Dolls House

nozzferrahhtoo

I have never been good with my hands or anything of that sort. However I would love to make an attempt.

Where would people here recommend as a good place to start with building a self made dolls house for my daughter?

I would like to build something beyond a simple box. A hinged front and back so it can be opened from front and behind. Floors, stairs, rooms, maybe even down to fitted furniture that can open (like drawers).

While I would not say "Money is no object" I would like to invest in good materials so what I build will last. However I would not like to invest too much money in complex and expensive tools that I would then never use again. So my priority for money would be weighted where possible towards materials not tools.

Are there better forums on Boards.ie for this? IS here the place? What would the first steps be for someone who has never worked any trade skill before, let alone wood work specifically?

fergal.b

Here is a simple one you could build with basic tools and skill http://rodswoodworking.com/dollhouse-plans.html






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recipio

I once made a doll's house for Xmas - kept me up 'til 4 am Xmas eve !
The important thing thing to remember is that its more model making than woodwork. You need lots of time and patience.The materials are quite cheap but you need a few basic tools to cut and plane accurately. I'd get a 'miter bond' glue which allows you to press the hundreds of components into place without waiting for glue to dry.
Give some thought to finishing even before starting as it will make or break the dolls house and stick to one of the tried and trusted plans available off the internet or in magazines.

JoeB-

It's a great idea. I had thought previously about making these commercially! I think kids love them.

An Irish company with some great pictures on their website. They also sell little furniture pieces.
http://www.christybird.com/pages/DollsHouses.html

recipio

JoeBallantine wrote: »

It's a great idea. I had thought previously about making these commercially! I think kids love them.

An Irish company with some great pictures on their website. They also sell little furniture pieces.
http://www.christybird.com/pages/DollsHouses.html

Nice Joe.
There are two levels really - one for little girls to play with and another for the serious collectors.
For your favourite little person all the components like plastic windows, doors even battery lights are available from www.hobby.uk.com - the mail order firm in the UK.
For serious collectors there is a specialist market, made by pro's and cost a lotta cash.