Essential Items For How to Build a Dollhouse

Like any project, some tools of the trade are required when it comes to how to build a dollhouse. Which dollhouse building tools you'll need ultimately depends on the kind of dollhouse kit you're putting together. That said, here are common dollhouse supplies you may want to consider having on hand before you start.

• Work area. The first thing you'll need is a good place to work. Ideally, you want a large, flat space in an area where you can leave out your dollhouse building supplies at the end of each day. It is best to choose an area that kids and pets cannot easily access.
  
  
• Work clothes and/or an apron. You'll be surprised at how messy things can get when you're knee deep in assembling a dollhouse kit!
  
  
• Adhesives. There are many types of specialty dollhouse glues for every part of your project. It's always a good idea to use these specially formulated glues over a hot glue gun. You can adhesives for everything from gluing on wallpaper to adhering glass pieces. Here are some quick guidelines for choosing the right dollhouse glue for each part of your project--learn more about how to choose a dollhouse glue by reading our blog post on the topic.
  
  
• All-purpose clear adhesive: Best for card, paper, wood, and ceramics
• Latex-based adhesive: Best for attaching ceramic tiles to card or wood; avoid using on fabrics
• Epoxy resin: Best for providing a strong bond on small parts 
• Wallpaper glue: Best for adhering wallpaper 
• Clear museum gel: Best for adhering glass and crystal
• Wood glue: Best for any wood projects
• Glues with a fine tip applicator: Best for precise and detailed projects
  
  
• First aid kit. It's a good idea to have one handy in case anyone gets hurt while working on the project.
  
  
• Fine glass paper for smoothing any rough wood. Grades 00 to 3 work best.
  
  
• Interior plastic filler and an orange stick for filling in any cracks.
  
  
• Miniature electric drill if you plan on fitting door knobs and hinges.
  
  
• Paint, paint brushes, and primer (Check out our blog post about how to paint a dollhouse to learn more.)
  
  
• Emulsion to cover the ceilings.
  
  
• Electrical components if you plan on adding electricity to your dollhouse. This can include everything from transformers to dollhouse tape wire to wiring kits. 
  
  
• Microfiber cloth to wipe the dollhouse free of dust.
  
  
• Correct number of wallpaper sheets if you plan on going that route.
  
  
• Emery board
  
  
• Small screwdrivers
  
  
• Bradawl or thick darning needle to start a hole in wood
  
  
• Craft knife
  
  
• Metal ruler with raised edge
  
  
• Self-healing cutting mat marked with a square grid
  
  
• Trays for separating parts
  
  
• Masking tape
  
  
• Pencils
  
  
• Magnifier 
  
  
• Heat gun or hair dryer
  
  
• Palette knife
  
  
• Paper towels
  
  
• Plastic gloves

Of course, this is just a short list of the many dollhouse building supplies you may ultimately need for your dollhouse kit project. Cover all your bases by making a list of everything you'll need and then buying all the dollhouse building supplies beforehand. When it comes to how to build a dollhouse, preparation is key. Good luck!