Welcome to Mini Dolls From Africa!

My name is Cheryl Clingen, and I live in sunny South Africa. I began by making porcelain dolls around 1993. As time went by, my choice of dolls became smaller and smaller...

Dolls are still my first love, but over the years I learnt so much about woodwork, polymer clay work, flowers and accessories. I WAS IN MINI-HEAVEN! What more could I ask for.

I received my artisanship through the Academy in South Africa in 2003.

Lately, I have been challenging myself by making 1:24" scale dolls and furniture, and I am busy working on making a 1:144" scale dollhouse fully furnished. I even upholster the furniture - it is so cute! Some call me crazy, but I don't care. I love what I do.

Well, besides teaching the odd workshop, commissions take up most of my time. I really hope to learn more and more as time goes by.

My motto is:
If you are not learning anything, you may as well give it up altogether!

I have learnt so much from my students as well as all the workshops I have attended. Miniature fanatics know how addictive it is, and that as you conquer one aspect of miniature making, you can always move on to the next aspect.

If you would like to contact me, please send me an email:

Mini Dolls From Africa Email