Farmhouse Indoor Playhouse

Farmhouse playhouse
Difficulty
Intermediate
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Free plans to build your own indoor playhouse! Sized similar to play tents, so it fits anywhere, but won't break and feels more like a playhouse.  This well thought out plan maximizes material use.  About $50-$100 to build (depending on local lumber prices).  

UPDATE: After many years of use, kids climbing on the roof, "decorating" with crayons, the playhouse is still in good condition and used all the time!  This is a great plan that my kids have loved for years, has held up well, and looks pretty in my living room (although could use a new paint job).  

I just built my toddler daughter this adorable little indoor playhouse, and it turned out so cute, I am beyond excited for her to see it on Christmas morning!

indoor playhouse

The Back Story

For my toddler daughter's Christmas gift, I was going to buy her a play tent that looks like a playhouse for the living room.  But after shopping around, the play tents suitable to stay up in the main living room cost about $200!  Yes, $200 for a kids play tent.  Like this one sold out from Pottery Barn Kids.  Or this one from Scandiborn.  Or this one from Target - so cute, right?

At that price point, I thought I could design and build her something out of wood for less money overall, but higher quality and last longer. 

Indoor Playhouse Features

  • Portable, so can be set up almost anywhere and doesn't have to be framed into your house
  • Small size, will fit in most rooms
  • Easy to break down into panels for storage (since you'll want to keep this one around for grandchildren someday!)
  • Perfect size for preschoolers
  • Sturdy and solid walls - not fabric walls!
  • Can be repaired, repainted, reused, and is biodegradable 

Free Plans to Build Your Own Indoor Playhouse

Want to build your own indoor playhouse?  First, watch the video tutorial -

Then use the free step by step plans below to get your materials and get it built!

Pin For Later! 

Farmhouse Indoor Playhouse

Dimensions
indoor playhouse dimensions diagram
Dimensions shown in diagram. Recommended for preschoolers.

Preparation

Shopping List

2 - sheets of 1/4" thick underlayment or similar

12 - 1x2s measuring 1-1/2" wide x 3/4" thick x 8 feet long (I used furring strips that were $1.50 each)

1 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long

1 - 2x2 @ 6 feet long

50 pack of 1-1/4" pocket hole screws (coarse thread recommended if using the furring strips)

3/4" and 1-1/4" brad nails

20 - 2" long self tapping wood screws (SPAX or GRK brands) for assembling the playhouse in the room

32 - 1-1/4" long self tapping wood screws (SPAX or GRK brands or similar) for attach roof pieces to frame

wood glue

 

Cut List

Plywood Panels (cut one from each panel, see step 1)

  • 2 - 1/4" plywood @ 33-1/2" x 48" - gable walls
  • 2 - 1/4" plywood @ 32" x 48" - front and back walls
  • 8 - 1/4" plywood @ 12" x 28" - roof panels

Gable Walls (Sides)

  • 4 - 1x2 @ 27-3/4" - longest point measurement, cut one end at 45 degree angle (roof rafters)
  • 4 - 1x2 @ 32" - longest point measurement, cut one end at 45 degree angle (corners)
  • 4 - 1x2 @ 32" (horizontal trim)

Back Wall

  • 2 - 1x2 @ 45-1/2" (top and bottom plate)
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 32" (corners)

Front Wall

  • 1 - 1x2 @ 45-1/2" (top plate)
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 32" (corners)
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 26-1/2" (door sides)
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 22" (door top)
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 20" (bottom plate)
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 3-1/2" (bottom plate)

Roof

  • 1 - 2x2 @ 48-1/2" (ridge)
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 48-1/2" (eaves)

Windows

  • 6 - 1x2 @ 12"
  • 6 - 1x2 @ 13-3/4"

Window Boxes

  • 3 - 1x3 @ 12"
  • 3 - 1x3 @ 13-1/2"
  • 6 - 1x3 @ 2-1/2" - cut first so you don't have to hold on to a tiny piece while cutting
Cutting Instructions

For the 1x2s, cut the longest pieces first to get all the pieces on the 1x2s.

Tools
Tape Measure
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Kreg Jig
Drill
Circular Saw
Jigsaw
Miter Saw
Brad Nailer
Power Sander

Instructions

Step 1

Lay the 1/4" plywood panel down on 1x2s and set circular saw blade to depth just past the thickness of the material.

Cut 33-1/2" x 48" pieces.  Then measure and mark, and cut the 32" x 48" piece.  Then measure and mark and cut the 28" x 48" pieces.

Then cut the 28" x 48" piece down into four ~12 wide panels to make up the roof pieces.

Repeat for the second sheet of 1/4" plywood.

NOTE: The saw blade takes up about 1/8" space, so you can't just lay all the cuts out and cut.  You have to make one cut, then measure and mark and make the next cut.  On the roof panels, if one panel ends up being a little smaller, it won't matter.

Step 2

Cut the 1x2 pieces out according to the cut list, making the longest cuts first.  Save the shorter cuts (window trim pieces) for the end to use up your scraps.

First, lay out all the pieces and mark locations of pocket holes.  Drill pocket holes, only one needed per joint, on the 3/4" setting.

Then, build the blue section, attaching with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws and wood glue.

Then attach the two roof rafter pieces together, with one pocket hole at the top. 

Then attach the roof pieces to the blue section.

Place the 33-1/2" x 48" plywood panel on top of the frame, so it is flush to the bottom, but a 3/4" gap in on both sides, and gap on the top.  Attach with glue and 3/4" brad nails or staples.

Cut off the top triangular pieces to create the house shape.

Cut out the window as shown (jigsaw is recommended).

Build the window trim with a single 3/4" pocket hole and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws and attach to the plywood panel with glue and 3/4" brad nails.

Step 3

Repeat the steps to build the front and back walls.

On the front and back wall panels, the 1/4" plywood will be 1/4" short on side edges. Build the back panel first.

On the front panel, the doorway may move the framing inward or outward, use the plywood to square it up, keeping that 1/4" gap on the side edges.

Step 4

We recommend painting or staining at this point.  Wait to assemble in the room, as the finished product is most likely too big to fit through doorways.

To assemble, use three screws per corner.  I used 2" long self tapping trim screws.

Step 5

Attach the ridge to the top, so the outside edges of the ridge are flush to the outside edges of the gable wall tops.

Add the eave 1x2s with screws.

Do not glue these boards, as you may want to disassemble at a later time.

Step 6

Place the outside roof panels up first, with about a 1/2" overhang to the outsides.  Top edge is flush.  Once the two outermost roof panels are up, simply eyeball the placement of the two inner panels. I used 1-1/4" screws to attach, four per panel. 

Step 7

Build the three window boxes with 1-1/4" brad nails and glue.  Stain.

Attach to the window trim with 1-1/4" brad nails or the screws, I did three nails per end, and then three on the underside.

Finishing Instructions
Finish Used
For the stained window boxes, I used Varathane Aged Wood Accelerator in Rustic Brown
For the roof, I used Chalked in Charcoal
For the walls, I used an off the shelf white paint in semigloss

Comments

jcranda12

Mon, 12/14/2020 - 12:27

Looks great. If I wanted to make it outdoor friendly, would I just use exterior grade plywood and set it on treated lumber?

vans

Tue, 03/30/2021 - 02:44

I'm building the playhouse for my two granddaughters, it's so cool.
I used a flush trim bit to cut openings and gable end's, also 1/8" round over on all trim.
This was a good opportunity for me to use up some leftover 1X material I have.
Thanks for your hard work, I know two kids that will be happy :)

Seasonal And Holiday

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!