This issue of Fashion Doll Quarterly magazine includes my article about working with “Gems & Jewels”  jewelry store in Australia.  The owner of said store, Suzy Allan, has invited all of you to try your hand at displaying your dolls in a diorama setting along with human scale jewelry.  It’s a fantastic opportunity for those of you who love photographing your dolls to get published and win some fantastic prizes!  

Copies of the FDQ CRAFTS issue are almost gone ! In light of this, I am posting the rules for the contest here, because we’d love EVERYONE to join in the fun!  Please remember that ANY doll, regardless of size, can be used in this competition. The main thing to remember, is that they must be displayed in a diorama setting incorporating jewelry. 

The rules as published in the magazine:

Submit your entries via email by FEBRUARY 14TH (Valentine’s Day) to FDQ via email or digital upload and a panel of judges will vote on the best photo! Winners will be published in the April (Summer 2012) edition of Fashion Doll Quarterly.

What we are looking for:

* High quality photography concepts

* Excellent propping and styling (no stands, no messy hair, no out of focus shots)

* Clever use of human-sized jewelry in the set design or used as decor

* Set incorporating backgrounds and furniture (yes, it can be Welcome Home products)

* Dolls can be any size you are comfortable photographing

* Participants grant Fashion Doll Quarterly the right to publish their photo for promotional purposes in the magazine as well as possible promotion within Gems & Jewels store

*Submit one photo per concept. Do NOT send multiple variations of the same shot. If you shoot more than one concept, identify each with a different title. Up to three different submissions are allowed per person

All entries should be submitted to: editor@fdqmedia.com

 Files should be a minimum of 4″x6″ at  300 dpi, or 20″x30″ at  72 dpi. Make sure to name your file LAST NAME.TITLE.jpg

Provide contact email, full name and mailing address.  If your file is RAW or tif, email us for the upload information to FTP your photo to our website. 

www.fashiondollquarterly.net

The first prize is a doll shaped charm crafted by Gems & Jewels  and valued at $675.00 !!

 (Choice of charm will be chosen by Owner, Suzy Allan)

For inspiration, here are some photos from the work I am doing with Gems & Jewels :

Second prize is a $75.00 gift certificate from Welcome Home where you can purchase anything from home decor to accessories to back drops and all the fabulous surroundings that bring your dolls to life!

Third prize is a copy of Fashion Doll Quarterly’s :  IN FOCUS – Digital Photography for the Doll Collector !  A “must have” hand book for those of us who want our doll photos to be perfection!

And, don’t forget, your photos will be published in an upcoming issue of a national magazine – Fashion Doll Quarterly !

While I am not allowed to participate in the contest, I would like to offer my support and encouragement by giving you a few ideas .

Think of the jewelry in a different light.  Not as jewels at all, but perhaps:

Bracelets can be used as a frame surrounding a round mirror

Brooches might  be used  pillows on a sofa

Use large dangle earrings as wall art

Cluster stud earrings in a bowl for a table centerpiece

The sky’s the limit !  I know  how creative some of you are and I’ve seen the proof in the photos you’ve shared with me over the years.  I am cheering  for you all 100% !  A contest like this has never been done before. It’s your chance to join in, be a part of something BIG, win a fabulous prize  and take your doll collecting to another level !

Remember – THE DEADLINE FOR PHOTO ENTRIES IS FEBRUARY 14TH !!

*Contest is open to everyone – world wide!

Best wishes!

Maryann

welcomehome@maryannroy.com

Like us on Face book!

Welcome Home: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Welcome-Home/269046949778490?sk=wall

Gems & Jewels : http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Gems-and-Jewels/163847493713927

To get a copy of the FDQ CRAFTS issue, go to: http://www.fdqmedia.com/

*Set photography by Phoebe Morley: www.pmorleyphotography.com.au

*Charms photographed by Greg Karslake

**************************************************************************************

*Welcome Home is a registered-trade mark business. Welcome Home is an independent company and is not affiliated with any other toy company.

All photos, furnishings, set designs, text and ideals are that of the Artist/Owner, Maryann Roy and may not be used or copied without written permission.

You may recall from my previous announcement,  that I was  interviewed by a new doll /art culture magazine from Italy.

Well, I’ve  just been informed by Pamela De Lorenzi, owner of My Muse magazine, that issue no.4 has  been released!  

Welcome Home is proud to be included in this issue along with Lalka creator, Julian Kalinowski !  This issue features a personal interview with each of us as well as gorgeous photography of our creations.

As a generous holiday offer, My Muse online version is being offered for FREE!! Yes, FREE !  Visit My Muse online to get your free copy !   TELL YOUR FRIENDS !

Piacere!

http://www.mymusemag.com/

 Another year is about to come to a close, and I must say,  it has been an exciting one for Welcome Home!  New projects, new endeavours and new friends. All very good !

I know a lot of you will be taking a break from work  in the coming weeks. I thought it might be fun to have a little do-it-yourself project on hand to get you through some of those long winter days.  

So, I am posting my “Plastic Furniture gets a little love”  article from the sold out, FDQ Fantasy issue for all to see and enjoy.  You might decide to try this yourself or with your children, or friends.

I am wishing all of you many blessings in the New Year!

Maryann 

Plastic Furniture gets a little love – Welcome Home style!

 Text, photos, and redesign by Maryann Roy

I know there are a lot of you creative types out there that would love a nice little home decor /diorama project of your own.  I also realize that you may not have the desire to work with power tools or woodworking tools the way I do. To that end, I ‘d like to show you a fun, inexpensive idea that involves neither of those!

 I purchased some inexpensive plastic furniture sets on eBay. Now, when I say inexpensive, I mean cheap! Literally $5.95 for each set.  I chose these particular sets for a couple of  reasons. I liked the lines of some of the pieces and they had what I consider “good bones” .  (That’s my term for items that have good structure but need a little love.) 

After checking out both sets, I chose the pieces I thought would look the best together in order to create one harmonious living space.  For the price I paid, I had no reservations about tossing the other pieces aside. However, they could always be reincarnated into something else  if you so desire.

The first thing I did after deciding on a set was to compare it in relation to the doll I intended  the set to be used for. In my case, Integrity’s Poppy Parker doll. As you can see in the photo, even though the plastic set was meant for today’s fashion dolls, it is a little small in scale. For me, scale is EVERYTHING if you want  your sets to look realistic. I am very picky about this!. The sofa and chair definitely needed some height. I cut some 1/4″ dowels in 1 1/2 inch lengths and glued them to the bottom of the piece. Since the dowels are wood and the pieces are plastic, I used Quick Grip, which is an all-purpose adhesive. I taped the dowels in place to help with the drying and to make sure that the pieces sat level before continuing.

In order for these plastic pieces to look more realistic, they will need to be covered in some type of upholstery.  One of the easiest materials to work with is felt. Not only  does it come in many color choices, it has a little bit of give , is inexpensive, and, it can be found in any craft store.

 My color choice? A nice, neutral tan, or “camel” if you will. Since the sofa and chair make up the majority of furniture in the room. going with a neutral color makes the most sense.  You can  bring in other colors with the use of accessories.

Most felt squares come in 9″x12″ pieces. This size is great when you are working on small objects. It’s much easier to handle and  excess can be trimmed after the piece is glued.

I am using Fabri-tac glue to adhere the material to the plastic.  Start on the arms first. Wrap from the outside of the piece toward the inside. Once both arms are covered, it’s only a matter of one long center piece to cover the rest.

(*Warning – Fabri-tac glue contains acetone which may damage your plastic pieces. Be sure to use care when placing your fabric in the area you want it to be on.) 

The other pieces I chose from the sets were the standing lamp, the low credenza, a few plastic vases and a neat looking stereo !  The credenza, and standing lamp got painted  coco brown.  I painted the lamp shade white and then adhered some circle designs from scrapbook paper onto the shade. I used this same piece of scrapbook paper as a  “rug” in the new room. It really ties the whole set together.

Can you believe this is that same pink and purple plastic set I started with?!   Just a few little personal touches, like magazines, pillows,and table accessories and voila !  -  A perfectly tailored room at a budget price!

FYI – Have you ever wondered why some plastic furniture comes in such hideous colors?  Most plastic furniture is made from plastic pellets that are melted  and then form injected. These pellets come in pink, and purple because the don’t yellow over the years like white plastic can AND  they cost less! 

 If you do try this project, I’d love to see photos ! Please send them along.

 Maryann Roy is the furniture and set designer of “Welcome Home” .

Blog: maryannroy.wordpress.com

Website: www.maryannroy.com

email: welcomehome@maryannroy.com

*Welcome Home is a registered-trade mark business. Welcome Home is an independent company and is not affiliated with any other toy company.

All photos, furnishings, set designs, text and ideals are that of the Artist/Owner, Maryann Roy and may not be used or copied without written permission.

Thank you all so much for your patience and joining in the fun yesterday by viewing the pre sale video ! I hope you all enjoyed it.

As is customary with my designs, all are made by hand and in limited quantities. 

I will answer your emails in the order in which I receive them.  As things do get hectic on sale days, please be patient with me. I will get back to you as quickly as possible.

Shipping is a separate charge and is calculated according to where you live. 

To order, email me at:  welcomehome@maryannroy.com

This sale showcases a colorful theme of pink and orange and offers versatile pieces that you can use over and over again whether “setting up house” or photographing your dolls.

Let’s begin, shall we? 

The Sofa – Chaise :  Gorgeous floral brocade in cream covers this multi purpose piece which also features clear acrylic legs.  So attractive when used as a sofa with 3 loose pillow back cushions and tufted seat.  Because the piece is fully upholstered, you can arrange the sofa with the arm on either the left  OR the right side ! Your preference.

This set also features a mirrored acrylic accent table with clear acrylic legs. Simple in design, but has sparkle and shine! A gorgeous accent lamp with flocked lampshade adorns the table.

This lovely piece is easily transformed into a chaise lounge simply by removing the back cushions and angling the piece away from the wall. Use the three additional throw pillows for added style and comfort! Three small, colorful prints are also included to add color and design to the area. So Glam !

   
  It’s like getting TWO main pieces of furniture (a sofa AND a chaise)  in one!

The Sofa-Chaise set includes the main upholstered one arm sofa with tufted seat cushion, 3 upholstered pillow back cushions, 3 throw pillows (one green triangle, 1 goldenrod square and 1 pink round pillow), mirrored accent table, acrylic lamp w/flocked lamp shade, and 3 wall art prints.

Set   $135.00  -  Limited to 4 sets      SOLD OUT! 

The Console set :  A sleek place to house extra seating and showcase your treasures as well !  This console table only has one shelf, but features a green glass acrylic top for peek-a- boo viewing. Narrow in design, the console can be placed against any wall.  Tucked  underneath  are two round stools upholstered in pink . Perfect for unexpected company !  For added delight, a glass vase of Poppies and two books are also included with this set.

The Console set includes : Console table with green “glass” top, 2 round upholstered stools, glass vase with Poppies, 2 books (do not open) and colorful wall art !  -  Set  $120.00  – Limited to 3 sets      SOLD OUT !

Club Chairs :  A  new design for me, but taken from the classic deco era, these club chairs fit just about any 12″ fashion doll perfectly !  Even Silkstone Barbie has a place to rest her shapely legs!

Pink Leopard: 

Goldenrod:

        Club chairs are being sold in singles : $55.00 each

Pink Leopard – 4 available      SOLD OUT!

Goldenrod  -    4 available   SOLD OUT!

* Add a floor lamp to the area for just $15.00 each !  Lamps have painted gold metallic base with white-painted paper shade.

Floor lamps – 6 available    2 left

Miscellaneous: 

 Console Table : - $45.00  - 1 only    SOLD !

Table Lamps: – Amber and turquoise glass beads with paper shade: – $12.50 each   – 3 available

SOLD OUT!

Coffee Table – Mirrored acrylic top with turquoise acrylic base:  $40.00    – 1 only !

Please email me to order and for availability: welcomehome@maryannroy.com

*Welcome Home is a registered-trade mark business. Welcome Home is an independent company and is not affiliated with any other toy company.

All photos, furnishings, set designs, text and ideals are that of the Artist/Owner, Maryann Roy, and may not be used or copied without written permission.

There was a flurry of excitement as the town celebrated the start of the holiday shopping season with the town tree lighting, carol singing, horse and buggy rides and all of the main street stores open for business!

“Holiday Affair” the theme for my window, was a popular stop! Quite a number of people were taking photos and children delighting at the holiday scene!

The scene, based on a 1960′s holiday cocktail party, includes festive party go-ers getting ready to open their gifts, and partaking in a little holiday cheer! The christmas tree spins and the walls are sprinkled with diamond dust! It’s truly a sight to see in person!

My family and I went early this moring to remove the curtain and offically reveal the display. This is how the window looked in this morning light:

This evening, I was able to join the festivites and did a little holiday shopping myself. It was wonderful to see the community come together and shop at small businesses. It was even more fun to stand on the side lines and watch as people delighted in my holiday display!

*Cocktail dresses by : Hilda Westervelt – Bellissima Couture

http://bellissimacouturefashions.wordpress.com/

Hello Everyone !
I have so many exciting things to tell all of you! Unfortunately, I can’t give away all the details on some projects, but I am so delighted about them, that I wanted to share at least a little about each.

The biggest news is that “Welcome Home” has been asked to do store window designs!
On ongoing project in Australia will be featured in the January issue of  FDQ magazine.  What a way to start the New Year, huh?!   I have been secretly working with the store in Australia  since last April, so although this is news to you, I’ve been having a hard time “sitting on my hands”  and not saying a word!    That’s about all I can say concerning this particular project though.

However, closer to home, ( literally the next town over from me), I am designing a Holiday Window for a Clothing and Art Boutique. This sweet gem of a store sits right on Main Street and will be seen by all of the holiday shoppers beginning the day after Thanksgiving. Coincidentally, the next day is my birthday!  What a fabulous way to celebrate!   Of course I will post all the details and photos as soon as the window is debuted!  Watch for the news here.

Coming in December, Welcome Home will be featured in a new fashion doll magazine -”My Muse”.  This periodical hails from Italy! I love their take on dolls and photography. My pieces will be showcased in an article along with Julian Kalinowski’s Lalka doll.  In conjunction with this, Julian and I will be offering a special “gift set” that includes a Lalka doll and Welcome Home furniture!  We wanted to combine our talents and release something truly special.  – So be on the look out !

And finally, I will be hosting a Holiday Sale! Hopefully, it will be the first week of December.  I am still mulling over what to offer so if you have a “Wish List“, drop me a line and let me know what you would like to see under your tree!

If you would like to be included in future updates and sales from Welcome Home, contact me with your email and I will add you to my First To Know List.

I thank you all for your continued support and interest !
Best,
Maryann

“Where does YOUR doll live?”

Welcome Home !

 welcomehome@maryannroy.com

My Muse Magazine:  http://www.mymusemag.com/

FDQ Magazine:  http://www.fdqmedia.com/

**************************************************************************************************************

*Welcome Home is a registered-trade mark business. Welcome Home is an independent company and is not affiliated with any other toy company.

All photos, furnishings, set designs, text and ideals are that of the Artist/Owner, Maryann Roy, and may not be used or copied without written permission

  However, I am in a festive mood as of late, and thought I might design something that could be dressed up for holidays, or be used as a colorful niche any time of year. So, I present to you:

“Oh, Holiday!”

-  Bold, glamorous, and sophisticated! A color explosion for the senses!  This lovely, petite  set is perfect for your holiday or any-day display ! 

 The chic sofa features a tufted seat with straight back cushions. - A  new design for Welcome Home!  The upholstery is a  creme/gold, glitter knit fabric that sparkles in the light!

 For ultra comfort, (as well as eye candy), 5 colorful pillows adorn the seat.

Very stylish, round cocktail table sits  within reach, yet allows ample leg room for your holiday guests! Painted creme with brushed gold finish .

A bright white area rug softens the area. A little “fluff” for the room .

Oh, but what is a celebration without a swanky place to house your refreshments?!

Gorgeous, curved cocktail bar boasts metal front with clear acrylic legs!  Curved top and inner shelf painted a splendid blue-green. Very festive!  A neat place to showcase drinks, horsd’oeuvres , or desserts!

Let your gals sparkle! Showcase them with “Oh, Holiday”!  Not just for the holidays, but all year round! 

 This set will accommodate contemporary dolls like Fashion Royalty, Poppy Parker and Monogram dolls as well as vintage Barbie, Silkstone, and Lalka !

Set includes:  Upholstered Sofa, Cocktail Bar, Round Cocktail Table, Small area rug and 5 Glorious throw pillows !   - $200.00 per set

LIMITED TO JUST 4 SETS!   -  SOLD OUT !!

Below, the set shown at twilight:

To order, please email me at: welcomehome@maryannroy.com

Shipping is not included, and will be determined according to where you live . PayPal, money order, or personal checks accepted.

Sets are ready to be shipped. No Layaway.

Thank you!

Maryann

*Barbie is wearing “Retros” by Liz Cole !

***********************************************************************************************

Fun Tip ! - 

 Festive Floral :  -  Dress up any table or counter top by using a tall glass bead as a vase. Fill with your favorite floral or vine !

******************************************************************************************

“Welcome Home”  is a registered business and is not affiliated with any toy company. All images, designs, furnishings, ideas, scripts, etc. are the property of Maryann Roy –  Welcome Home, copyright 2008.

No part of this blog, including photos and text may be used or copied without written permission.

The post title is a little play on words, and quite fitting ( if I say so myself).  After all, it combines my business name with the theme for my set design.  Did you notice?

Now that the set design is complete, I was anxious to start taking photos of dolls occupying the space. What better place to start than on sunny afternoon, when natural daylight makes the apartment come to life!

You may remember that my thought process was to make the space look like a mid-century modern apartment that an airline stewardess might live in.

I thought about describing each photo, but instead, I will let the photos tell the story. You can fill in the blanks however you perceive them.

Imagine, if you will: Just arriving home from her shift, jet setting across the country! 

Lighting is a big factor when taking photos of anything. It sets the mood and the tone. I love the following photos for the lighting alone.  It could be dusk, although I actually took these photos first thing in the morning.  I got these shots simply by not using the flash on my camera.

For this photo shoot  I used an Integrity Fashion Royalty doll.  As I am still playing with the set and trying the spaces in different ways I will use other fashion dolls so you can see them in the space too, so stay tuned !

I love what I do!   It’s a cool business – bringing your dolls to life.  I say, why not enjoy them as much as possible!  Add another dimension to your doll collection!

“Where does YOUR doll live?”

Welcome Home !

 welcomehome@maryannroy.com

*Welcome Home is a registered-trade mark business. Welcome Home is an independent company and is not affiliated with any other toy company.

All photos, furnishings, set designs, text and ideals are that of the Artist/Owner, Maryann Roy, and may not be used or copied without written permission