I recently installed a hinge on the staircase closet door. The hinges I purchased worked well with this thin, plain door without any laminated layers. Hinging decorative doors can be challenging because ornate designs often involve laminated wood, making the door thick and heavy. Successful hinging requires careful preparation and technique.
The key to a smooth-functioning door is to sand it so it fits loosely in its casing, preventing snagging and reducing stress on the hinges. Placement is crucial - you can attach hinges directly to the door and wall, but this might restrict movement. Hinge visibility is often unavoidable with die-cut doors. You can choose to place them on either side of the door based on your aesthetic preference, but consistency is important.
When installing hinges, create tiny starter holes with a nail. Be careful not to make the holes too large, as this can cause the hinge to become loose. Apply glue to the hinges and pins, and carefully tap them in using a nail set and hammer. Work on one side at a time and allow each side to dry completely before proceeding.
Be aware that hinging die-cut doors can be unpredictable. The wood's quality can vary, potentially causing issues like crumbling, delamination, or difficulty inserting pins. The success of your hinging project depends largely on the specific characteristics of the dollhouse kit's wood.
