A Beginners' Guide to the Dolls' House Hobby: Revised and Expanded Edition [Paperback]

Jean Nisbett (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 28, 2006

Jean Nisbett's classic book is a practical, accessible introduction to the world of doll houses. Avoid costly mistakes and confusion with this indispensable guide to the basics of this fascinating hobby. Part one features an introduction to the doll's house hobby including: choosing the most suitable house; planning decoration and furnishings; ideas for gardens; ideas for miniature shops; and doll's houses for children. Part two contains practical matters including: step-by-step guide to decorating; making simple pieces of furniture; dealing with kits; creating a miniature garden; and interior/exterior finishes.

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

One of the more prolific British writers on the subject of dollhouses, outside and in, Nisbett encapsulates her considerable knowledge into a small book designed for rank beginners. Part 1 surveys the choices available, from working within a budget to selecting houses, shops, and garden settings; charts guide hobbyists to the appropriate materials for authentic period interiors and exteriors. Part 2 delves into the details; more project oriented, it includes practical how-to information, such as fashioning fireplaces and Aga cookers. All instructions are accompanied by at least one color photograph; the list of materials may occasionally need some translation, since the author tends to use British brand names and generic terms. A good aid for those considering a new hobby. Barbara Jacobs --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review

"The perfect guide to select your first project." - Dollmaking magazine "One of the more prolific British writers on the subject of dolls' houses, outside and in, Nisbett encapsulates her considerable knowledge into a book designed for rank beginners." - Amazon.com, Editorial review"

Product Details

• Paperback: 144 pages
• Publisher: Guild of Master Craftsman; Rev Exp edition (March 28, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1861084862
• ISBN-13: 978-1861084866
• Product Dimensions: 9.8 x 7.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #170,529 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

69 of 69 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great starter guide to the world of dollhouses!, November 17, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: A Beginners' Guide to The Dolls' House Hobby (Paperback)

I am building a dollhouse for my daughter and this book was invaluable. I wasn't sure about a few things, like painting the house. She told the reader what is best to do at what time. She also gave some great ideas to make cheap furniture, etc. It is definitely worth it to buy this book because it gives you a good overview of this fascinating hobby!

36 of 39 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book!, April 13, 2000

By 

Debs "Mum from NJ" (New Jersey) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Beginners' Guide to The Dolls' House Hobby (Paperback)

This book is wonderful to look at and very helpful. Especially if you want a period look or a very english look to your dollhouse, which is just what I was looking for. Great value for the money. I find myself looking through it all the time.

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book For Miniature Enthusiasts!, April 22, 2007

By 

Dollhouse Domain (Greenwich, CT) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: A Beginners' Guide to the Dolls' House Hobby: Revised and Expanded Edition (Paperback)

I purchased the original edition of Jean Nisbett's book years ago and absolutely loved it! There are lots of beautiful color photos throughout and useful tables in the book. She provides a handy metric conversion table, a fine description of the different periods of which most dollhouses are designed and decorated, and offers many projects for dollhouse components and accessories. I haven't yet looked through her revised edition, but I'm sure it can only hold more wonderful pieces of information, guidelines and ideas. Inspiring and useful!