Free printable reference
The Scale Cheat Sheet
Real-world measurements, shrunk to miniature size. A one-page guide for dollhouse builders, kit makers, and anyone who plays in scale.
US / North America imperial-first reference: miniature conventions often use inches-per-foot names — 1:12 is one-inch scale, 1:24 is half-inch scale, and 1:48 is quarter scale. Metric users can use the same ratios.
A peek inside the cheat sheet
Miniature Scale Reference
| Scale | Common name | Rule of thumb |
|---|---|---|
| 1:3 | Large Doll Scale | 4 in = 1 ft |
| 1:6 | Fashion Doll Scale / Playscale | 2 in = 1 ft |
| 1:8 | Small Doll Scale | 1½ in = 1 ft |
| 1:12 | Dollhouse Scale / One Inch Scale | 1 in = 1 ft |
| 1:16–1:20 | Critter Figure Range | 0.6–0.75 in = 1 ft |
| 1:24 | Half Scale / Garden Railway Scale | ½ in = 1 ft |
| 1:48 | Quarter Scale | ¼ in = 1 ft |
| 1:144 | Micro / Dollhouse-for-dollhouse | 1/12 in = 1 ft |
Quick Rules
An average adult is roughly 6 ft tall. In 1:6 that's 12 inches; in 1:12 it's 6 inches; in 1:24 it's 3 inches; in 1:48 it's 1.5 inches; in 1:144 it's ½ inch.
A real interior door is about 80 inches high. In 1:12 scale it should be 6⅔ inches; in 1:24, 3⅓ inches; in 1:48, 1⅔ inches.
What it helps you do
Convert on the fly
Turn real measurements into miniature equivalents without hunting for a calculator.
Check kit accuracy
Spot when a door, window, or piece of furniture is off-scale before you commit.
Plan scratch-builds
Size lumber, trim, and fabric using the same ratios professional miniaturists use.
Mix scales safely
Know which accessories can live together in one scene without breaking the illusion.
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