While options like visiting a print shop or using a friend’s printer are available, several other creative ways exist to make wallpaper, mini books, wall art, and more.
Here are 9 practical alternatives to create beautiful, detailed “printables” or decorations for your miniature world, without the hassle of dealing with a printer.
(you probably can’t call these ‘printables’ really though lol, but anyway, here it goes haha ..)
1. Pre-Made Sticker Sheets and Scrapbook Paper
Craft and hobby stores are full of sticker sheets and scrapbook paper that can work wonders for your dollhouse.
You can find everything from floral to brick patterns, making it easy to use them as dollhouse wallpaper, flooring, or even small framed artwork.
The variety of scrapbook paper available can add depth and color to your miniature rooms without you having to print anything at all.
Scrapbook paper is straightforward—cut, glue, and voilà , instant beauty, à nd it is sturdy.
Many scrapbook paper brands also offer textured sheets, allowing you to mimic the feel of stone, wood, or tile without the mess of painting or other finishing techniques.
Old magazines and catalogs can be an excellent source of small patterns and interesting imagery.
Cut out anything from a tiny retro ad to a scenic image for wall art, rugs, mini food cans, tiny magazines or posters for your dollhouse, and more.
This method is not only cost-effective but also gives your dollhouse a unique, one-of-a-kind charm with its mix of styles.
One time, I used a page from an old gardening magazine as wallpaper for a tiny greenhouse I was making—it was perfect, and it added so much character to the space.
Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about rifling through magazines looking for that perfect image.
Check out this amazing Youtube tutorial below to find plenty of ideas on how you can use these old magazines for miniature decoration!
You can also laminate the cutouts for added durability or use a layer of Mod Podge to give them a glossy, finished look.
3. Using Fabric as Wallpaper or Textiles
If you have leftover fabric scraps, these can be easily transformed into wallpaper or textiles for your dollhouse.
Lightweight cotton or patterned fabrics can be glued to the walls to create a cozy, lived-in look.
You can also use these scraps as miniature curtains, bed linens, or even rugs. Adding lace or ribbon can bring an extra layer of detail, making the scene even more realistic.
When using fabric for dollhouse walls, it’s best to iron the fabric beforehand to remove any wrinkles. This will help it lay flat against the dollhouse walls and prevent any unwanted folds or creases.
4. Hand-Drawn Designs
Another fun approach is to create your own designs by hand. Grab some colored pens, fine markers, or watercolor paints, and get creative!
Drawing your own designs can be particularly useful for tiny details like wallpaper borders or miniature framed art. This approach allows you to personalize your dollhouse with your own unique style.
I remember when I was younger, I used to draw tiny striped wallpapers for my cardboard dollhouse, and even though the lines were a bit wobbly, it gave the space a lot of character.
Plus, if anyone asks, just say it’s abstract art and watch them nod in appreciation. 🙂
5. Stamps, Stencils, and Temporary Tattoos
If you want uniform, repeatable patterns, consider using stamps or stencils. You can find tiny stamps in craft stores that can be used to create borders, wallpaper, or even tiled floors.
Temporary tattoos are another interesting tool—they can be transferred onto furniture, walls, or other surfaces for a quick and easy design that looks professional.
Temporary tattoos are especially great for intricate designs—floral motifs, mandalas, or even faux tiles can be applied. Just make sure the surface is clean before application to ensure the tattoo adheres well.
6. Decoupage Techniques
Decoupage involves using glue to affix thin paper, like napkins or tissue paper, onto a surface.
Choose papers with interesting colors or patterns, and carefully glue them onto your dollhouse surfaces for a smooth, polished look, without the need for a printer.
Once the glue has dried, you can seal the surface with a layer of clear varnish or Mod Podge to make it more durable.
Decoupage works especially well for creating unique, decorative furniture pieces, such as a floral chest of drawers or a vintage-style side table.
And honestly, decoupage is just fancy French for “glue stuff to other stuff“—so if anyone asks, tell them you’re working on your French art techniques. Très chic!
7. Transfer Techniques
There are simple ways to transfer images onto your dollhouse surfaces without a printer.
One common technique is to use carbon paper or graphite.
Simply trace over an image on a magazine, and it will transfer onto your desired surface—this works well for adding intricate details to walls or furniture.
I used this technique to add a faux “carved” design to a dollhouse wardrobe once, and it ended up looking far more impressive than I’d expected!
8. Create Miniature Books and book covers from Paper (Without a Printer)
A great example of printer-free miniature crafting can be found in one of my own YouTube videos that explains how to make a tiny book using only paper and basic supplies, without any need for printed templates.
In this video, I used a simple matchbox as a hardcover and glitter paper. I even created a little working pencil!
You can make vintage-looking books by using brown or beige paper for the pages and adding a worn look to the cover. For a more modern feel, try using bright-colored paper for the covers.
9. Nature-Based Elements
Finally, consider incorporating items from nature. Small leaves, twigs, or pressed flowers can be wonderful additions to your dollhouse, adding a rustic or whimsical feel. You can use them as wall decorations or even flooring in your miniature scenes.
Creating dollhouse printables without a printer is all about being resourceful and having fun. Whether it’s scrapbook paper, fabric, or nature-based elements, there are countless ways to add charm to your dollhouse.
If you have any questions or want to share your own creative methods, leave a comment below or join our socials—we’d love to see your creations!
