How to Build a Miniature Faux Log Cabin

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Gather materials for your project.

   There are some unique methods involved in the project, so be prepared to do a little hunting for them.
   
   Here is a short list of special materials you will need:
   Limbs to split to create the faux logs.
   
   Lumber for building the frame and other components.
2. 2

   Step 2: Make a sketch of your project to determine the size and shape of your own model.

   The one in the illustrations is 10 inches (25cm) wide, 12 inches (30cm) long, and 12 inches (30cm) high to its peak., Cedar or white pine are good materials for this step since they are easy to work with and will make fastening the veneer logs easier. , Cut off the bark and a thin slab off the side of each limb.
   
   A table saw makes this easier, but if you clamp the limb or fasten it so it won't move, this step can be done with a circular saw as well., For the project in the photos, about 30 feet (9.1 meters) of bark slabs roughly 1/4 inch (6.35mm) thick were used. , This is to ensure that the short length of the 45 degree angles are flush with the ends of the frame (box). , You can use staples, screws, or brads to fasten the slabs.
   
   Ensure that the fasteners don't penetrate though the inside of the box or they will need to be trimmed flush or sanded off for safety. , Match the mitered ends of the logs so they fit together closely.
   
   You will need to choose slabs that are about the same width to make them fit well., Then continue around the box until it the whole thing is wrapped with the "logs"., Cut the angles so they fit together properly.
   
   You can calculate your roof pitch and use a rafter square to make accurate cuts if you like, or just fit them by trial and error until you have a pattern rafter, then use it to mark the number you need for your project.,, Fasten them, starting from the eave and allowing the upper to overlap the lower, working up the roofline.
   
   Marking the roof strips to trim off straight. ,, Alternatively, sand these details smooth. , It's now ready to use as a pet home, mailbox or a decorative item for your home or garden.
3. 3

   Step 3: Build a box from 1x6 foot (30cm x 180cm) softwood lumber to form the walls of your cabin.

4. 4

   Step 4: Saw the limbs along their length.

5. 5

   Step 5: Cut enough strips to provide enough veneer to cover the whole cabin

6. 6

   Step 6: excluding waste (which will be considerable).

7. 7

   Step 7: Start at the bottom on either side

8. 8

   Step 8: and miter the ends of one of the bark slabs.

9. 9

   Step 9: Work up the first side until the whole side is covered with the slabs.

10. 10

    Step 10: Start the adjoining side of the box with the slabs.

11. 11

    Step 11: Continue running slabs up the side you are currently working on until it is completely covered.

12. 12

    Step 12: Build "rafters" with thin strips of the softwood lumber.

13. 13

    Step 13: Erect a "ridge beam" between the "gable ends" for the rafters to fasten to

14. 14

    Step 14: then fasten each rafter in place

15. 15

    Step 15: measuring the distances so they are equally spaced.

16. 16

    Step 16: Saw thin strips of the softwood lumber to make "shingles".

17. 17

    Step 17: Cut the doors and windows you want in the walls

18. 18

    Step 18: at locations you choose.

19. 19

    Step 19: Trim any rough cuts or misfit joints with a sharp knife.

20. 20

    Step 20: Seal the logs and shingles with a polyurethane sealer or varnish so the bark doesn't peel when the wood dries.

Detailed Guide

About the Author