"Creating Dolls' House Period Style" by Lionel Barnard is a must-have guide for miniaturists and dollhouse enthusiasts who are passionate about crafting authentic period-style dollhouses. With its nine chapters covering various historical time periods, from Tudor to Victorian, this book provides a comprehensive and detailed overview of the construction and design aspects needed to create realistic miniature replicas.
The book begins by delving into the fascinating history of dollhouses and their enduring popularity over the centuries. Barnard emphasizes the importance of accuracy in choosing the appropriate architectural style for a period-specific dollhouse, and he offers practical advice on achieving precise detailing. Readers will find step-by-step instructions and useful tips on constructing crucial structural elements, such as walls, windows, roofs, and chimneys. The author also explores different materials that can be used, discussing their advantages and disadvantages.
One of the standout features of "Creating Dolls' House Period Style" is its thorough coverage of period-specific furniture and accessories. Barnard provides in-depth insights into the distinct furniture styles prevalent in each time period, explaining their unique characteristics and guiding readers on how to recreate them on a miniature scale. Whether it's Tudor oak furniture or Georgian mahogany pieces, the book offers detailed instructions on techniques such as staining, painting, and distressing to achieve an authentic look.
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The book doesn't stop at furniture; it also covers the creation of period-style curtains, carpets, and wallpapers to complete the dollhouse's interior. Barnard shares various techniques for crafting curtains, including pleating and draping, as well as providing easy-to-follow instructions for making miniature carpets and rugs using different materials. Additionally, he offers guidance on selecting period-appropriate wallpapers, highlighting popular patterns and colors from each specific era.
"Creating Dolls' House Period Style" is a visually stunning book that serves as a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced miniaturists. Lionel Barnard's expertise shines through in the detailed instructions and wealth of information shared within its pages. With its beautiful photographs and step-by-step guidance, this book is sure to inspire and assist anyone looking to bring authentic period-style dollhouses to life.
What are readers saying?
Creating Dolls' House Period Style, written by Lionel Barnard, serves as a guide for individuals interested in constructing dolls' houses in a period-style fashion. Reviews of the book have been a mix of positive and negative feedback.
Critics share their admiration for the book's detailed instructions and extensive coverage of different historical periods. They find it to be a valuable resource for creating dolls' houses that are historically accurate. The book is commended for its clear explanations of architectural styles, furniture, and necessary materials for authenticity. Readers appreciate the author's expertise and his effective conveyance of information.
Nevertheless, some readers express disappointment with the book. They feel the instructions are not always clear or easy to follow, and that the absence of step-by-step illustrations makes it challenging to visualize the techniques described. Furthermore, a few readers believe the book overly focuses on advanced techniques and materials, which may not be suitable for beginners or individuals with limited resources.
While some praise the book for its comprehensive approach, others believe it lacks depth in certain areas. They note that though the book touches on various periods, it does not delve deeply into each one. Readers specifically seeking more in-depth information on specific periods feel that this book falls short in delivering their expectations.
Overall, reviews of Creating Dolls' House Period Style by Lionel Barnard indicate that it offers a decent overview of the subject matter and provides valuable insights for those interested in constructing period-style dolls' houses. However, some readers criticize the instructions and illustrations, while others desire more detailed information on specific time periods. Potential readers should consider their level of expertise and specific interests before determining if this book is suitable for them.
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