What's in the kit?
The kit is supplied "flat packed". The sheets of
wood from which the kit will be assembled are bound together in a
compact package for easy delivery.
Is there any difference in the building of the kits?
Our two lowest cost kits (The Country House and the Mansion)
are made from 4mm MDF with plywood trims. They are what might be considered
more like true "model maker's" kits. The nature of the design
used means that the parts have fewer guiding slots or grooves, and
are slightly more demanding to build than the other kits, requiring
support in the correct position whilst glue is drying. With all the
other kits from our range, all parts are supplied routed and grooved
to ensure easy, self supporting "slot-together" assembly.
The extra work in manufacture of the these kits is reflected in a
slightly higher price. For this reason build time may be somewhat
quicker than the two lower cost kits. In all kits some parts may need
light sanding before assembly. Once assembled, all kits are of an
equally superb quality and will become cherished family heirlooms.
What instructions are provided?
A comprehensive instruction book is provided, clearly illustrated
to show you how to put the kit together. It should be studied closely
prior to starting assembly of the kit. You should also check that
you can identify all the parts described and that everything is complete.
We recommend marking the part names onto the wood pieces with light
pencil to aid identification when building. This should be done prior
to removing the parts from their flat sheets.
What else will I need before I start?
You will need a few very basic tools: A bradawl to make pilot
holes for the screw-on hinges, a small screwdriver for the screws
and a bottle of wood glue to glue the panels and other wood parts
together. We recommend Evo-Stik Resin "W" Extra Fast, a
very strong woodworking adhesive which dries almost clear. Also some
fine sandpaper to smooth off any rough edges is useful. At some stages
you will ideally need to weight down the panels while the glue dries.
We have found a few telephone directories or large water bottles are
invaluable for this purpose!
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Screwdriver
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Bradawl
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How long will it take?
The actual assembly time to build the undecorated house will
vary depending on your level of experience, but having read the instructions
it should take a total of no more than a three or four evenings' work.
However do bear in mind that some assemblies will have to be constructed
then set aside for the glue to dry. Please be aware that these are
not "five minutes to screw together" kits, but the result
is well worth the effort. Remember that once the house is assembled
that you may want to install a lighting system and full decoration
(not supplied), which can take as long as you choose depending on
complexity! It's very easy to get carried away into your own small
world once you start. Be warned....... building dolls' houses can
become addictive..... and very rewarding fun!
Are the kits suitable for children?
These kits are designed to be constructed by a competent adult. The
kits are not sold as toys and accordingly do not carry the CE mark
which is a statutory requirement of products sold as toys within the
EU. How you choose to use the completed kit is, however, entirely
up to your own discretion. Many children enjoy supervised play with
the completed houses, owner permitting!