Are you searching for a fun and thrifty DIY alternative to a Polly Pocket? Do you have a kid’s lunch box you no longer need? You’ve come to the right place! Edgar came up with a brilliant dollhouse kit that morphs into a convenient travel toy, and we are delighted to share the idea with you.
He sells these simple dollhouse kits on Etsy, but you can also create your own unique interior framework and graphics without his templates. Edgar’s dollhouse kits’ dimensions make the interior easily removable if you need the lunchbox for a different idea or want to change the toy theme. He also has an astronaut theme available that he made for Xander. In other words, the concept is the same, just a different theme. If you have specific requests for different themes, message him on Etsy; he will customize it for you.
Edgar’s main dollhouse kit graphics contain four separate rooms (all incorporating elements Meli specifically requested) embellished with wooden flooring and additional accessories. Yes, he honestly sat down with a pen and paper and asked Meli how she wanted her dollhouse to look. If you prefer a different dollhouse theme, he has other examples shown on his Etsy listing. Also, you can send him a message, and he will be happy to work with you.
Instead of gathering the materials yourself, Edgar also sells the items as a complete kit that is delivered to your door. He does not currently have it listed on Etsy (he’s a busy man), but he will soon. You can also send him an Etsy message requesting the kit; he will send it to you before creating the listing. Disclaimer: The physical kit is pricier than the digital file.
What You’ll Need
- Standard-sized kid’s lunch box (Typically measuring 10in x 7-8in): Edgar used this size to create his template.
- Edgar’s Etsy dollhouse kit templates (if wanted). That is the link to the example I referenced in this post. He also has a pastel dollhouse theme and a space station theme available that he made for Xander. The concept is the same, just a different theme. If you have specific requests for different themes, message him on Etsy; he will happily customize it for you.
- Cardboard, corrugated plastic (what Edgar used in the video), thin wood, or thick foam
- Decal paper (what Edgar used) OR you can use a glue stick to attach the printout to your chosen frame material
- Scissors
How to Put the Dollhouse Kits Together
House Frame
Start by printing the template and transferring it to your chosen material for the frame. Edgar used coroplast for the frame because it is durable and easy to work with.
Edgar designed the house frame with tabs and slots, which fit together seamlessly and eliminate the need for glue during assembly. However, adhesive can still be used if desired. Edgar used glue for Meli’s dollhouse because Xander is rough with toys, and he wanted extra security.
After assembling all the frame pieces, print out your room graphics on decal paper. Alternatively, you can use regular printer paper and attach them with a glue stick.
After printing, cut out the separate “wallpaper” sections (for the sides only) and attach them to their designated section. Additionally, there is no need for you to separate background rooms. Edgar ensured the side walls and flooring graphics have a little extra material when you print them, just in case you need it.
Please note that the glossy decal paper provides the final dollhouse with a sleek and professional look.
Patio Panel and Table
In order to attach the patio panel and table to the lunchbox, you can use double-sided tape for easy removal or glue for a stronger adhesive. Once you have secured it to the lunchbox, attach the graphics to the table like you did to the frame.
Edgar strategically positioned the patio panel table to prevent it from interfering with the house’s framework when closing and zipping up the lunchbox.
Voilà! You have finished assembling your dollhouse kit, and it is ready for your little one to enjoy and accessorize with mini-dolls and toys to help spark their creativity.
If you need a little extra help assembling the dollhouse kit components, Edgar has a detailed DIY video with step-by-step instructions to guide you visually.
Final Thoughts on the Dollhouse Kits
As can be seen, this dollhouse kit idea is a simple and budget-friendly DIY project for parents. Edgar's Etsy shop provides an excellent option for those who want to save time creating a template. With just a few basic supplies, you can create an on-the-go dollhouse toy that will provide hours of imaginative play for your little one.
We hope you enjoyed this idea and found these instructions helpful. Please share your thoughts, questions, or experience with the paper car template in the comment section below. We would love to hear your feedback! On the hunt for more DIY on-the-go toys? Take a look at our car-themed busy board and magnetic puzzle. These ideas are highly versatile and can be customized to your little one's liking. Plus, they are extremely easy to create.
