DIY dollhouses: Toowoomba vet launches creative children’s toy

Technology is on the rise for young children, encouraging one woman to launch a unique concept that takes kids away from the screens.

Carol Smith of Eppa House will have a stall at Hand Made Under the Stars twilight markets held by Cobb and Co Museum, Tuesday, November 30, 2021. Picture: Kevin Farmer

With technology on the rise, one Toowoomba woman has launched an interactive dollhouse product with an innovative twist.

Carol Smith, who is a qualified vet, came up with the unique concept of DIY dollhouses in 2019 and after a year filled with trials and errors, launched her business, EPPA House this year.

Carol Smith of Eppa House will have a stall at Hand Made Under the Stars twilight markets held by Cobb and Co Museum, Tuesday, November 30, 2021. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“I wanted to do something that allowed children to really be creative, because these days kids spend a lot of time in front of the screens and are losing the confidence to actually build and create something themselves,” she said.

With the choice of purchasing the EPPA Dollhouse all-in-one pack or decorating packs containing carpets, wallpaper and furniture separately, the process allows kids to design their own dollhouse by hand, with no glue or paint required.

“It’s basically a blank canvas, so the child chooses the carpets, wallpaper and builds their own furniture out of 3D jigsaw puzzles,” Ms Smith said.

“The same house can be reinvented again, and again, and again, so they don’t lose interest.”

Carol Smith of Eppa House shows Allegra Sugden one of her doll houses. Eppa House will be represented at Hand Made Under the Stars twilight markets held by Cobb and Co Museum, Tuesday, November 30, 2021. Picture: Kevin Farmer

In fact, themed packs are even available to purchase, allowing the DIYer to transform their house into a police station, vet surgery, beach house or whatever their heart desires.

Ms Smith said it would make a suitable Christmas gift for both boys and girls aged three and up.

Prices vary. For more information or to make a purchase, visit eppahouse.com.