How To Build A Miniature Dollhouse In 9 Different Ways - From Easy To A Bit More Complicated

Let us go back in time just a little bit and summarize all the methods and different materials we have been using to construct a miniature dollhouse.

Sometimes I get the question from beginner miniaturists: "Lizzy, everything in the dollhouse world is so amazing and everything interests me, where do I even start?"

And this might come as a surprise to you, but there are, in the back of my head, about 9 different methods to do so!

Really, 9 ways? Yes, really, so let's go!

Are you looking for the best DIY doll house building plans? There are 21 different plans right here!

Updated 21/01/24

1. How to Make a classic cardboard dollhouse.

Making a classic cardboard dollhouse is a fun and budget-friendly project suitable for both children and adults. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create one:

Materials needed for a cardboard dollhouse.

In short, this is what you could need to create your cardboard dollhouse:

1. Sturdy cardboard sheets or boxes
2. Craft knife or scissors
3. Ruler or measuring tape
4. Pencil
5. Craft glue or hot glue gun (this latter is up to you, but I tend to not use a glue gun)
6. Paint and paintbrushes
7. Decorative materials like dollhouse wallpaper, dollhouse shingles, etc...

Depending on how elaborate you want a cardboard dollhouse to be, you might have the need for more materials!

A Step-by-step guide:

In this article, we will only describe this method and how to in short, as we have already talked about cardboard dollhouses before. Check out the link below!

1. Design your dollhouse: Plan the layout and size of your dollhouse. Decide on the number of rooms, floors, and any additional features you want to include.
2. Cut the cardboard: Use a craft knife or scissors to cut out the walls, floors, and roof pieces according to your design. Make sure they fit together correctly.
3. Assemble the structure: Begin by gluing the walls together to form the basic structure. Add the floors and secure them in place with glue. Let the glue dry thoroughly.
4. Add doors and windows: Cut out openings for doors and windows in the walls.
5. Decorate the interior: Paint or wallpaper the walls and floors in your desired colors. You can also add carpet, or other decorative materials to make the interior look cozy and inviting. And don't forget the staircase!
6. Decorate the exterior: Paint the outside of the dollhouse and add any desired details such as shingles, trim, or a front porch.
7. Ensure the dollhouse is sturdy and secure, this can be a problem when using cardboard.

Check out a complete tutorial on how to build a cardboard dollhouse here!

2. How to create a miniature dollhouse from a bookshelf?

You can simply repurpose an old bookshelf and turn it into a dollhouse with multiple floors.

Materials needed for a bookshelf dollhouse:

1. A bookshelf (any size and style will do, but a smaller one is ideal for a dollhouse)
2. Sandpaper
3. Paint and paintbrushes
4. Wallpaper or adhesive paper
5. Craft knife or scissors
6. Miniature furniture and accessories
7. Glue
8. Optional: wood filler, primer, paint, and decorative materials like stickers, fabric, or small trimmings. Power tools if you want an extension.