Making A Camper Mattress: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to make a camper mattress

Camper mattresses are often uncomfortable, and it can be tricky to find a good replacement. One option is to make your own mattress, which can be done by cutting and sewing fabric to fit memory foam. This can be done cheaply and quickly, and allows for customisation of the mattress's firmness and thickness.

Characteristics Values
Mattress type Memory foam, custom, mattress toppers
Mattress topper type Memory foam, gel memory foam, egg crate foam, Intelli-gel and soy foam, natural latex, etc.
Mattress thickness 5", 6", 8", 10"
Mattress shape Rectangular, non-rectangular/irregular
Sewing Required for custom mattresses
Tools/equipment Electric carving/bread knife, sewing machine, fabric, thread, zipper, wadding, etc.

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Cutting memory foam to size

When it comes to cutting memory foam to size, there are a few tools you can use. An electric turkey carver or carving knife is a popular choice, as it can be easily found in thrift stores or on Amazon. If you already have access to a band saw, this can also be used, although it is not recommended to buy one just for this purpose. A serrated bread knife is another option, although the cuts may not be as clean.

Before cutting, it is important to measure out the size of the cushions to fit your seating and sleeping area. Draw a guideline on both sides of the foam and cut along this line, ensuring that you follow it on both sides to maintain an even cut.

If you are creating a custom mattress with curved edges, an electric carving knife can be used to easily cut the foam to fit these curves.

For a camper van mattress, you will likely need a non-traditional mattress size due to the native curves of the van. A standard rectangle shape will not fit, and the height of a standard mattress is too high. Therefore, it is important to measure the space accurately and cut the foam to the required size.

In summary, cutting memory foam to size for a camper mattress can be done with a few different tools, but an electric carving knife is a popular choice due to its ease of use and ability to cut curved edges. It is important to measure and mark the foam before cutting to ensure an accurate and even cut.

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Using wadding to soften edges

Wadding, also known as padding or batting, is used to soften the 90-degree edges of the mattress blocks, making them more comfortable to lie on. It is a cheap and easy way to upgrade your mattress and contribute to its overall look, as it helps hide any rough edges created from cutting the mattress to size.

To use wadding to soften the edges of your camper mattress, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Wadding

Firstly, ensure you have enough wadding to wrap each block of your mattress completely. If you are making a mattress with four blocks like the one in this guide, you will need enough wadding to wrap all four blocks.

Step 2: Apply the Wadding

Next, wrap each block of your mattress with the wadding and secure it in place with spray adhesive. Make sure the block is completely covered, and the wadding is smooth and free of any lumps or bumps.

Step 3: Prepare the Fabric

While the adhesive is drying, you can prepare the fabric for your mattress cover. Cut the fabric to size, allowing for a 10mm tolerance on each side. For example, if your foam mattress block is 1900mm in length and 580mm in width, cut the fabric for that side to 1920mm x 600mm. This will give you enough fabric to easily sew the edges together and ensure a tight fit for your cover.

Step 4: Sew the Fabric

Pin and sew the fabric pieces together on the reverse side, using the sewing machine. Sew all the panels together except for the zip panels. Once you have finished sewing each seam, run an iron over it to keep the corners looking sharp and neat.

Step 5: Attach the Zips

Attaching the zips can be tricky. Cut the zip panel (section C) in half lengthwise, then attach the zip by sewing it between the two pieces. Once the zip is attached, sew the panel back together and turn the cover inside out. Ensure that the zips are not visible when the mattress is in 'seat' mode.

Step 6: Put on the Covers

Finally, cover each of your wadded memory foam blocks with the fabric covers. It should be a tight fit, so you may need to squeeze the blocks into the covers. Once they are all covered, zip them up, and your custom camper mattress is ready!

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Sewing the fabric sections together

Before you begin sewing, use sewing pins to hold each piece of fabric together. This will ensure that the fabric sections stay in place and make the sewing process easier. Start by sewing the panels together using a sewing machine. Sew all the panels, except for the 'C' zip panels, which will be attached separately. It is recommended to sew on the reverse side of the fabric for a neater finish.

Once you have sewn all the seams, use an iron to press each seam flat. This will give your mattress a sharper and more professional look. After ironing, you can proceed to attach the zips, which can be a bit tricky. Cut the 'C' section in half lengthwise, and then use the zipper foot of your sewing machine to attach the zip between the two pieces. Sew the zip panels together, and then attach the final panel to complete the cover. Ensure that the zips are positioned so that they face the walls of the camper van or sit on top of the other cushion when the mattress is in seating mode.

Now that you have sewn all the fabric sections together, it's time to put the covers on your cushions. This step will require some squeezing as you want the covers to fit tightly around the foam blocks. Once you've managed to get the covers on, zip them up, and your custom camper mattress is ready!

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Adding a mattress topper

Memory foam toppers can be a great choice if you're looking for something thicker and more form-fitting. However, some people find that memory foam makes them sweaty and restricts movement. If you prefer a cooler sleeping experience, a gel memory foam topper might be a better option.

If you're on a tight budget, a basic "egg crate" foam topper can provide a decent level of comfort without breaking the bank. These toppers are usually open-cell foam designed to improve airflow and breathability. They are also easy to cut to size, making them a good choice for camper beds with unique shapes or dimensions.

When choosing a mattress topper, it's important to consider the firmness level you prefer. Some toppers offer customisable firmness, allowing you to adjust the layers to find the perfect balance for your comfort. Additionally, look for toppers with removable, washable covers to make cleaning and maintenance easier.

Mattress toppers are a cost-effective way to enhance your sleeping experience in a camper without having to invest in a new mattress. They are also lightweight and easy to store, making them a convenient choice for campers.

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Replacing the mattress

If you've tried mattress toppers and other options to improve the comfort of your camper mattress, but nothing has worked, it may be time to replace the mattress entirely. Here are some tips to help you choose and install a new one:

  • Measurements: Before purchasing a new mattress, be sure to measure the space you have available in your camper. Camper beds often have odd shapes and sizes, so a standard rectangular mattress may not fit. Measure the length, width, and height of the space, and look for a mattress that will fit those dimensions.
  • Thickness: Camper van mattresses typically need to be thinner than standard mattresses. A standard mattress is usually around 10 inches thick, which is too high for most camper vans. Look for a mattress that is 5-6 inches thick, which will provide a comfortable sleeping surface without taking up too much space.
  • Customisation: If you can't find a mattress that fits your specific measurements, consider customising a mattress to fit your space. You can do this by cutting a larger mattress down to size or by using multiple mattress toppers of different firmnesses and thicknesses to create a custom bed.
  • Materials: When choosing a new mattress, consider the materials it is made of. Memory foam and latex are popular choices for camper mattresses because they can be cut to fit odd shapes and sizes. They are also comfortable and supportive, providing a good night's sleep.
  • Installation: Installing a new mattress in your camper may require some creativity, especially if your camper has curved walls or other unique features. You may need to cut the mattress to fit around these features or use multiple smaller mattresses that can be rearranged to form a bed.
  • Cost: Custom-made camper mattresses can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Consider buying a standard mattress and cutting it down to size yourself, or look for inexpensive mattress toppers that you can layer to create a custom bed.

Frequently asked questions

The best way to make a camper mattress is to cut and sew a memory foam mattress to size, and cover it with a fabric of your choice.

It is recommended to use memory foam for a camper mattress, with a thickness of around 4-6 inches.

It is recommended to use a fabric that is hard-wearing, easy to clean, and soft. Dark colours are a good choice as they are less likely to show dirt.

You will need a sewing machine, sharp fabric scissors, zips, wadding, fabric measuring tape, a serrated bread knife or electric bread knife, and thread.

To make a camper mattress more comfortable, you can place foam padding between the mattress and the base, use a mattress topper, add an extra mattress on top, or bring your own pillows and blankets from home.

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