I focused on finishing the attic because I needed to complete it before working on the dormers and the front top window.
First, I primed the entire attic and stained the floor. Once it dried, I wallpapered the dormers using a wallpaper that complements the wall design. The green in the wallpaper matches the green stucco ceiling and chimney. After wallpapering the dormers, I moved on to the walls. I let the wallpaper dry completely before cutting around the edges of the dormers. Although the edges feel a bit rough, I'm not concerned because I plan to cover them with woodwork when I add trim to the room. Overall, it looks pretty good.
Next, I glued on the front top window and assembled the balcony, which needs to be done away from the dollhouse. Be sure not to attach the top rail yet and check that the front railing is oriented correctly by referring to the box photo. When installing the top window, ensure it doesn’t block the slot for the balcony; this slot must remain clear. Using paper clamps to hold the balcony floors together will help them fit into the wall slot later.
Once the balcony was dry-fitted, I added the handrail so it would sit flush against the walls. I also installed the last two window sills for the small side windows, following the same method as for the front ones. I dry-fitted them first to determine where to cut for a proper fit and used an Easy Cutter to enlarge any necessary slots.
While that dried with masking tape clamps, I started working on the top staircase of the attic. Although it took a while, it wasn’t complicated since each piece fits only one way. However, there are many pieces, making it tedious to assemble correctly. The third-floor back edge trim is essential for positioning this staircase properly. I painted all trim pieces in the same color as the dollhouse and installed them simultaneously—railing, edge trim, and staircase—to ensure correct alignment. I left the staircase back trim for last. If you let each part’s glue dry before proceeding, you may encounter fitting issues. It’s best to work while the glue is still wet for better mobility and fit. Once everything was in place, I hot-glued the final piece of runner onto the stairs.
