove of inspiring projects and jaw-dropping images. Terry has shared her expertise in building dollhouse kits on Mini Model World before, so I wanted to find out more about her interest and experience in making tiny things.
How did you get started making dollhouses, and what was your first experience with a dollhouse?
I was around 5 years old and I lived next to a school teacher who ended up taking me in. I had a large chaotic family.
She built a dollhouse after going through a divorce. I would watch her build it and when she finally got it done, it was on display in her den. Every day after school, I would have my snack and just stare into her beautiful tiny dollhouse. It fascinated me and I apparently never got over that fascination!
This is going to be a difficult one, but what is your favourite house you’ve built?
This is hard but I would have to say my favourite house is my 1978 Big Vic front opening dollhouse by Dollhouse Inc. It has hidden rooms in the roof, and nice deep and wide rooms. It’s made to last with high quality lumber, and a turret perfect for viewing the stars.
It’s built like a tank and I nicknamed it “The Beast.” It was in bad shape when I got it but was able to fix her up. I actually have a strong desire to re-stage this one. I have some special items I want to incorporate.
Which is the most challenging dollhouse you’ve built?
The most challenging dollhouse build was the Foxhall Manor dollhouse with the addition and conservatory. It is big and very detailed.
Running the electric was by far the most challenging aspect of building the house. I have not one, but three transformers that run the lights and it can handle up to 100 bulbs. A new base had to be constructed for it so that I could move the house in three sections. It was a lot of work but I learned so much from it.
I made a lot of items by hand, as well as incorporating many items made by vintage artisans from the 80s. I am still working on the kitchen as well as adding to the other rooms. The house even has a dollhouse room!
What is about working with dollhouses and miniatures that you love so much?
I love that I can escape the real world for a spell and be creative – it just melts my stress away. It gives me a freedom to experiment and try new things, I am always learning something new.
How do you know when a house is finished?
Ha ha ha! It’s never finished! While it may appear that way…no, it is not. I am always adding or subtracting things from them, rearranging and adding items as I make them. I even have one named “Neverdone Manor”. But I will say this, you know you are close to a possible finish, when you look into it and smile with your eyes.
All images are courtesy of Terry Cline Borrows, you can follow Terry and see her most recent work on Facebook on the page This Old Dollhouse.