Today, I began working on the siding for my dollhouse. I found that a fingernail file, specifically a plain cardboard Emory Board, works perfectly as a spacer. Its half-inch width provides an ideal scale for a one-inch dollhouse, though spacing can vary depending on the dollhouse's style.
I applied the siding up to the soffits, leaving the top part uncovered since the roof will eventually hide it. For adhesion, I used Aleene's Fast Grab Glue, which can cause slight warping. By clamping the siding with masking tape and leaving it undisturbed, the warping quickly flattens. While hot melt glue could have been an option, especially since the windows are simple squares that can be easily cut around, I preferred Fast Grab glue. It gives each siding piece more definition and visual depth.
I strategically placed the siding, avoiding areas where porch posts and window trims would later cover. Before siding, I attached the exterior window trim but deliberately left off the sills and sill trims to make cutting around them easier. I also created a foundation for aesthetic purposes, which I plan to finish with a stucco-like spackle.
After painting and adding the soffits — which are crucial for roof support — I used a Q-tip to neatly fill any gaps around the front door. I even stained and wallpapered less visible areas to ensure a completely finished look when peering through the windows.