Every house tells a story, and this one whispers through matchboxes.
The outside looks like a charming apartment block, but pull open the drawers and you reveal hidden lives, someone cooking, someone reading, someone dreaming.
It’s like a miniature theater where every window and door invites your imagination in.
Suddenly, an old matchbox isn’t just trash; it’s a tiny canvas for storytelling and play.
Materials Needed
- 12–15 empty matchboxes (standard size)
- Cardboard sheet (for the base and backing)
- Colored markers or acrylic paints
- Craft glue or hot glue gun
- Scissors or craft knife
- Decorative paper or washi tape (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Collect your empty matchboxes and make sure they slide smoothly. These will be the rooms of your dollhouse.
Step 2: Glue the matchboxes side by side in rows, stacking them like apartment levels. Then add a sturdy cardboard backing for stability.
Step 3: Draw windows, doors, and bricks on the outer sleeves to create the house façade. You can even add a rooftop using red paper or draw tiles.
Step 4: Pull out each drawer and decorate the inside with tiny room scenes like beds, tables, or even a bathtub, all sketched or collaged from scraps of paper.
Step 5: Arrange the house upright and let kids explore each room. You’ll notice new stories pop up every time you open a drawer.
Tips:
If you want it sturdier, seal the house with a thin layer of clear varnish.
Adding little paper people makes it even more fun, suddenly this isn’t just a craft, it’s a stage for endless adventures.