Whether you're an experienced miniature craft enthusiast or a beginner eager to dip your toes into the world of miniatures, making dollhouse shingles is a fun project for everyone.
I'm also going to share some clever tips and tricks along the way to ensure your dollhouse shingles look flawless.
So, grab your crafting tools and get ready for a creative journey, because by the end of this guide, you'll be a dollhouse shingle-making pro!
We will discuss all the different kinds of materials and methods that you can use, so let's dive right in!
Updated 14/06/26
How to create dollhouse shingles with cardboard?
Cardboard is one of the most popular and readily available materials for crafting dollhouse shingles.
It's easy to find, affordable and can be easily cut and shaped to resemble real shingles. Let's have a little walkthrough:
Materials Needed:
- Cardboard sheets (from regular cardboard boxes or chipboard)
- Scissors or an X-Acto knife
- Ruler
- Cutting mat
- Tacky glue
- Craft paint (black, golden brown, burnt umber)
- Paintbrushes (various sizes)
- Wood filler (if needed)
- Clear coat spray (optional)
- Moss and other decorative elements (optional)
A step-by-step walkthrough.
- Step 1: Prepare the Cardboard Strips
If using regular cardboard boxes, cut the cardboard into manageable pieces and square up the edges using a ruler and cutting mat to get even strips of cardboard.
Cut the strips into the desired width for your shingles, ensuring the lines on the cardboard go in the same direction for consistency.
- Step 2: Fill the Bottom Edge of the Shingle Strips
Apply wood filler along one side of each strip to fill in the bottom edge, as it may be visible once the shingles are stacked.
- Step 3: Glue the Shingles onto the Dollhouse Roof
Decide on the placement of the first row of shingles on the dollhouse roof and then use fast-grab tacky glue to secure the shingles in place.
- Step 4: Stagger the Shingles
For a natural and aged look, stagger the shingles as you proceed to the next row. Allow some shingles to overlap slightly, just like real shingles on a roof.
- Step 5: Paint the Shingles
Apply a black wash over the cardboard shingles to prevent any exposed cardboard from showing later. Dilute black paint with water and brush it over the shingles.
Once the black wash is dry, apply craft paint in colors like golden brown and burnt umber to create an aged and textured appearance. Use a dry brush technique for a subtle effect.
- Step 6: Apply Optional Clear Coat
For added depth and shine, consider using a clear coat spray on the painted shingles. This step is optional but can enhance the finished look.
- Step 7: Decorate the Roof (Optional)
If desired, add decorative elements like moss or tiny mushrooms to the dollhouse roof. Use tacky glue to securely attach them in place.
- Step 8: Allow Everything to Dry
Let the shingles, paint, and any additional decorations dry completely before moving or handling the dollhouse.
To have a visual look at how this all works, check out the video below!