A Log Cabin Saved

Every time I would go back home, I would "save" one of my old toys - my Cabbage Patch Doll, our old Holly Hobbies, Star Wars action figures from the 80's. On one particular trip I noticed a log cabin kit down in the basement. I know I had been seeing this kit for years. But it was so heavy, and I was flying. Hmmmm. "Dad?! (pouty face) Do you think you could mail this to me? I would love to build this for Abby."

Score! Look what came in the mail!

This project is all about the glue. Again, I always use my favorite Aleene's Tacky Glue - dries clear and doesn't expand. Most of the wood pieces were cut to size. There is some mitering involved too. It was imperative to measure and separate each wooden piece FIRST. There were so many different lengths.

After that, it was just following the steps.

I mentioned in a post before about the "3/4 plan". This is one of those projects. 

This is as far as I have gotten. I have to finish the dormers (I glued the roof wrong, so I have to make some minor modifications), the front door and the chimney. I have recently knocked out a couple of other little projects, so this is next on the list.

The above picture is now a few years later (before stain). I consulted my brothers and sisters on how to finish my messed up dormers. They ended up being open on the back as opposed to doing a flat roof dormer. I finally got inspired to finish the log cabin. I tested a couple of stains but the light maple was the best.

This is after stain. I like how each board turns out a different color. I guess that's the beauty of stain. The final touch is the chimney and fireplace. As you can see below, there is a sticker stencil that needs applied.

Next, I had to mix the dry plaster with glue and water.

I had to work quickly. This plaster mixture starts to dry within minutes.

After about 5 minutes, the original stencil can be removed.

It actually worked! I was pretty pleased with the results.

And here is the finished front.