Building Benches For Your Camper: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to make benches for a camper

Building benches for a campervan can be a rewarding DIY activity. It's a great way to create a customised solution that meets your specific needs and preferences. In this guide, we will cover the steps to make benches for a camper, including planning, measuring, choosing materials, building the frame, adding padding and upholstery, and putting on the finishing touches. By following these steps, you will be able to create a comfortable and functional seating area for your campervan.

Characteristics Values
Materials Plywood, MDF board, cushion foam, memory foam, recycled carpet, fabric remnants, glue, clamps, varnish, sandpaper, paint, high-density foam, vinyl, cloth upholstery
Functions Sofa, bed, storage compartments
Tools Tape measure, jigsaw or circular saw, clamps, drill, wrench or socket attachment, safety glasses, wire detector, staple gun, utility knife, sandpaper, dust mask
Steps Plan and measure, choose materials, build the frame, add padding and upholstery, add finishing touches

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Measure and plan

Before you start building your camper benches, it's important to plan out what type of materials you'll need and take thorough measurements to ensure that everything will fit snugly in your vehicle. Measure the designated seating area meticulously, remembering that precision is key – a wonky frame translates to wonky storage. Write down your measurements for both length and width. This will be your blueprint for frame construction.

Consider the length and width of the seat surface as well as the height of the backrest. Think about what kind of storage solutions, if any, you’d like to integrate into your design. Pay attention to potential air conditioner or heater vents located under or near where the bench seat will be installed.

If you have a side-facing bench seat, this can save space by allowing it to double up as both seating and a bed. Alternatively, if you have a rear-facing bench seat, this can provide more storage space underneath. If you plan to use the bench as a bed, you will need to ensure that it is large enough to accommodate a person's full body.

If you want to add a table, you will need to ensure that there is enough space between the benches to fit it. You will also need to consider the height of the benches to ensure that people can sit comfortably.

The number of people you want to seat will also influence the length of the benches. If you want to seat four to five people, you will need a larger bench than if you are only seating two people.

You should also consider the placement of the bench. For example, if you place the bench in front of a sliding door, you can keep the door open while still using the space. This can create a more open feeling in the van.

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Choose materials

The materials you choose for your camper benches will depend on your budget, the level of comfort you want, and the style you're aiming for. Here are some considerations for each aspect of your benches:

Frame: The frame of your benches will provide the necessary support and structure, so it's important to choose sturdy materials. Plywood is a popular choice due to its strength and ease of use. You can also use MDF board, which is a cost-effective option that can be easily cut and shaped. If you want to add a unique touch, consider using recycled materials such as old wood scraps or thrifted fabric remnants for upholstery.

Padding: For the padding, high-density foam is an excellent option as it provides comfort and can be cut to fit your frame precisely. Memory foam is another choice that contours to the body and offers a luxurious feel. If you're looking for an eco-friendly alternative, natural latex foam is a sustainable and breathable option.

Upholstery: When it comes to upholstery, vinyl fabric, leatherette, or PVC materials are durable and easy to clean. If you want a more natural look and feel, consider using cotton or canvas fabric. These materials are breathable and can add a cosy touch to your benches. You can also opt for removable or folding cushions for easy access to storage compartments.

Finishing: To protect your benches and add a stylish touch, consider applying a coat of varnish or paint. Varnish will give your benches a natural finish and bring out the beauty of the wood. Paint allows you to add a pop of colour or match the benches to your camper's aesthetic. When choosing paint, opt for light colours to create a sense of spaciousness and use primer for better adhesion and an even finish.

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Build the frame

Building the frame for your camper bench seat is a fun yet challenging task. Here are the steps you can follow to build a sturdy frame:

Step 1: Measurements

Before you start building the frame, it is important to plan out the type of materials you will need based on the length, width, and height of the bench seat. Measure the designated seating area meticulously, as a wonky frame will result in wonky storage. Write down your measurements and use them as a blueprint for frame construction.

Step 2: Choose Your Lumber

For the muscle of your bench, you will need a combination of wooden studs. It is recommended to use 2x2s for the top horizontal frame, which will provide a solid base for your seat. For the legs, you can use 2x3s or 2x4s for additional sturdiness to support your weight and any cargo you may have.

Step 3: Cut the Lumber

Using your measurements, cut the 2x2s to the desired length for the top frame. You will need two pieces for the length and two for the width to create a rectangular frame. Next, cut your chosen leg size to the desired height of your bench seat, adding an inch or two for the seat cushion and any storage compartments you plan to build underneath.

Step 4: Assemble the Frame

Now it's time to assemble the frame. Use bolts to secure the legs to the top frame for maximum stability. You will need drill bits that match the diameter of your chosen bolts, as well as wrenches or a drill with a socket attachment to tighten them. Don't forget to wear eye protection when drilling!

Step 5: Reinforcing Supports

When building the frame, be mindful of reinforcing supports for added stability, especially if you plan to use hydraulic shocks for lifting storage compartments. Incorporate vertical cross braces between the horizontal parts of the frame to enhance stability.

Step 6: Stabilize and Secure

When stabilizing and assembling the frame, use clamps to hold the boards together. You can also use wood glue to secure the joints, and clamps to hold them in place while the glue dries. Ensure that your frame is sturdy and all corners are at 90-degree angles.

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Add padding and upholstery

Adding padding and upholstery is an important step in ensuring your camper bench is comfortable. Using high-density foam that fits your bench dimensions will create an ultra-comfortable seating cushion. You can cut the foam to size with a utility knife and attach it to the seat base using spray adhesive.

When it comes to upholstery fabric, choose a material that fits the aesthetic and lifestyle conditions of your camper van. Be sure to allow for a few extra inches of fabric when cutting, so you can achieve a professional finish when applying the fabric over the foam cushion. Spread the fabric out flat and use a staple gun to tuck it in tightly.

If you're looking to add a custom touch to your camper van, consider utilising recycled carpet or fabric remnants from local thrift shops. Not only is this eco-friendly, but it can also add a unique and characterful twist to your design.

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Finishing touches

Now that the bench is built, it's time to add some final touches to make it comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. Here are the steps to follow:

Sanding and Painting

Before applying any paint or varnish, it's important to sand the wood to create a smooth surface. Use sandpaper with varying grits, starting with a coarser grit (around 80-grit) and progressing to a finer grit (around 120-grit) for a polished look. Remember to wear a dust mask to protect yourself from the dust. Once the surface is smooth, remove any dust or residue with a vacuum cleaner and a damp cloth. You can then apply a coat of primer to ensure better paint adhesion and an even finish. Opt for light-coloured paints to create a sense of spaciousness in your camper van. Use painter's tape to mask off any areas you don't want to be painted. Apply thin coats of paint and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Adding Cushions

Now, it's time to add the comfy seat! You can either make your own cushions or purchase custom-made ones. Consider removable cushions with zippers or velcro closures for easy cleaning and access to hidden storage. Alternatively, go for a split-cushion design that folds up to reveal the storage compartments. Ensure the cushions fit snugly and securely on the bench.

Installing Hydraulic Shocks (Optional)

If you want to add a lift support system to your bench seat, consider installing hydraulic shocks. These will make it easier to access your storage compartments and keep the seats securely in place while driving or when parked on uneven terrain.

Final Touches

With your bench seat complete, it's time to admire your handiwork! You can now relax and enjoy your new seating area, knowing that you've created a comfortable and functional space in your camper van. Don't forget to test out the bench seat and make sure it suits your needs. You can always make adjustments or add personal touches to make it even more comfortable and stylish.

Frequently asked questions

You will need plywood or MDF board for the frame, and cushion foam or memory foam for padding on top. You may also want to use recycled carpet or fabric remnants for upholstery.

Using your measurements, cut your chosen material with a circular saw or jigsaw. You can use clamps to stabilize boards together during assembly. Reinforce the frame with vertical cross braces for added stability if you plan to use hydraulic shocks for lifting storage compartments underneath the seats.

Using high-density foam that fits your measurements, cut the foam with a utility knife and attach it to the seat base with spray adhesive. Then, choose an upholstery fabric that fits your aesthetic and lifestyle conditions. Give yourself some extra inches when cutting the fabric, so you can achieve a signature professional finish when applying it over the foam cushion with a staple gun.

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