Why a Fairy Door?

Fairies have been a part of most cultures for centuries. Credited with bringing good luck and prosperity, the belief in fairies may have come out of the poor farmer’s dream of a better world alongside his own.  In present day Iceland, roads are sometimes rerouted by the Iceland Road Authority to avoid any rocks where elves and fairies might live.  Most residents there are unwilling to rule out their existence.  Seriously.

So, from Iceland to Indonesia, pixies, gnomes and fairies continue to piqué imaginations around the world.  Unfortunately, the modern world has been tough on fairies. Many fairies have been displaced from their rural settings by urban sprawl and climate change, and a younger generation of fairies often seek the adventure of city living.  What remains consistent in their lives is that fairies are shy and elusive and the only way a fairy will enter your home and garden is by invitation.  The sight of a miniature entry-way is like a welcome mat to fairies and they are quick to spread good luck to all who place them in their  homes.

Temperament

Fairies are extremely shy.  The size of humans is very intimidating and any attempts at opening their doors will almost certainly terrify them and should be avoided.  Only your imagination can open fairy doors.

Care & Feeding

Fairies are nocturnal feeders and only need access to a bountiful garden or well-stocked refrigerator to fend for themselves.  Owing to a very low metabolism, the domestic fairy has a modest appetite, often consuming such small quantities of food  that you never notice it missing. 

Training

This is impossible.  Fairies are not pets and will not come when beckoned.  They will never allow you to dress them in humiliating costumes or pose with reindeer antlers.

They are not known to be violent, although it is believed they have really tiny, tiny teeth.  Fairies can become very upset if you spray pesticide anywhere near their home.

Kitchen Fairies

A word about kitchen fairies.  If you place your fairy door in a kitchen, be aware kitchen fairies are thoroughly addicted to the Food Network Channel, a small price to pay if you delight in lighter pie crust and rich gravies.   Parents should know that once a fairy door is installed in a kitchen, finicky kids have been known to suddenly acquire a taste for vegetables.

Finding a Home for a Fairy Door
Fairy doors can go anywhere inside your home.  Place them next to a door bell, on a kitchen counter, a fireplace threshold, your covered porch, or on the wall of a child’s room.  Fairy doors can come with or without a rope ladder.  Some have porches and all have a small ledge where you can place a small token of friendship.  A fairy door is usually about the size of a paperback book, so it’s easy to find an inviting place for them.