Choosing the right paper is crucial for your dollhouse projects because it affects how realistic and durable your miniatures look.

The wrong paper can lead to curling wallpaper, flimsy books, or peeling floor tiles—definitely not the look you're going for, I know you've been there too! :-)

Let’s go over the best paper options for each of your tiny projects!

Miniature Books: What Paper Works Best?

For the pages of a mini book, lightweight printer paper (70-80 gsm) is ideal.

Matte paper works best for a realistic look and to prevent glare, while glossy paper can give a slightly laminated effect, which might be useful for specific styles.

Some brands offer archival-quality options that resist yellowing over time. It’s thin enough to feel like real pages. Want an aged look? Cotton fiber paper adds a nice vintage touch.

For the cover, however, you’ll need something sturdier. Cardstock (200+ gsm) or thicker printer paper works well.

Some miniaturists even use fabric or faux leather for a more realistic effect. To prevent ink smudging, a light spray of matte sealer does the trick.

Fun tip: Some crafters use scented nail polish to mimic leather book covers. So if your tiny book smells like vanilla, now you know why!

Here’s a great tutorial on making mini books:

More insights on what thickness of paper to use for dollhouse miniature books.

The Best Paper for Dollhouse Wallpaper

Wallpaper sets the mood in a dollhouse, but it has to stay smooth and look realistic. The best choices:

• Scrapbook Paper: Available in endless designs and textures, and thick enough to stay flat.
• Vinyl Sticker Paper: Self-adhesive and easy to apply. A matte finish keeps it from looking too shiny.
• Matte Presentation Paper: If you’re printing custom designs, this gives vibrant colors and sharp details. This is what I usually use when using wallpaper for DIY kitbashing, for example.
  

Application Tips:

• Use Mod Podge, double-sided tape, or spray adhesive, or just regular craft glue.
• To avoid bubbles, smooth it down with a credit card as you apply.
• Seal with matte spray for extra durability.

More wallpaper tips? Check out this guide.

The Best Paper for Dollhouse Floors & Tiles

Dollhouse floors endure a lot—constant rearranging of tiny furniture and decorations! You need sturdy, high-quality prints. Best choices:

• Matte Photo Paper (150-200 gsm): Great for printing wood, tile, or stone textures with crisp details.
• Printable Vinyl Sheets: Water-resistant and durable—ideal for “bathroom” or “kitchen” floors.
• Cardstock (200+ gsm): Perfect for raised textures like planks or tile effects.

Helpful Tips:

• Seal with Mod Podge or matte spray for longevity, or give the floors an extra shine if you're not using glossy paper, applying thin, even layers with a soft brush or a light mist to prevent streaks and over-application.
• Avoid liquid glue, which causes warping—use spray glue or double-sided tape.
• For realistic grout lines, lightly score the paper before sealing.

Cardstock vs. Regular Paper for Miniature Paper Crafts

If you have seen my mini paper flower tutorials and other papercrafted or origami miniatures, you might wonder which type of paper is best.

Not all paper is created equal! Here’s what works best:

• Cardstock (200+ gsm): Great for mini furniture, signs, and decorative pieces. It exists in all kinds of colors.
• Regular Paper (80-100 gsm): Ideal for posters, artwork, and tiny flowers and miniature plants.
• Presentation Paper: A nice in-between option—not too thick but sturdy enough for books and framed art.
  
  

Final tip: If your cat decides your dollhouse is a toy, you’ll be glad you used sturdy paper :-)

Related article: How to create a miniature TV cabinet and television from paper and origami?

• Unusual paper choices for printable dollhouse rugs and dollhouse wallpaper.

Now that you know the best paper choices for your dollhouse projects, it’s time to put that knowledge to work!

Have a favorite type of paper or a great tip to share? Drop a comment below or join our community at Everything Very Small for more miniature inspiration and any questions that you might have!

I wish you happy crafting!

Kind regards,

Lizzy