1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, molasses, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and baking soda together until the mixture is smooth. Blend in the flour and water to make a stiff dough. Chill at least 30 minutes or until firm.

2. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

3. Roll dough into a rectangle on parchment paper and cut out the following paper pattern for the gingerbread house template or cut your own custom house.
   

4. Place parchment paper on a cookie sheet and bake at 375 degrees F for about 15 minutes until dough feels firm.

5. Place patterns on top of the gingerbread again and trim shapes, cutting edges with a straight-edged sharp knife. Leave to cool on baking sheet.

Caramel Syrup

1. Bring sugar and the water to a boil in a medium saucepan; reduce heat, and simmer until thickened and light brown, about 10 minutes. Use immediately.

2. Using the caramel syrup, glue the glass windows to the inside of the house.
   

Royal Icing

1. Mix all of the ingredients together using an electric hand mixer, until the icing is smooth and thin enough to be pressed through a pastry bag with a writing tip. Add more lemon juice, if necessary.

2. Glue sides, front and back of house together at corners using royal icing or caramel syrup. Place an object against the pieces to prop up until icing is dry (it only takes a few minutes).

3. Using a piping bag, pipe on details around windows, doors and roof. **Note - I find it easier to pipe on window and door details before assembling the house. This is just personal preference.**