Instructions on How to Build a Dollhouse

Make a little house for your child's favorite doll

Making a dollhouse is relatively easy and economical, and allows you to design it to the recipient's taste. Whether her style is a pink princess fantasy or a post-modern Martha Stewart special, a little imagination goes a long way. The open sides allow for easy play with furniture and dolls of all sizes.

Things You'll Need

• 2 pieces foam board, 20-by-30-inch
• Craft knife
• Pencil
• Level
• Ruler
• 8 peel-and-stick linoleum squares, 12-by-12
• Spray adhesive
• Wall paper or four large paper gift bags

Instructions

1. Cut the foam board into two 12-by-24.25-inch pieces. Use the level and ruler to help make straight cuts with a craft knife.

2. Find the center along one edge of the long side on one board. Measure down six inches from the opposite long edge. Set the short edge of the second board between these two marks, and use the level to ensure that it's evenly perpendicular to the first board. Trace around the second board's edge. You will have marked a narrow rectangle that bisects the first board. Repeat on the second board.

3. Cut out the narrow rectangular sections. Turn the first board so that the cut-out rectangle faces up. Insert the second board's cut into the first board's cut. The two boards will make a cross, making four 12-by-12-inch open rooms. If the boards don't fit perfectly, use the craft knife to trim a little more foam board. Mark the walls of each room with numbers one through four. Each room's walls will have the same number. Detach the boards from each other.

4. Cut eight 12-by-12 inch pieces of wallpaper. If using paper gift bags, make sure you choose some that are not coated or smooth on the inside and are large enough to cut 12-inch squares.

5. Use spray adhesive to attach the paper to the paper squares on the foam board. Be careful not to wet the foam board too much, or it will warp. There should be a narrow strip at the cut-out rectangles with no paper so the house can be put together.

6. Make double-sided floors by sticking two linoleum squares together back-to-back. This will give your child the opportunity to choose which floor of eight to put in each room.

7. Assemble the house by sliding the foam board walls together. Place the floor squares in place, lining two sides against the two walls.

References

• Green Card: DIY Doll House