The kit instructions provide clear details on how to install the door, but here are some helpful tips.
Start by dry fitting the door to ensure it fits properly. You may need to sand down all sides to prevent it from snagging when opening and closing. Sand the edges of the door tabs that fit into the floor and top unit holes. Although these tabs are square, they work better when rounded, as sharp edges can catch when turning in the holes. Assemble the top unit according to the instructions. It is laminated together to form the top door trim and has two holes for the top door tabs, allowing for movement.
Before installing the bottom tabs into the porch floor and the top tabs into the top unit, ensure that the door fits well. Slide the top unit into place with the door positioned correctly. Test the door by swinging it open and closed. If adjustments are needed, remove it again so you can glue it back in place, being careful not to get glue on any moving parts. Use spackle on both the edge of the door and in the opening to fill any gaps in the laminated sections. You can add doorknobs if desired.
If you recall the Lawbre Dollhouse photo from earlier in this assembly blog, you might remember its stonework on the porch foundation. I printed a similar stone pattern at scale and in the right color, then glued it to the front of the porch foundation using a small amount of tacky glue. Your stonework doesn’t have to be a printed design; you can create it with paper clay, wood, real stone and mortar, stone veneer, or even polystyrene plastic sheets. You can also stencil a stone look using craft paint. Let your creativity guide you!
