I think this is the cutest project I’ve ever done.
It might even be the cutest project anyone’s ever done in the history of the universe.
So you think that’s an overstatement and just a bit too self-indulgent?
Ha! Just you wait my doubting friends.
It all began a few months ago while shopping at a local nursery. There before me were the most adorable fairy garden miniatures I’d ever seen, and a mere seconds later I was toting home a gnome house, white picket fencing, a couple of chairs and a table, (which I ended up not using) a mailbox, and some stepping stones.
But that was only the beginning.
A short time later, I found myself at another nursery on the other side of town. Here’s where my vision started to take shape, but before I tell you about that, let me show you where the fairy garden is located.
I had some difficulty deciding where to place it. I had very much wanted to put it in a large, hollowed out tree stump in our back yard, but right now it’s very difficult to access (emphasis on ‘right now’). I thought about putting it right by our front door near the stone steps, and in fact started to do just that, but it just didn’t feel right. I also felt the house needed height, and realized I had just the thing, but I would need more space than available by the steps on the stone wall. You’ll see what I mean soon.
So here’s where it is. Can you see it?
Come closer.
See, I told you it was cute!
Getting back to my vision. As you may know, we live by a lake in a log cabin and it seemed appropriate to give the garden a rustic theme, so why not pick up some log furniture for the fire pit area?
And how about some blue crystals for a lake?
Oh, and you can’t have a lake without a fairy fishing, complete with his trusty pup, now can you? I should say not! Oops, looks like his rubber boots fell!
And, of course, every respectable lake should have a bait shop and a place to rent some boats.
Even though fairies can fly, they’re a modest bunch and don’t like to show off, so a bike and a wagon to get around the neighborhood in style, and ladders to climb, is a thoughtful touch.
And maybe a tire swing to relax on after all that exercise.
And just in case there’s a fairy that’s really tired, there must be a hammock for some leisurely, afternoon naps.
Here’s a shot of the back. Notice the solar panel on the gnome house?
Can you stand it??
So here’s the down low on how I did it (’cause I know you can’t wait to put together your own, right?). I was lucky to have this organic wooden three tiered shelf I picked up at Homegoods a few years ago but if I hadn’t, I would have built up the ground with some dirt or sand so the house could be a little higher than most everything else.
Now, while it’s a LOT of fun to shop for ready made items, the real fun is in thinking up fun accessories on your own and making them.
I cut some large twigs and hot glued them together for the tire swing, which btw is simply a round piece of plastic that I spray painted black.
For the hammock, I cut a small piece of outdoor fabric and used an owl to punch some holes in the ends and threaded some thin ribbon through the holes (a large nail would work just as well). I used the owl punch and a hammer to actually split the ends of the large twigs just enough so I could put the ribbon in the slits. There may be a far better way to put together a hammock, but this worked for me.
A while back I made a cute little button bouquet, and I used some of those as ‘flowers’ in the garden. I also picked up some flower stickers at Michael’s which I placed on twigs. I used those in the garden as well as in the tiny planters, which I covered with some moss. Cheap, easy and colorful!
I also took a wine cork, the kind that is fatter on the top, glued a plaid button to it and used it as a plant stand. I had some doorknobs I picked up at a tag sale that I used for this cabinet and used one as a base for an ornament. You can also use flat topped cabinet hardware as stools or plant stands. In fact, they don’t even have to have flat tops if you’re not putting anything on top of them.
I had extra fencing, so I cut it into three pieces and used them as ladders. To secure everything I used clear glue dots, available at any craft store.
I originally used the top of a large jar for the lake, but the round shape made it look more like a pool. I found an irregular shaped baking pan at Goodwill for $2 and glued some slate and stones around the edges and I love how it turned out.
These pictures were taken on different times and different days so if you see something (like the cute little red polka dot mushroom near the house) that wasn’t there before, it’s because every time I go shopping I come home with more stuff!
I look at things differently now, always wondering what I can use it for. Can a button be used for a bike wheel? Can a shot glass be used as a table base, maybe with lights inside? Can fabric scrapes be used on a clothesline? Yes, yes, and yes. There are no limits to what you can create!
I’m going to be really sad when it’s time to bring everything indoors. Maybe we should move to Hawaii??
In other news…
I’ve been getting my craft on lately with some fun and easy projects around the house which I’ll share next time, but one of them involves a large leaf and some cement ;).
My planters on the deck have been doing great! Last year I was very happy with how the plants looked and I didn’t think I could top that. I’m happy to say I was wrong.
This is a side view and as you can see both sides are doing equally well. Looks like ‘million bells’ is very happy on the deck!
Here’s a couple of its neighbors…
That’s it for now folks. We have the boys this weekend and will be taking part in Field Day today. Tug of war is always a perennial favorite. Wish us luck :).
Sharing At
Cooking & Crafting
Lyn says
You did a fabulous job on your fairy garden! What a great spot for it as well! It looks magical! I am in the process of planning one outside in my flower garden and you gave me some great ideas. Love the idea of hot gluing sticks together. I want to use as many natural items – sticks, rocks, pine cones, shells – as possible. I found out there is a fairy festival in the fall in Nashville where there are quite a few vendors selling themed items. Can’t wait for that! Oh – and I think you definitely need to move to Hawaii so you can enjoy it year round. LOL!
Cindy says
Doreen you are way to clever. I love the tire swing. Cutting the sticks was a clever and perfect touch. I think the whole thing is fantastic. The beach, fire pit.
You have a wonderful imagination and BRAVO to this project.
Your flowers also look wonderful. Have a super weekend
Cindy
Dewena says
How intricate! It must be as much fun as playing with a pretty dollhouse.
And your flower boxes are extraordinary! Like a catalogue from White Flower Farm!
Amy says
Doreen, this is ADORABLE! I can’t imagine the time it took to put this together, but you’re right, it may just be the cutest project ever! The lake is fabulous. As for admiring it year round, I think you need to do an indoor version!
Kris @ Junk Chic Cottage says
Doreen the fairy garden is adorable. Love all the creativity you used to make your special garden. Your flowers on the deck look beautiful too. Gotta love summer!!! Have a great Sunday.
Kris
tammy j says
I love enchantment. and this is masterful!
there is a site you will love if you haven’t already seen it.
she creates in miniature too and you might get lots of new ideas there.
of making things for your faerie houses. although . . .
it appears as if you don’t need any help!!! LOLOL! the pond is brilliant!
the name of the site is mouseshouses.com
mouses houses! you will absolutely LOVE IT!
(unless like darling dewena … you can’t stand mice!) LOLOL!!!
their houses are almost as sweet as faerie ones!
but you’re just the best!
I believe in faeries. and they love it when you design a house for them!
XOXO♥
Cindi says
Wow! You didn’t just create a fairie garden, you made a village!
I love it!!!
My little one is on top of a birdbath but just like you, I want MORE!
It’s truly addictive and so fun.
I especially love the fact that you created so much of it with found objects.
and your flowers are to die for! LOVELY!
Have fun with the boys this weekend!
XOXOXO
Susan lawton says
I have fairy furniture directions for couches, chairs, etc From years ago I received at a fairy festival. I would be happy to share or make with you some day! Tedious work but worth it. People would stop their car and lift a hosts leaf to reveal my garden to kids and friends at my mailbox. You are inspiring me to make one again!
denise says
I LOVE it! I have quite a few gardens around my house and from spring to fall, there are a number of various garden gnomes scattered around. Once, when I had a young visitor, he picked up a gnome and declared “SANTA!”, and carried it around the yard. Also, my husband found a little garden sign that says ‘Better Gnomes & Gardens’. It applies to my yard! I love decorating the gardens with more than just shrubs and flowers. Your little garden community is absolutely adorable!!! xxDenise
Mary-the boondocks blog says
Doreen this most certainly is the cutest fairy garden anyone has ever done in the history of the universe. Yes, you are absolutely right. You have gone above and beyond. And if I were a mini person I would definitely want to move into your fairy garden.
Marilyn @ Pink Paper Cottage says
Oh my… such wonders exist there in your little fairy town! Every little item is such a delight, and making your own sweet little bits and pieces makes it even more fun! What will happen if it rains? Will all the little people be OK??? Love the solar panel on the gnome house! Lit up at night is magical…. I can see some little mini lights strung around the “outer house” at night… wouldn’t that be sweet? There’s another site called miniatures.com. You may find even MORE fun things for your fairies’ delight! And your flowers are gorgeous on your deck too… I bought million bells this year for the first time and they are going crazy (except earwigs are starting to eat them!). Summer is such a wonderful season to play! Marilyn
susan says
You’re right, Doreen, this definitely wins the prize for “cute.” And so creative! I love the lake, the tire swing – aw heck, I love it all!
Karen@Beatrice Euphemie says
Your fairy garden is too adorable, Doreen! Love all the little details, such cute ideas! The tiny pots with the button flowers are so sweet, and the tire swing and hammock are wonderful. I can tell that you had a good time playing with the fairies 🙂 Have fun with the boys! xx K
Cyn says
I love it, you clever woman you! Just when I think you have no more surprises coming up, up pops this! Fabulous!!
Red Rose Alley says
Doreen, your fairy garden is finished and it looks just wonderful!!! You really did a fantastic job on it. I like everything about it. The blue rocks for the lake are perfect. The tire swing is so cute and reminds me of swinging my kids on my aunt’s tire swing in her front yard. The flower pots, the hammock, the wheel barrow, and the little fishing fairy are all so adorable. Thanks for sharing this with us. I’ve always wanted to create a fairy house, and now more than ever. : )
~Sheri
ps I have a question. I noticed it’s located around a lot of greenery – a tree and bushes and such, will it get wet when the plants are watered or will you have to move it to another spot?
Jemma says
You are correct my friend, this is the most creative, cutest, crafty and inspirational Fairy Garden that I have ever seen! I love the multiple levels and all of the details, in fact I would like to live here!
Your real live garden is as magical as this garden designed and created for very fortunate Fairies.
I would agree you have gotten your craft on big time:)
Love your flower boxes, you are really inspiring me, Doreen!
xxx
Jemma
Carrie@northwoods scrapbook says
OH goodness – I’m swooning!! You HAD TO KNOW I’d love this one Babes!! It is beyond adorable and I think it really is THE cutest fairy world ever created!! 😉
I have thought about doing some kind of a theme to our fairies around here…but I have often let Annie have the freedom of picking the things she wants to use and the fairies. I think when I take things over more myself I will work on taking the time to have more fun with it myself and my ideas. And I still absolutely LOVE the idea of the tree stump! 🙂
I haven’t had Annie at hand yet to show this post to her – but I will!! She will go bonkers over it! Thanks for sharing the cuteness Doll! I absolutely love it!!
And your window boxes look amazeballs!! Go Green Goddess Doreen – green thumb extraordinaire and she is also “one” with the fairy folk! 😛
xoxo
Cecilia says
Eek! That is too cute, Doreen! I love all your little fairies…where did you get them? I haven’t seen any that cute. I have stuff to make a fairy garden but it had to go and get hot on me. I’m afraid my plants would bake. But now I’m inspired again so maybe I’ll get my rear in gear and get it done!
Love your beautiful container plants too. Do you feed them?
Have a wonderful week!
Cecilia
Emily says
Well, I am not sharing my Fairy Garden! This is just way to sweet Doreen. The few garden centers here that have all the fairy supplies is so overpriced I refuse to buy anything. I have a few pieces I’ve found on sale and a few my sister gave me. I’m definitely bookmarking this post so I will have a “how to” when I get ready to add to my garden. Your flowers are really gorgeous, whatever you are doing keep it up!
Hope your week is fabulous…………
Poppy says
Adorable! It’s got your name written all over it. And, I totally agree: what one makes themselves is always so much more rewarding. Case in point: that hammock! How clever! I also love the blue crystals, being a Pisces, and for a second there, I thought it was real water! Having modeled it after your life size rustic abode was the cutest thing, for me!
xx
Poppy
Vicky Hunt says
Oh my goodness Doreen! You were right! This is the cutest fairy garden I have ever seen. I love the shelf piece you used to house it with different levels. It is absolutely precious! I have been wanting to create one myself but really can’t right now with my puppy. He is constantly on a mission to seek and destroy! LOL! I hope you are having a lovely week my friend!
Hugs, Vicky
AnnMarie says
I never doubted you for a minute! I think your fairy house really is the cutest project in the whole wide universe!! I have seen pre-made “tree stumps” for fairy houses at JoAnn’s that I have been tempted to buy but just haven’t yet. Yours is just so full of inspiration and fun! I will have to make mine bigger next year.
Kim says
You convinced me! Absolutely the cutest project in the history of the universe!! Now I want one.
handmade by amalia says
Cutest ever! Definitely! These fairies are going to have a grand old summer lazing about in your garden. Wish I could join them.
Amalia
xo
Jess says
OH so pretty! 🙂
I’d love for you to share this with my Facebook Group for recipes, crafts, and tips: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pluckyrecipescraftstips/
Thanks for joining Cooking and Crafting with J & J!
Magali@TheLittleWhiteHouse says
The fairy garden is very cute. It’s something that doesn’t exist in France (yet?) and I’ve discovered it on blogs. Yours is really full of whimsy and great ideas!
Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow says
I did a little one years ago with my grands and it was so much fun. Now in comparison yours is over the top and the best ever, yes!
BUT I still remember being out at my Mom’s with little Brent, collecting acorns and moss for our garden. Later on, back here, he discovered a little worm or something in the acorn and after that ( he was about 2 or 3 years old at the time) with every addition he’d look closely and ask if anyone was in there. LMAO I’d forgotten all about that until your post!
My favorite here is the fishing fairy!
Pinky says
Your fairy garden is adorable! Love the accessories that you MADE!! I remember when my daughter was little, Joe built her a large doll house and I had so much fun “decorating” it! This is what this reminds me of! BTW, we HAVE a pond. Had it built when we did the deck and patio:)
Shirley@Housepitality Designs says
Your fairy garden is amazing..just amazing…If there was a Fairy Garden competition, you win the prize!
Love your beautiful flowers too!…
Amy says
Because I do think this could be the cutest project anyone has ever done, I’ll be featuring it tomorrow at Best of the Weekend!
Valerie says
So pretty. I think you’ve convinced me I need to do one of these with the kids. I’m going to show them how pretty yours is.
Shirley Wood says
Love it and all it’s little personal touches and designs. Fairy Gardens are such fun! Stopping by from Cooking and Crafting with J&J. I’d love for you to share with us at Merry Monday, the party is live now.
Vashti Q says
The ‘Fairy Garden’ is such an adorable and creative idea. I love it! Your planters look beautiful. 😀 xx