Building a car out of wood may sound like a wild idea, but with the right tools and some woodworking know-how, it’s a surprisingly achievable project. This guide outlines the process of transforming a 2008 Subaru Forester into a functional camper, using readily available wood and tools for under $350. This project focuses on building a sleeping platform and optional storage solutions, demonstrating that you don’t need expensive materials or professional skills to create a custom car interior.
Planning and Preparation: Essential First Steps
Before diving into sawing and hammering, careful planning is crucial. This build requires accurate measurements of the car’s interior to ensure a snug fit for all components. Start by emptying the car and removing unnecessary items, including the spare tire. Tracing a mud mat or using cardboard templates can help achieve precise cuts for the platform base. Having a detailed plan, including specific hardware and dimensions, will streamline the entire process.
Tracing the outline of the mud mat onto the plywood ensures a tight fit.
Building the Base: Foundation for the Platform
The foundation of the sleeping platform consists of a half-inch plywood base, cut to fit the contours of the car’s floor. This base provides a stable surface for the rest of the structure. Remember to cut an access hole for the spare tire compartment if you plan to use it for storage. While this design doesn’t require screwing the platform into the car frame, it’s a consideration for added stability.
The final base provides a level surface for the sleeping platform.
Constructing the Sleeping Platform: A Raised and Level Surface
Using three-quarter-inch plywood, create the top of the platform, again tracing the mud mat for accuracy. Support the platform with strategically placed 2×6 and 2×4 lumber, ensuring a level sleeping surface. A removable panel over the folded back seats, constructed with piano hinges for easy storage, completes the sleeping area.
Testing the braces for the elevated platform ensures stability.
Optional: Adding Cabinets and Drawers for Storage
For those seeking additional storage, incorporating cabinets and drawers is a viable option. This more advanced step involves building a cabinet unit outside the car and securing it to the platform with L brackets. This unit can include drawers and hinged cabinets, maximizing space utilization. Building drawers can be challenging for beginners, requiring precise measurements and careful construction.
The completed cabinet provides ample storage space.
Final Touches and Considerations
After completing the build, consider applying a protective coating of polyurethane to the wood to prevent staining and water damage. Reflecting on the design, repositioning the cabinet to the driver’s side for better visibility is recommended. This DIY project demonstrates that building a car out of wood, specifically a functional camper interior, is achievable with basic woodworking tools and careful planning.
Detail of the cabinet’s swivel mechanism, allowing it to fold away.
