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10 DIY Kids' Playhouse Ideas

Give your little ones a special spot to spark their imaginations with our indoor and outdoor playhouse projects.

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Playhouse DIYs You’ll Want to Try

Looking to give your child a special spot to play, read or daydream? Try your hand at one of our indoor and outdoor DIY kids' playhouse projects. From simple crafts to more complex builds, we’ve got ideas for all skill levels and budgets. Some are so easy to make that even the little ones can help out! If you’d rather buy than DIY, shop our top kids' playhouse picks.

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Pallet Playhouse

Build your kiddos the rustic, whimsical playhouse of their dreams using wooden shipping pallets. You may even be able to get the pallets for free from a local hardware store, furniture store or construction site.

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Photo: Cassidy Garcia
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Tablecloth Playhouse

When your dining room table isn’t in use, transform it into an adorable tablecloth playhouse the kids will love – no sewing required. Use adhesive hook-and-loop tape to attach curtains, window boxes and other embellishments.

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Photo: Loch and Key
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Fold-Up Tent

Perfect for keeping kids entertained on rainy days, this DIY fort is easy to make with basic tools, a twin sheet and a few pieces of wood. Best of all, it folds flat for easy storage when not in use.

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Photo: Debbie Wolfe
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Shed-Style Playhouse

If you’re looking for a more advanced project, try your hand at this DIY shed-style playhouse. When the kids grow out of it, you can turn it into a potting shed or an outdoor retreat for grownups.

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Weatherproof Cardboard Fort

This simple cardboard box fort can be enjoyed indoors or out. The secret: A weatherproofing spray protects it from the elements.

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Photo: Andy Vinson of Loch & Key Productions
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Cardboard Camper

Take the kids camping without leaving the house with this vintage-inspired camper made of cardboard. Don’t forget the cozy details like pillows, blankets and lanterns.

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Dreamy Play Canopy

Turn a bedsheet into a magical night sky-inspired canopy for your child’s bedroom. It’ll quickly become their favorite spot for reading, daydreaming or playing with toys.

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Photo: Jalynn Baker
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Cardboard Gingerbread Playhouse

Looking for a way to keep the kids busy over Christmas break? Upcycle those cardboard boxes from your holiday gift orders into a life-sized gingerbread house where they'll play all day.

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Photo: Brian Patrick Flynn
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Playhouse Makeover, Exterior

If your property already has a playhouse that’s seen better days, don’t give up on it. Pressure washing, painting and planting some flowers transformed this playhouse from an eyesore into a charming focal point.

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Playhouse Makeover, Interior

The same neglected playhouse was refurbished on the inside with beadboard walls, a built-in bench and durable vinyl flooring. Consider making similar updates to your kiddo’s play space to give it a brand-new look.