After fourteen long years of hard work and dedication, Henk Tipker’s miniature milkshed is finally complete. Located in Alteveer, this painstaking project epitomizes craftsmanship, showcasing every tiny element of the milkshed to remarkable detail.
Back when his endeavor began, Tipker chose to construct the model at a scale of 1:32, which is no small feat for such a complex structure. From the planing stage to the last coat of paint, every part of the milkshed reflects Tipker’s commitment to authenticity. ‘Everything from the shed is replicated down to the smallest detail,’ he explains. This attention to detail is not merely for looks; everything functions as it would on a full-sized farm.
According to RTV Noord, this isn’t the first time Tipker’s work has been showcased. Eight years ago, he spoke with Wiebe Klijnstra for the program Dam Op, discussing his progress. At the time, he was nearly seven years deep in his project and indicated he frequently visited his brother-in-law to measure things accurately. Tipker confirmed, ‘I often go over and measure some details instead of relying solely on blueprints.’
Fast forward to today, and Tipker is welcoming Derk Bosscher of RTV Noord back for another visit. ‘But why didn’t you call beforehand?’ asked Tipker, surprised but ready to show off his finished masterpiece. Bosscher’s response came with laughter, ‘I wanted to see your spontaneous reaction!’
Despite not having prepped for his visitor, it quickly became clear how much time, effort, and emotion Tipker invested over the years. ‘If I felt like working on it, I would; if I didn’t, I’d skip it for the day,’ he remarked. This flexible approach allowed him to enjoy the process, even when the build was challenging.
Not only does the model look stunning, but it also works. Tipker demonstrated painstakingly how the lights illuminate within the structure, the door rolls up just like one would expect, and even the silo’s flap opens and closes efficiently. ‘Everything works perfectly,’ he claims, showing off the functional features with pride. The roof of the milkshed can be removed, allowing visitors to peek inside and see all the mechanisms functioning harmoniously.
‘I’ve seen many miniatures over my life, but I’ve never seen anything like this,’ Bosscher commented, visibly impressed. To which Tipker, face lit up with pride, jokingly questioned, ‘Are you kidding me or not?’ Bosscher assured him he was genuinely amazed.
So, what’s next for Tipker now his cherished project is completed? He mentioned plans to possibly feature the miniature at an upcoming miniature fair on February 1. ‘If it’s there, we’ll come and take another look,’ Bosscher promised, ensuring there’ll be follow-up to witness the whole creation on display.
Henk Tipker’s dedication to his craft has culminated in this breathtaking miniature milkshed—proof of what passion, patience, and perseverance can achieve. With every cog and gear perfectly aligned, it’s not just the completion of the project but the beginning of sharing his art with the world.