Be sure to consult our Buyer's Guide & Fakes Database before purchasing a carousel figure. Each day, more and more knock-offs come on the market. Some look old but looks can be deceiving. Become an informed buyer.
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Miniature Carousel Builders Corner
This month's carousel art features the diligent work of James "Jim" Kvam of Minnesota, a member of Miniature Carousel Builders. During his retirement he took up the challenge of building a carousel for his daughter using "guesswork," along with the mechanical design and parts from a "contraption" purchased at an auction. It was while searching for carousel music that he became aware of the Miniature Carousel Builders and received friendship, instruction, "know-how advice" and support from the members. He was Inspired to build this second carousel which he built in two years, 2004-2005.
Jim's talented wife, Eunice, helps with the carving, shaping, painting and decorating.
THE DETAILS:
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Base: Round - 46" Diameter
- Carousel: 38" Diameter; 34" Height
- Ten sweeps, 2 rows
- Type: Overhead Crank
- Lights: 200 colored; 5 auto tail lights
- Original Design
Enlarged patterns were made from copies of carousel animals from a book of the "master carvers." Twenty horses are featured in this carousel which were cut from basswood with a jig saw, and then shaped with a Dremmel tool. Eunice painted the animals with saddles, and adorned some with fabric and leather. Sixteen people were carved, shaped and painted in the same manner. Some of the people are attired with a cloth skirt.
The rounding board is decorated with wooden ornaments, which they cut out and painted, and Victorian pictures illustrate the picture board. Carousel music is supplied by a car CD player mounted inside the base. The carousel can be operated on electricity, or car battery.
The Kvams have exhibited their carousel in nursing homes and at community events.
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