Simple 18 Inch Doll Bed
Farmhouse-Style 18" Doll Bed – Build It or Prep It as a Kit This timeless wooden doll bed is designed with versatility in mind. Whether you're looking to build a heartfelt handmade gift or want a precut DIY kit for kids, this project delivers both charm and purpose. Crafted to fit standard 18" dolls like American Girl®, Our Generation®, and others, the bed features classic farmhouse lines, smooth arched headboards, and sturdy joinery—all designed for simple, satisfying assembly. Two Ways to Use It: • Build it yourself and gift a finished heirloom-quality bed—perfect for birthdays or holidays. • Or prep it as a kit —precut and ready to assemble—for a hands-on project that builds skills and confidence in young makers. What's Included (Kit Option): • All wood pieces precut and sanded • Clearly labeled parts for stress-free assembly • Simple instructions—no saws or special tools needed • Ready for painting, staining, or decorating Perfect For: • Ages 6+ with adult support • Parent-child woodworking days • Crafty gifts, homeschool projects, or maker fairs Made from solid wood in my workshop and designed with care, this doll bed is more than just a toy—it's a project, a memory, and a gift, all in one.
Specifications
| Project type | Toys |
|---|---|
| Room | Kids and Toys |
| Style | Children's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans |
| Difficulty | Starter Projects |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 12 feet lof 1x2 boards (the furring strips were used in this plan/video)
- 16" of 1x3 (can substitute 1x2s here)
- 1-5/8" to 2" screws
- Hot glue or 1 1/4" brad nails and glue
Cut List
HEADBOARD/FOOTBOARD
- 4 - 1x2 @ 9 1/2"
- 2 - 1x3 @ 8" (can use 1x2s here)
- 2 - 1x2 @ 8"
RAILS
- 2 - 1x2 @ 18 1/2"
- 2 - 1x2 @ 17 3/4"
- 1/4" plywood or sturdy cardboard for the mattress support
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- drill
- jigsaw
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
We went ahead and build the headboards first. You can screw or nail, or if you have a hot glue gun, that works really well too. Build two headboards. Of course an easier way would be to just use a wider width board for the headboard (for example 1x8 or 1x6 - but this adds to the overall cost and I was trying to keep costs as low as possible).
Step 2
Now attach the bed base support to the siderails. Again, nails, screws or hotglue does the trick.
Step 3
You can let your kids then assemble the pieces. Then have them measure and cut from sturdy cardboard a platform for the mattress and place in the bed.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/simple-18-inch-doll-bed-kids-woodworking-kit-option