I noticed this question a few times on social media: With which dollhouse scale should I start for a DIY kit? Well, the choice isn't obvious in the first place, as most are on scale 1:24 (or around that scale), but still, I wanted to take a small dive into this topic!
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Differences between the 2 scales
- 1:12 scale is the most popular scale in the dollhouse world. It's often referred to as "standard scale" and is widely available, making it easier to find dollhouses, furniture, and accessories. If you love the idea of customizing your dollhouse with a vast range of miniatures, this might be the best choice. However, actual 1:12 kits can be very rare, take up more space, which is something to consider if you have limited display or storage areas.
1:24 scale, also known as "half scale," is a more compact option. This scale allows for detailed miniatures but in a smaller format. However, a common point of discussion is that many 1:24 kits are more delicate and intricate, making them less suitable for play. If you're considering a 1:24 kit for a child, I’d recommend checking out the Super Series by Robotime, which is designed with easier assembly in mind. You can read more about those kits here: Super Series by Robotime for Kids.
What Do Other Miniature Enthusiasts Say?
Looking through discussions on various platforms, including Reddit and Facebook groups, I noticed some common themes when it comes to choosing between these two scales:
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"I started with 1:12 because it was easy to find furniture and accessories. But I eventually switched to 1:24 because I wanted to fit more houses on my shelf."
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"I love the detail in 1:24, but I wouldn’t give one to my kids to play with. They’re too fragile."
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"1:12 is my go-to because I like to move things around inside my dollhouse. The pieces are easier to handle, and I don’t have to use tweezers for everything!"
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"If you want something more challenging and space-saving, go with 1:24. But if you're a beginner and want a more forgiving scale, 1:12 is the way to go."
As you can see, the choice largely depends on what you're looking for. If you want something to display and work on as a detailed miniature project, 1:24 can be a great option. But if you want flexibility, availability, and something that feels more interactive, 1:12 might be better.
Where Can You Find a 1:12 Scale Kit?
If you’ve decided that 1:12 is the right scale for you, the good news is that there are plenty of options available. Here are some of the best places to find 1:12 DIY dollhouse kits:
==> Large dollhouse set on Etsy by LittleForestAnimals, easy to assemble
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Etsy: Many sellers offer beautiful 1:12 kits in various styles, from classic Victorian houses to modern lofts.
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Miniatures.com: A reliable source for quality 1:12 kits.
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Local craft stores: Some craft stores stock 1:12 kits, especially around the holiday season.
For a curated list of some of the best 1:12 model hobby kits, including reviews, recommendations, and where to buy them, you can check out my post here: The Best Model Hobby Kits for Miniatures and Dollhouses on a Scale of 1:12.
My Personal Take
If you're new to miniatures and looking for a good starting point, I’d lean toward 1:12 simply because of how accessible it is. The variety of furniture, decor, and even DIY guides makes it easier to work with. On the other hand, if space is an issue and you like the idea of intricate details, 1:24 is a great option—just keep in mind that most kits in this scale are meant for display rather than play.
So, what do you think? Do you prefer the traditional 1:12 scale, or do you enjoy the challenge of 1:24? Have you ever switched scales, or do you stick to just one? Share your experiences—what do you love (or dislike) about your chosen scale? Let’s discuss!
I wish you happy crafting!
Lizzy
