• It will take time to assemble your dollhouse. Set up a work area where you can keep all your supplies and tools handy and ready to go.
• Try to select a place where your house can stay out at the end of each work session instead of having to pack things up. You will make the most of your working time and more inclined to see the project through.
• Read through the instructions that came with your house. Make notes of any items you will need for assembly and then go shopping.
• Wear work clothes or a covering of some type since you will be gluing, painting and cutting.

The tools
You will need a pencil, ruler, hobby knife, blades, sanding block or sandpaper, masking tape, and a tacky or wood type glue. You may already have these around the house. You might also check your local store for a starter set of tools. There are a few optional items you may find helpful: A fast grabbing glue like Quick Grab or  Bonds Cement, hot glue gun w/stand, paint brushes, cup for water, and wide masking tape. If your house requires nailing you will want a small hammer and small pair of pliers.

Be prepared!
You will be using sharp tools, paints and glues. Understand how to use each tool properly and store tools out of children's reach. Read the manufacturer's instructions and warnings. When gluing and painting have good ventilation and don't smoke. 

Glues and Adhesives
There are several kinds of glues and adhesives you will need to get your house together.

• Wood and Tacky Glues: These are your general purpose glues for assembly of most of your wood parts. To apply squeeze the excess air from the bottle first and then turn upside down to apply the glue. Lay your dab or glue line. Release the pressure on the bottle at the end of the dab or glue line so the bottle will suck the remainder of the glue stream back inside instead of having it run on your pieces or work area. Clean up excess glue between steps.
• Fast Grab Glues: These help hold items like clapboard siding or shingles in place without sliding. Make sure it dries clear.
• Hot Glue Gun: Use hot glue to help hold pieces in place while your wood glue dries. Don't use for assembly, it is not a permanent hold. Use a little dab where needed to hold your glued pieces in position as they dry.
• Specialty Glues: For applying floor coverings, wallpaper, plastic parts, etc. Check the product for the recommended adhesive or ask your local retailer for a recommendation.

Opening the box
Carefully open the box, some can be opened in a way to serve as a work tray. You will want to check and make sure all parts are there and are clearly identified. If you purchased a die cut kit it is a good idea to write the name and sheet number (if applicable) on each piece. Verify the parts name and quantities against the instruction sheet. You can take this time to lightly sand edges.

Assembly
Follow the manufacturers directions! It is a good idea to do a dry assembly run to make sure you have the right parts and understand how they go together before you apply the glue. You can take this time to trim and sand edges. You might want an extra set of hands available to help hold pieces. You can apply a sealer or primer coat to your pieces before assembly but don't try to paint, stain or wallpaper before the house is assembled. Take your time!   

You can take the simplest kit and add those extra details that will make your house stand out. Take advantage of pre-assembled windows and doors to add architectural details. Finish interior rooms with wood floors, tile floors, paneling, wallpaper, wood trims, moldings, and baseboard. Add brick to a fireplace interior or exterior. Finish the outside with clapboard siding, brick, stone or stucco. Your local store can help you with suggestions, choices and additional ideas.

Reference materials
One of your best resources is your local hobby store. They will have intimate knowledge of the products, features, and quirks you may encounter. They also have a relationship with the manufacturers to help resolve problems. You may consider joining a local club. Here you can lean insider tips and tricks and spend time with others who share your interest. There are also books available with practical how to and finishing information:

• Everything You Wanted to Know About Dollhouses but Didn't Know Who to Ask
• Creative Dollhouses from Kit
• Dollhouses to Dreamhouses Book 1
• Dollhouses to Dreamhouses Book 2

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