Building A Camper Table: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to make a camper table

There are many ways to build a table for your campervan, and it's one of the most important pieces of furniture you will need. You can either build your own or buy a pre-built one. Building your own table means you can customise the design, but it can be time-consuming and challenging. Pre-built tables are quicker and easier, but may not fit your space perfectly.

If you're building your own, you'll need to decide on the type of table you want—a folding table, a rail table, a swivel table, or a portable table are all popular options. Then, you'll need to choose the right type of wood, considering factors such as durability, weight, aesthetics, and cost. Oak, pine, birch plywood, maple, beech, walnut, and bamboo are all popular choices, each with its own unique characteristics.

Once you've selected your wood, you'll need to design the table, taking into account the space available in your van and the desired functionality. You'll also need to gather the necessary tools and materials, such as screws, hinges, varnish, and a drill.

Building a camper table can be a rewarding project, allowing you to customise your van to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're an experienced DIY-er or a novice, with careful planning and the right tools, you can create a functional and stylish table for your camper.

Characteristics Values
Purpose Eating, drinking, working, playing games, puzzles, decorating biscuits, extension to kitchen, desk
Design Fixed, foldable, portable, hanging, permanent, rail, swivel, island, convertible, small, large, custom-built, pre-built, DIY
Materials Wood, metal, rope, plastic, bamboo, oak, pine, plywood, birch, maple, beech, walnut, lacquer, varnish, hinges, screws, bolts, nails, chains, latches, cushions
Tools Jigsaw, table saw, circular saw, sandpaper, electric sander, clamps, screwdriver, drill, hammer
Cost Inexpensive, widely available at a low cost, can be made cheaply, pre-built options can be more expensive
Benefits Space-saving, versatile, easy to set up and store, sturdy, durable, lightweight, easy to transport, customisable
Challenges Time-consuming to design and build, may require specific tools and DIY skills, may restrict use due to rope/chain placement, may require additional support, may block storage space

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Choosing the right wood

When choosing the right wood for your camper table, it's important to consider factors such as durability, weight, aesthetics, and cost. Here are some popular types of wood used for camper tables and their pros and cons:

Oak: Oak is a strong and durable option that gives a classic rustic look. However, it is on the heavier and more expensive side.

Pine: Pine is a cost-effective and lightweight choice. However, as a softwood, it is prone to dents and scratches.

Birch Plywood: Birch plywood offers a good balance of strength and weight, making it easy to work with for DIY projects. It is resistant to screwing and accepts dyes well.

Maple and Beech: Maple and beech are dense and durable options with smooth grains, making them excellent choices for durability. However, they can be heavier and more expensive.

Walnut: Walnut is a premium choice, offering high durability and a luxurious aesthetic. However, it comes with a higher price tag.

Bamboo: Bamboo is an eco-friendly, sustainable, lightweight, and durable option. However, it requires proper care and sealing.

Paulownia: Paulownia is a lightweight, resistant, and affordable option for plywood. It is easy to work with, accepts dyes well, and is a good acoustic and thermal insulator. It is also a natural material that is more ecological than plastic.

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Designing the table

When designing a camper table, it's important to consider the type of table you want, the materials you will use, and the dimensions that will ensure comfort and functionality.

Type of Table

There are several types of camper tables to choose from, each with its own advantages and considerations:

  • Folding Table: This type of table is compact and can be folded away when not in use, making it a good option for small spaces. You can either buy a foldable table or create your own by attaching hinges to a tabletop.
  • Swivel Table: A swivel table is simple to build and consists of a rotatable pedestal and a tabletop. It occupies a small space and can fit two people for dining or remote working.
  • Rail Table: A rail table is a popular choice for vans with fixed beds. The tabletop is installed on heavy-duty drawer runners and can be pulled out from the bed when needed.
  • Portable Table: If you only use your camper occasionally, a portable table may be a good option. It provides flexibility, allowing you to eat and work both inside and outside the van.

Materials

When selecting materials for your camper table, consider factors such as durability, weight, aesthetics, and cost. Here are some common types of wood used for camper tables, along with their pros and cons:

  • Oak: Oak offers strength and a rustic look, but it is heavier and more expensive.
  • Pine: Pine is lightweight and cost-effective, but it is a softwood that is prone to dents and scratches.
  • Birch Plywood: Birch plywood strikes a good balance between strength and weight, making it a popular choice for DIY projects.
  • Maple and Beech: These woods provide excellent durability and have smooth grains, but they can be heavier and pricier.
  • Walnut: Walnut is a premium choice, offering high durability and a luxurious aesthetic, but it comes with a higher price tag.
  • Bamboo: Bamboo is an eco-friendly, lightweight, and durable option, but it requires proper care and sealing.

Dimensions and Ergonomics

When designing your camper table, it's crucial to consider the right dimensions and ergonomics to ensure comfort and ease of use. The table should fit the available space in your van while allowing for seating, movement, and various activities like dining or working.

Additional Considerations

  • Consider the height of the table to ensure it matches the height of any couches or beds it may need to convert to.
  • If you plan to use your table for activities like dining or working, ensure it has enough surface area to accommodate those activities comfortably.
  • Think about the weight of the table, especially if you intend to move it in and out of the van frequently.
  • If you're crafting your own table, take the time to design it on paper or using CAD software before beginning construction.
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Cutting the table to shape

Now that you've designed your campervan table, it's time to start building. Here is a step-by-step guide to cutting the table to shape:

Step 1: Mark the Table Top

Use a tape measure and pencil to mark your measurements on the wood, ensuring the lines are perfectly straight. You can use a carpenter's square to help with this. If you're creating curved edges or custom designs, use a template or compass to trace the shape. For rounded corners, use a circular object (like a paint can) as a guide.

Step 2: Clamp the Wood Securely

Place the wood on a stable surface, such as sawhorses or a workbench. Secure it with clamps to prevent movement during cutting, ensuring both precision and safety.

Step 3: Cut the Table Top

For straight cuts, use a circular saw or table saw. A track guide can help ensure straight lines, especially for larger tables. If you're using kitchen top wood, make sure your circular saw is new and very sharp, and use some tapping and cutting fluid to reduce heat and increase lubrication. Install a fence on your circular saw for a clean, straight cut.

For curved or irregular shapes, use a jigsaw with a blade appropriate for the material you're cutting. Use a fine-tooth blade for smooth edges. Cut slowly and steadily, letting the saw do the work, and avoid forcing the tool to prevent uneven cuts.

Step 4: Smooth the Edges

After cutting the table, use sandpaper or an electric sander to smooth out any rough spots or splinters. Start with medium-grit sandpaper and finish with fine-grit for a smooth finish. For rounded edges, be careful to maintain the curve's integrity while sanding.

Step 5: Finish the Edges

If you're using plywood or composite material, apply edge banding to give your table a clean, finished look and protect the edges from chipping. For solid wood, consider rounding or beveling the edges for a more polished finish. You can do this with a router or by hand with a sanding block.

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Varnishing the table

Preparation:

Before you begin varnishing, it is essential to prepare the wood properly. Use sandpaper, starting with a medium grit and progressing to a fine grit, to smooth out the table's surface and remove any imperfections. Pay close attention to the wood's grain, sanding in the direction of the grain to achieve the smoothest finish. Once you're satisfied with the smoothness, remove any dust or debris with a vacuum and a damp cloth.

Choosing the Right Varnish:

Select a varnish that is suitable for the type of wood you are using. In this case, a varnish that works well with plywood and cedar plywood is recommended. Opt for a varnish with a matte or glossy finish, depending on your preference. You can also choose between water-based and oil-based varnishes. Water-based varnishes are known for their ease of use and low odour, while oil-based varnishes provide a more durable finish but have a stronger smell during application.

Applying the Varnish:

Using a soft brush, apply a thin, even layer of varnish to all surfaces of the table, including the edges and legs. Be careful to avoid drips and runs, and use a small brush to catch any varnish that may run onto the opposite surfaces. Allow the varnish to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once dry, lightly sand the surface again with fine-grit sandpaper. This step helps to create a smooth finish and remove any raised wood fibres caused by the first coat of varnish.

Second Coat of Varnish:

Apply the second and final coat of varnish, following the same technique as the first coat. Ensure that you are working in a well-ventilated area and allow the varnish to dry thoroughly. If needed, you can lightly sand the surface again after the final coat for an even smoother finish.

Tips:

  • Always work in a well-ventilated area when applying varnish.
  • Avoid applying varnish in direct sunlight or extremely humid conditions.
  • If you are using an oil-based varnish, you may need to thin it with a suitable solvent before use.
  • Always follow the safety instructions on the varnish container.

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Attaching the table to the camper

Attaching the table to your camper van is a crucial step in the building process. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Planning and Preparation:

Before you begin the installation, it is essential to plan and gather the necessary materials. Measure the space where you intend to place the table to ensure it fits comfortably and allows for easy movement. Consider the table's purpose and the number of people it should accommodate. Additionally, select the type of wood you will use, taking into account factors such as durability, weight, aesthetics, and cost. Common choices include oak, pine, birch plywood, maple, beech, walnut, and bamboo.

Attaching the Table:

  • Drill Holes and Attach Hinges: Depending on your table design, you may need to drill holes for screws or bolts. For a folding table, attach hinges to one edge of the table. Ensure the hinges are aligned and secure.
  • Mounting the Table: Identify a sturdy area on the wall of your camper van to mount the table. This could be along the walls, where there are often screw threads, or another solid part of the van. Use bolts or screws to attach a strip of wood to the wall, creating a sturdy mounting point. Then, attach the hinges on the table to this mounting point.
  • Supporting the Table: To support the table and keep it level, you can use ropes or chains. Tie one end of the rope securely to the table and find a solid part of the van to tie the other end. Ensure the ropes are tight and do not obstruct any doors or other functions.
  • Latching Mechanism: To secure the table when not in use, consider installing a latch. You can attach this to the wall or a nearby shelf. Ensure the latch is easily accessible and can hold the table firmly in place.
  • Final Checks: Once the table is attached, test its stability and ensure it can bear weight without wobbling. Check that the ropes or chains are tight and that the hinges and latch are functioning correctly.

Tips and Recommendations:

When attaching the table, consider the following:

  • The weight of the table—heavier tables may require additional support.
  • The ease of use—ensure the table can be easily folded and unfolded, and there is sufficient space to do so.
  • The stability of the mounting point—ensure the screws or bolts are firmly attached to the wall or chosen surface.
  • The clearance—check that the table does not obstruct doors, windows, or other functions when folded or in use.
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Frequently asked questions

Building your own camper table gives you the freedom to design a table that fits your camper van perfectly and is usually cheaper than buying a pre-built one. However, building your own table can be time-consuming and may require some DIY skills and tools. Pre-built tables are widely available in different shapes, sizes, and colours, and they can save you a lot of time and effort.

When selecting wood for a camper table, it's important to consider factors such as durability, weight, aesthetics, and cost. Some common options include oak, pine, birch plywood, maple, beech, walnut, and bamboo. Oak is strong and durable but can be heavy and expensive. Pine is lightweight and cost-effective but prone to dents and scratches. Birch plywood offers a balance of strength and weight. Maple and beech provide excellent durability but can be heavy and pricey. Walnut and bamboo are premium and eco-friendly choices but come with a higher price tag.

It's essential to mock up your camper table design on paper or using CAD software before building it. Consider the available space in your van and the intended use of the table to determine the appropriate size and shape. Think about the number of people who will use the table and ensure there is enough room for seating and movement. You can use specialised software or tools like Vanspace3D to design your camper's interior layout.

There are several popular types of camper tables, including the table bed or island table, the campervan rail table, the swivel table, the folding campervan table, and the portable campervan table. The table bed/island table provides a dining and workspace that can be lowered to create a large sleeping area. The rail table is installed on heavy-duty drawer runners, allowing it to pull out from a fixed bed. The swivel table is compact and simple to build, usually attached to a seating bench. The folding table folds away when not in use and is perfect for remote workers. The portable table is ideal for sporadic use or eating and working outdoors.

To cut the table top, mark your measurements and use a circular saw or table saw for straight cuts, and a jigsaw for curved or irregular shapes. Smooth the edges with sandpaper or an electric sander, and finish them by applying edge banding or rounding/beveling the corners. If using plywood or composite material, edge banding will give a clean, finished look. For solid wood, consider rounding or beveling the edges for a polished appearance.

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