Building a dollhouse from scratch is an exciting challenge. You get to decide every detail, from the materials to the final look. But before you start cutting and gluing, you’ll need to figure out the best materials to use.
The right choice depends on what you’re looking for—sturdiness, affordability, ease of cutting, or even just what you have lying around.
Let’s break down the best materials for dollhouse building, along with their pros and cons.
1. Birch Plywood – Strong and Reliable
If you want a dollhouse that lasts, birch plywood is one of the top choices. It’s high-quality, durable, and smooth, making it great for painting and finishing.
✅ Pros:
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Strong and long-lasting
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Smooth surface for easy painting
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Available in different thicknesses
❌ Cons:
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Can be pricey
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Heavy to move around
A lot of serious dollhouse builders swear by 3/8” Baltic birch plywood because it has no knots or voids, making it sturdy and reliable. If weight is a concern, 1/4” plywood is a solid alternative.
🛠 Best for: Main walls, structural components, floors.
Birch Plywood dollhouse by BlueberryandThird
2. MDF – Affordable and Easy to Work With
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) is another common choice, especially for ready-made kits. It’s smooth, uniform, and great for painting.
✅ Pros:
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Affordable
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No knots, so it’s easy to cut
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Smooth surface for painting
❌ Cons:
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Heavy (seriously, it’s a tank)
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Not moisture-resistant (seal it well!)
Most builders use 3/8” MDF for durability, but some prefer 1/4” MDF to reduce weight. Just keep in mind that if your dollhouse gets damp, MDF swells like a sponge.
🛠 Best for: Walls, floors, and anything that needs a smooth surface.
🔗 Related: What is the Best Wood to Build a Dollhouse?
3. Basswood – Lightweight and Easy to Cut
If you want a softer wood that’s easier to cut by hand, basswood is a great option.
✅ Pros:
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Super easy to cut and shape
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Takes paint and stain well
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Lightweight
❌ Cons:
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Not as strong as plywood or MDF
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Can dent or scratch more easily
Basswood is great for detailed trim, furniture, and smaller structural elements, but it’s not the best for weight-bearing walls.
🛠 Best for: Trim, small details, dollhouse furniture.
4. Foam Board – Perfect for Prototyping
Thinking of testing your design before committing to heavier materials? Foam board is your friend!
✅ Pros:
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Super lightweight
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Easy to cut with a craft knife
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Good for non-structural walls
❌ Cons:
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Not strong enough for load-bearing walls
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Can get dented easily
Some builders make a prototype with foam board to plan out their design before moving on to plywood or MDF.
🛠 Best for: Prototyping, interior walls, and decorative elements.
🔗 Related: How to Build a DIY Dollhouse Room Box
5. Cardboard – Budget-Friendly and Fun
Yep, cardboard can work for dollhouses! It’s lightweight, free (hello, Amazon boxes), and surprisingly versatile.
✅ Pros:
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Cheap and easy to find
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Super lightweight
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Can be reinforced for more durability
❌ Cons:
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Not as durable as wood
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Can warp if not sealed properly
Cardboard is great if you’re making a temporary dollhouse, a project with kids, or just experimenting. If you want to make it sturdier, reinforce it with layers.
🛠 Best for: Prototyping, kid-friendly projects, and temporary builds.
🔗 Related: How to Make a Cardboard Dollhouse Stronger
6. Upcycled Materials – Get Creative!
If you love a good DIY challenge, upcycled materials can add unique character to your dollhouse. Think old wooden crates, leftover hardwood flooring, or even repurposed furniture pieces.
Great dollhouses can also be for example repurposed dollhouse bookcases or even repainted and cheap plastic dollhouses!
✅ Pros:
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Eco-friendly
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Budget-friendly
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Adds a one-of-a-kind touch
❌ Cons:
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Requires creativity and some trial and error
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May need extra sanding or reinforcement
Upcycling works best for floors, walls, and unique features like staircases or furniture.
🛠 Best for: Unique, eco-friendly builds with lots of personality.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right material depends on your goals, budget, and skill level. If you want something long-lasting and sturdy, birch plywood or MDF are the best bets. For lighter, easier-to-cut options, basswood or foam board work well. And if you’re experimenting or working on a budget, cardboard and upcycled materials can be fun alternatives.
What materials have you used for your dollhouse? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Happy crafting!
Lizzy
