Adding a recliner to the bed

It is nice to sit comfortably on the bed and we come with a simple solution to do it.

 

Playing with colors

If it is one thing that we dislike about the Toyota Hiace Commuter is the grey colors on it so we start playing with colors on it.

The curtains are in

Not the job that I have enjoyed but has to be done.

We bought total block material of reasonable quality and after learning few techniques from Youtube we give it a go.

 

More work have been done

And not much left to do apart of the DC wiring system.

Today we have the AC done and ready for certification, we have done the front bench back wall and we have the cushions.

We will have the van inspected for changing from commuter bus to a campervan next Tuesday and if all well it will be ready for registration and road ready.

Here are few photos of the progress.

Making and fitting the cabinet doors

Today we made and fitted the cabinet doors in a couple of cabinets. We are happy with the result making a nice contrast with the rest of the interior.

The outside kitchen

We never liked cooking inside and will do it only if the weather does not cooperate. Having that in mind we fitted at the back a large 45 kg capacity drawer which holds a single burner induction plate plus a two burner lpg stove.

Having the cooking facilities at the back allowing us to use the large back gate for protection of the weather. We are planning to have the option to put a canvas all around to have privacy when we using that part to have a shower. we

Both are portable so they can be moved to the camping table or inside where there is plenty room.

For washing the dishes we will use a portable collapsible sink with the faucet that will have a long hose for multipurpose use including outside shower.

 

Cabinet and bench tops finished and in position

The tops were treated with 2 coats of grapeseed oil on both sides and are now in position.

We are happy with the result, the timber color tones and details are enhanced and have a good protection easy to maintain.

On the top of that, the oil is 100% organic and the will be no volatile fumes.

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Bench tops, trimmings and more

The fitting out continues at a pace allowed by the weather and other factors.

We got joined the planks of Silver Wattle ( a Tasmanian variety of acacia) and we cut them to the different lengths required. Finished with 4.20 m of bench space. Not too bad for a medium size camper!!

The two cabinets on each side of the sliding door are nearly finished. The one which holds the 54 lt water tank need the door made.

The cabinets are finished with Lime White varnish and 3 coats of clear finish on the top. It is a nice and delicate finish between the lime white and the clear coat on the Tasmanian Oak trimmings.

We made and fitted the 125 kg capacity drawer and have one more of 45 kg capacity ready. Each drawer is 80cm wide by 45 cm deep.

Down below are few photos of the tasks done.

Installing cabinets

We applied 3 coats of Feats Watson Stain & Varnish Liming White and 3 coats of clear coat on all the marine plywood. On the Tasmanian oak frames, we applied 2 coats of clear varnish.

The cabinets are in position and need the top and trimming

The top will be Silver Wattle Tasmanian timber which will be delivered next Friday.

The side cabinet will have access through the top because the side will be blocked when the bed is extended.

In the large cabinet opposite to the sliding door will be the fridge/freezer that will be on the shelf with 125 kg capacity runners.

Two more cabinets will be made on each side of the sliding door, one that will join with the side cabinet to hold the water tank and the other for small goods.

 

Making some cabinets

Today, 22/9, we started making the cabinets that will go opposite to the lounge/bed.

We are using Tasmanian Oak (a hardwood from Tasmania) and marine plywood. All dressed 42mm x 19 mm and 6ee5 mm x 19 mm is used for the frames joined with pocket hole screws.

The Kreg pocket hole jig and their screws are very easy to use and made a neat and strong join.

The plywood it is glued to the frames and because we do not have a selection of clamps for every job we are using weights to press the ply to the frames.