There are great plans online for dollhouse bookcases and we wanted to build one with slightly different features – roof slope and dimensions. The inspiration is a Pottery Barn Dollhouse Bookcase.
However, we wanted to put a small twist on the design – a light take on a midcentury modern style roof and a dollhouse that was 36w x 42h x 12d. Here are some handy resources and considerations when modifying the design.
How to Modify the Design and Build a Dollhouse Bookcase
1. Determine New Angles
There was a moment when it all came together that I thought to myself – yay Math! This was followed by my relief that it actually worked out. I wanted the smaller box areas to align with the ridge of the roof and needed to calculate angles different than online plans.
I had 3 known values for my triangles and that’s all we need to do math! Or at least plug those numbers into this handy Triangle Calculator. I used it to get the degrees for the bevel cuts: the two sides, third shelf support, and the roof boards – where they came together and for the overhang.
TIP: The Triangle Calculator will give you the slope lengths as well. I used those measurements to help align the roof peaks.
2. Cut 12-inch wide Boards
Using 12-inch wide boards can be challenging: the actual width of our boards was 11-1/4 inches. A cut list is included at the end.
My 10-inch miter saw, which doesn’t slide, required two cuts. I marked and made my first cut and turned the board over. I used a combination square to draw a straight line to my first cut and cut again.
A circular saw is also an option. I use a speed square or a cutting guide with a circular saw to keep my cuts clean and square. Once I started cutting bevels with my table saw I used it for a few cross cuts on the smaller boards. I will build a crosscut box one of these days.
3. Assemble
I arranged all the cut pieces (except the backing) to make sure that any bad knots or rough edges were hidden as best as possible. I used spruce, which has a good price point but comes with character. I used 16-gauge nails to hold the shelves and 18-gauge nails for everything else. Use the risers to position your shelves and double-check with a tape measure and level.
4. Attach Backer Board
First, I cut my 1/4-inch plywood to 35 inches wide. I didn’t want it to extend all the way to the edges so that it remained somewhat hidden. I laid the assembled bookcase face down and placed 1/4-inch plywood on its back and traced the outline. I cut the roof line and slide it down 3/8 inch and nailed it on.
USEFUL TOOLS
The following are useful tools for this build (besides the saws):
CUT LIST
This is my cut list that I was working off and includes the bevel angles. Saws have angle limits, you will need to flip or turn the wood to get the right blade approach to achieve your cut.
Good luck pulling this together! Up next is how we finished it – Nichole has some fun ideas that may include wallpaper.
