How to Build a Vintage Wood Camper

[@robertblahnik7685]

Thank you for bringing back the best years of my life. In 1985, I got in a work trade a 1970 Chevy C-10 with 150k miles on it. it needed a lot of work but hell, I had a truck and a motorcycle already to fetch parts. I over hauled the engine, added a Holly and Offenhauser manifold, and very expensive thick walled headers, I got a 60 pony increase without a major loss at the pump. That alone cost me more than the truck itself. I basically hired a cool Mexican kid to come over after work at his uncles body shop to work on my truck along side me. Together we got it done. So under the tarp it went because I had a fantastic idea. I was to make a wood shell for the truck and a wood sleeper on a trailer. Hence, I made the trailer off a CAD concept of air stream efficiency and to make it a modern concept of a time past. But really I didn't want the trailer to wander around behind me. I also wanted it to crank up so that I could walk in it. But I soon scrapped that idea after I realized that I could use the trailer to create a patio. In the end, I went with a Yakisugi finish, which requires the wood to be burnt and washed. The burning hardens the internal oils and seals the wood and makes it less flammable and a lot less vulnerable to insects. So I went with that. When I was done, I gave it a tint of green finish an painted the truck something close to that color. So I took it to a show at an old drive-in and won 2nd place and got $2000 and a whole bunch of advertising and free restaurant coupons hoping I would bring buy my truck to show off to potential patrons.

[@mikekrabal]

Your build sounds beautiful! I'd sure like to see a picture of it. Congrats on your winning the $2000, too! These builds are a part of us. And the garage is a happy space. I hope that young man went on to live a good life with the skills he learned from you. Thank you for sharing that wonderful, descriptive memory!

[@AmirAli3047mawati]

Is the wood resistant to weather changes, what insect hazards are there to make it resistant to weather and termite hazards, how many years will this material last?

[@Harley59]

Dude, you are a treat to watch. I like home builds not filled with back noise. Each step explained in easy quick explanation. Trial and error I learn every day. As a matter of fact, I learn constantly.

[@mikekrabal]

Same here and I'm learning to go ahead and show my weaknesses. Helps to get over them faster. Thanks for checking out the video! May we learn forever!

[@DavidJohnson-uj5np]

This is not just a compact camper - it's a work of art!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@tonybucaro1341]

Dude you got some SERIOUS SKILLS!! I would buy one of these for sure.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video!

[@gregoriodecker2692]

You would then acquire your own skills fixing this camper in 2 to 3 years when all the crap starts failing. And water and bugs start flooding the interior of an otherwise nice looking build

[@CamronS]

@@gregoriodecker2692Haaayter. Looks good and is built well. Didn’t watch the full video bud ❔

[@OmegaShadow303]

​@@CamronShe don't know shit about framing to me he did a good job I mean and I'm a carpenter lol I work doing commercial and residential framing

[@CamronS]

@@OmegaShadow303 ❤️

[@HighseekGaming]

Hehe "dad didn't want to be left out again." I chuckled . Good build brother! Inspiring

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@ChristianPatriotGrandma]

Your video caught my husband’s eye and we watched this morning. You did a phenomenal job with this camper. Great presentation too - easy to follow and great info. Thanks for sharing.

[@mikekrabal]

Thank you both for checking out the video. It means a lot and helps motivate me to keep building.

[@kcjazzcat7822]

What a build. I'm a hobbyist wood worker. What find impressive is the use of common materials. Simple yet very effective. I would (pun intended) enjoy being a helper.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! I appreiciate your keen eye for recognizing the basic material usage. Anyone can go to Home Depot and find the stuff to build this thing.

[@christophernakemowren827]

I'm a semi-retired 70yo Master home 'w'renovator. Both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Building ideas on a home made camper for 2 and dog. Live your video , and building style. Being a Wrenovations, I never knew the path Exactly , and had to Gut build after sleeping on it for the correct idea most my life. I admire a person doing the same. As I watched you make flashing for see thru roof. I just HAVE to mention. Better to use a utility knife. Make your line , or simply clamp a straight edge to flashng. Long smooth strokes , removes tin snip crinkly edge. If you want a bend rather than a cut. S8mply close utility knife. Use Back edge and score. You will see the flashing start to ' stand up' . Then I use a long strong flat 2x4 to continue bending. Now I GOT to get back to your video. Thank you

[@mikekrabal]

Very good tips there! Thank you. The greatest part of publishing a video is the team of people who watch and help me learn. I installed duct work for five years, but never installed aluminum flashing. It's so thin, I can see how the score would make it lift. You definitely just grew my skillset. I will bend it that way going forward. Thanks for having a look at the video, too!

[@christophernakemowren827]

@@mikekrabal really Cool ! I am glad the moment I took to share helps , dang , I feel sorta proud ! Lol

[@raulestrada5043]

Mike , I'm a woodworker but with this beauty, you just blew me away ! Great video !!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! It's always scary releasing a build video because there are some seasoned craftsman out there ready to let me have it, and this is my first time building this camper. I appreciate your comment.

[@rockybalboa2526]

HEY MIKE, I JUST FOUND YOUR VIDEO HERE AND WANTED TO SAY NOW, AFTER WATCHING IT ALL, YOU HAVE A GIFT! YOU ARE ARE AN ARTIST, AND AN EXCELLENT CRAFTS MAN! I HOPE YOU CONSIDER STARTING A BUISSNESS OF CUSTOM BUILDS FOR PEOPLE OR? ATLEAST START YOUR OWN ONLINE STORE OF VARIOUS BUILDS FOR SALE! YOU WILL BE VERY SUCCESSFUL! GREAT JOB!

[@mikekrabal]

I appreciate the support and kind words. My hopes are inline with what you've expressed. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@rockybalboa2526]

@@mikekrabal Hi, Youre welcome. I think you should start by making a video telling people that you are now creating a buissness of making these campers or other projects, either of your own design and or custom orders too. Then create a website with some finished products to showcase. That should get you started.

[@leroybrown3856]

Dude, you did a great job on that camper and your video was very concise and explanatory. I built RV’s for 35 years. I’m impressed with the wood style and the simplicity of its minimalistic design. The big boys will be watching you. I guarantee it. Keep building them and stay small and simple. Big and complicated usually garner short cutting but I am speaking from a mass production point of view. If it’s just you building, I’m sure it’ll be top notch. Good job.

[@mikekrabal]

Thank you, sir. It means a lot coming from someone with that much experience. I hope to continue building one-offs and creating templates like this one just for fun. And maybe build a replica if someone really really wants to buy one.

[@natetheaxebattles2898]

Lots of comments on shoulda, woulda, coulda. Licensed contractor here, required on my state. Yes, some processes should likely have been followed that were not, but if its holding, comfortable, and you're having fun with it, mission accomplished. Fun video bud!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for the opened-minded view. There's definitely some things I'd change and heck, I built the thing haha! But it's holding steady and has about 500 miles towed now. New owner is happy! Thanks for checking out the video!

[@ForgeAheadwithMike]

For anyone watching and planning to do a similar build, you can add extra strength at all joints by using an really good adhesive like Sikabond Construction Adhesive. I've been using it for my build because it is 100% waterproof, is very strong, and absorbs vibration well (it's like a hard rubber when cured)... Just make sure you don't use caulk that will dry and crack over time, or else you'll be dealing with major headaches down the road... :) Great vid!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for the tip. I'm learning some things going through these. I do have a tube of that Sikabond in the garage. Good stuff for sure. I've heard of a lot of RV people using sikaflex 221. That's why I use it. It's just like rubber, too. Extremely durable. Only problem is noone sells it locally, so I always have to order it. Home Depot carries that Sikabond, though. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@leapdrive]

@@mikekrabal, why didn’t you install a layer of insulation on the walls, ceiling and floor?

[@mikekrabal]

Two reasons. If I had insulated it, I'd need to build an interior wall to cover the insulation. That would make it too heavy for the trailer I wanted to use. The camper weighed 1020lbs. The trailer capacity was 1200lbs. There wasn't much room to add more features. Especially once we figure for camping supplies. The second reason comes from my experience of living in a tiny 4x8 camper for nine months while working a travel job in 2020. That camper can be seen also on my channel. It was uninsulated as well. I found even in the hottest of Florida nights to the coldest of West Virginia winter nights that I could be comfortable with a window A/C on the low setting, or by using a small electric heater and a sleeping bag. These appliances are overkill for such tiny spaces. The A/C set to high made the camper too cold to sleep in. In a larger unit, with lots of interior volume, insulation is necessary. It's an unconventional way of doing things, but it has worked well for me. With that, I am building an insulated camper now that is slightly larger. Thanks for the question.

[@leapdrive]

@@mikekrabal , thank you!

[@mkteku]

"most of the time I'll build what I can comprehend until I hit a wall. For finishing the roof I had to work on other things for a while until the solution came. I knew the materials I wanted to use but I didn't know how they would fit together though. I trust the answer is on the way" THIS. ... is my favorite part of building :-D Abrazo!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for watching!

[@SapioiT]

Honestly, with the homelessness problem in USA, if you can find ways to make them much cheaper and able to be unmounted or to have wheels mounted afterwards for transport, then I think a lot of people would be interested in buying them for charities. For example, instead of the expensive shower-type sink, you could use a garden hose with a cheaper garden hose attachment. Using square walls with a slight angle for water runoff would also help, as well as using a wooden frame with spray foam in-between veneer sheets covering both the inside and outside. You can make a cheaper paint with paint pigment (which can be dirt, for being cheaper) and flour and water and oil mixed together then boiled, and then you can use that paint to both paint and waterproof the outside. If you're feeling fancy, you can make the spray foam boards in forms, then remove the expanded spray foam boards from the molds, paint them to make them waterproof, then apply them before applying and sealing the veneer wall cover. A smaller corroplast (corrugated plastic) window can be used, to reduce the costs, and smaller windows will with shutters on the inside will allow people more privacy. If the spray-foam is too expensive, you can make your own aerated concrete and use that one instead, or use spray foam which expands very quickly then stops expanding, and mix that with the aerated concrete to make a lighter and more insulated mixture, or you can use both as different layers (i.e. aerated concrete on the inside half so people can nail and screw things, spray foam boards on the outside half for better insulation at a slightly lower price).

[@mikekrabal]

There's a fella on KZbin that beat me to the punch, years ago, with those sort of builds for the homeless. His name is Paul Elkins and he uses some of the materials you mentioned. He seems like a great guy. You also seem to have the passion for helping the homeless. That's a great quality to have. Have you considered doing a build like you mentioned? You are aware of materials and techniques that I have never heard of. Which is neat. Thanks for checking out the video.

[@curm1778]

The standard door knob was excellent. Made it look so rustic. That whole camper could be C&C pre-cut and sold as a package DIY & flat shipped. Assemble a selection of package fittings, lights, and appliances, then take a 10 to 20% markup on the lot, charge for shipping, and I bet you'd sell these pretty easily. Being flat packed would make storage much easier. Minor mods would allow someone to drop it into a pickup bed, too. No need to even have a trailer. Just move the door to the back and to one side. Leave the kitchen next to it. The tailgate is the table. If you hired out the C&C work you could get 2 examples of each version, store them for sale and see if you could turn a profit or just break even on initial set up cost. Probably do best as a pickup camper first, so no need for the customer to have a trailer. It'd take a few iterations, but you'd turn a profit, especially if you made certain features to order per customer desires. Really nice build. I'm unsurprised it sold so fast.

[@mikekrabal]

Thank you for those thorough thoughts. Folks have shown a pretty strong interest in the wooden campers and it's been on my mind which should be the next move. I hope to offer something for sale soon. Whether it be a package as you described, plans or whole campers. Thanks again!

[@claegason2521]

This is one of the best explained build videos I’ve ever seen, in any category. Well done

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for taking a bit of time to watch it. That is greatly appreciated. Have a great day!

[@ericcipp5147]

i believe laymans terms should be explained a bit just for us newbies which im sure there will be a lot. and maybe adding more video with the explanations youre giving. sometimes it was like and later this happend or all of a sudden this is what happened. we would love to see alll the processes. as well as you actually getting out there and using the thing to see how suited it is for the environments and how it holds up would be great! did it fall apart after this video or what ? test videos! not just driving through a creek please.

[@ronb6182]

Now the critical stuff is out of the way I want to say this is a fine looking trailer a lot of pride and fine workmanship went into this build. I could not have done any better in fact my skills aren't ready to tackle a build like this. Thanks for sharing. 73

[@bmoore3199]

Narration, videography and craftsmanship are all excellent Sir. I'd told myself earlier in the video "I bet someone offered him a figure he couldn't refuse for this". I bet its not easy to sell something that you worked so hard on putting part of yourself into it. Glad you are planning to build another. Great job !!

[@mikekrabal]

You're very correct in that it wasn't easy watching it roll away. I have a baby boy due any day now and that was the primary reason. Just to help out with the bills. Also, I hope to keep building and somehow gotta self fund. The credit cards are straining lol.

[@debinicholas4705]

Amazing job👍

[@midgetete]

MARRY ME? The trailer looks like a cute cabin version of my 1973 fiberglass trailer, same specs too! Will be using your designs for flooring, windows, and support in my renovations! Genius!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video, and I wish you the best on your renovations. It sounds like you have a neat camper.

[@billpar]

Gosh you are so talented I love your format for building and discussing what you were doing and why you were doing it . The Look of this trailer was awesome and I appreciated every thing you did keep up the great content Im hooked

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for the feedback. I was afraid that me talking so much during the video would annoy viewers. That format allows the most detail in the shortest video possible. I had to condense over 10 hours of build footage into a half hour. Have a great day!

[@maggiecooke5826]

Just waiting to start my cargo trailer build. Your craftmanship has helped me so much such good ideas

[@mikekrabal]

I'm grateful for your time and to have been able to help!

[@merchantmariner6132]

Stellar job! Great job with filming and editing. Thanks for taking us along!

[@mikekrabal]

I appreciate the feedback. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@kimhorton6109]

One handsome, simple camper that anyone could be proud to pull. Nice job.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video!

[@Mike-hr6jz]

The bedliner idea is a good one. You can also buy clear flex seal for the roof anywhere you want to seal it from water. It does an amazing job. You did a really good job. On this, you need to film a couple more. Thanks.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for the tip on the flex seal. I haven't tried that yet on anything, so maybe soon on a future project. And thanks for checking out the video!

[@Phylonyous]

Does it actually work!?

[@Phylonyous]

I’m not trolling, honest question.

[@Mike-hr6jz]

Yes it does@@Phylonyous

[@zzz7zzz9]

​​@@Phylonyousall the flex seal products that i've used have been great. But, plan to use it all up, preferably on your first use, as it dries up quickly.

[@markcarrington8380]

And I never cut myself one time. Superb I’m so jealous and wandering around my town now, trying to find a big trailer bottom. Really good editing and narration. Ty

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for watching!

[@markmoorhead1442]

Nice job,on the camper and the video. I’m not surprised it sold really quick. Hope you build another one and video the whole build of the new improved model !

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! When it was for sale, a lot of folks asked if they could stand up in it. It was only 47" interior height. I will eventually build a taller one and video it for sure!

[@amiller8822]

What’s the price like for one of them?

[@janiceb552]

I’m on a binge catch up with your videos, love how you detail and explain what you are doing! Well done…….as always love from 🇬🇧

[@mikekrabal]

Thank you so much!

[@richmurphy1681]

Great job! And thanks for getting straight to the point of what you were doing, instead of a bunch of chit-chat!

[@mikekrabal]

Thank you for having a look at the video!

[@maggiemae6214]

You impress me and I'm almost unimpressurable. Haha Brilliant job!!!!! TALENT and BRAINS and IMAGINATION.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video. It's greatly appreciated!

[@patohagan5903]

Class pure class what more can anyone say keep doing it I wish I had your skills and talent well done

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video. The support of the viewers is what keeps me going.

[@elguapo135]

Very nice video. I really enjoyed it. your presentation kept my attention and was very clear. Lots of good ideas. One suggestion. Next time you build one, make it high enough to stand up in. I have also made motor home conversions from large delivery vans. I once had to cut the roof off of one and raise it about 12 inches so we could walk around. We lived in it for 2 years while we traveled through South America. It made the difference. Otherwise it would have been like living in a cave. Ha.

[@mikekrabal]

You'll be happy to hear that I've just finished another build and it's tall enough to stand in. I'm working on the video edit now and should have it posted soon. Your South America trip sounds great! I spent three months in Ecuador in 2017. Did you happen to go through Ecuador? Thanks for having a look at the video!

[@carenclemmons5002]

Very nice product and educational, video skills too. I build the way you spoke of as ‘on the fly’. Cool how solutions to possible problems tend to coalesce in just the right time when you’re enjoying the build as you mull the construction requirements. Good head on your shoulders! I bet the girls are pretty happy with you taking such good care of them. Truck on and God bless your family.

[@mikekrabal]

I couldn't agree more on the build process. Seems that the toughest part is getting started then it slowly falls into place. Thanks for checking out the video. The support is greatly appreciated!

[@DrewishBear]

From a fellow carpenter- Masterpiece 🤌🏽

[@DrewishBear]

Grab some marine-tex and bondo if you don’t already have any around. Will be a huge help to what you’re doing 👍🏽👍🏽

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for the extra tip! I hadn't heard of marine tex. I looked it up and I should have it in the garage,

[@Rickster1100]

You knocked this build outta the park for a bases loaded home run!! You also do a better build video than anyone I’ve ever seen. I subscribed immediately! Build another one!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! Greatly appreciated!

[@annettemalaski1967]

Glad to see a serious tradesman at work! Some hints: extension cords do not do well when bundled or crimped for neatness. If way to long, cut some to fit. That water pipe under the cab for sprayer, put some insulation over it for cold weather. The veneer strips: test for horrizontal compatibility . You may find that you have to have very wide sections. Also, in the end you have more area to seal and the potential for more gaps.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for the tips and for checking out the video!

[@Tiblious]

Amazing stuff Mike. Great thumbnail, finished product and I’m very happy to see this video got so many views in just two weeks. That’s awesome.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks Toby. Good to hear from you. It's taken 12 years of trying to finally have one get some views. I hope you two are well.

[@SteveB-68]

Outstanding job Mr. That’s just amazing. I would definitely buy one. It must just smell amazing inside.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video! It did happen to smell pretty good!

[@loriscrochetcreations8566]

I enjoyed watching the whole process from beginning to finish. What a fantastic job! Just love what you built. You're a very gifted builder. Have fun with your camper. I would truly love to have one like one, just like it. It's amazing!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video!

[@jaysavage422]

This is a great video and that camper is beautiful! You're super talented

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for watching the video!

[@Stubear22374]

Don’t care what anyone says you my man have some amazing joinery skills and have created what can only be described as a beautiful piece of art, who says you have to pay huge bucks for a adventure tool, well done

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@rizpahjael1]

Absolutely amazing! (Carpentry, teaching, and videography) What talent! Did I see your daughter helping in the beginning? That’s not just sweet, but you’re teaching her some great life skills. Looking forward to more of your projects. 💜

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! That's my girlfriends daughter, but you are correct that I try to teach her as much as I can. She's allowed to use anything in the garage, except the really dangerous tools, for now. She comes in for my spray paint quite often hahaha!

[@donnervogel0187]

(Sorry for my English, it's a translation program.) This is such a well-made pendant, the most beautiful one so far, that left my mouth open in amazement. Even my mother, 87 years old, was impressed by your work and the result. If I lived in the USA, I would feel the need to make an arduous journey to look at the trailer. Great! 😲🤓

[@mikekrabal]

Thank you for watching the video. The support from the viewers makes it worth it to build the campers. I appreciate it greatly!

[@valbain209]

I would love to have one of these campers! Impressive build and beautiful.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@gtr1952]

I learn something from every project like this I watch. At 71 I should be pretty smart, but... LOL I have built a lot of "stuff" though. About 10 years ago I found a brand new De Walt "biscuit cutter" at a yard sale, never opened, and included 2500 biscuits of various sizes. That would have worked perfect for your walls stacked like that! I've built doors and tables using biscuits. Just scribe a center line for the biscuit and cut both slots centering the cutter. Glued, it makes the joint(s) very strong and eliminates warping. I got a few ideas from your built too!! Thanks much and congrats on the project!! 8) --gary

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks Gary! I called them flat dowels in the video and have since been corrected that they are splines. Ya know, I forgot about biscuits in joints to. I'm learning right with you! Thanks for watching!

[@KCCrochetbaby]

This build is amazing and I loved watching your work from start to finish. I would Love to buy one of these!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! I'm gonna try offering to build these. You can reach me at [e-mail] if you're interested. We can go over options and details there.

[@Daniel-wd4jg]

I'm a tile contractor... there's a lot of waterproofing technology with tile showers that can help weatherproof. Love the plastic roof for sunlight also. Great project!!!

[@mikekrabal]

That's a great point! I always go into the paint section of Home Depot looking for waterproofing supplies. I have never went in the tile section looking for waterproofing. Thanks for that tip, and thanks for checking out the video!

[@c.jillallen-hood4685]

I wouId love this camper on a longer frame, perhaps a 15ft. Also would like to add solar panels on roof, (without the feature of allowing light as you mentioned on the FedEx truck), a shower and toilet.

[@mikekrabal]

Those are really good suggestions, and a possible future build! Thanks for checking out the video!

[@grady4757]

Excellent craftsmanship, Mike! this was a joy to watch.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for watching. It's greatly appreciated!

[@tsetendorjee9040]

We love your How to Build a Good Looking Wood Camper!!!❤❤❤👍👍👍

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for watching the video!

[@paddy8391]

Love your videos Mike, always watch them till the end to support you buddy.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks, my friend! I greatly appreciate that and I'll keep building stuff for you guys!

[@paddy8391]

@@mikekrabal you take care and do the best you can. Thank you

[@laurieklingele8343]

I am in awe! What a work of art ❤❤

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video. Helps me to keep building!

[@AMPhotoArt]

Awesome! I’m doing research to build a tiny camper that my bicycle can pull but can also expand.

[@mikekrabal]

Great idea! I hear foamie campers are good for that. I hope you have a ton of fun building it. Thanks for watching!

[@oldtop4682]

Cool video. I've often wondered about building a trailer like this. I've seen custom work trailers built with wood, but not a travel/camping trailer. I appreciate showing your thought process and mistakes, and also choice of affordable materials (and tools). Using the splines between the outside boards is genius. I probably would have started with the floor, but hey there's more than one way to skin the proverbial cat. I hit the subscribe button.

[@mikekrabal]

I appreciate your comment a lot. You've recognized that I didn't have it all figured out during the build and especially that there's more than one way to do things. You noticed the tools and materials and saw what can be possible with less. If you build one like it, I'm sure you'd nail it. You have great attention to detail! Thanks for having a look at the video!

[@johnmyers6751]

🏉🏉🏉🏉🏉🏉🏉🏉🎐🏉🎐🏉🎐🏅🎐🎐🏅🏅🏅🏅🏅🏅🎐🏅🏅🏅🏅🏅🎐🏅🏅🏅🏅🏅🎐🏉🏉🏉🏉🏉🏅🏉🏅🏉🏉🏉🏅🏉🎯🏅🏅🏅🎯🎯🏅🏅🎯🎯🎯🎯🏅🎯🏅🎯🏅🎯🎯🎯🏅🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯

[@gamingdragon276]

Not gonna lie that looks both comfy and homey!! Great job man!!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@lotfro3922]

Gorgeous. Great attitude great build… Definitely on to something. I would purchase one exactly like it in a heartbeat 👍👍

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for watching the video! Your support helps me be freed up to build more.

[@jefferybraswell2295]

“Cool Campers” your new camper company name!🤙🏻🤠 they really are COOL😁🇺🇸

[@mikekrabal]

I like it! Definitely consider that if I make a company. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@rpena62]

Simply awesome build ! Ive seen a few builds on You tube and this one's the best ! I was wondering how much you sold it for ?

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! Due to it being an experimental build, a first time build, and unisulated. I sold it at a price point I thought was fair. I learned a lot about what to do better on the next one and where to improve strength and waterproofing. With that, I sold it for $6k.I think the camper design has more value, and I'll adjust accordingly given the changes made on the next one. Also, typically market determines value and I didn't have any hits on it when listed at a higher price. When I got it in range of $6k, I got multiple offers and probably could of let them bid it out. But it was first come, first serve.

[@chelsea_1961]

@@mikekrabal omg it’s worth at least $20k just for the style factor! Stop selling yourself short, man! Had I known you were going to sell it for $6000 I would’ve bought it for 10k! This is the first I’ve seen you, so I’m going to be subscribing & hopefully will watch you turn into a national success story. You are onto something here. Everyone loves that retro “roundy” look… but in wood and keeping the wood grain showing?!!! Yeah… you just keep doing what you’re doing. Big things are coming for you if you stay true to this idea and don’t get all commercial & ego baited. Make each one a piece of artwork and sell them like the artwork they are. Don’t worry about quantity worry about quality and expressing your art. You’re gonna do fine if you stay on this path. ❤

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for the subscribe and the kind words of inspiration, too! I have a lot to learn when it comes to the business end of building and selling. Your feedback helps to learn the value of these things. I will keep plugging away if people keep wanting to see it, for sure!

[@gregoriodecker2692]

​@chelseacraft4669 you're out of your mind.. this camper looks nice, granted but has so many points of failure for water intrusion, no insulation.. bad structurally, no bathroom, heat or other amenities.. let alone the reliance on caulk to make up for poor design to water proof that he was lucky to sell it to anyone not wanting to camp in their garage.. those plexiglass windows will look horrible in a few years as well.

[@aprilMichelleXJRL]

I love it work smarter not harder, something simple yet nice and cozy to sleep in, stay cool/warm, dry I'm obsessed

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video. Your comment shows that you truly understood my intention in building it. Some folks have given me grief for not making it more complicated. I wanted it simple. Have a great day!

[@pandaoverboard]

I am watching the WHOLE video and I'm loving it. I just got a teardrop camper and man... Life changer. Keep it up and please bring more content of you and your family camping. ENJOY!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video! I've bought a new trailer and am currently building a whole new design. Enjoy that teardrop and camping!

[@pandaoverboard]

@@mikekrabal Thank you so much! Let us see how that turns out. I bet it'd look amazing as well. Bless 🙌

[@thefuntimefamily5869]

Very talented I would definitely buy one if I could afford it me and kids really need a family escape and fun

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! It's greatly appreciated. I hope you guys can get out and camp more in 2024.

[@AmberHillman-jq8jy]

You're details are much easier than any of them. I have watch. A plus! How to build my camper.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@shelbyindianajones3226]

really nice! as a bonus, that looks like the bike i want in the background...

[@mikekrabal]

That old FZ1 is a solid unit. I need to ride it more haha. Thanks for watching!

[@wiesejay]

Interior design is 90% lighting-I think you nailed it

[@mikekrabal]

String lights have always reminded me of camping. I was gonna put them on the outside, but the thought hit me to put them on the inside, one day. Got lucky. Thanks for watching!

[@tashafleming5120]

Great job‼️‼️‼️ I have trailer I would like to get transformed into a vintage camper. I could we talk about possiblies????

[@gustavodemelo7]

Very nice project. Congratulations!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for watching!

[@stardustbadger7993]

The answer is always in the question. Nice job, bro. You kept it pretty simple.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video!

[@andrewsneacker1256]

You're a great father! Cheers from Ukraine!

[@mikekrabal]

I hope you are safe and well over in Ukraine! I have friends from there and most of them have made it to the States since the war began. Thank you for having a look at the video!

[@glennterry5476]

Wow that is a pretty cool looking camper man.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@rebeccakaminski8967]

Beautiful craftsmen ship. Enjoyed watching this video.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video!

[@brenthoover6892]

I really enjoyed watching the process, and I appreciate the fact that you waited for the answers to come. Well done.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!. Life has shown me to listen to my gut. It has backfired many times when I tried to override that.

[@mlangfordoutdoor]

I knew you would do well on this video but this is astounding over 1 mill in 2 months the camper is very nice indeed

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video. I went over to your channel and subscribed. I like that wood teardrop you built. I've been posting for 12 years. Finally, a video got some views. Got lucky, I guess. But it was a lot of video practice to get there. I took down most of my old videos to kinda change the channel to buiild videos only. There used to be a lot of travel videos on the channel. The camper turned out well, but if I could go back, I'd do a full metal roof and tongue and groove it. The one I'm building now is tongue and grooved and you can stand up in it. All the best to you!

[@mlangfordoutdoor]

Thank you sir@@mikekrabal

[@andiweave]

Awesome Build! YOU ROCK!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for the support!

[@makenchips]

Very nice camper nice-looking 2 with all the wood high maintenance

[@mikekrabal]

Agreed, this thing is anything but maintenance free. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@R1FAAAT]

Nice Build

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the video!

[@DoloresDJesus]

Great video, "on the fly" thats why it works

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@colleenbrookes-gain6662]

Awesomeness overload!!!!!!!! Luv it luv it luv it🎉 From South Africa 🇿🇦

[@mikekrabal]

Great to hear from South Africa! Wow! Thanks for having a look!

[@TootalllTwm]

I wish I had a fraction of the skills you have. I love trying to build things out of wood, but they never seem to look right or work as intended,etc. I thoroughly enjoy your videos.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at the videos! The grueling, miserable years of being a construction worker meant nothing to me at the time. Now, I appreciate them for learning the basics. It's wild how life teaches us. All the best on your next builds! Practice makes perfect.

[@bluwtrgypsy]

Fantastic. I want one. Wonderful video, wonderful job. Thank you.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checkng out the video!

[@tonymeehan7859]

this thing will out last anything off a trailer lot 100 fold! Fantastic build!

[@mikekrabal]

I used to work at an RV dealership in 2016. My job was to prepare the new and used units that were to be for sale. There wasn't a single new unit from the factory that passed our checklist without needing something fixed. Most of it was just trim that popped or wallpaper that had peeled. Other stuff was leaks and equipment not working. Overall, they will hold up. They just need an eye kept on them, too. The best campers out there are those built by the long-time craftsman building these extraordinary little teardrops. In my humble opinion, anyway. They use 3/4 inch plywood and 2x4s. It's overbuilding but incredibly solid. As a new builder, I commend them.Thanks for watching!

[@genogallaher837]

I love his videos and on the fly craftsmanship ...

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for having a look at this video, too!

[@davidsneddon2242]

Just found your channel and I have to say I love your delivery and easy talking manner. The build was comprehensive and easy to follow. Here's to the next, from sunny Scotland.

[@mikekrabal]

Awesome to hear from someone from Scotland. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@cuernavacadave]

Wow, how I wish I had your skills and talent!!! Well done! Thanks for sharing:)

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video. Each view is greatly appreciated!

[@EduardoJimenez-rk8nw]

Kudos ! You have SKILLS ! UNBELIEVEABLE !!! GO MOUNTANEERS !!!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! Go Mountaineers!

[@DarrenHalkett-gi2lm]

That's probably the coolest little camper I've seen on KZbin yet thx man

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@floridaanakreginald5860]

Great job. Im watching from Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Borneo

[@mikekrabal]

Malaysia, Borneo! Wow! Thanks for taking a bit of time to watch!

[@markdoe353]

Great job! Thanks for the knowledge 2 thumbs-up

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@briansomers4753]

Really Really enjoyed watching this video..Extremely well done on the editing and filming and building...Would but that is a second!!!! Great job

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@ginamorrone947]

Well you definitely have major skilled the longer I watch the more I am convinced that you are a master Carpenter absolutely one-hundred-percent is it for sale imagine how many hours you put into that but it is absolutely beautiful

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@stephanierogers4862]

This is SO BEAUTIFUL!!! You’re SO TALENTED! What a Beautiful work of Art! You did an Amazing Job! So Proud of you!

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video! It's greatly appreciated.

[@MySledgeHammer]

I didn’t waste any of my time - I just clicked on subscribe and the bell 🔔 was clicked for all of the videos. Such a unique trailer and neat ideas also. You sure put many hours into this trailers build and I can appreciate everyone of them. There are some things that I would have done different but we each have our own ways and ideas to do so. But with everything I see somebody has done I wouldn’t call it neat picking because that’s not my intent but I just wouldn’t forgive myself if I copied someone else’s unique build. You sure have a talent for coming up with such unique ideas to figure out your ways to build them. I can’t wait until your next build as I used to build trailers and special RV’s many years ago myself. There is another person I like watching his builds on KZbin but I can’t think of his name. You both have such unique ideas and first rate build quality so it wouldn’t be fair to compare you both to each other. That’s the best compliment plus this one - I can give you other than I wouldn’t hesitate to purchase one of your builds site unseen. Thank You BTW I can remember years ago I used to lay in bed thinking of how much fun it was going be when I got back working on my build again. Cheers

[@mikekrabal]

Thank you for the support, kind words and expressing a shared enjoyment in the build process. Each time I see a homemade camper on the road, I smile knowing the inventive process the individual went through. It's highly rewarding, no matter how it looks. I have a lot to learn still, as I'm fairly new to this custom work. I appreciate the viewers and commenters as being a team of folks who provide feedback that will help me build better in the future.

[@mkredenbaugh6322]

You are a craftsman. Both this camper and the cabin have beautiful detailing.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@mandypowell5948]

Please build one this exact size, with the small bed the way you have it now, but take the big bed out and replace it with a small shower, very tiny cooking area for a single counter top stove eye that you can unplug and store away when not in use and a very small refrigerator for 1 person to hold enough food for 3 or days. And then a very very small toilet. Remember, this idea is for a person that is no taller than 5’4”. Shorter and smaller people don’t need as much space as far as height. It would also be cool to add a curves closet on the front of the trailer instead of the tire. This would help with extra storage and could double for things like dry foods and tools. Also, under the closet, could be the storage space for the tire if you lay it down flat and use a bolt from underneath to secure it in place just like a truck has underneath the truck bed. There’s also an option of adding clothing storage to outer walls of the camper for tools, food, clothing, a tent, board games, or even a fishing pole and some tackle if you had a like shelf right below the top edge of the trailer and all you had to do was lift up from by a handle. Think of it like a chest setting in its front side and the top part opening upward, or like one of those old bread boxes where you can slide the drawer up. All you would need to secure it is an a U-hook on the bottom and on the drawer part and secure it with a small elastic straps while driving, or put key lock on it since there are valuables in there, but use the straps as extra protection while moving down the road. Once I get moved this summer to my 5 acres I just bought, I will be making one of these just for fun and maybe even a little travel.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video. Congrats on your land purchase. I'm envious of that. You've shared some great ideas if I ever can build one like that again. All the best on your upcoming build!

[@duskintheforest584]

Just beautiful! Has a '50s art deco vibe. Heck I'd buy one for camping

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@jonlundquist3598]

You totally rock. Awesome work.

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@georgetorres8834]

Fantastic build

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@robertscibana2236]

New to this channel. Dude. This trailer was awesome…im way too old to even think of trying to duplicate this! I would t mind buying one tho! Well Done! Congrats.😊

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for checking out the video!

[@joerexlily]

kudos, practical genius, i have a james cook, mercedes westphalia in Europe, with a lot of great innovations. Bed's on top, head of has retractable skylight, so you can sleep directly under stars. Obviously you could build anything. And your's wouldn't rust. congrats, pilgrim.

[@mikekrabal]

I'd love to see a picture or video of your setup. Especially since it has all of the innovations. Sounds like a great unit. Thanks for having a look at the video!

[@shazakaacutehugsenglish6215]

That's a great little camper, x

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for watching!

[@gloriashambaugh7853]

BEAUTIFUL !!!!. YOU DID S AWESOME JOB. Are you going to made more. ?

[@mikekrabal]

Thanks for watching! I am definitely going to build more. I am almost finished with another one. It's tall enough to stand in and has a shower too. The video will be out in a few weeks.

[@gloriashambaugh7853]

I will be looking for your new build.

[@normg2242]

This is an awesome build, but what I like most is how you also put a lot of thought into how everything is going to look.

[@mikekrabal]

Thank you for having a look at the video!