FAQ
Q: OMG, everything looks so yummy! Are they edible?
A: These miniatures are models/toys and should not be eaten or given to children aged 12 and below just in case they swallow it since they do look like real sweets! These models are strictly for adult collectors only. Everything is professionally made to the highest level in quality so you know you are getting a good product.
Q: Since it is not real food, what are they exactly?
A: They are PVC based clay models made from polymer clay from Germany, USA and Japan. I also use quality professional modelling accessories from Japan, Europe and USA. They are strong, durable and can last a lifetime (if kept as display model)! Just handle with love.
Q: How to care for my miniatures?
A: Miniatures made from polymer clay have to be handled with care. Do not expose to sunlight for prolonged periods of time or the colour can fade (just like plastic).
It is waterproof but try not to get it wet. Since miniatures can have tiny details, please note that it is fragile and can break. If you break your miniatures, you can re-attach again easily with PVA glue.
The plastic component in the polymer clay can react with certain plastics. Make sure you do not leave a polymer clay model on a plastic surface for too long.
If you still want to lay your miniatures in a plastic display for a prolonged period of time, line it with paper so the miniature doesn't touch the surface directly.
Q: Is everything made out of polymer clay?
A: For more bulky models in 1:3 scale, air dry clay from Padico (Japan) is used. Resin models and gelatin models are made from a water simulator (UK) or a special resin from Padico. There are specific items that need additional Tamiya (Japan) and Padico modelling tools.
Q: How can I commission the items shown on this website?
A: Please fill up the Order Form that you can find on the website when commissions are open. You can also send me a direct message on our social media channels or even via Etsy. Tell me which item(s) you are interested in and any specific customisation that you would like. Everything is made to order which gives you the freedom and creativity of having it any way you like it. You will have your one of a kind piece to collect!
Q: There is only one small item that I want you to make for me. Is that possible?
A: You can ask me to make almost any miniature but there is a minimum £30 order
Q: I love the teacup in this particular photo. Can I buy it too?
A: I am a toy collector so I use my collection when I take photos of my own miniature food creations. None of my private collection is for sale. We do sell tableware, cutlery and other accessories in the Tableware & Packaging menu. If you need anything extra for your miniature food, we can always recommend something for you.
Q: How do I pay for an order/commission?
A: After you submit the order form, I will send an email with details of the estimated time of delivery and total price of the order (with break-down costing). If you are happy with this, you will be given a Paypal invoice. After payment has been made, I will proceed with the order. Currently returns are not accepted. We only use recycled packaging to help reduce waste.
Q: Can you send an invoice in US Dollar Currency or Japanese Yen?
A: Yes, please request that you would like to be billed in US Dollars $ or Japanese Yen ¥.
Q: Why do I need to choose the scale/size?
A: It depends on what you want them for. If you have a standard/traditional dollhouse (including Sylvanian Families, Petite Blythe dolls, Picco Neemo dolls) - you would order the food in 1:12 scale. If you are catering food for your fashion dolls (standard play-scale size such as Barbie, Sindy, Blythe, Momoko, Azone Pureneemo 1/6, Mamachapp, Licca and Pullip) you would order the food in 1:6 scale. Dolls come in various sizes so you can opt for the scale that fits it best. I try to make my items true to scale so you won't be disappointed! I also make minis in 1:3 scale for bigger dolls such as BJD, Obitsu 50, DolfieDream and American Girl.
Q: What is the size of the models in the menu?
A: They are 1:6 (a.k.a Playscale) scale unless specified.
Q: How come not all miniatures come in 1:12 scale?
A: I mainly work in 1:6 scale which is double the size of 1:12 scale. Littlest Sweet Shop has to offer miniatures that will look real and delicious so I achieve this by adding in a lot of fine details into each piece. Some tiny details on 1:6 scale are almost impossible to scale down to 1:12 scale or will not look as good. Based on my judgement I decide which miniatures to reproduce in 1:12 scale.
Q: What else can I use these for?
A: It's up to you and your imagination. You can use it as a prop for a claymation / stop-motion animation project or you can use it in your diorama. Every item has beautiful and realistic detail that will add that special magic in your project.
Q: How long does it take for my order to be made and delivered?
A: I will email to you an estimated time of delivery as soon as I receive an order request. Everything is hand-moulded, hand-shaped and hand-painted with a lot of detailing so it can take up to 2 days to make 1 item. It can also take up to 24 hours to cure an item with special gloss finishing. Posting day is Tuesday morning (9am - 10am) so orders will be prepared to be dispatched on Monday.
Q: How much is the shipping cost?
A: I only charge for shipping but I can only give you a shipping estimate according to the order. These models are usually not heavy/bulky and will be shipped using Royal Mail 2nd class post (within UK) and economy international airmail post. However if you have issues with missing post, you can also request an upgrade to have your package track and traced.
Q: Can I buy ready made models?
A: I have an an Etsy store which sells ready stock. Please click on the links from the main website. There is even an exclusive Littlest Sweet Shop online shop (link on main website). Listed are items that you won't find on Etsy.
Tiny Frock Shop is a department store for 1/6 scale dolls based in America and sells our exclusive limited edition sets http://tinyfrockshop.com
Q: How are the commission pieces priced?
A: The prices listed on the menu is a guideline. It is based on the amount of time and effort required to produce each item. Other factors include the use of additional materials such as resin, liquid clay (for sauce and dessert toppings), professional modelling materials from Tamiya / Padico and any time consuming techniques such as texturising (detailing an ice-cream surface, cake surface). All of the items that are made to order is not mass produced to ensure top quality and a uniqueness like no other.
Q: What if I want you to make something that is not on the website?
A: I believe anything is possible! Send me a direct query at nadia.michaux@gmail.com
Q: Do you conduct workshops/classes?
A: I am available to conduct workshops anywhere in the world. Send me a direct query at nadia.michaux(at)gmail.com to get a quote.