HOW TO: Modular Stackable Dollhouse
Rooms stack so kids can make their own dollhouse! DIY.
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
What you need
- 1/2" plywood, ripped into strips 7-3/4" wide
- 3/4" x 3/4" moulding
- 1x4 boards or other 1x material
- 1x2 boards (for roofing)
- 1/4" wood dowels (for railing)
Amount of materials will depend on number of components built
- ROOM
- 2 - 1/2" plywood @ 7-3/4" x 15-1/2"
- 4 - 1x4 @ 7-3/4" (can use any 1x material here)
- DECK
- 1 - 1/2" plywood @ 7-3/4" x 15-1/2"
- 2 - 3/4" x 3/4" moulding piece @ 14"
- 4 - 3/4" x 3/4" moulding piece @ 7-3/4"
- 4 - 3/4" x 3/4" moulding piece @ 2"
- wood dowels @ 2-1/2"
- ROOF
- 4 - 3/4" x 3/4" moulding piece @ 14"
- 2 - 3/4" x 3/4" moulding piece @ 6-3/4" with one end cut at 45 degrees, long point measurement
- 2 - 3/4" x 3/4" moulding piece @ 6" with one end cut at 45 degrees, long point measurement
- 2 - 1x2 @ 11" with ends cut to point at 45 degrees (see in diagrams)
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- compound miter saw
- table saw
- nailer
- sander
Step by step
The rooms are the simplest to build. Just glue and nail or screw the plywood to the 1x pieces.
TIP: Paint 1x pieces before assembly.
Step 2
Drill the dowels into the railings 1/4" deep. Glue in place. Glue and nail railings together and to bottom plywood piece with 1-1/4" brad nails.
Step 3
Nail and glue the roof pieces together. Set next to rooms to make sure the roof pieces are square.
Step 4
Jaime has provided detailed plans on all the furnishings.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
