Miniatura

Caroline and Richard Mansell are the couple behind Crab Pot Miniatures. Many miniaturists and dolls house enthusiasts will know them as they have been involved in the miniature scene since 2006. In fact, Caroline has always loved miniatures and as a youngster would sew miniature mice which would be given out to friends and relatives.

The couple who live in Flamborough, East Yorkshire used to run a B&B – Crab Pot Cottage, which had a shop at the back that used to sell craft items. Caroline and Richard started selling their miniatures here, beginning with model railway items, railway dioramas which Caroline made, and dolls houses. They then moved into the old Post Office building and opened a shop. After that they formed Puffin Design. “Puffin Design flourished and has now moved to the very capable hands of Jan Kaas and Margrit Nielsen in Denmark,” said Caroline. “And we have returned to being Crab Pot Miniatures.”

The couple now make refurbished, unique and affordable ooak models usually in 1/12th scale.

“When Richard retired, I bought him a laser cutter,” said Caroline, with something of a gleeful smile. “Wasn’t that kind of me! Now I design pieces, he cuts them on the laser cutter and I do the finishing. I also do driftwood art items.”

Another speciality they do is Polymer clay food items. Caroline added, “I used to buy in Polymer clay food but I found there was such inconsistency I decided to have a go myself just to keep the consistency the same so that customers know what they are getting.”

Crab Pot Miniatures also respond to individual requirements and welcome enquiries about bespoke items. Their miniatures range from Tudor through Victorian and modern styles.