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Don't spend big bucks on a dollhouse - this DIY dollhouse project will show you how to make an awesome version from a cardboard box!
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5 from 3 votes

DIY Dollhouse

Learn how to make a dollhouse out of cardboard! It's really easy, inexpensive, and you can decorate it with Mod Podge.
Prep Time20 minutes
Active Time2 hours 15 minutes
Dry Time3 hours
Total Time5 hours 35 minutes
Yield: 1 dollhouse
Cost: $2

Equipment

Materials

Instructions

  • Cut the end flaps off with my X-Acto knife for the back wall. Then cut all four flaps off for the front opening of the dollhouse.
    Cutting flaps off a box with a craft knife
  • Tape up the back of the box with painter's tape.
    Box taped up with painter's tape
  • Paint the box and let dry. I did a total of three coats and let each one dry 20 minutes. I also used a blow dryer to prevent any warping.
    Spray painted white box
  • Measure and cut your scrapbook paper to fit the back wall. I started at the top of the back wall, by adding some Mod Podge and laying my paper on top. Then working my way down. You don't need to over Mod Podge with this, just paint on a thin layer.
    Cut piece of scrapbook paper applied to the back of the box
  • Go through home decor magazines and pick out furniture and other items to go into your dollhouse. Cut out the shape(s). Paint a little Mod Podge on the back and gently place it on the wall. Add a little Mod Podge on top and let dry.
    Cut out decorations from magazines added to the wall of the dollhouse with Mod Podge
  • Paint some wood furniture (I got mine from Dollar Tree) to match the dollhouse. Let dry before placing.
    how to make a dollhouse out of cardboard

Notes

Step 1: I ran to Wal-Mart and grabbed some boxes. These were around .50 cents each. BARGAIN!!!!
Step 2: I love using painters tape for projects like these; it's flexible and easy to paint over.
Step 3: When I paint boxes, I love using those sample size paints you get at Lowes or Home Depot. You can pick any color you want and get a good amount for around $3.00. Spray painting is a great option too but that could get a little pricy at $4.00 a can.
Step 5: So this was a step I was pretty excited about. I think a little girl or boy would have a blast going through magazines and picking out fun accessories. Mirrors, pictures, flowers, etc. My Pottery Barn catalog had a TON of great options.