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Diving into model-making by making a tiny free library to plant in my neighborhood.
Part 2: Building the Tiny Library Box
Part 2: Building the Tiny Library Box
I am just going to include a choice selection of process shots here, rather than anything comprehensive. This was my first ever model, and I did lots of things wrong. So I don't want anyone trying to imitate my process. Eventually, with a lot of troubleshooting and regrets, I got it to a place where I was happy with it.
For Part 1 where I made the tiny books, see my earlier blog post here.
I based the size of the door on the size of the tiny hinges I had, and the microscope slides I used for glass window panes.
I cut out the panes and then held the glass in place with overlapping boards on front and back.
The overall shape was just a full sheet of balsawood with the top corners cut off.
Next I built a frame from little square dowels and glued the sides of the house onto it.
I added the shelf and floor to the structure (would have been easier if I'd waited to put the walls on).
I added the door hardware, and cut the pieces for the roof.
I used a nail dremel to create wood texture in my wood (silly), then cut it into individual shingles to cover the roof.
I watched lots of actual shingling videos to try to get this part right, but ended up using wood glue instead of tiny nails.
Once the roof plates were mostly shingled, I added them to the structure before doing the final layers of shingles.
At this point I decided to add a "Free" box to the bottom shelf, since this is another common feature on our street.
I stained the roof, painted the sides, and sealed the inside with mod podge to weatherproof it a bit.
I used acrylic paint pens to add some ornamental details to the front.
I added a tiny sign to the top, and protected the hardware and glass. Ready for several layers of clear coat to seal it all!
As waterproof as I can make it. Not sure what to do about the cracks around the doorframe.
I filled the base with little tiles I had lying around for added weight and stability.
I installed it using STRONG adhesive to a mossy ledge out near the sidewalk.
I stocked it with tiny books, and filled the "free" box with cool rocks, and the color pencil earrings I didn't want.
I can't wait for neighbors to discover it as they walk by!
Final thoughts:
Miniatures are fun! A friend pointed out that there is a lot more ledge, if I wanted to create a whole little village by the tiny free library. I'm tempted.
I did my best to waterproof it and put it in a sheltered location, but given how rainy it is around here we'll see if it lasts the year.
I wonder if anyone will treat it like a little free library and take or leave tiny things?
I used balsawood and lots of sealing materials because I knew I wanted to install this outside. I know those aren't materials everyone has, but don't let that discourage you! I would have worked with recycled materials for anything inside: you can go a long way with cardboard and paper.
UPDATE: People love the tiny books. I handmade more about 3 times before getting lazy and ordering a big collection of premade tiny books for model making.
Part 3: Tiny Earring Exchange
Part 3: Tiny Earring Exchange
I ended up making a second part to my tiny library village because I always have more earrings than I know what to do with, and I wanted a better way to display and exchange them than the free box at the bottom of my tiny library.
I designed and 3D Printed this version, since the balsawood was already showing signs of weather.
It looked adorable and was an highly active exchange for about six months until someone stole it!
This is version 2: Also 3D printed but with a better roof. You'll notice it's not quite as lovingly painted - I was a bit discouraged by the loss of the first version.
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