Profile of Regina Steele

My interest in miniatures started early as my parents bought an old handmade 1920 wood dollhouse for me to play with in 40's, as I was sick w/bed rest at the time and play I did, that and make dolls : ) Unfortunately they lent to younger cousins later and all furniture had disappeared when it returned. I gave it to my daughter in 70's, bought and then made furniture for it after my Christmas list started with Dremel tool and scroll saw. I'd been a chart clerk/draftsperson previously, so scaled down actual furniture plans.

Been an Antique doll dealer (since 1973) and collector (since 1947) but my creative pleasure comes from my miniatures. But I love both interests equally. Also design & make my own mini bears.

I have been a miniaturist since 1972/3. Always learning new things I work in wood, cloth, clays (Fimo, Sculpey III, & Cernit). My first miniature was a 1" hutch I scaled from furniture book-first item on my Dremel Saw-then I made 1" General Store -1900's. From there I went to a Toy shop and roomboxes. I favor 1/2" & 1/4" scale now. Also have a 1/2" Victorian DH that's been waiting for years-hopefully summer 2003!

I do one of a kind dolls, generally custom orders, in all scales-but there again 1/4" & 1/2" are my favorites. Dolls are of Cernit, Sculpey III & Fimo-with hand sculpted heads & limbs &/padded posable wire frame bodies. That's why I like custom-can make them doing things -- or have special expression.

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