ABOUT
THIS COURSE
Welcome to the Miniature Italian Villa Dollhouse Course, an exciting and comprehensive journey into the enchanting world of miniature craftsmanship!
This course is designed for those who are passionate about art, design, and the intricate details that bring a dollhouse to life.
As a student, you will immerse yourself in the creation of a stunning Tuscan-style house, learning to handcraft every aspect from scratch.
Whether you are a seasoned artisan or a curious beginner, this course will equip you with the skills and techniques needed to create a breathtaking miniature masterpiece.
By the end of the course, you will not only have crafted a stunning dollhouse inspired by Tuscany but also gained a deeper appreciation for the artistry and cultural significance that define this remarkable area of Italy. Join us on this creative journey as we bring a piece of Tuscany into your home!
the allure of
Tuscan Architecture
Tuscany, renowned for its picturesque rolling hills, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, serves as the perfect inspiration for our dollhouse project.
This enchanting region of Italy is celebrated not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its distinctive architectural style that embodies the essence of Italian beauty and tradition.
Tuscan architecture is characterized by its warm, earthy colors, often seen in the terracotta roofs and stucco walls that blend seamlessly into the landscape.
The use of rustic materials, such as stone and wood, adds to the authenticity and charm of Tuscan buildings, creating a sense of timelessness. Intricate details, from ornate doorways to wrought-iron balconies, reflect a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment, showcasing the region's commitment to craftsmanship and artistry.
Throughout this course, you will have the opportunity to explore these captivating architectural elements in depth. You will learn how to replicate the unique features of Tuscan design in miniature form, from creating the perfect color palette to selecting appropriate materials that evoke the warmth and charm of this beautiful region.
COURSE PROJECT
Immerse yourself in the charm of Italy
Perfect for enthusiasts of all skill levels, this course promises creativity, fun, and a touch of la dolce vita!
Course Structure
The course is divided into several modules, each focusing on a different aspect of dollhouse construction. You will engage in hands-on projects that build upon each other, culminating in the creation of a fully furnished and decorated miniature villa.
Module 1:
Designing the Stone Facade
Your journey begins with the creation of the villa’s striking stone facade. You will learn about various materials and techniques to achieve the look of aged stone, including:
Material Selection: Understanding the best materials for creating realistic stone surfaces, such as foam board, plaster, and paint.
Texturing Techniques: Applying texture to your facade to mimic the roughness and character of real stone, using tools like sponges, brushes, and sculpting tools.
Color Application: Choosing and mixing colors to create depth and dimension, learning to layer paints for a weathered effect.
Weathering Techniques: Mastering techniques to simulate aging, such as dry brushing and washes, ensuring your facade tells a story of time and beauty.
BE INSPIRED BY
THE BEAUTY OF THE COUNTRYSIDE
Tuscany, a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, is dotted with charming rustic houses that embody the essence of Italian countryside living.
module 2:
Crafting Windows and Doors
Next, you will focus on one of the most defining features of Tuscan homes: the windows and doors. In this module, you will learn:
Design Principles: Understanding the proportions and styles typical of Tuscan architecture, including arched windows and ornate doors.
Construction Techniques: Step-by-step guidance on how to create windows and doors from scratch, including framing, glazing, and finishing touches.
Decorative Elements: Adding shutters, wrought iron accents, and other details that enhance the authenticity of your designs.
module 3:
BUILDING THE ROOF
A well-crafted roof is essential for completing the Tuscan aesthetic. In this module, you will explore:
Roof Design: Learning about the different styles of Tuscan roofs, including their slopes and materials.
Construction Methods: Techniques for creating a realistic roof structure, including the use of cardboard, wood, or other materials.
Tile Application: Crafting and applying terracotta tiles, focusing on color and texture to replicate the warm, earthy tones typical of Tuscan roofs.
INTERIORS
RUSTIC & WARM
Explore techniques in crafting stunning interiors and exteriors, all while discovering the rich history and culture of Italian design.
module 4:
INTERIOR DESIGN AND LAYOUT
With the exterior complete, you will turn your attention to the interior of the villa. This module will cover:
Room Layout: Planning the interior spaces to maximize functionality and aesthetic appeal, including living areas, bedrooms, and kitchens.
Wall, Floor, and Ceiling Details: Techniques for creating characteristic details, such as textured walls, terracotta flooring, and exposed wooden beams.
Kitchens with Character: Crafting a traditional Tuscan kitchen complete with hand-painted ceramic tiles, a stunning stove, and a stone sink that embodies rustic elegance.
module 5:
FURNISHING YOUR VILLA
Every room in your miniature villa deserves thoughtful furnishings. In this module, you will learn to create:
Bedroom Essentials: Crafting typical Italian beds and wardrobes that reflect the elegance of Tuscan design.
Dining and Living Spaces: Designing and building dining tables and chairs that encourage family gatherings, along with modern sofas that add a contemporary touch to your interiors.
Custom Furniture: Techniques for creating unique pieces tailored to your vision, ensuring your dollhouse feels like a true home.
LIGHTING FIXTURES
achieve a warm, inviting glow
In this course segment, students will learn to create beautiful, rustic lighting fixtures inspired by Tuscan design.
module 6:
Lighting and Electrical Systems
To bring your dollhouse to life, you will learn how to incorporate lighting and electrical systems:
Creating Lighting Fixtures: Designing and crafting rustic Italian chandeliers and sconces that enhance the ambiance of your villa.
Electrical Basics: Understanding the fundamentals of dollhouse wiring, including safe practices for installing lights and switches.
module 7:
Outdoor Decor
Finally, you will enhance the exterior of your dollhouse with beautiful outdoor elements:
Terracotta Pots and Miniature Flowers: Learning to create lifelike terracotta pots filled with vibrant miniature flowers to adorn your balcony and facade.
La Fontana: You will design a water fountain in any style you choose. You will learn how to paint it and age it to achieve an antique appearance.
advantages of our courses
ONLINE COURSE
Enrolling in our academy will grant you lifetime access to this online course, affording you the flexibility to learn at your own pace and convenience.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY
The course includes a vibrant community where you can share progress, get feedback, and exchange ideas with students and the instructor.
ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED
All our courses included the materials. You will receive from us a package with all necessary to make your dream miniature project a reality.
instructor
CLAUDIA SIERRA
Claudia Sierra is a highly skilled miniaturist with over a decade of experience creating intricate and detailed miniature buildings. In addition to her work as a miniaturist, Claudia has enjoyed a successful career as an Interior Designer and has taught design courses at the Wuhan University of Science and Technology.
Claudia's love for her craft is evident in the way she approaches her work, constantly seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of miniatures. Her deep understanding of art and history further enhances her ability to create pieces that are not only technically impressive but also imbued with a sense of cultural significance and historical context.
Her willingness to share her knowledge and inspire others to explore the world of miniatures and art is a testament to her passion and generosity.
online learning
Upon enrollment, you'll receive login credentials to your email, allowing you to access our user-friendly online learning platform. Courses can be accessed anytime, enabling you to learn at your own pace.
Yes, our courses cater to all skill levels. Whether you're a novice or an experienced miniaturist, our courses are designed to enhance your skills and creativity.
Our online classes consist of video tutorials, written instructions, and hands-on projects. You can watch the lessons as many times as needed, providing a flexible and immersive learning experience.
Yes, upon successfully completing a course, you'll receive a personalized completion certificate. This serves as a recognition of your accomplishment in mastering the skills taught in the course.
To receive your certificate, you must submit detailed pictures of your completed course project for review by the instructor. Upon assessment and approval, you will be awarded your certificate.
materials package
Our materials packages include all the necessary components to complete the course projects. These included the wooden parts of miniature furniture, accessories, paints, and specialized tools.
Each of our courses includes all the essentials needed for the course project. However, you might also consider acquiring practical items like empty glass jars with lids and various containers to mix and store paint mixtures and other materials. Additionally, getting a cutting board to protect your craft table is advisable, as many of our courses involve a lot of cutting.
TEACHER & COMMUNITY
Our courses are taught by experienced and passionate miniaturists. Meet our talented team of Miniaturist Teachers who bring a wealth of knowledge and creativity to each course.
Absolutely! Our courses foster a sense of community. You can engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your creations with both instructors and fellow students.
Certainly! Our teachers are here to support you. You can reach out through the course platform or join discussions and forums for personalized guidance.
Yes, as part of our courses, we organize "COURSE MEETINGS." These group video calls allow you to interact directly with your instructor and classmates, where you can ask questions and share your work-in-progress. There will be 2 to 3 meetings per course, depending on its length.
PAYMENT & SHIPPING
To enroll in our courses, simply click the checkout button below and complete the payment. Once your payment is successfully processed, you will receive a welcome email containing a button to access your course page. Click this button to be directed to your course.
If you wish to access your course later, you can register on our website and create an account using the same email you provided during checkout. After setting up a password, you’ll be able to log in to your course page through our main website using your email and password.
For more detailed instructions, please visit the page titled How to Access Your Courses.
Use this text to answer questions in as much detail as possible for your customers.
Most of our course packages, depending on stock availability, will be ready to ship within 4 to 5 days. Depending on your location, your package will arrive in 15 to 20 days. We strive to minimize shipping times, but due to the large size and weight of most course materials, shipments must be sent by sea, resulting in longer delivery times. For smaller packages, if the available stock is located in our US warehouse, delivery within the US will take approximately 3 to 4 days.