Creating Working Windows and Finishing the Dormers
Now that the mansard roof is ready, it’s time to install the dormer windows. I will slightly modify the instructions because these windows need proper interior finishing, and access will be limited once they are installed. I also plan to make them functional. Upgrading to working windows can be costly, and due to the unique measurements of these kits, a lot of time is needed to make adjustments for a proper fit. The kit provides everything necessary for creating working windows, so it would be a waste not to use what I already have. It’s easier to adapt the kit parts than to change the window openings for pre-assembled working windows.
The first step is assembling the dormer window. It’s quite simple when done outside the dollhouse. Just glue the side walls to the front wall, using paint bottles as guides to ensure the side walls are straight and stable while the glue dries.
Once the dormers are dry, you can paint each one. Remember to paint the window casings and openings before installation. These windows are identical to the other dollhouse windows, so they will be finished using the same method. The exterior window pane with stained glass can be installed at any point since it is fixed and won’t interfere with other steps. I stained the interior of the dormers and installed the interior casing like I did for the front. I made sure to paint the openings white to match the exterior.
Up until this point, everything has followed the instructions. Now comes a deviation. I bought trim from a craft store that is slightly wider (3/8") than the window casing trim. After staining it to match the interior of the dormer, I plan to glue this trim over the sides of the installed interior window casings. This will create a "rail" for the interior window pane to slide up and down. Be sure to dry fit your window panes during this process to ensure there’s enough room for movement.
Once the railing trim is dry, you can insert the interior window panes, with glass already glued in place, from the bottom of the window. This creates a functioning window that should slide easily on its railings but remain secure when fully open. I installed window sills on both the exterior and interior; the interior sill prevents the window pane from falling out of its railing.
With the windows in place, you can now install the dormer roofs. I recommend discarding the roof that came with the kit as it can be difficult to work with. Instead, I used ceiling paper for the interior dormer ceilings and copper paint swatches from the hardware store for the exterior roof. I added trim along the edges for a more polished look. The dormers are now complete and ready for installation. Finishing them outside of the dollhouse made a significant difference.
