Creative Decompressing…

After a stretch of work, like the one I just had preparing for my last sale, I usually need to take a little down time in order to re-energize, shift gears and take a break from so much thinking!  I’m sure a lot of you feel like this from time to time. 

One of the ways I like to decompress is to have a little “play time” with some of my own furniture. It’s instant gratification to be able to pull out some pieces and put together a room in no time, and then to photograph it as it stands or add a pretty doll to the scene.

There is a method to my madness though. Each stage from the choosing of the furniture to the click of the camera is all therapeutic for me.   And when I do this, for no reason other than to have fun, there’s no pressure. There’s no dead line, there’s no worries. This little room can look how ever I want it to look. And that makes me smile. As mentioned – Instant gratification!

I need this little bit of down time between projects to remind me that I should enjoy the fruits of my labor once in a while too.  Working all the time is no fun even if you do like your job!

So today, just for a little while, I put away the work and played – and it was fun – and so, I’m sharing. 

I hope you enjoy.

Maryann

 With one of my favorite models – Fashion Editor Silkstone:

Silkstone’s FABULOUS outfit by Elizabeth Cole – Retros : http://www.etsy.com/shop/lizretros

*Welcome Home is a registered business. All ideas, photos and text belong to the artist Maryann Roy and may not be copied or used without written permission.

Email:  welcomehome@maryannroy.com

 

“All the Little Things! ” – Accessory Sale

Welcome Everyone!

I LOVE accessories!  They are the jewelry in any room. Accessories make a room more personal and inviting. They lend character to a setting and help make any diorama more realistic.  

 While you might tend to think of accessories as mere trinkets on a table, this isn’t necessarily so.  I would include staple pieces like credenzas and accent chairs in this category as well.  Why, all you need to bring a doll to life, is a well-chosen accessory piece ! Use it to create a background or imply a room.  

Accessories are a vital part of  a well-built display.  I hope you will find something here today to add to your collection. I know your dolls will love it !

* Please remember that ALL pieces are crafted by hand, even the sculpted Kitty Kats and hand painted Wall Art.   Although I may have made several of each item, because everything is made by Me (The Artist) no two are exactly alike.  So, you are getting an ORIGINAL every time you purchase!

Terms:  I will answer all emails in the order I receive them.  Please be patient with me as sale days are extremely busy ! 

I prefer PayPal for payment (No e-checks). Your invoice is due upon receipt .  No holds on items.

Shipping is a separate charge and is calculated according to where you live. Please contact me to order and for availability:  welcomehome@maryannroy.com

Feel free to read my Policies before purchasing : http://maryannroy.wordpress.com/about/

And now…

“All the Little Things”  – This sale is now closed, though I have left photos up for your viewing pleasure.

Thanks to all who purchased.  Please stay tuned for more fabulous items coming in the near future !

 

  ”Kitty Kats” -  “Kats” –

See them used in a setting:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Atomic  bar/cabinet :  

  

 Cocktail Bar  OR Cabinet !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Wall Clocks -  

                Glass Flower Vase :  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accent Chairs  -    PERFECT for Barbie !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Green Boucle’ Accent Chair -   

 

 

 

 

Foot Rest 

Side Table –

Wall Art -  

Sideboard/ Dresser

 

Pillows

 In the Round - 

  Lamps -   

 

 

Thank you for attending ! 

 Please email me to order :   welcomehome@maryannroy.com

 

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*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.

Welcome Home NEWS !

Hey Everyone !

Gems & Jewels  in Ballarat Australia is hosting  a puzzle promotion !  You may remember the work I did for them  – designing furnishings for their store front windows ?  Well, here is a truly unique, fun promotion using some of those particular pieces.   

 

 

   Isn’t this brilliant?   Loyal customers of  G&J are getting invitations with a puzzle piece enclosed. You need to bring your piece in to see if it is the missing piece of the puzzle. You could win a fantastic prize!

See more about that on the Gems & Jewels Facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/#!/gemsandjewelsballarat

  Gems & Jewels is filled with beautiful, exciting treasures –  A truly lovely place to shop !

Welcome Home is very proud to have been a small part in making dreams come true! 

Best Wishes G& J !

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If your business wishes to use Welcome Home Furnishings and Set Designs for promotionals, window displays or other, please feel free to contact Me at: 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.

Decor Dimensions – Part II !

For those of us who love our dolls, interior design, and creating a space for your dolls to ‘live’ in,  I’ve designed another suite of furniture that can be set up, put away or travel with you in an instant.  - All packaged in a sturdy colorful box, that doubles as storage as well as wall space !

 “Decor Dimensions” enables you to create a world for your dolls to be enjoyed, photographed and shared with others.  It’s perfect for those who may be limited on display space because this suite of furniture fits neatly into its own box and can be stored when not in use.  The box measures only 4″ high and about 15″ wide, so it can be tucked under a bed, stored in a closet or even a drawer when not in use.

This newest set, plays off the brown of the storage box and combines blue, gold, pink and creme for a very stylish, versatile suite that will compliment any doll ! It features furniture with simple lines that allow the decor, your doll and her surroundings to shine. 

As with my last boxed set, this set can also transform into many different looks. This time, the sofa  is the center piece and comes with TWO sets of cushions which allow you to change the entire look of the room just by switching them out . 

Rather than a wall with a window, a “Tree of Life”  panel inserted on the accent wall brings light into the room .  Painted creme and gold it compliments the brown box perfectly.

A peek-a-boo style coffee table is also included and has a glass-green acrylic top.  Beautiful from either side, this is another piece that can be turned to your liking.

Of particular mention is the area rug. With its wonderful texture and colors it’s the perfect accent in the room no matter which set of cushions you use on the sofa.

Accessories are the jewels of the room. Included with the set are 4 pillows (two rose, two gold), floor lamp with rose silk shade, 3 wall ornaments, table plant and 2 books.

 All of these pieces combine to make numerous settings by simply moving walls, pairing pieces or turning things in different angles. 

Here are some of the many uses for this fabulous set. Be sure to click on the photos for a better view :

Brown /Blue cushions:  This set of cushions features two pillow back with button center. A delicious marriage of color here !

 

 

 

Burnt Gold:  These cushions feature a bit of luxury with tufted back and seat ! Rich silk dupioni  is the material of choice. Nothing but the best for your dolls !

 

There’s no rule that says you have to use all the pieces with each set up.  Mix it up and play. Use your imagination. Add your own accent pieces. Combine the cushions.  You get to decide just how you’d like your room to look.

Here is  Victoire Roux enjoying some of the spaces ~

    

    

 Remember, the box is not only a perfect wall, but all of this lovely decor fits inside for easy storage !

Set this suite up on a shelf, a table, counter top or near a window for fabulous photo opportunities !  

Debut price – $260.00 per boxed set :   LIMITED TO 5 SETS        SOLD OUT !!

 Shipping is not included. Shipping costs are calculated via usps.com according to where you live.  

Payment via Pay Pal (no e-checks).

No Holds on sets . 

Please email me for availability : welcomehome@maryannroy.com

Do YOU have the Golden Ticket ?!

Barbie Convention 2012 is fast upon us and I know how much you are all looking forward to some great fun and spending time with your doll buds !

This year, a GOLDEN TICKET ceremony will be featured at the Bon Voyage party. The first of its kind, attendees will  have the chance to win a fabulous One of Kind creation donated from 20 talented artists.

Miniature Couturier, Hilda Westervelt had a marvelous idea for her donation . Inspired by the theme for convention (The Grand Tour), a “State Room” would be the perfect setting for a one of kind gift set offering. 

Hilda asked me if I would like to join her in creating a special presentation for the Golden Ticket ceremony.  Without hesitation I took to the task .  I always welcome a chance to work with Hilda. Her vision of how your doll should be dressed is nothing short of perfection!

Here is our contribution to the event :

A travel style box transformed into a beautiful State Room for a lady’s travels.  Features include:   Luxurious bed with flowing aqua canopy. Beautifully tufted mattress that lifts up to reveal a storage compartment for clothing and accessories.   Two stately club chairs upholstered in a vibrant floral pattern – perfect seating for our lovely occupant. Plush white carpet – so inviting ! Vase of colorful poppies on a clear acrylic table adding some spice to the room!  – So much more here to explore ! 

Our gorgeous traveller is none other than Barbie !  A #6 Lingerie Silkstone with customized hair and make up by Maryann Roy .  Always the consummate model, Barbie is dressed to perfection in a wardrobe fit for a princess!

Hilda Westervelt, of Bellissima Couture designed 4 delicious outfits for Barbie to travel in ! 

Colorful Capri set:

                   

 Divine brocade dress and coat ensemble:

  

 

 

        Gorgeous ”Moulin Rouge” two piece :

         

On the town floral sheath w/straw hand bag:

               

       

This spectacular gift set, can be yours, IF you have the GOLDEN TICKET!

   

To learn more about the Golden Ticket opportunity and see other donations go here:

http://www.barbieconvention.com/index.html

More details about Barbie’s travel wardrobe from Hilda Westervelt, Owner/Designer – Bellissima Couture:            http://bellissimacouturefashions.wordpress.com/

 Maryann Roy, Owner/Designer – Welcome Home Furnishings and Set Designs: welcomehome@maryannroy.com

 Welcome Home is a registered trademark business. No part of this blog or photos may be used without permission.

Daughter sings Norwegian !

Hello Everyone,

Ok, so I don’t usually put  personal/family type posts on my blog, however, I am just so dang proud of my daughter (who graduates from High School next week) and her many talents.  She took an experimental class at her school this year – Studio Space.  The kids learned how to form a band, and all the inner workings that go along with it.  Always musical, Amanda had no problems fitting right in. 

Here is her solo, which by the way just happens to be in NORWEGIAN ( which we are not) - she taught herself !

Hope you all enjoy a little “live” entertainment for a change of pace.

This is just the audio. I am still working on uploading the live video to my website.  Mandy is the one wearing red in the still photos at the top.

 Proud Mom – Maryann :)

http://studiospace5.bandcamp.com/track/resistansen-kaizers-orchestra-cover

Les Petites …

Ok – So, I said I wasn’t going to do it. I was NOT going to make furniture smaller than 1:6 any more.

 I had gone down that route a couple of years ago, making 1:12 scale furnishings for a LARC donation and a few living room and bedroom sets for those dollhouse lovers who requested it. I really thought that was the end of it, since I am most comfortable working in 1:6 scale.

 However, I’m sure you are all familiar with the expression – “Never say NEVER“.  And so here I am again, miniature furniture designer, lover of dolls, and collector of many who seems to never tire of anything miniature!

 Several years back, I purchased some itty bitty (7.5″) Hong Kong Lilli dolls. I didn’t know much about them, only that I loved their petite size and haughty look.  Back then, nobody cared much about this tiny clone, passing her over for the authentic smaller, Bild Lilli doll, who did happen to come in both the 12″ and 7.5″ sizes.

As it happened, a good friend of mine, Dal Lowenbein LOVES clone dolls, and is quite knowledgeable in this area.  She helped me identify my dolls and largely contributed to an article I wrote for FDQ on the subject. There are so many incarnations of these little beauties it’s almost insane!  I am trying to convince Dal to write a book on the subject. But I digress…

 As I am always looking for something new and exciting to work on, I decided it was time to once again revisit these tiny treasures. Certainly, they deserved some fabulous Welcome Home furniture !  A place where they could live and show off their swanky good looks. A chance to model like the rest of the dolls in my collection.  Yes, yes, I would start right away on this. So excited to be creating in new way! As if I had a new client. Well, actually, I did – Working in a different scale takes a little adjusting, but  I was so captivated with these tiny divas, that I found myself once again falling down the proverbial 1:12 rabbit hole. 

 Technically, these dolls (who are 7.5″ in height) are actually too big for 1:12 scale. In size relation,1:12 is best suited for 6″ dolls. So, really, I designed furniture specifically for these miniature temptresses who live in a land all their own.

 With a few well chosen pieces, some walls and floors and some chic accessories, (waives magic wand) - these gals now had a place to call their own. I couldn’t WAIT to get them in front of the camera!

 And so, here are the results of my most recent adventure in doll collecting.  A labor of love. A way to enjoy my dolls in another dimension.  A fresh look at an old favorite.

Enjoy!

Blondie -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Black haired Beauty:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Miss Auburn :

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Up swept Brunette:

 

 

 The newest acquisition ( who just arrived this morning – thus my delay in posting! )

 

Joining me in my excited, enthusiastic -” gotta have them” state, is Elizabeth Cole, who generously took on the task of dressing these miniature mannequins in a way only she could do. All I needed to do was ask if she’d be willing to dress my gals . Without hesitation she took to the task!   Her unique, fabulous taste comes through here in flying colors. She gets it!

Thank you Liz for your time and talent ! 

Here’s a little bit about Liz and how to contact her : 

I’m a housewife, live in Seattle, Washington with my husband Darren, two shih tzu’s and a pekingnese.  I went to Burnley School of Art and worked in Retail Advertising (for way longer than I should have).  I started sewing for Barbie in the early 90′s and then for Gene when she was produced.  I LOVE fashion dolls, vintage, new, used….I also collect Bleuette–the original BJD.  We also collect mid-century furniture and household items which we use/live with.  I particularly love Heywood Wakefield sculpture furniture, our latest/best acquisition is a blonde (working) Predicta TV on a Hey-wake TV table.

 Liz is the Owner/Designer of “Retros 

email: lizretros@aol.com

link to Etsy shop: www.lizretros.com

 MORE PICTURES ON FLICKR ! – http://www.flickr.com/photos/welcomehomefurnishings/

*See Fashion Doll Quarterly Magazine ‘s “ROCK” issue /Autumn 2006 for my “Diminutive Diva” article on these little dolls. 

Maryann Roy: -  welcomehome@maryannroy.com 

FDQ magazine : – http://www.fdqmedia.com

 Dal’s Dolls: – http://dalsdolls.blogspot.com/

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*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.

On the go interior design with “Decor Dimensions”

 

For those of  us who love our dolls, interior design, and creating a space for your dolls to ‘live’ in,  I’ve designed a suite of furniture that can be set up, put away or travel with you in an instant.  - All packaged in a sturdy colorful box, that doubles as storage as well as wall space !

 “Decor Dimensions” enables you to create a world for your dolls to be enjoyed, photographed and shared with others.  It’s perfect for those who may be limited on display space because this suite of furniture fits neatly into its own box and can be stored when not in use.  The box measures only 4″ high and about 15″ wide, so it can be tucked under a bed, stored in a closet or even a drawer when not in use.

 I’ve designed this set with versatility in mind, from the double-sided credenza to the moveable walls and by adding components that match each other, yet look great on their own !

 The Red Deluxe set includes: 

* Display wall in pink, featuring a large window with diamond-shaped patterned “glass”.  A beautiful compliment to the red box/wall ! 

* Sofa in nubby caramel brown dupioni with two rose silk pillows. 

* Credenza in cream with metal embellishments on the front panels.  The credenza also DOUBLES as a low bookcase or shelving unit when turned around. Two looks in one! 

* Accent pieces for use throughout the display include: 2  books (covers vary), 1 topiary, 1  plant, table lamp and 3 trinkets. 

* Coffee table – painted in a rich red/brown with painted gold trim leg accents. 

* Floral Note Room Divider in white.  A fabulous addition to any room !  Dividers add interest and focal points.  This one is my own design ! 

* Wall Art – A hand painted (by Me!) impressionist wall painting of red, pink and white flowers.

 All of these pieces combine to make numerous settings by simply moving walls, pairing pieces or turning things in different angles.  It’s like getting 3 different set designs in one!

 There’s  a lot to see, so let’s get to it! 

Here are a few possible incarnations of the set:

 

 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Here’s Barbie, showing you how perfect the atmosphere is !

The credenza is also a bookcase/shelving unit when turned around !  Lots of storage space for your favorite accessories.

 

If you so desire, turn the pink wall on its side so that the window is vertical.  This leaves ample wall space to showcase the wall art.  This too can be hung vertically, as shown with our lovely model, here:

For more choices, utilize the inside of the box, which is white, and readily goes with everything!  The depth of the box allows for more floor space and plenty of room to showcase several dolls at once !

Sunlight playing through the window, gives the most realistic of views to this set !

 * This set is best suited for Barbie, Silkstone Barbie, Francie, and Lilli  sized dolls.  Here we see Lalka inhabiting this lovely space !

No floor is included with this set, however, it  is simple enough to achieve just by setting up your display on a shelf, a wooden table, granite counter top or any number of surfaces. Choose a complimentary material to use as a carpet for the room!  Yet, another look all together. 

Set this up by a sunny window and watch the light play on the room.  A realistic way to photograph with your dolls! 

One of the fabulous elements to this design is that it can be set up any way you like it!  Add accessories or use other furniture with the structure.  Integrate another color by the mere addition of pillows and accent pieces!

 The possibilities are endless and your dolls will look like a million !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Debut price:   $ 260.00 per boxed setLimited to 5 sets    SOLD OUT !!

 Shipping is not included. Shipping costs are calculated via usps.com according to where you live.  

Payment via Pay Pal (no e-checks).

No Holds on sets . 

Please email me 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.