Siding
Unfortunately, I lost all the original photos for this post, so I can only share the finished images.
Siding the dollhouse will take more than a few days because you need to work on the foundation and porch floor while applying the siding in sections. I will start with the front wall.
The Lily Dollhouse allows for quicker siding application compared to others. You can use hot melt glue instead of Quick Grab Tacky Glue since no components will overlap with the siding. Instead, the siding will be cut around the components. The front wall of The Lily Dollhouse is longer than the siding pieces, so you need to butt the pieces together to cover the entire width. Stagger the joints like you would with hardwood flooring to avoid a continuous line down the front wall.
You can choose the lap width of your siding based on your preference and the style of your dollhouse. I opted for a narrower width this time and used a piece of strip wood as a measuring guide.
Ensure that your siding pieces are straight along the wall and that the lines align between windows and other components. The edges of the siding strips may not be perfectly straight, which can create an illusion that they don't meet in some areas. However, aim for consistency by stepping back from the dollhouse as you apply each strip. Always keep the wall facing directly in front of you at eye level.
You will need to cut around the slots for the porch roof support pieces. After installing the siding, use a fingernail file to gently sand the exposed bottom edge of each strip, being careful not to split them.
Once sanded, you can paint the siding. Work in segments to avoid fatigue. Getting tired can lead to mistakes in applying each strip, which could result in an unsightly finish. It’s better to take breaks and switch tasks; fortunately, there’s plenty to keep you busy with the foundation.
Once you finish siding, you can install the window sills and pediments. Use spackle to fill any gaps between the sill and casing caused by the siding underneath. Be prepared for multiple touch-ups on these windows, so allow yourself several days for completion.
