How to build a camper table bed?
By
Elaine Knight
In this blog post, we will answer the question: “How to build a camper table bed?” We will discuss the steps to build a camper table bed. Additionally, we will talk about the required tools and accessories to build a camper table bed. At the end of this post, you will get to know how to build a camper table bed in less than a day.
How to build a camper table bed?
To build a camper table bed, you will need to follow the steps described below.
- Measure the gap between the seats in the camper
- Fix an adjustable pedestal stand
- Cut the plywood to the right size
- Round off the edges
- Screw the plywood on the pedestal stand
- Use a mattress of foam on top of the table bed.
Measure the gap between the seats in the camper
- The measurements are the most crucial steps when it comes to converting a camper table into a bed. You will need to measure the gap between the seating area of the camper.
- You will require a tape to get this task complete. Be sure to get help for another person while measuring. A camper table can be converted into a bed by using the seats or the couch in the living area.
- Depending on the number of seats, you will need to get the measurements done. Some campers have double seats across each other, while some have just one couch.
- In the case of a single couch, you will need to take measurements from the end of the couch to where you want to table to end.
- If your camper seating area has two seats opposite each other, be sure to measure between both seats. The idea is for your table to be set correctly in the gap between the seats.
Cut the plywood to the right size
- Based on the measurements taken, you will need to cut the plywood to the right size. The plywood is going to be the table and it should be cut to the right proportion.
- Be sure to cut the plywood according to the seating area of the camper. The seat and the plywood together act as the base for the bed. Hence, it is important to cut the plywood to the right side.
Fix an adjustable pedestal stand
- The next step is to fix an adjustable pedestal stand. You can purchase an adjustable pedestal stand that can lower the table to the height of the seat.
- There are plenty of adjustable stands available online. In the next step, you must drill the pedestal stand to the base of the camper.
- You might require some help when it comes to drilling and fixing the plywood to the bottom of the camper. Be sure to use safety equipment while going about this process.
- Note that if the length is too long, you will be required to use two adjustable pedestal stands. Each pedestal should be fixed at each end of the plywood.
Round off the edges
- Once you have the plywood cut to the right size, you might be required to round off the edges or smoothen out the edges. You can use assorted grit sandpaper to get a smooth and round surface.
Screw the plywood on the pedestal stand
- Next, you will need to screw the plywood on the pedestal stand. You might require a drill to do this step. It is important to get long screws to hold the plywood down to the pedestal stand.
- Make sure that the plywood is fixed correctly to the pedestal and ensure that it is stable. Once the plywood is fixed, it becomes a proper table. This table can be used to eat, store things, and also be converted into a bed at night.
- The adjustable pedestal and the plywood can be lowered to the level of the seat. Thus, the seat and the table can be used as platforms to set up a bed.
Use a mattress of foam on top of the table bed
- The plywood is naturally hard and you will be required to get a mattress or a foam bed that can be placed on top. It is always good to get a mattress that covers the plywood and the seat as well. In some cases, you might be required to get a customized mattress.
- Another option is to get a good foam bed. The bed can be removed and stored during the day and used at night to sleep. The most important part is the have a good adjustable pedestal stand to lower and higher the table.
- Once you have the bed set on top, you can put on a neat bedspread and use a couple of pillows to sleep as well. That said, your camper table bed is now ready.
Required tools and accessories to build a camper table bed
There are only a few required tools to build a camper table bed. These tools can be purchased with ease since they are easily available. Here are the required tools and accessories to build a table bed.
Adjustable table pedestal stand
- This is the most important part that is required when it comes to building a camper table bed. There are multiple options when it comes to purchasing an adjustable table pedestal stand.
- Be sure to get a strong table pedestal stand that can hold enough weight. You can check the weight capacity of the stand before making a purchase.
Thick plywood
- The plywood that you purchase must be thick enough to last longer. At the same time, thick plywood is more durable and can hold heavy weight. Avoid using two sheets of thin plywood.
- Some of the best options are to go in for tuckernut plywood since it resembles Nordic birch plywood. Baltic birch plywood sheets are also strong enough to be used as a table.
- Cedar plywood is another great option to consider. Make sure that the plywood is strong enough and be sure to give it a coat of paint or varnish it.
Long screws
- It is important to have long screws to go through the plywood and the adjustable table stand. Some table stands might not require screws, but if they do, be sure to get ones that are at least two to four inches long.
Wood glue
- If the adjustable pedestal table stand does not require screws, you will need to have some wood glue to stick the plywood onto the stand.
Bolts, nuts, and washers
Some pedestal table stands work differently and you might need to use bolts, nuts, and washers. You can also opt to use these, but it entirely depends on the type of pedestal that you purchase.
Those are the few simple steps to build a camper table bed. With these steps, you should be able to build a camper table bed in less than a day. Be sure to wear safety gear like gloves, and glasses while working and it is also good to have someone help you. If you are not sure of the job you are doing, you can always seek help from an expert.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have answered the question: “How to build a camper table bed?” We have discussed the steps to build a camper table bed. Additionally, we have talked about the required tools and accessories to build a camper table bed. Have you built a camper bed before? Leave us a comment below with your ideas.
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