Welcome to the first post in my beginner-friendly blog series, Dollhouse Remodel 101! Whether you’re an experienced crafter or someone just dipping their toes into DIY projects, this hobby is perfect for all skill levels. Remodeling a dollhouse combines creativity, problem-solving, and a love for tiny details, making it as rewarding as it is fun. Let’s dive into the very first step of your journey: finding the perfect dollhouse to remodel.

Step 1: Finding Your Dollhouse
The search for the perfect dollhouse is part of the fun! Take your time—great finds often come to those who wait. I have picked up two dollhouses for free and even an extra-large dollhouse for $25, just a mile away from my house! Here are some of my favorite places to look:
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Facebook Marketplace: Set an alert so you’ll be notified as soon as new listings pop up. Patience can pay off—dollhouses are frequently listed for under $50, and sometimes you can even snag one for free!
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Thrift Stores & Yard Sales: Keep an eye out when you’re out and about. You never know when a hidden gem will turn up.
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Word of Mouth: Ask friends and family if they have a forgotten dollhouse collecting dust in their attic or garage. You might just rescue a treasure!
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Local Classifieds: Post an “In Search Of” (ISO) ad in your local classifieds or neighborhood groups.
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Apps like OfferUp: Expand your search with other sale apps to increase your chances of finding the perfect house.
If you’d rather start fresh, you can always buy a new kit. Hobby Lobby and online retailers like Miniatures.com have excellent options.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Dollhouse
Not all dollhouses are created equal, and selecting the right one can save you a lot of frustration later on. Here’s what to keep in mind:
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Condition: Inspect the house thoroughly before buying. Are the walls sturdy? Is the structure sound? A dollhouse with “good bones” will make your DIY journey much smoother.
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Style: Consider the type of dollhouse you’re drawn to. Colonial, Victorian, beach bungalow, farmhouse, log cabin—there are so many styles to choose from! Pick one that sparks your imagination and fits your personal style. It is much easier to plan a remodel when you are already familiar with a particular home style!
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Size: Larger dollhouses can take hundreds of hours to remodel. Be realistic about the time you can commit. This isn’t a weekend project—it’s an adventure that could span weeks or even months! If you find that you get bored easily when starting a new hobby, it might be best to begin with a smaller dollhouse, such as a 2-3 room model, rather than a larger 7-8 room one.

Step 3: Planning Your Remodel
Once you’ve chosen your dollhouse, it’s time to start dreaming! Gather inspiration by browsing Pinterest, following dollhouse accounts on social media, and watching tutorials on YouTube (don’t forget to check out my channel for ideas and step-by-step guides).
Here’s a pro tip: Keep a notebook or folder for your ideas. Sketch layouts, jot down color palettes, and bookmark favorite designs. Planning ahead will make the process smoother and help you stay focused as you bring your vision to life. I like to use a digital planner app, like GoodNotes, to store my mood board, ideas, and remodel plan all in one space.
Join the Journey!
This is just the beginning of our dollhouse adventure together. Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on social media so you never miss a tutorial, behind-the-scenes peek, or exclusive furniture and accessory drops. I can’t wait to share more tips, tricks, and inspiration with you in the next post of this series—stay tuned!
Happy dollhousing!
