What Does “Quarter Scale” Mean?

If you’ve ever seen “1:48 scale” or “quarter scale” mentioned in the dollhouse world, it simply means that ¼ inch (about 0.64 cm) in your miniature equals 1 foot (30.48 cm) in real life.

So, for example:

• A 6-foot (183 cm) person would be about 1½ inches (3.8 cm) tall.

• A door that’s 7 feet (213 cm) in real life would be around 1¾–2 inches (4.5–5 cm) high in quarter scale.

It’s literally one-quarter the size of the classic 1:12 dollhouse scale — that’s where the name comes from.

How Quarter Scale Compares

Here’s a quick breakdown of the main dollhouse scales:

• 1:12 scale → 1 inch = 1 foot (2.54 cm = 30.48 cm) – the traditional dollhouse size.

• 1:24 scale → ½ inch (1.27 cm) = 1 foot (30.48 cm).

• 1:48 scale → ¼ inch (0.64 cm) = 1 foot (30.48 cm).

That means quarter-scale houses are much smaller, but also great if you’re short on space. You can fit a whole village of 1:48 houses on a single shelf! It’s also very close to O-scale model railroads, so some hobbyists use train accessories or figures for their mini scenes.

Why People Love (and Fear) This Scale

The tiny size is what makes it so fun — and so tricky. It’s incredibly satisfying to see an entire detailed house that fits in your hand, but the parts are delicate. You’ll need tweezers, a magnifying lamp, and patience. Many miniaturists joke that they hold their breath while gluing, so nothing goes flying!

It’s true that 1:48 furniture and accessories are harder to find than 1:12, but more stores are adding them now. With laser-cut kits and 3D-printed pieces becoming common, quarter scale is gaining popularity fast.

Where to Find 1:48 Miniatures

If you’d like to explore quarter scale, here are a few Etsy shops (U.S. or North America) that focus on this size:

• AllAboutMiniatures– A huge range of 1:48 furniture, landscaping, and accessories.

• JDay Minis– Laser-cut furniture kits and decor in multiple scales, including 1:48.

• TaffyandMeCreations – Specializes in 1:48 kits and furniture sets.

Have you ever tried working in quarter scale?
Or are you tempted to give it a go but not sure where to start?
Feel free to share your experience or photos below — it’s always great to see how others manage these tiny builds!