Dollhouse Turntables – Where To Get Some Ready-To-Spin Ones- But Also How To Create Them DIY?

If you’re keen on showcasing your dollhouse from every angle, (DIY) dollhouse turntables are a practical addition to your display setup. Imagine being able to view every meticulous detail of your dollhouse without needing to awkwardly reposition it or yourself. That’s the magic of turntables.

You’re going to find out about the practicalities and pleasures that come from integrating a turntable into your dollhouse display, and even how to create one yourself!

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Discovering the Best Large Dollhouse Turntables


There’s a lot of opportunity to find the right turntable for your treasured miniature home. From Etsy’s custom artisans to online retail giants that offer a range of ‘lazy Susans,’ it can be overwhelming to navigate the options.

Particularly, ‘lazy Susans’ may work for smaller scale dollhouses, but they aren’t suitable for displaying larger, grander dollhouses.

There are several types of Lazy Susans available on Amazon

But, if you’re in the market for a turntable capable of showcasing a grand dollhouse, you’re going to need something robust and reliable.

You can find these types of turntables that are crafted with precision to handle the weight and dimensions of expansive miniature homes.

Construction-wise, a solid base and a smooth rotation mechanism are assembled. That’s going to include materials like heavy-duty plastic or thick plywood and a rotational mechanism that can support the heft without getting stuck.

When it comes to where to find these sturdier turntables, Etsy holds an eclectic mix. Artisans and hobbyists often offer custom-made turntables tailored to fit specific dollhouse dimensions and weights and I have found a few stores like that!

Handcrafted Dollhouse turntable number 1: by Miniature Rosegarden


The Miniature Rosegarden dollhouse turntable offers a sturdy 12-inch Steel Ball Bearing Turntable mounted on a durable base made of a 3/8 inch MDF Base and 1/4 inch MDF Top.

With a maximum weight capacity of 1000 pounds, this pre-assembled turntable base is suitable for any dollhouse.

You have the flexibility to choose how to use it: either attach it directly to the foundation or position your dollhouse on it, adjusting its placement to ensure smooth rotation and level positioning on the table.

Measuring 12″ x 20″, this turntable can support weights of up to 1000 pounds.



Handcrafted Dollhouse turntable number 2 by WoodlazySusan


This store by WoodlazySusan has all types of turntables in different sizes, and they can be as large as in the picture below, talk about large dollhouse possibilities!

Choose from painted, stained, or sanded unfinished finishes to cater to your personal style.

Their expansive wooden lazy Susan boasts a 2-inch profile and provides a 0.75-inch clearance above your table. Strengthened with bottom support, it ensures stability, especially when accommodating heavier items like dollhouses.

With weights of 19 pounds for the 24-inch model and 32 pounds for the 30-inch model, these lazy Susans are constructed to withstand the test of time.


Energizing Your Miniature World: Electrified Dollhouse Turntables


Now, lots of you will probably have electrified dollhouses, and you would like to be able to turn them around on dollhouse turntables as well.

Well, electrified turntables not only offer a fluid 360-degree view of your dollhouse but also provide the must-have feature of keeping the lights on and the tiny television flickering, no matter where you stand. Now, that’s a game-changer.

You want to think about slip rings or rotating electrical connectors, which maintain an uninterrupted electrical connection between the stationary base and the rotating platform.

I’ve seen numerous handmade turntables on platforms like Etsy, where skilled artisans take custom orders to fit specific needs.

And remember, when you’re choosing your electrified turnhouse turntable, it’s not just about function. It’s also about form.

Select a turntable that enhances the look of your dollhouse, as well as one that’s been well-reviewed for its electric component reliability. Let’s get to the electrified dollhouse turntables stores!

Electrified dollhouse turntable number 1: Dollhouse miniature 12 inch electrified turntable


MinisbyGigi has made this handmade PSP 12-inch electrified turntable that holds 175 pounds.

Electrified dollhouse turntable number 2: By MiniatureRosegarden


This is the second version of a dollhouse turnable by MiniatureRoseGarden, but this time it is suitable for electrified dollhouses!

The Electrified and Assembled Turntable Base, featuring a 12-inch steel ball bearing turntable with a 3/8-inch MDF Base and 1/4-inch MDF Top, offers a unique copyrighted technique that enables electrified dollhouses to spin freely without cords.

Your dollhouse can be powered through the turntable, allowing for cord-free spinning.

It’s perfect for any dollhouse as it easily supports weights of up to 1000 pounds.

With replaceable electronic components, this turntable ensures longevity.

Dimensions: 12″ x 20″.

How to create your own DIY dollhouse turnable?


For this part, I would definitely advise checking out this blog post here, as there is a simple way to create your own dollhouse turntable.

In short, the materials you need to create a dollhouse turntable are:

  1. A 1/2-inch thick, 2-foot by 2-foot plywood panel for the base.
  2. A standard lazy Susan for smooth rotational movement.
  3. Four screws and four nails for attachment.
  4. Craft bond multi-purpose spray adhesive for securing felt.
  5. Felt larger than the plywood square for protection.
  6. Optional: Tools for assembly, such as a drill and hammer.

When it comes to finding these materials, consider your local hardware store for the lazy Susan and plywood. Or look for a lazy Susan on Amazon or Etsy (they have gorgeous handcrafted ones if you’re looking for an extra “touch”!).

Building the DIY Dollhouse turntable.


To construct a durable turntable, begin with a solid foundation by integrating a Lazy Susan mechanism with plywood. Here’s how:

  1. Identify the center of the Lazy Susan and mark points 3 inches apart in four opposite directions for screw placement. This ensures even distribution of support.
  2. Repeat the center-finding and marking process on the plywood piece. Clear markings aid in aligning the screw holes precisely with those on the Lazy Susan, crucial for stability.
  3. Drill holes at the marked points on both the Lazy Susan and plywood. To prevent over-drilling, wrap a piece of tape around the drill bit to gauge the correct depth for the screws.
  4. Position the plywood over the Lazy Susan, ensuring alignment of all drilled holes. Then, securely screw the plywood onto the Lazy Susan mechanism, taking care not to split the wood and maintaining a level base.



Unfinished Lazy Susan by PaulsSpecialties

Once you’ve established this sturdy foundation, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your DIY dollhouse turntable.

  1. Start by cutting a piece of felt to match the size of the plywood top, leaving a slight overhang on all sides. This serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, softening edges and providing cushioning for the dollhouse.
  2. Secure the felt corners by firmly placing a nail at each corner of the plywood. Hammer them in while keeping the felt smooth to avoid wrinkles.
  3. Finally, deal with the overhanging felt by applying craft bond multi-purpose spray adhesive to the plywood’s underside. Neatly fold the excess felt under and press firmly for a secure and professional finish all around.


Now, instead of using felt, you can of course decorate it yourself in different ways, let your creativity run wild!


Walnut Lazy Susan by DiamondCustWoodWorx

Some more tips and interesting facts about dollhouse turntables and Lazy Susans.


Did you know these things about the topic we discussed? Some more hints and FAQs answered for you!

  • The term “Lazy Susan” is believed to have originated in the early 20th century in the United States (the more politically correct term would be revolving tray). There are a few theories about how it got its name:
  1. One theory suggests that the name “Lazy Susan” came from servants or domestic workers who were colloquially referred to as “Lazy Susan.” This may have been because the turntable allowed for easy access to various dishes on the dining table without the need for them to constantly get up and serve.
  2. Another theory suggests that Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, had a daughter named Susan, who was said to be lazy and often requested that the dinner table be rotated to bring the food closer to her. However, there is little evidence to support this theory.
  • Consider the scale and weight of your dollhouse carefully when picking out a turntable. If you’ve got a larger, heavier structure, you’ll need a robust turntable designed to handle the load without wobbling or breaking.
  • For those with electrified dollhouses, make sure that the turntable can accommodate electrical wiring, with a reliable system that prevents tangling or disconnection as it rotates.
  • Maintenance is also key – choose turntables made of durable materials that are easy to clean and care for. Over the long run, your turntable should be a hassle-free addition to your dollhouse, one that brings joy rather than extra chores.

And finally, take a look at this fantastic video below where the creator created her own Lazy Susan from scratch; how about that?!

My Final Conclusion

Congratulations, your dollhouse turntable is complete! Place your dollhouse on top and take it for a spin. The seamless rotation will allow you to view every meticulous detail of your dollhouse with ease and sophistication.

If you have any more questions on this topic, please feel free to leave them down below in the comment section or join me on (one of) my social media channels below for a chat and updates 🙂

I wish you happy crafting!

Kind regards,

Lizzy

2 thoughts on “Dollhouse Turntables – Where To Get Some Ready-To-Spin Ones- But Also How To Create Them DIY?”

  1. Wowee, this is amazing, Lizzy!! I can’t believe you can miniature turntables this small and cute. Absolutely stunning!

    My Dad used to make life-size wooden turntables like these for the dinner table or serving hatch. I always thought they were called Lazy Suzie’s – maybe that’s just what we called them. Thanks so much for sharing the history. Just had an “I did not know that" moment. Very enlightening.

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