Hobbies And Interests
Cardboard Boxes
Collect cardboard boxes for the structure of the Barbie house. They should be at least 20"x 20" x 20". You will need two boxes for a simple two-story house. If you want a larger house add more boxes. You will also need some extra cardboard to make the roof of the house. The boxes do not need to be brand new. You will be painting the outside of the box covering up any lettering. The boxes should not be torn or dented; that would compromise the strength of the house.
Constructing the House
Cut the flaps off the boxes. Stack one box on top of another with the openings to the boxes on the side facing you. This will be the area for the child to play. Glue the two boxes together with strong glue. Tape the along the seam of the two boxes with a 2"colored making tape. Select a color that will match the interior of the Barbie house once it is decorated. Also tape around the edges of the boxes where the flaps where cut. This will not only add a decorative element but will soften the edges of the boxes. Turn the box around. Determine where you want the door. The door should be at least 13 inches high for the Barbie to walk through. Using a ruler draw the area the door will be. Cut the door on three sides with an X-Acto knife and ruler. You should not cut one side of the door--it should be attached to fold and open. Also mark areas where you want windows. Hold the Barbie next to the window to make sure the window is an appropriate size in comparison to the doll. Cut out the windows with an X-Acto knife and ruler. Use the discarded flaps from the boxes to make the peak of the house. Use tape and glue to secure the peak to the top of the house. You can add rooms to the house by adding walls with cardboard: Remember to cut out doors for each room. Rooms can also be divided by painting each room a different color.
Decorating the House
Begin by painting the exterior of the house white. This will cover up any markings on the boxes. After the first coat of paint is dry, paint the exterior the desired color. You can also select a different color of paint for the room and trim around the windows and doors. Paint shutters on the sides of the windows. Use patterned paper such as scrapbooking paper or wallpaper to cover the interior walls. Change colors and patterns for each room. Cover the floor of the house with carpet samples, contact paper or paint. Remember to cover the rooms with different materials to divide the spaces. Glue fabric above the windows, pull to the side and tie with yarn to make curtains.