Boca1212

Thanks everyone for the input- Mike - good to hear from you as well - i have seen the results of what you describe where the lower portion of the shingle appears more weathered than the higher portion - I like it - I'll do some more testing to see what works out best - I certainly don't want it to look like new money Danny

I knew the Queen of Spackle would have something for me thanks Holly- - Is it best to distress before roof application or can i install first and then distress in place ?? Danny

Hello, Mini Folks I'm nearing completion on my Beacon Hill build and I am interested in learning more about distressing the wood shingles. If anyone has ideas, methods or links it would be great to hear from you... I'm planning on using the shingles that came with the kit. I've tested a vinegar and water solution soak - which produces a grayish color - but i would like to test other options before making a decision. Thanks in advance Danny

Two words - Dremel Tool !!! As Kathie states parts often need to be shaved to adjust the fit, a Dremel tool with a round sanding wheel on the tip works great for removing material quickly - and I sand everything usually using one of those foam core sanding blocks. Often the edges of the wood are rough and pitted in which case I apply spackling then sand. Note: If painting the component Spackling if staining use wood putty to fill any imperfections...Spackling does not take stain very well. Having a pre-plan on paint and or stain is also important unless you are a contortionist and can get into small places easily. Just make sure you are understanding the directions well before performing surgery. I have found the following Blog at More Minis to be helpful whenever i was stumped construction. http://moreminis.blogspot.com/2014/12/the-beacon-hill-dollhouse-revisited_91.html#.V952n_krJ9N Good luck and have fun Danny

beautiful - i'm on it - thanks so much to all for the resources DR

Finally back on my build - i will soon be turning my attention to interior decor - Can anyone point me in the direction of window dressings resources - the DIY type - I may not do it myself but i know someone who can help - The house is Beacon Hill and I have been trying to stay as close to the Victorian time frame as possible - any suggestions are welcome regards DR

I'm in total agreement with these veterans that have responded here - I too am relatively new to this..I'm working on the Beacon Hill also (my second build) - I have found that you must dry fit everything... many pieces and parts have needed adjustments - my Dremel tool has become my friend. Good luck and keep asking questions these folks are a wealth of knowledge Take care.. PS - my glue of choice is Quick Grip - found at Walmarts for like 4 bucks - I use it for all general construction bonds (with tape and clamps) Danny

yep yep - i agree it is on her second build she has some pretty detailed directions - only difference is she was hinging her windows. I think i'm going with her steps outlined Thanks

I have read somewhere that it may be best to totally assemble the dormer window and then install it in the opening (i think) - I have also seen on More Minis Blog site a different method but different still from the directions provided - I'm leaning toward the More Mini method. I would be interested in any other references that may be out there and would love to hear from others on the choices they made for their dormer window install Thanks in advance DR