I thought you may be interested in my Lockdown project. I had always wanted a 12th scale Narrowboat cabin and unable to find a kit, decided I'd better get on and make one myself.  I found wood of various types and sizes, Ply, mdf (from the back of a wardrobe, I knew would come in handy, proving that even though the kids keep asking why do you keep all that 'stuff' it was worth it!) Obeche, Hardwood and various strips bought from Miniature shows. I had wood glue and other glues. In fact the only purchases were some hinges and pull handles I had everything else. I found some reference books on our numerous bookshelves, Tim found a Narrowboat builders book, I unearthed one with plans and measurements 10' 6" x 6' 10" x 5' 10" also a trusty Ladybird book on canals and other Canal books with brilliant illustrations. So after scaling it down to 12th scale a very scratchbuilt Narrowboat Cabin started to come to to life. It was great fun researching and reminiscing about our own Narrowboat and the fun we had on the cut. But a visit to Ellesmere Port Boat museum would have been great but not an option in these strange times we find ourselves in. In fact thinking about it the Builders book was on board Elmwood when we bought her. 

So hijacked the spare room and set up my scroll saw, got the pencils, set square and rulers into use and off we go!  I knew this would take a while to create so I decided to put updates and photos onto Valley View silver facebook page to ensure I finished it.  I found a stove that had come with a dollshouse bought several years ago which was ideal. Making the cabinet that is set on an angle was a bit tricky, as was cutting the panels out for the cabinet doors hence the wood filler. I couldn't fix the cabinets until I had painted the Roses and Castles which I was impatient to do. I love working with wood but probably rush it too much. I have added photos but they aren't necessarily in the right order - my website editing skills need more practise! 

I had plenty of old shirt material ideal for mattress ticking and the sewing machine was out to make face masks (as you do) so I made a mattress and two pillows that fit into the cupboards in the daytime as was the custom on a working narrowboat. I gave myself a Narrowboat stool and kettle from my stock. The lace on the divider was from an old blouse and I had the lovely red flowery material for the curtain in my box of material for miniatures. I cheated a bit on the flooring which was a cutout page from a dollshouse magazine so actually I suppose not really a cheat.  There are still a lot of finishing touches to be added, a windlass, a fender, a Lantern, a better saucepan ( I have ordered some copper sheet - next project) I need to make a ribbon plate, put up some horse brasses and lots more. But at least the cabin is finished. I aim to be able to bring it to some Dollshouse fairs for display - Oh so need a display case - possibly next but one project!