So you're either building your own dollhouse from scratch, thinking about customizing a kit, or just curious what’s behind those teeny-tiny walls. Totally fair question—and it’s actually one of those things that can make a big difference in how sturdy, realistic, or even fun your dollhouse is to work on.

Let’s walk through the most common materials people use for dollhouse walls, along with what I’ve personally found helpful.

Plywood

Plywood—especially birch or Baltic birch—is super popular for a reason. It’s strong but still lightweight. Easy to cut, easy to paint, and holds up well if you’re adding floors or multiple stories. A lot of classic, large-scale dollhouses use it.

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard)

Heavier than plywood, but very smooth, which makes it nice for painting. It doesn’t splinter like wood sometimes can, but it's not the easiest material to cut if you don’t have the right tools. Many prefab kits (especially bigger ones like Greenleaf’s) are made from this.

Foam Board

I’ve used foam board for smaller scenes or when I just wanted something quick and lightweight. It cuts like butter with a craft knife and is really affordable. Just don’t expect it to hold up like wood—it’s not for heavy-duty projects.

Cardboard

Yes, really! With a bit of reinforcement, cardboard can be a surprisingly good material for DIY builds. I even wrote about how to make cardboard walls stronger and better-looking:
👉 How to Make a Cardboard Dollhouse Stronger, Sturdier, and More Attractive 

Balsa Wood or Basswood

Both of these are lightweight, easy to cut by hand, and great for more detailed work. I use balsa when I want something delicate or when I’m not using power tools. BUT, balsawood or basswood are only suitable sometimes for dollhouse furniture or accessories, not for walls!

You can read more about balsa here:
👉 What Is Balsa Wood and What to Use It For

Mat Board, Chipboard, or Similar

These are thinner options and mostly used for inner walls or decorative panels. Not bad if you're doing something that won’t be handled much, or for removable walls (which I love when I want to peek inside or take photos).

Plastic or Acrylic

Not super common, but you’ll find it in some modern mini builds—especially when people want clear walls or unique architectural designs. More niche, but cool if that’s your style.

Removable Walls or Roofs? It’s a Thing.

Sometimes you don’t want everything glued in place—especially if you want to access the interior easily or take good pictures. For example, in my mini backyard shed project, I made the roof removable so I could open it up anytime.

What About Popular Dollhouse Kits?

Robotime / Rolife: Most of these use thin wood sheets (kind of like plywood). I built many of Robotimes' kits, Miller’s Garden being one of them, and you can check out my review here:
👉 One of the Easiest Robotime DIY Kits = Miller's Garden 

Cutebee: Very similar to Robotime but sometimes uses slightly lighter materials. I compared both brands here:
👉 A Cutebee Dollhouse Review Versus Robotime - Le Chocolatier 

Greenleaf: These are the bigger, American-style houses. Think Victorian mansions with lots of detail. They usually use MDF or similar sheet materials. You’ll find more info here:
👉 Greenleaf Dollhouse Kits: A Review and Insights 

So… Does It Matter What You Use?

Honestly, it depends on what you're building. If you want something sturdy and long-lasting, go with plywood or MDF. If it’s for fun, or you're experimenting, cardboard or foam board might be just right. And if you're working on detail? Balsa or basswood will probably be your best friend.

Have you tried building walls from something unexpected? I'd love to hear what worked (or didn’t) for you!

Happy crafting!
Lizzy

It’s affordable, comes in a wide variety of designs, and is easy to find. However, it's not the only option—printable dollhouse wallpaper is another fantastic choice that offers unique advantages. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which one suits your project best.

Preparation for any dollhouse wallpaper

Before you start, proper preparation ensures the best results:

• Priming the Walls: Always prime your walls with flat white paint or primer to prevent wood resins from staining your wallpaper.
• Sealing Paper (Optional): For scrapbook or printable paper, spray the back with a matte acrylic sealant to avoid ink smudging or tearing during application.

Methods of Application

Choose the method that suits your material and preferences:

1. Wallpaper Paste: Works for both scrapbook and printable wallpaper. Apply a thin layer and smooth it with a credit card or cloth.
2. Mod Podge: Use sparingly; it’s a good adhesive and topcoat but can cause warping.
3. Glue Sticks or Double-Sided Tape: Best for temporary wallpapering or lightweight papers.
4. Templates: Attach paper to cardstock and affix the cardstock to walls with double-sided tape for non-permanent setups.
   
   

In this video below, Whitney talks you through every step:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIUY0cmohvQ&t=61s

Comparison: Scrapbook Paper vs. Printable Dollhouse Wallpaper

If you are doubting which type of materials to use, I have created a table for you with the pros and cons of each one. It is up to you now!

Final Thoughts

Both scrapbook paper and printable wallpaper are excellent choices for dollhouse enthusiasts. Scrapbook paper is perfect for quick, accessible projects with limited customization needs. Printable wallpaper, on the other hand, offers unmatched flexibility and scale accuracy, ideal for creating a truly unique dollhouse.

Have you tried either of these options? Share your experiences below—I'd love to hear your tips and tricks!

I wish you happy crafting!

Lizzy

PS, remember to check out my Etsy store with my own dollhouse printables like wallpaper, floor tiles and little cards!

While resin is popular for creating realistic water effects, it can be tricky to work with.

Resin often requires precise mixing, proper ventilation, and can be quite messy, making it less ideal for beginners or those who want simpler, quicker solutions. Thankfully, there are several effective alternatives that produce stunning results without the complexity of resin.

Starting with my own method that I recently managed to do to my surprise hahaha

My Treehouse Water Effect Tutorial

Check out the scenery below my little treehouse, which is slowly expanding:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gNSz1n5O0wY

In my recent project, I used Vallejo Water Texture (affiliate link), and here’s how:

1. Prepare the Base: I painted the surface deep blue to add depth to the river.
   
   
   

2. Mix the Vallejo Water Texture: I added a drop of blue and a little brown acrylic paint into the water texture, mixing it until I achieved the desired shade.
   
   

   23 24

    

3. Layering the Water Texture: I applied several layers of the mixture over the painted surface, allowing each to dry before adding the next. This helped build depth and create the look of natural water.
   
   
   

4. Adding Details: To make the riverbed more realistic, I placed small stones and added tiny fake plants along the edges and even in the river.
   
   
   

5. Final Gloss: Once the water texture had dried, I applied a layer of gloss varnish for extra shine and a more realistic, wet look.

Other Methods for Creating Miniature Water Effects

If resin isn’t your thing, here are some other great methods to try:

PVA Glue and Toilet Paper

1. Mix PVA Glue with Water: Combine PVA glue with water to create a thinner mixture.

2. Layer with Toilet Paper: Place pieces of toilet paper into the glue mix, creating ripples and texture for the water effect.

3. Paint Over: Once dry, paint over the surface in water-like colors.

4. Finish with Clear Coat: Apply a clear sealant like Mod Podge for a glossy, water-like finish. This technique is perfect for creating shallow water effects.

Mod Podge or Gloss Gel

1. Start with a Painted Base: Paint your base in shades of blue or green to mimic water.

2. Apply Layers of Mod Podge or Gloss Gel: Build up layers, letting each dry before adding more. You can shape ripples with a small brush.

3. Finish with Gloss Varnish: Apply a final gloss varnish coat to give it a reflective, watery look.

This technique works well for still waters, such as ponds or lakes.

Blue Elmer’s Glue

1. Prepare the Base: Paint the surface in water-like colors.

2. Pour the Glue: Pour blue Elmer’s glue onto the surface and allow it to dry. The glue spreads evenly and provides a subtle, glossy effect.

This is ideal for small puddles or shallow water in dioramas.

Clear Silicone Caulk or Hot Glue

1. Apply the Caulk or Glue: Spread a layer of clear silicone caulk or hot glue over the base.

2. Shape the Water: Use a tool to create waves or ripples while it’s still wet.

3. Add Detail with Paint: You can add some color with blue or white paint to make it more realistic.

4. Finish with Gloss Varnish: A final coat of varnish can add shine and enhance the water effect.

These materials are great for creating moving water, like waterfalls or streams.

Other Options

• Acrylic Paste: You can create wave effects with acrylic paste, then paint over it for more detail.

• Gloss Varnish: For shallow water effects, multiple thin layers of gloss varnish can create a nice depth, especially when mixed with a little color.

If you’ve tried any of these methods or have additional tips, feel free to share them with the community!

I wish you happy crafting!

Lizzy

Calico Critters are typically 1:16 scale, making them slightly smaller than traditional 1:12 figures.

Adult figures, like Mother and Father, stand around 3 inches tall (not including ears), while Brother and Sister are about 2 ½ inches tall. In contrast, typical 1:12 scale dolls would be closer to 6 inches tall.

These differences in size can be noticeable when placing Calico Critters in a 1:12 scale dollhouse, as the furniture and surroundings might look large in comparison.

However, this doesn't mean they can't be used. Many hobbyists find the mix of scales adds a playful and whimsical charm to their scenes. The smaller size of Calico Critters, combined with their distinct and detailed design, can create a unique aesthetic, especially if you're looking to evoke a more “borrower” or fairytale-like atmosphere.

If you'd like to see a direct comparison between Calico Critters and 1:12 scale items, this video provides a helpful visual guide:

Calico Critters Size Comparison Video:

https://youtu.be/itB8fpYOfMo?si=7GYNhYtRyCHshI3D

Ultimately, whether or not Calico Critters are too small for your dollhouse depends on your personal vision. In the imaginative world of dollhouses, mixing scales is common and can lead to some truly creative results. You are free to use the figures and furniture you love, regardless of their precise scale.

If you want to find out if your scale of dollhouse furniture fits your Critters or any other dolls, feel free to use my free tool: a scale convertor, to easily find out one scale towards the other.

Lizzy

I got a question through my newsletter email, and I thought I'd share it with you on my forum!

This picture is for illustrative purposes.

So a reader recently asked how to make cardboard stronger and waterproof for dollhouse projects. Below are several practical techniques that work well.

1. Strengthening the cardboard structure:
   
   
   
   

   • Apply PVA Glue:
     
     
     
     Apply diluted PVA glue to the surface to reinforce the cardboard. This creates a protective, durable layer. You can also glue multiple layers of cardboard together to add thickness and support.
     
     How this works: it soaks into the cardboard fibers, strengthening them from the inside out, making it less prone to warping or bending, and once it dried, you can sand or smooth out the surface, especially if you plan to paint over it, leaving a durable, clean finish.
     
     ( I found this information on this website , check it out for more details)
     
     
     
     
   • Tape Reinforcement:
     
     
     
     Strong tape, such as duct tape or packing tape, is great for reinforcing edges and seams. It prevents weak points and adds structural integrity to corners or joints.
     
     
     
     
   • Wooden Supports:
     
     
     
     Consider using small wooden pieces like popsicle sticks, or even toothpicks inside the cardboard walls. These internal braces add a surprising amount of strength to your structure without being visible from the outside. ( the contra is that you can't use wallpaper on this afterward, unless you plan to create some kind of wooden wall design on the inside ).
     
     
     Thinking about it, this could actually be a great design for a dollhouse, no?
     
     
     
     21
     This picture is for illustrative purposes.
     
     
     
     

2. Waterproofing:
   
   
   
   
   So that was one part of the question, the other part was how to waterproof cardboard, this is what I found out:
   
   
   
   

   • Use Polyurethane or Acrylic Coatings: These coatings are easy to apply and provide excellent moisture resistance. Just brush it on the cardboard to seal it and prevent water damage.
     
     
     
     
   • Wax Coating: You can melt wax and dip your cardboard in it, or apply the wax directly to the surface. This method gives a solid waterproof layer.
     
     
     
     
   • Lamination: A quick and effective way to waterproof your dollhouse exterior is by using a plastic lamination layer. It’s an easy solution if you're looking for both durability and protection.
     
     
     
     
   • Eco-friendly Coatings: For a more sustainable option, you might want to try acrylic or plasma coatings, which are more environmentally conscious while still providing reliable water resistance.
     
     
     
     
     

Each of these methods helps ensure that your cardboard dollhouse will stand strong and resist moisture over time.

I hope that answers the question and I'm very glad to figure it out for you!


Happy crafting!

Lizzy

PS, check out my related blog post on how to construct a cardboard dollhouse.

Recently, I posed a question in our Facebook community about the strangest things people have said about our dollhouses.

I expected a few amusing or odd responses, but the sheer variety of comments shared by everyone was both surprising and relatable.

For instance, one common thread was the assumption that dollhouses are only for children.

Comments like, “Aren’t you a little old to play with dollhouses?” were echoed by several members. This sentiment seems to be a frequent misunderstanding about our passion.

It’s surprising how some people fail to see that, like any hobby, dollhouses can be enjoyed at any age. As one member put it, “Age is just a number. You are as old as you want to be.”

Another recurring comment was about the practicality or cost of our hobby.

Statements like, “You paid how much?” or “That doesn’t pay for your pension” can feel dismissive, as if every activity we pursue must have some financial return.

The truth is, for many of us, the joy and creativity we find in working on our dollhouses is priceless, and not everything needs to be measured by its monetary value.

There were also some humorous remarks that highlight the imaginative aspects of our work.

One member shared that someone questioned whether the tiny residents in their dollhouse needed a bathroom, pointing out that “the people are made of plastic, so they do not need a bathroom.” It’s these little quirks that make our hobby unique and sometimes funny to those outside the community.

But not all comments were negative or perplexing. Some members shared that everyone they’ve met thinks miniatures are cool, a reminder that our hobby also sparks curiosity and admiration.

It’s clear from these responses that while our passion for dollhouses might sometimes be misunderstood, it’s also a source of joy, creativity, and community for all of us!

On top of this, I gave you 13 reasons why kids AND adults should continue to play with dollhouses and miniatures, do you agree?

What’s the funniest or strangest thing someone has said about your dollhouse? Share your stories below—I’d love to hear more!

Happy crafting!

Lizzy

There's something incredibly special about owning a dollhouse that's been renovated and customized to match your personal tastes. The idea of having a miniature home that reflects my style, complete with furniture that I've either painted myself or had crafted by a talented artisan, feels more personal and unique than something off the shelf.

What I Love About Custom Dollhouses

I'm sometimes, well a lot haha, scrolling on Etsy for custom dollhouses or miniatures and lots of them amaze me every time, just like the Tudor dollhouse by Kevin Jackson, wow!

In my eyes, buying a house like that has the next advantages:

1. Unique Design: Every renovated or custom dollhouse is a one-of-a-kind piece. You get to choose the style, colors, and even the tiny architectural details. It’s like creating your dream home, but in miniature.

2. Handcrafted Furnishings: There’s a certain charm in having self-painted or handmade furniture. Each piece tells a story and adds to the overall character of the dollhouse.
   
   

3. Creative Expression: having work done on a custom dollhouse is a fantastic outlet for creativity and imagination. You can have the crafter experiment with different styles and techniques, and the end result is something truly unique.
   
   

4. Quality and Craftsmanship: Custom dollhouses are often made with better materials and greater attention to detail compared to mass-produced ones. This means they’re not only beautiful but also built to last.
   
   
   

The Challenges of Custom Dollhouses

While I adore the idea of a custom dollhouse, there are some downsides to consider.

Potential Drawbacks

1. Cost: Custom work can be pricey. Hiring an artisan to renovate a dollhouse and create custom furniture can add up quickly.

2. Time-Consuming: Renovating a dollhouse takes time. If you're doing it yourself, or have it done, be prepared to invest a lot of hours into planning, painting, and assembling. If you're commissioning the work, it can take even longer depending on the artist's schedule.
   
   

3. Shipping Complexities: Full dollhouses are bulky and can be difficult to ship safely. This adds another layer of complexity and cost, especially if you're ordering from an artist who isn’t local.
   
   

4. Decision Overload: With so many customization options, it can be overwhelming to make all the decisions about styles, colors, and furnishings. It requires a clear vision and a bit of patience.
   
   
   

Is It Worth It?

For me, the pros definitely outweigh the cons. There’s something incredibly rewarding about owning a dollhouse that’s been tailored to your exact specifications.

It becomes a piece of art, a conversation starter, and a cherished item in your collection. However, it’s important to go into it with a clear understanding of the potential costs and time commitments involved.

My Dream Scenario

Now, I don’t currently own a custom-made dollhouse, but if I won the lottery, I’d definitely consider buying one of these pieces of art hahaha!

And, if the artist wasn’t too far away, I’d drive to collect it myself. That way, I could avoid the stress and cost of shipping and maybe even meet the creative genius behind my dream dollhouse.

Join the Conversation

What about you? Would you consider buying a renovated dollhouse that's been designed to your taste? Have you already gone through the process and have tips to share? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Let’s discuss in the comments below!

Happy crafting!
Lizzy

As a "crazy" dollhouse miniature enthusiast, I've always cherished the artistry and meticulous detail involved in traditional handcrafting. However, I’ve recently been exploring the world of 3D printing and laser cutting, and I believe these non-traditional methods bring a lot of exciting possibilities to our hobby.

But that's my opinion, and of course, yours can be different! My thoughts on both methods:

1. The Magic of 3D Printing

Raising Creativity

One thing that has truly amazed me about 3D printing is the ability to create incredibly complex designs.

For example, more people have been able to design and print not only particular figurines for Warhammer but also detailed houses and even 'vintage' dollhouse furniture and others.

Now, I am not saying that it would be impossible to achieve by hand, but this technology opens up a whole new level of detail and precision that enhances the realism of our miniature worlds.

==> 3D printed antique chair by LostMiniatures.

Quick Turnaround

3D printing is a game-changer when it comes to prototyping. The ability to quickly produce and refine designs has significantly cut down on the time it takes to bring ideas to life.

Instead of laboring for weeks over a single piece, I can now iterate rapidly until you're satisfied with the result​.

Affordability for Small Projects

For those of us who don’t need hundreds of identical pieces, 3D printing is a cost-effective solution. Traditional manufacturing methods often involve high setup costs that only make sense for large runs.

In contrast, 3D printing has a consistent cost per piece, making it perfect for creating small batches or one-off custom items​.

Less Waste One of the most appealing aspects of 3D printing for me is its efficiency in material use.

Unlike traditional crafting methods that generate a lot of waste, 3D printing uses only what’s necessary. This not only saves money but also aligns with a more sustainable approach to our hobby​!

2. The Precision of Laser Cutting

Perfect Cuts Every Time

Laser cutting has brought a new level of precision to all DIY dollhouse projects. The clean, sharp edges and intricate patterns it can achieve are unmatched. This technology has been particularly useful for making dollhouse kits and book nook kits, where precision is key​.

==> My finished book nook kit by Cutebee called the Rose Detective Agency

Versatile Materials

Another benefit I’ve discovered is the material versatility of laser cutting. Whether you're working with wood, acrylic, or fabric, laser cutting handles it all. This allows for experimentation with different textures and finishes, giving miniatures a unique and varied look.

However, there are Considerations and Challenges for both methods of creating minis.

Material Choices

While 3D printing offers fantastic design flexibility, I’ve noticed that some of the materials used aren’t as strong or durable as traditional handcrafted items. However, the technology is rapidly improving, and there are now more robust material options available than ever before.

Learning Curve

It’s true that there is a bit of a learning curve with both 3D printing and laser cutting. Getting comfortable with the design software and understanding the machine operations take some time.

But with so many online resources and supportive communities, the initial challenges are easier to overcome than  expected. Now, these tools can be an invaluable part of a miniature-making process.

Join the Conversation

As I continue to explore these technologies, I’m excited about the possibilities they bring. And I would love to, some day, creating my own DIY dollhouse kits designs, as I used for my fairy houses.

I’d love to hear from other hobbyists: What are your experiences with 3D printing and laser cutting? Have they changed how you approach your projects? Let’s discuss the pros and cons, share tips, and inspire each other to push the boundaries of our creativity!

Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

I wish you happy crafting!

Lizzy

What are the hardest things to find in the miniature world? Had some funny, intriguing, and fantastic answers there! Feel free to chime in!

(this post contains affiliate links from Etsy, no extra charges for you)

1. Pieces Dropped on the Floor :-)

hahaha! We’ve all been there—those tiny pieces that vanish as soon as they hit the floor. Finding them is like a treasure hunt in the carpet jungle!

=> Sadly, I can't help you with that!

2. Money for the Hobby

Let's face it, this hobby can get expensive! We all wish we had a bit more cash to spend on our tiny treasures.

=> I WISH I could help you with that issue haha!

3. Realistic Miniature People

Finding miniature people that look realistic is a major challenge. Most figures just don't have that lifelike quality we're looking for.

==> Very true, especially on a Barbie scale, but let's take a look at a few 1:24 scale dolls and tell me what you think!


- Victorian 1:12 scale doll by SandKArtsAndCrafts

- An older looking lady -a very realistic doll by PaolaeSara 

==> check out the pictures in the link, as it might offend some people hahaha!

- an older gent doll with glasses by ManorhouseMinnis

4. Unique and Custom Items

Everyone wants unique items that make their scenes stand out. Finding pieces that aren’t in every other diorama or dollhouse is tough.

==> For sure, this can be hard! Unless you can have 3D-printed miniatures or custom-made miniatures, this is your best chance to get what you like!

5. Power Tools and Science/Lab Items

Creating very small power tools and lab items are very hard to do and are hard to come by.

=> Yes! ButI have found some tutorials on making your own and actually found some!

6. Patterned Carpeting and Unique Rugs

There’s a real shortage of patterned carpeting and unique rugs. Most options are limited to traditional styles, leaving modern tastes underserved.

=> Yes indeed,but how about these modern rugs from 3starsStudio! 

7. Modern Appliances and Fixtures

Finding modern refrigerators, shower stalls, and similar items can be tricky. Victorian styles are easy to find, but contemporary pieces? Not so much.

==> feel free to share any resources below!

8. Fabric Samples and Prints

Scaled fabric prints are a must for authenticity, but they’re hard to find. Upholstery stores discard sample books that could be gold mines if we can get our hands on them.

==> I would try to find those online, say that you need samples of fabrics, lots of online stores will send them to you  I've done it before haha!

9. Lighting Solutions

Getting the right lighting for miniatures is another common challenge. Adorable and correctly scaled lighting fixtures can be elusive.

==> yes yes, I can concure!

10. In-Person Classes and Gatherings

In-person classes and get-togethers for miniature enthusiasts are becoming rare. These events are invaluable for learning and finding unique items.

==> I know this problem from my own experience and region!

11. Modern Business Items

Creating modern business scenes? Good luck finding the right items! Office equipment and accessories that fit contemporary themes are hard to locate.

==> again, feel free to share your resources below!

12. Decade-Specific Furniture

Furniture from the 80s and 90s is almost impossible to find. If you’re looking to recreate these eras, you’ll likely need to custom-make your pieces.

13. High-Quality and Realistic Small Items

Finding good quality, realistic small items like wall art and shelf accessories is an ongoing quest. The little details really make a difference!

14. People who support you and don't call it toys!

Auwch, that one hit it hard, please don't underestimate our art form!

Conclusion

The miniature world is full of creative possibilities, but finding the perfect items can be a real challenge. Whether it's through making your own pieces, connecting with other enthusiasts, or discovering new suppliers, the hunt for these elusive items is all part of the fun.

Happy mini-making, everyone, and thanks for all the questions on my FB group!

Lizzy