Tuesday 30 December 2014

IN OVER MY HEAD! & my mis-adventures with drainage

Last November my computer was failing to function.
Until I was able to get it repaired, I was at loose ends and so I decided to work on my doll's house again.  I still need to finish the 3rd side of the house, but that is the side with the chimney and the chimney would have to sit on the roof, so I decided to tackle the roof first.  This turned out to be a new adventure for me as I tried out a brand new technique.  I also had a go then at making "gullies",gutters and downspouts.  All of which involved measuring and cutting, none of which is very accurate either.
Ah, me... I tried.    


Initially, I had wanted to try out Janine and Bruces' slate tile tutorial, at MINWORKS but frankly, I am very lazy and so I decided to look for an even easier way, although their way IS really easy and their results are Awesome. But I am not very good with a knife or any other tools for that matter.   People think that I exaggerate, but I am serious.  I try, I really do, but I just can't cut a straight line.  I'm even lousy with scissors for that matter, but I have got to use something!!!
So here is what I ended up using for my slate roof tiles
craft foam sheets
more forgiving than matt board or wood, and a lot easier too, not to mention, a lot less weight.
I bought these sheets at Michael's craft store and they were $2 each.  I used 3 sheets for my roof.  One sheet did each side of the roof.  I bought black and grey sheets but since they have been painted you would never know what color they were originally.
I chose black initially because the edges of the tiles, once cut, would be dark, therefore less work. 
I used two shades of grey paint on the black foam sheets ;
Zinc and Slate Grey
The above photo shows the black foam sheet, then the grey foam sheet and on top, the color of the black once the paints were applied.
I brushed the color on and left it streaky so that it would have some depth and texture.  
I also painted the back side of the foam sheet with Mod Podge to seal it.  When the foam was dry, I made an effort to draw pencil lines of the width of the tiles I wanted and then cut them with a pair of scissors.  Then I chopped the lengths into tiles, eyeballing the measurements.  As stated before, I am not good at cutting so the tiles were hit or miss, as some were too long and others were not long enough.  Ah, me.....
Oh, WHATEVER!!!

I used my stick to measure off the lines on the roof
Then I began to glue on the tiles cutting the angles into the pitch as I went along.  I used Aileen's Super Tacky glue and the tiles stuck without shifting.  It took me 2 1/2 hours to get them on for both sides.  The results are as seen below
Hey,
Not too shabby! :D
But
 back to business,
 and onto
the "gullies"!

( sorry, I don't know what the correct term for them is)
In retrospect, I think I should have probably installed these first before I did the roof shingles, however I didn't think about it until afterwards.
I needed some cheap and easily cut metal to make them with, and lots of it because knowing me, I would mess it up and have to redo them.  My solution was some thin baking sheets from the
$1 store, which had a long run of smooth metal that I could cut and fit to the crease of the roof.  


I took the longest strip I could from the side portions of the cookie sheet, and ironed the strip with the butt end of my craft knife.

The  I folded the piece in half and cut it with my scissors to narrow the strip down, then I opened the fold and cut it to the right length for the roof, sliding the top end under the top of the roof shingles. 
I used DAZZLE TAC JEWELRY GLUE, to
adhere the metal to the foam.
 It's stinky, but it worked a treat.  
Whoooa,...WAY toooo shiny!

I painted it, then aged it to allow it to be unnoticeable.  

That's better!

This will give you a better look.
And now for the gutters....
These were a headache.
 It took me an entire day to make a pair for both sides of the house and after I did, I HATED THEM!
I ripped them off in despair.
I had to start all over again and ended up with these.  Okay!.. I   admit that they leave a lot to be desired, but by this time, I was past the point of caring.  
They will have to do.
I made them out of wood channel moulding that I already had on hand. They have a curved bottom so they give the appearance of being deeper than they are.  I glued some card onto either end of the gutters and painted them out with black acrylic paint and  I used some of the metal from the baking sheets to make the connectors.  

After they were firmly glued on, I saw that the gutter on the right, was sloping in towards the house. ><
Ah, me....
(
sigh)
MOVING ON
Last but not least, the downspouts.
I tried several different shapes and in the end opted for the round ones because I saw some on an English how to examples at

 JSM Miniatures
that had the look I wanted.
I painted a wooden dowel with black acrylic paint.
Then I cut the length that I needed for the pipe.

 using a pencil sharpener, I made a point on one end.

I bought some Bendy Straws from the $1 store, and cut a section to fit over the point of the wooden dowel.
The top of the straw was shaped to the underside of the gutter.
I painted them with black acrylic paint.
I also fitted some more of the folded metal from the baking sheets over the joints and glued it in place with QUICK GRIP.
I made a flange to extend from either side of the metal connector. 

 I painted everything black and when dry I gave it a light spray of
Krylon satin finish spray sealer. 



I attached the downspout to the underside of the gutter with more
QUICK GRIP and glued the flanges at the top and the bottom of the pipes, to the stone wall.
When they were dry, I added some rust with Brown Iron Oxide acrylic paint. 









And that was that!

This was not that much fun,
but I got it done anyway.
however I want to leave you with a smile on my face, so let me show you what Fatima made for Janine and I for Christmas....

A garlic braid!
LOVIN' IT!!!
:D
thanks Fats!
Here's to a Happy 2015 to Everyone

and
God Bless you all!

elizabeth

94 comments:

  1. Not to doubt your word...but I think you did a GREAT job cutting and fitting all this together. I love the bending straws on the gutters. That was a stroke of brilliance! The roof tiles look WONDERFUL!!! As for the garlic braid it is gorgeous. I couldn't live with out garlic in RL.. If it is the cure to.... whatever.... I will never get it!

    Your house is beautiful! :-) XXX Happy New Year!

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    1. Hi Catherine, because Elisabeth is in awe about the carpet I got curious and took a look. She's so right! it is eye candy, please keep working on it, it is worth the effort

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  2. Hahaah! I couldn't agree more about the Garlic! I HAVE to have it too! :D Fatima's garlic braid was made to measure. It fit in right away and it is as if it has always been there! :D
    I Thank you for your most generous comments about my efforts, Catherine. I'm not entirely displeased with the results, but I know that with greater effort, it could have been better. Fortunately for me, the very nature of this cottage allows me to get away with being a bit sloppy, all under the guise of "Age". But, I think that I shall have to challenge myself with my next house, and REALLY TRY to cut STRAIGHT LINES.
    Happy New Year to you too! :))

    elizabeth

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    1. And as an added P.S. I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of your numerous blog followers and watching the progress of your needlepoint carpet. I know that you are nearing the finish line with it and so I want to encourage you to keep at it. When you first displayed your intentions, I was envisioning the years that it would take to do, if it were me trying to tackle it. You have been a whirlwind and it is probably THE BEST needlepoint carpet in miniature that I have ever seen!
      Soon all it will need is a Mini Home, and I am anticipating seeing THAT too! :))

      e

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  3. Oh, Elizabeth.... do you think there will be a run on foam craft sheets??? LOL!!!
    I think it is Genius! So much easier and lighter weight.... and simple to shape! The results look as "real" as any shingles I've ever seen on a mini project! That is what always Amazes me about your work... you are So inventive with materials!! And the results are always a magical transformation! The roof details like the gutters and valleys are the sort of realism that we all dream of... and you have produced another shining example of how persistence pays off! I have not managed to do even One roof with gutters and valleys... and the shingles are the wooden kind... I hot glued them and will Not be retrofitting any valleys! As usual, your work is an inspiration! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours! Lets hope 2015 will be full of magical mini transformations!!!

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  4. Thank You Besty! I don't think that there will be any danger of Foam Sheets flying off the shelves at Michael's but I am glad that you like the results of them on my roof! :D Truthfully, I'm only "inventive" out of sheer laziness and the fear of using sharp implements. If I can avoid them, I do. The roof however, passed the muster with both Janine and Fatima when they came to visit, and that is a good thing. Even so, I am glad that this part is over and now only the side wall and the chimney are left. Who knew that such a small house would require such a long time to do?
    I wish you a Very Happy New Year too, dear Betsy, and look forward to more adventures from all of your Fabulous Mini Houses and Homes in 2015! :D

    elizabeth

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  5. Hi Elizabeth! So glad to hear from you as I have missed you! What do you mean when you say you will have to challenge yourself for the next house? This house is extraordinary in its genre! I adore it! It's perfect in my eyes as I am sure in the eyes of the whole world! You always come up with all these ideas of using different materials and you are such an inspiration. I love the concept of the foam sheets. Your tiles look so realistic! The gutters are perfect! Fatima's garlic is perfect as is everything she touches! A very talented lady! All of you three ministeers are very talented! Did I get that right? "Ministeers?" I want to wish you a very Happy New Year and a lot of mini inspiration for 2015!

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    1. Thank You Lucille! You are so encouraging, but let me clarify.... I AM very happy with this house, because it allows me a certain amount of liberty in expressing my loosey-goosey style. With this house on Green Dolphin Street, which I have come to love, I continue to indulge in my rather sloppy habits, but the house doesn't seem to mind so much and so for that, I am grateful! :D
      Nevertheless, in my next project, I want to showcase my collection of American Country furniture, and that will demand far more exactitude.
      Now as to the Garlic Braid, you are so right, Fatima's garlic IS perfect! Miniteers forever!:D
      Have a great New Years Lucille, and thank you for all of your wonderful comments; even the ones that my computer repeatedly ate!
      Remember? :))

      elizabeth

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  6. Awesome use of simple materials Elizabeth, you are the queen of invention! Thanks so much for the tutorial. The roof looks remarkable for its age ;) and the guttering and pipes have been serving their purpose efficiently for equally as long! Back to look at the photos again, I'm mesmerised by every tiny well thought out detail of this cottage.

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  7. Heeheehee, Yes, the roof has indeed held up over time and weathered many a storm too, I'd say. :))
    I have enjoyed using the foam for the roof and since the back of the house had a difficult wow, in the roof, the foam was able to easily conform to the curve, where a solid tile would have really messed me up. I realized this only after I started on the back and THEN remembered the problem I was going to have with the bow in the roof. So using the foam, turned out to be an unexpected blessing in the end. Even when I try to think ahead, I often have to make it up as I go. I am glad that you like the results though, Thank You, Susan! :D
    I wish you and yours, A Wonderful and Happy New Year! and hope that I will soon get to enjoy some More of your Incredible Micro Crochet creations before too much longer. I am REALLY looking forward to that! :))

    elizabeth

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  8. que de problèmes mais le résultat est superbe, le toit et la gouttières sont parfaits !
    Quelle satisfaction, lorsque l'on trouve les solutions !
    Cette mini et ravissante maison a de plus en plus l'aspect d'une vraie maison !
    *Joyeux réveillon* Elizabeth !
    Rendez-vous en 2015. Bisous. Joce

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    1. You are so right Joce, and Thank You! There IS a lot of satisfaction when a solution is found. :)) The roof was cheap and easy and although I find fault with my application of some of the tiles. Yet it does have the look I was after for this cottage so in the end, I am satisfied. :D
      I wish you a Fabulous New Years too, and may all your creative dreams come true!
      kisses to you too! :D

      elizabeth

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  9. The roof and the gutters look good! Like on an old slightly neglected house. It looks very realistic.
    Greetings and best wishes for the new year.

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    1. Thank You Very Much for your very kind words! :D I agree, 100% that the roof and the gutters fit right in with this "old and slightly neglected house".
      Truly,I couldn't have said it any better! :D
      I wish you a Very Happy New Year and Keep making your Incredible mini quilts and leather goods. They are Fabulous! :))

      elizabeth

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  10. Wow, Elizabeth, the house is such stunning! the roof is perfect, looks very real, you did fantastic job!
    Happy 2015 :-)
    Magda

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    1. Hi Magda! It is so nice to hear from you and I Thank You for your comment! :D
      The roof went a lot easier than I expected, but the gutters and the downspouts took more effort than I anticipated. I am relieved that this job is over, but I am glad that you like the results.
      I wish you "Barrels" of Fun and Good Cheer for the New Year ahead. I have enjoyed seeing your Wine Cellar collection too.
      They are ALL Awesome! :))

      elizabeth

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    2. Hello Elizabeth :-) you won a metronome, check my last post

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    3. YES!!!! THANK YOU MAGDA! :D

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  11. Привет Элизабет!
    Вы как всегда радуете меня своей работой! Так интересно читать и рассматривать фотографии. Мне тоже предстоит сделать водосточную трубу . Я его уже ненавижу!!!! Может быть эта мысль меня и тормозит! Так что, спасибо дорогой друг за урок! Может быть я смогу преодалеть этот барьер.
    Очень интересный материал, из которого вы сделали черепицу. Вряд ли я найду подобный в наших магазинах. Попробую поискать. Ваша крыша выглядит отлично! Самая высокая оценка для миниатюриста - ОНА ВЫГЛЯДИТ РЕАЛЬНО! В этом вы БОЛЬШОЙ МАСТЕР! Ваши друзья замечательные художники!! Связка чеснока отлично смотрится на вашей кухне!
    Хочу пожелать в Новом году реализацию новых проектов! Много творческих успехов! Здоровья и радости в 2015 году!
    Обнимаю
    Татьяна

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    1. My dear Tatiana! I Thank You for your lovely comment and I wish you well, with your own downspouts! :D I know that you will make a much better job of it than I have. I recall the time that you made your doll's house roof tiles from styrofoam and just how IMPRESSED I was with the time consuming effort and how Fantastic it all looked in the end. That was a difficult medium to control and yet you did it Beautifully. I know that your downspouts will ROCK, once you get started.:)) I DO hope my experience with mine will be of some assistance to you somehow.
      My wish for you is that you will continue to craft in the Inspiring style that you do so well, and that I and others, enjoy so much!
      Happy New 2015, my friend!

      elizabeth

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  12. Boah, this leaves me breathless... the result is incredible - and you are so clever and inspiring with the materials. Somehow it's a bit tricky for me because I can never be that sure about the material you used for the roof - but at least I have a good guess what it could be in German... ;O) Your realism is impressive and the way you achieved this, too, you must be a very patient lady. And not to forget - that perfectly made garlic is a wonderful gift. Happy New Year to you and yours, best wishes for 2015.

    Greetings
    Birgit

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    1. Hi Birgit! Thank you for your comment and your kindness too! I don't think of myself as clever, but more often than not, just LAZY! :)) I hate to exert myself for a prolonged period of time, so I am always looking for short-cuts towards a quick finish. Of course this is true only for the things that I Hate to do but not for the things that I enjoy doing. The things that I like, I will do over and over and over, until I get them right. It would be good to be more consistent though. That will be my new resolution for 2015. :D
      Meanwhile, enjoy all of your new mini Treasures that you and your Rosy received this Christmas. What a great way to end one year and begin the New Year with. :))

      elizabeth

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  13. very realistic, thank you for the explanations
    good year to you

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    1. Hi Claude! I am very happy that you think so! :)) I had more grief than I wish to remember with these 3 projects, but that will soon be forgotten as new griefs still await me. The chimney is next.
      Meanwhile, I have to tell you that I love the dollhouse that you cut from cardboard. Really good work!
      I wish you a Happy and Creative 2015, Claude! :D

      elizabeth

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  14. Amazing....you might not have enjoyed this process, but it looks brilliant. Have a great 2015.
    All the best
    Vivian

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    1. Hi Vivian! Thank You very much! :D I have just been to visit you at your INCREDIBLE Fox Manor House and what a Work of Art it is. I am so Impressed with your work. Please, Keep it coming!!! :D
      Have a Terrific 2015!

      elizabeth

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  15. Just brilliant as always, Elizabeth. Your straight talking and modesty is as always a real treat to read - I always relish your latest updates.
    Your ingenuity paid off and the gutters and drains look perfect. WELL DONE!
    Happy new year
    Si

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    1. Hello Simon! Thank You for your comment but I certainly do feel humbled by artists such as yourself and so many others. I know my own limitations and construction has never been high on my list of how to do properly. :( But I am always learning something new which I enjoy sharing. :))
      I hope that you will be back to work soon on your Amazing French House. I love the way you decorate. You have a great eye for color, line and detail.
      Have a Terrific New Year, Simon! :D

      elizabeth

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  16. Realistic and beautiful result! The roof is perfect!
    Thanks for the explanations.
    Happy New Year, Elizabeth!

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    1. Hello Nono! Thank You Very Much for your comment and for liking the roof! :D I just returned from visiting your blog and I LOVE your tiny Christmas boxes as well as the wonderful items you have been busy constructing lately. So much detail in every teeny tiny thing! Really Lovely!
      I wish you the Best 2015, Nono and look forward to visiting your post and seeing ever MORE of your Delightful creations :))

      elizabeth

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  17. The roof is amazing! You're a great artist. Thanks for the tutorial.
    Happy New Year 2015!

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    1. Hi Faby! Thank You for your kind words and your Very Generous Compliment too! :)) I would like to wish you a Very Happy New Year! I can see by all of your recent Christmas gifts and exchanges, that you are going to be having a whole lot of playtime with your abundant New Treasures. Have fun with them ALL! :D

      elizabeth

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  18. Wonderful and so well done Mrs. E! The tiles are perfect with the paint and not adding more weight to the house is always nice when I know they can get quite heavy in the building process!

    Your house just get more fabulous each time, the colors of the roof and spouts have just the right amount of wear and tear to make them so realistic.

    Have a very happy nd crafty new year lady E!
    Hugs and cheers~J

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    1. Thank You Jane!:D I never feel very confident about my work, so your comment is most welcomed. :)) I am slowly creeping closer to the end of this project and now I am beginning to get antsy. Getting that roof shingled was a Big Step for me and I am very glad that it is now behind me.
      The roof on your Elven Bower is still TOPS with me! :))
      I wish you much Joy and a Very Happy New Year in your land of Little, and your land of Big too! :D

      elizabeth

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  19. You're very ingenuous and it was worth all the patience the result is fantastic.
    Happy New Year to you and yours! I'm looking forward to reading your 2015 posts.
    Geneviève

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    1. Thank You Genevieve! Your comment is greatly appreciated! :D I actually have Very little patience but I wish I had more. I tend to rush any project that I don't like to do. :(( Having said that, I did like the way the roof turned out and so I am happy with the results of it, even if the gutters are a bit of disappointment.
      But No More Whining about them. I am marching forward from here on and want to thank you for this past year of enjoying the adventures on the seaside with your darling little girls. I love to read all of your children's stories and your personal travels.
      I wish you a Very Happy New Year, and please keep those stories coming!

      elizabeth
      p.s. I wonder if there are any little boys living in the neighborhood?

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  20. Good Morning Elizabeth,
    All the little details look terrific Elizabeth. I don't seem to realize that your house needs drainpipes, gutters etc etc until you put them on and then it all seems perfect. I do love the way the flexi straw downpipe attaches to the gutter. Thanks also for the names of the type of paints you use - always helpful as when I get into the craft supply places I go into overdrive and cannot remember what I should buy.
    I must add that the roofing material is very authentic in texture when one sees it - the photos are excellent but I just want to encourage your followers to try that technique as the material is so forgiving. I look forward to trying it.

    See you soon, Janine

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    1. Good Evening, Janine! :D I am so glad that you like the way the gutters and the drainpipes look. I am just getting ready to add another brace to the the pipes as I had another look at the inspiration photos and realized the need for another connection. It will then make them look more secure against the wall. I am still feeling dismal about the gutters but I will not bother trying to redo them as what is done, is now done.
      Looking forward to our next Miniteers meeting soon. And... I think that this time, it is suppose to be at your house? :D
      I am DELIGHTED to be seeing you back on the blog again, Janine especially after your very busy 2014 home renovations. But, I know for a FACT that many of your followers are anxiously awaiting an up-date on your miniature French House..... so Pretty please .... and with sugar on top? :D
      Happy 2015 my dear friend

      elizabeth

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  21. Good morning Elizabeth...Hooray! Was really looking forward to this post after your email about the process. It is truly amazing! You are so filled with amazing techniques and I think you do it as the need arises. They just seem to appear as you create. Each technique a little better than the previous. We are so blessed to have such a generous miniaturist among us who loves to share, Thank you! You are the "Queen of invention" as Susan put it. And yes, how true Janine. When we saw the house the other day, it looked complete but now with the drainpipes it is complete. Happy New Year to you all of your blog followers. See you all in 2015.

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    1. Hey There Fatima! I know that you and Janine liked the roof when you saw it so Thank You again! :D My precision is no where near yours, but I am content since this house allows for my "scientific" experiments upon it. hahahah
      I think I feel more like a Dr. Frankenstein rather than a Queen of Invention! hah!
      Looking forward to seeing more progress on you GARFIELD, Fats! You have so many wonderful minis in storage drawers that the 3 of us like to play with whenever we meet at your house and it would be Wonderful when some of them can come out to play and STAY in their allocated rooms. So... GET BUSY with it! :D
      But, I do have to say once again, how much I LOVE my GARLIC BRAID. Just like the stockings that Linda Park made and sent for the clothes line, your garlics add the perfect finishing touch to my little kitchen. Thank You for all of your generosity over the past year. Both you and Janine have been so very encouraging and supportive towards me. I Love you Both
      Happy New Year, Fatima..... Miniteers Forever! :D

      elizabeth

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  22. Elizabeth, your roof tiles, and associated roof gullies, gutters, and downspouts are so clever! I especially love that you made them out of easily accessible and inexpensive material. Your use of dollar store baking pans is brilliant! I have been looking for something to use for tin ceilings, and I didn't want to buy them ready-made. Thank you for these great ideas, and I hope you find nothing but happiness in the new year!

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    1. Hi Neen! Thank You very much and I am so glad that you were able to find a useful idea from this post. I found that the metal of the baking pan, is easily ironed out with the blunt end of a hard tool and even the bumpy centre can be made flat. I think that a tin ceiling is a Great Idea and I would have never thought of THAT! Thanks for sharing :D
      I wish you a Very Happy and Creative 2015 Neen, and all the best in the Creatin' Contest.

      elizabeth

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  23. It looks great Elizabeth. You are very good at the aging process. Your patience and persistence pays off with amazing looking results.

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    1. Hi Shannon! Thank You! :D I was just revisiting your Orchid and admiring all of the Beautiful furnishings that you are filling it with. Your cottage is Charming and I can't stop LOVING that Fabulous Red chair that you have in the parlor. It's Beautiful! I look forward to watching your little house continue to develop. The landscaping looks FAB!
      Have a Fantastic New Years Shannon! :D

      elizabeth

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  24. Hi Elizabeth, such great ideas! Thanks for sharing :)
    Jenny

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    1. Hi Jenny, Thank You! :D I like to try out new things but the roof materials were a blessing in disguise. I groan and complain because that is my nature but I am very happy with the roof, although I wish it were a bit tidier. Nevertheless, I am learning new things as I go.
      I certainly like your Little Red Cottage and I hope that you will be posting more about it soon. The spiral staircase sounds like an interesting addition to the interior.
      I wish you and your family a Very Happy New Year and all the Best in 2015! :D

      elizabeth

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  25. That's FOAM?! If you hadn't posted the progress shots I probably wouldn't believe it. The tiles really do look like slate.

    Don't feel too bad about having trouble cutting in a straight line - I'm not very good at it either, honestly. And for roof tiles (which take a pounding from the elements for years and years) it's much more realistic if they're not identical. Even here in sunny California, where severe weather is largely unknown, old roofs can have missing, mismatched, or broken roof shingles.

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    1. Genius , Elizabeth, pure genius!

      Thank you so much for this post - for some reason you always post on something that has me in a quandry and I find this post so inspirational. I have been eyeing suspiciously the roof of my house and putting off doing something about it, so thank you for the inspiration to get on with it.

      Now I just have to find foam sheets in Lyon, a city without craft shops : ( !

      I've savoured your posts of 2014 and can't wait to see what you come up with in the New Year,

      Jonquil

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    2. Hi Anna and Jonquil! My computer is again behaving strangely and has stuck the two of you together, so I will be addressing both of your comments.
      Thanks to Both of You! :D
      I chose the foam because I could cut the angles in towards the pitch with scissors, easier than I could if I was using a harder material. I knew it would allow for my limitations with precision. I scanned so many different sites and saw so many different types of non- traditional materials being used for roofing that gave me the courage to go for it.
      I was/Am still Amazed that it is being received so enthusiastically, in fact it continues to astonish me.
      Jonquil, I do hope that you will be able to find the materials that you need for your roof repairs. In the past I have also used a very course and heavy sand paper, Janine has used matt board and spackle, Tatiana has carved dense packing styrofoam etc.... Necessity is Definitely, mother of invention, so if you can't find the foam sheets, something even better, will eventually present itself.
      I wish you Both, a Wonderful 2015, and may all of your mini projects continue to make you smile! :))

      elizabeth

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  26. Great result after the struggles you have been through ;-). Your house looks amazing!

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    1. Hello Lara! Thank you for your comment! :D I feel better now that the worst is over ( I think). Looking back, it was harder just thinking about it, than it was actually getting it done. :) Is it that way for you too?
      I am Loving the way that your Westville Cottage is developing. I LOVE the paint colors that you have chosen for the exterior and the way you have planned the interior. It looks Fantastic!
      Have a Happy and Creative New Years Lara :))

      elizabeth

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  27. Happy New Year Elizabeth!♥
    Thank you for this wonderful post!
    I have also made water pipes like these. Well, almost. :D Yours are perfect!
    Hugs, piikko

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    1. Hi Piikko! Thank you for your comment and I am so glad that you have enjoyed this post! :D
      The pipes were really easy once I decided on what I wanted to do. Having those flexible "bendy" straws was what decided me on round pipes. Less work than trying to cut the proper angles to install them properly.
      I love short-cuts!
      Have a Wonderful New Years Piikko! :D

      elizabeth

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  28. Feliz año 2015, Elizabeth
    Un abrazo

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    1. Thank You for stopping by, Mundomini, and would like to wish You a Very Happy New Year too! :D

      elizabeth

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  29. What fantastic ideas and creativity. I love the idea of using the foam sheets, brilliant! Your idea to use the dollar store metal is also very clever! And i love the use of straws with the doweling and how you attached it. I used straws for my Slug and Jiggers but had not thought to use it the way you did with the attachments and such. Yours looks much better and your paint wont fall off like mine did a bit.lol Thanks for sharing your trials in roofing and guttering with all of us. Have a wonderful new year.

    Jenn

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    1. Hi Jennifer! Thank You Very Much for your comments!:D Using the straws for the downspouts, another exercise in knowing my own limitations. Cutting the flexible straws was a life saver for me. With the irregularities of the exterior wall and the limited amount of the doweling I had, I needed something that I could start as well as finish. If I had to rely on my ability to make accurate angled cuts, I would then still be at it! :((
      The paint was easily disturbed though when I applied the Quick Grip but I just touched it up again and now it is fine. What helped was spaying it with the clear sealer. That really bit into the paint and then made it stick.
      I wish you a Warm and Wonderful 2015 Jenn, and thanks again for your feedback! :D

      elizabeth

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  30. Hello Elizabeth, wishing you a very good, healthy and prosperous 2015!
    Well, we all agree then. The roof and the gutters look great, very well done.And you made great use of the materials that are available. Thanks again for the excellent how-to, you always manage to explain just that what I am curious about. Thanks!
    It really is such a pleasure to follow your blog.
    hugs,
    Gee

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    1. Thank You Gee! :D You know I began this post thinking that no one would like my foam covered roof and I am now really happy that I showed it.
      I always HAVE to take a multitude of photos because just as soon as I have finished a project; I forget Most of how I did it, seems that I'm at that AGE now. :/
      I am so glad that you went and saw Catherine/ Killmouski's Fabulous Rug. Isn't it Incredible?!!!
      Have a Terrific 2015 Gee and Happy New Year :))

      elizabeth

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  31. Hi Elizabeth! Realistic and beautiful result on the roof and the gutters, your work is perfect!
    Thanks for the tutorial, dear friend!
    I wish you and yours a healthy and Happy New Year with lots of creative inventions for our dollhouses ;O!
    Warm hug, ilona

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  32. Hi Ilona, and Happy New Years to you!
    I think that the danger of getting hit with a carbide propelled football in these parts is highly unlikely, but there certainly were a fair amount of explosives going off in my neighborhood, last night! :D
    I am so glad that you like the roof and the gutters Ilona, Thank You Very Much for your comment and Many Warm Hugs right back to you my friend :))

    elizabeth

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  33. Hi Elizabeth, As always, I really enjoyed watching your process. You always make it sound FUN! Even gutters!!! Hope you had a merry Christmas and happy new year! Here's to more fun in 2015! xo Jennifer

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    1. Hi Jennifer! Thank You for saying that I make it sound like FUN!!!! :D I guess, in a way it was kinda, but because I am NOT a builder, I definitely felt CHALLENGED, with each new stage, Especially with the gutters. :[
      But I'm not done yet.
      I did have a Wonderful Christmas Jennifer and my New Years has so far been a good one too!
      YES! Here's to even MORE FUN in 2015! :D

      elizabeth

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  34. Hello Elizabeth! Late to the party as usual!

    Your "misadventures" turned out totally spot on! I love the effect of your roof and gutters! They 'fit' the English Cottage look you have established. I had to laugh at your comments on cutting the roof tiles a consistent size. I try so hard to do that, and mine are NEVER the same size. Oh well, we do the best we can! For what it is worth, WE can't tell they are not the same! They look perfect!

    If you only knew how lazy we all are! I try Six Ways to Sunday to minimize the work to get to the final effects I want. In the end though, I usually find I can't leave it alone until it is perfect, so I do things over (and over) again! That's what I get for my lazy ways! I love that you share that part of things with us. Makes me feel a little better about my own misadventures!

    Enjoy 2015 and make it extra special!

    Doug

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    1. Hey Doug! Never late and always Welcomed! Thank You for your kind words!:)) I am laughing at your comment about "6 ways to Sunday"! I haven't heard that phrase for years, but it is so appropriate. :)) And it is nice to know that I am in good company. hahah
      Hey, I just realized that you live in Seattle. Are you going to the Seattle Show this March? Janine , Fats and I are planning for it. Maybe we will see you there?
      I wish you All the Best Doug, as you Full Steampunk Ahead! :D

      elizabeth

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    2. Hi Elizabeth! Yes, I plan to attend the show! I would love to run into you all! We must make it happen! :0) Always up for some new friends!

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  35. Hello Elizabeth!
    I had to comment on this project. I have been watching it evolve for a very long time and it is one of my favorite miniature houses ever. There are many who are doing beautiful things, but your house speaks to me because it is genius! Though I gave up on my blog, I am still present and look forward to each new post you allow.
    Thank you for continuing to share with all of us.
    Happy New Year with warm regard from Ray

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    1. What to Say in response to these Oh So Generous, words?!
      "You like me, you Really like me?" ( a la' sally field)
      Thank You Ray
      And a Very Happy New Year to you too!!!! :D

      elizabeth

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  36. Has hecho un estupendo trabajo y ha quedado muy bien.
    Deseo que hayas pasado unas estupendas fiestas y que el 2015 sea un maravilloso año para tí

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  37. Thank You Very Much Isabel! :)) I am so pleased that you like the end results! :D
    And I wish you a Very Happy New Year too!

    elizabeth

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  38. Hi Elizabeth, a very happy new year to you too! I'm sorry you and knifes and other tools are not your friends, but I think the way you've go beyond that and think of better/easier ways for tools and materials is worth a round of applause. Also because of the endresult of it all! I totally get how frustrating it must have been and it has not been fun, but you can be real proud (even extra because of the difficulties) of what you've accomplished here. I like it a lot, very well done you!
    Monique

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    1. Thank you Monique, for your comment, all of your encouragement and for your "round of applause"; but especially that you like the end results!
      All the best for 2015!

      elizabeth
      p.s. speaking of frustrations: how is your mini laptop screen progressing? I know that you were struggling with it for a very long time but I am curious as to whether you have resolved your issues with the electrics yet?

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  39. Bonjour Elizabeth,
    avec un peu de retard je vous présente mes meilleurs voeux pour L'an neuf.
    Votre toiture est très réussie et je trouve l'idée des Bendy Pailles géniale ;-)

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    1. Jean-Claude I Thank You Very Much for your comment and for your approval of my roof! :D The use of bendy straws are an idea that I tried out many years ago but have not had to use again until now. It is a good and effective short-cut. :D
      I wish You not only a Very Happy New Year but for Us, more of your Fabulous blogs. Your tutorial on how you built your balcony railing has left me breathless! Thank You for showing us HOW to make them, out of card; yours is simply BRILLIANT!!!
      I'm in Awe

      elizabeth

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  40. Bonne et Heureuse Année ! Elisabeth
    it is a pleasure to find new jobs. I 'd loved the last post but I hadn' t had time to leave a comment. there are so many wonderful little corners in this house. the exterrieur with the garden is in perfect agreement with the interrieur the house. all the details are amazing. I am fascinated by the garden. I think your real garden is to be as creative as the green dolphin. I find the solution of the foam amazing! I don 'have never had an idea like this one.
    I wish you many ideas for 2015.
    i kiss you

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  41. Hello my Dear Catherine! Thank You Very Much for taking the time to comment on the garden! I Am still working on it... in my Mind. hahaha Like anything that I do, I seem to pick away at it for a while and then suddenly there is a flurry of concentrated action and then it all evaporates like steam and finally vanishes. Then I wait and wait, and so that is where the garden is at-- for now; In Waiting. But you are quite right in saying that my objective is that the inside and the outside, both agree. :D
    The roof is now done and I am Very Happy that you approve the results ! :))
    I wish you a Very Happy New Year Catherine, and I send my Best Wishes to the house of Ninette and all of her family too!
    kisses, back to you :))

    elizabeth

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  43. Such a beautiful view Elizabeth! The down spouts look fantastic, I cannot believe it is the result of a straw and paint!! Thank you so much for all your pictures and explanations. You really do have a wonderful way with painting things. The flowers just pop against the colour of the roof tiles. Hope you are having a great weekend :)

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  44. Hi Kristine! Lovely to hear from you again; Thank You and Happy New Year! :D
    I had a lot of fun sneaking that rose into the picture and it sure helped to break up the rather plain pipe. I am so glad that you like the downspout Kristine. It turned out better than I thought it would and it was certainly the easiest of the 3 projects to do. I have since added a third bracket to each one of the downspouts which has made them appear more secured to the house.
    I Thank you again for your comment and wish you a Wonderful Weekend too! :D

    elizabeth

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  45. Love the idea of using the foam sheets for the tiles. I agree- all the things we add onto our dollhouse can make them so heavy and cumbersome! Anything to keep the weight down is helpful. :) The straw gutters are great too! I have seen many tutorials for them and yours came out wonderfully authentic-looking. Looking forward to seeing your creations in 2015!

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    1. Hi and Happy New Year Lindsey! Thank You So Much for your comment. I knew that you and I would see eye to eye on the usage of many techniques with a crafter's passion for re-purposing,common household materials. :D
      I would like to again,
      Congratulate you and your hubby Todd, on the announcement of your expected "Baby On Board" this August. God's Real LIfe creation, of which event, I will also be looking forward to seeing this 2015! :D

      elizabeth

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  46. awesome, Elizabeth, a great job!
    Happy new year!
    Hug

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    1. Hi Monica! Thank You Very Much and I am Very happy that you have enjoyed these projects.:D
      Happy New Year to you too! :))

      elizabeth

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  47. Привет, Элизабет! Иногда из-за своей лени я не часто посещаю друзей... обещаю исправиться.
    С большим удовольствием посещаю твой блог, мне нравится, как ты подробно обо всём пишешь, нравятся твои проекты.
    Желаю счастливого 2015 года! Пусть исполняются все желания! У православных христиан сегодня Рождество, мы празднуем этот праздник и всем желаем Мира и благословения Бога!

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    Replies
    1. С наилучшими пожеланиями из России.
      Елена.

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  48. Hello Elena! Thank you Very Much for your comment and for your visit!:))
    I wish you a Very Happy New Year and a Wonderful Ukrainian Christmas! :D

    elizabeth

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  49. You did a great job on that, have to do that also some time.... thank you for sharing! Love the looks of it very much. :)
    Great blog you have!
    * marlies

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  50. Hi Marlies! I am so glad that you came by and Thank You Very Much for leaving such a nice a comment! :D
    I am Finally making some headway with this project although it is Still, one step forward and 2 steps back.
    Slowly, I'm getting closer to the finish line. :))

    elizabeth

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  51. Oh Elizabeth, you make me laugh. I now know that you are actually a magician!
    You take ordinary, everyday objects and turn them into stunning works of art.
    Craft foam and straws? Brilliant!!!!
    Your house is more stunning, each and every time you post pictures. Love it.
    Hugs,
    Sam and Isabelle

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  52. Hi Sam and Hi Isabelle! Happy New Year to both of you! Thank you kindly ladies for your lovely comment. :D I will be coming right over to see how your own building projects are developing. There is always new construction over in your neck of the woods! :D

    elizabeth

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  53. Okay! The foam looks amazing!! Now I must try that. The shingles look so right and aged. It's a stunning effect. Great work. And your gutter and downspouts are incredible. I just love your perfect work. Love that garlic too!
    hugs♥,
    Caroline

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    1. Hi Caroline! Thanks for all of your very kind and complimentary words! I hope that you will indeed give this roofing method a try out and hopefully improve on it. This was a first time for me, but knowing you, You could really make the shingles special! :D

      elizabeth

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