How To Install A KITCHEN SINK In A CAMPER VAN 🚐 DIY Camper Van Build

We're back with another camper van conversion build video! This time, I'll show you how to install a kitchen sink in a camper van. That's right, The Singletrack Sampler finally has running water in his van life!
🎥 Subscribe to Crafted Workshop : goo.gl/V5gcNJ // Subscribe to Alex, The Singletrack Sampler : bit.ly/Singletr...
📦 Parts Used On The Camper Van Kitchen Sink Build (affiliate):
Mobile Workbench : amzn.to/32BuEW4
Sink : amzn.to/2LxK5bG
Faucet : amzn.to/2FJN2SP
Foot Pump : amzn.to/30ebkfD
RV Drain : amzn.to/2xrfVyH
Nylon Tubing : amzn.to/2Xpd8oM
Greywater Tank : amzn.to/2XHpLuN
Freshwater Tank : amzn.to/2Jkpl4l
1/2" Hose Barb x 3/8" NPT Male Adapter (for connecting nylon tubing to faucet, better than what we used) : amzn.to/32BpfOu
1/2" Hose Barb x 3/4" Male NPT (for connecting tubing to the freshwater tank lid, need 2) amzn.to/2XPxec5
Hose Clamps : amzn.to/2Ye5KfH
Silicone : amzn.to/2YeMkHu
Cutting Board : amzn.to/2K16uMj
📦 Parts Used On The Camper Van Kitchen Cabinet & Backsplash Build (affiliate):
Powerhead Screws : amzn.to/32rhPNQ
Hinges (for upper cabinet) : amzn.to/308uZxe
Piano Hinge (for lower cabinet) : amzn.to/2JKLkBM
Latches : amzn.to/2XMVHyR
FastCap Door Stops : amzn.to/2Xh4SlX
Wood Glue : amzn.to/30uaBqu
Water Based Polyurethane : amzn.to/30u49Qs
Construction Adhesive : amzn.to/2SrudsD
🛠 Tools Used On The Camper Van Kitchen Sink (affiliate):
🔹Rockler Clamp-It Corner Clamping Jig : amzn.to/2XNkPo8
🔹Rockler Clamp-It Assembly Square : amzn.to/2J6pbyx
Jigsaw : amzn.to/2JMeOiQ
Table Saw : amzn.to/2WrrNMm
Push Stick : amzn.to/2XIvgFq
Miter Saw : amzn.to/2TeGdgO
Speed Square : amzn.to/2XMF5CE
Magnetic Screw Holder (for my impact driver) : amzn.to/2xGYPwD
Cordless Drill : amzn.to/2wOFM2S
Sander : amzn.to/2oHOmg7
Brad Nailer : amzn.to/30s8Fij
Japanese Pull Saw : amzn.to/2S9Zdgu
Block Plane : amzn.to/2V2D7h1
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Camper Van Kitchen Sink Build Process:
The first step in this camper van kitchen project was collecting all of the parts we needed to complete the plumbing system, which included a sink and faucet, freshwater and greywater tanks, foot pump, tubing, and fittings.
We started with cutting the hole for the sink. To start the cut, I first drilled a hole through the top and cut the hole with my jigsaw after drilling the starter hole.
Eventually, after a little more cutting with the jigsaw, we got the foot pump fit and then I attached it to the floor of the van with screws.
With the pump installed, we could move on to the van plumbing. I made sure to use teflon tape on all of the threaded fittings to prevent any leaks.
To permanently mount the sink in the van, we ran a bead of silicone around the perimeter of the flange and dropped the sink into place.
Next, I could get to work on closing the cabinet back up. I used some basic plywood and cut the pieces to size at the table saw and miter saw.
I needed to add some more security to keep the doors shut while Alex is on the road with the van. We found these window sash latches, which have the benefit of pulling the door tight when they’re closed.
Next, we could get to work on the upper cabinet, which is what makes up for the storage in the van that Alex lost in the tool chest. I kept the cabinet construction simple and just used screws and glue.
With the cabinet assembled, we could get the cabinet dry fit in the van. I notched out the areas around the ribs using a combination of my jigsaw, Japanese pull saw, and a chisel.
Next, we could get the cabinet attached to the van. I used Powerhead sheet metal screws, making sure to pre-drill the holes, and we drove the screws into the areas of the roof and walls where we knew there were ribs.
Once the cabinet was permanently installed, I could take some measurements for the faux subway tile backsplash.
To install the tiles, I scribed the first tile to fit the desk and sanded it to fit using my spindle sander. After getting the first row installed, I offset the second row by half a tile and continued getting the tiles installed. Finally, I could add some corner trim to cap off the ends of the tile backsplash.
And with that, this portion of the van project was a wrap. These little comforts are what makes van life more enjoyable and, most importantly, more fun.

[@craftedworkshop]

Hope y'all enjoyed this one! I put a TON of work into this project and video and I'd really appreciate if you'd like the video, share it with your friends, and subscribe to my channel : goo.gl/V5gcNJ 🙌 No sponsor on this one, but if you want to support me, check out my new KZbin membership options! kzbin.info/door/-hTi9atsD6wAl2s46LpAVwjoin Thanks, and see y'all next week!

[@jamescarter26]

Hey love it

[@jakebateman3088]

Someone's stolen Seth's bike hacks thumbnail design ;)

[@simonwalker3896]

Crafted Workshop love your work, SUBSCRIBED

[@chrismorris638]

Crafted Workshop did you add the tile backsplash?

[@Harry._.Thompson]

For the grey water u could just have a pipe going straight out of the van

[@SethsBikeHacks]

So sick! When Alexander showed me the kitchen I understood what you guys were doing all that time. The reality of working in tight spaces is that nothing goes as planned and normal tools don’t fit. I’m glad you showed all the improvisation and struggles, which even skilled craftsmen aren’t immune to on projects like these.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks man! Definitely some frustrating moments but super happy with the way it all came together.

[@jakelawlor4012]

So true

[@skmeedle]

hey seth

[@senorpants5604]

Give me a thumb if you read that in Seth's voice.

[@marhgaming6306]

Love ur vids Seth

[@The_Sampler]

I seriously could not be more happy with how this project came out, and can already say after a few months that it has made A MASSIVE difference for me on the road. Thanks Johnny for yet another awesome build; we've now done a few projects together at this point, yet your level of craftsmanship still impresses me everytime! 👊

[@microMobilidade]

The Singletrack Sampler some spoilers from your next vid! Looks great!

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks dude, any time! Can't wait to hang again, gotta get back to AVL soon 🤘

[@adammoonface]

Maybe now you've built some stuff with Johnny on his channel a few times, he should join you for a rookie ride on yours Alex? Followed by taccos of course...

[@ryanlitzinger6935]

This new van build is looking sick

[@rupedog]

Glad i found this...will it go up on ur channel too? Sure ur fans would love it. feels like a while since the bell from sts, but get the need to get van sent! Dont loose the summer riding time doing diy tho!

[@jp2246]

Awesome build. Get a rubber grommet for the hole that the clean water line passes through the wall of the tool chest. These are commonly used where lines pass through the firewall of a vehicle.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks, and yes that would be a good addition!

[@longhairmullet]

Crafted Workshop hope you are making notes of all these good suggestions for when you build out my sink cabinets! Lol. Great video, love that we all learn in the process.

[@jcardosa02]

the best part is when u added how things can go wrong at the very end. it made me feel better bc youtube videos are edited to look perfect. you did amazing

[@AlfredAmeneyro21]

I just loved that part: -There's metal? -no problem...

[@Blaira89]

Y'all should install a heavy duty spring to the foot pump! Maybe use one of those new Rockshox superdeluxe coils.... LOL

[@mwilliamshs]

Why make it harder to push? That'll just break the plastic pedal or the plastic body.

[@coltenbraden7318]

mwilliamshs it’s a joke bud

[@briandomski8523]

Woodworking and MTB. My two favorite hobbies and two of my favorite youtubers...it's like worlds colliding!

[@xthukuh]

This is really cool! I live in Kenya and as soon as I leave campus, am making this to travel across Africa. You guys are awesome!!

[@craftedworkshop]

Nice, have fun Martin!

[@ReubenGow]

I used the same foot pump in our build. After a year or so it started to leak at the lever pivot when being pumped. Just something to keep an eye on. Also, you should use opaque piping, light encourages growth of stuff inside your piping. In NZ opaque piping is a requirement for one of the motor home certifications.

[@craftedworkshop]

Good tips!

[@reforzar]

Completely changed his life. That is what I was looking for last time.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks Brian!

[@TheAmwroble]

Awesome video, can you guys tell Seth we need more hack videos? We need more!!!!

[@craftedworkshop]

Hah, thanks Andy!

[@BigHeinen]

Although a 12v electric pump for the sink water is an excellent choice, and alternative is a metal fresh water tank that can be pressurized. If there's room available an old air compressor tank can be modified by welding on a car radiator fill neck and 15lb to 20lb radiator cap. Then add a bicycle air valve (Schrader Valve) to pressurize the tank. Fill the tank through the radiator filler neck, screw on the cap and pressurize the tank with air. Voila! Great video !

[@brentgolbert2402]

I usually only comment on the van builts I really like. Well sirs this is one of the best. I'm planning on doing my own. Seeing these videos the dos and don'ts or shouldn'ts has been a great help. The one very big thing I know before I start that I will need more than anything else is you two guys. Best of luck to the both of you. And God bless.

[@OldManTheseDays]

Sweet! Looked like a ton of fun to do. Making stuff is better when you're making stuff with a bro.

[@stephaniesmythe8449]

Gorgeous work. I admire your skills and your workshop full of tools. I have a previously converted Promaster that I've been adjusting to my needs and desires. The old hand pump on the sink broke last time out, and I'm converting to a foot pump. And while I'm at it, adding a bigger sink. I got the Ruvati 15 x15, and same foot pump. Perfect timing to watch your install! My project for this coming weekend. Thanks!

[@glgallow2]

I ALWAYS love seeing our Festool products being used in off-the-wall projects like this! Crafted Workshop, you always bring excellent content, and you make it look fun. Thank you for another awesome video!

[@cjpsmachado]

From a naval architect/boat builder you should look into some boat hardware. I made a similar project when I was younger to be able to wander around Europe looking for some surf spots and used a lot of sailing hardware that made a lot easier for live on the van. But then again I was used to live onboard a 25 feet sailing boat and had already lots of knowledge from building sailing boats with my grandfather and the architecture formation. So overall great work.

[@CopperCactusCrafts]

This turned out incredible overall, but that backsplash is genius! No concern of cracking, or of tiles popping off the curved surface. Nice work, guys!

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks a lot! I'm so glad I remembered Laura's video, they really are perfect for the van.

[@vannessaventures8741]

This was super helpful. I am no master builder.... or builder at all but it gave me some GREAT ideas how to create a sink and storage area in my own van! Thanks guys

[@craftedworkshop]

Glad it was helpful!

[@krishampton8163]

In a tight space like that I'd try to cover the drawer guides before cutting the sink opening in the countertop. A cardboard cutout would be great, or even just a couple of kitchen trash bags.

[@DavesShed]

There must be some space under the floor to add 2 decent sized tanks. Obviously those sort of tanks would be a large expense but it would make a massive difference to have a reasonable quantity of water between fills. It would also help to lower the center of gravity.

[@craftedworkshop]

You mean in the undercarriage of the van? I think that would negatively impact ground clearance. The floor itself is directly on top of the metal floor of the van. Could potentially work, but filling and emptying the tanks would have to be thought through as well.

[@DavesShed]

@@craftedworkshop It's just the standard thing in a campervan. There are 2 tanks mounted within the chassis area. They have baffles inside. It doesn't normally affect ground clearance. However if leaving the sealed roads it will need to be a metal tank. You can buy them from suppliers to the RV industry.

[@Jellooze]

This is what i really liked about Alex van build, its done in such a way its super easy to add things to it. Sure it might have looked a little bland (compared to some other super cosy vanbuild) but building it as a open canvas surely was the best decision you guy made back when you started the build

[@RedFlyerMedia]

That sink is perfect for my short bus! and...I watched the bed build & I will be stealing a couple ideas from it when I change out the mattress I have now to something more workable. THANKS for all the inspiration!!

[@craftedworkshop]

Nice, glad you enjoyed the videos!

[@RedFlyerMedia]

@@craftedworkshop I will be back often. You got a new fan today.

[@miviu9440]

Just f. AWESOME!!! I just feel the need of living in one van like that... looks so cool.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks!

[@lurklingX]

the build came out beautifully. so functional yet looks nice. love the faux tiles. never seen that done before. i'm guessing it was to save weight. (ugh tedious to make em...) but totally badass. love this whole van setup, man. great!!

[@benfluke523]

you guys being so thorough with your builds has made my van project soooooooooooooooo much easier. cuz i am a super duper newb, and everything is new to me. with these videos i have some skill now!

[@Bscott-390]

Great job. So jelly of his van.

[@jamothegreat6052]

This video just got you another subscriber!!! That sink and overhead shelving is AWESOME!!!

[@luisacevedo324]

Absolutely awesome 👏🏼 nice job. Alex is lucky to have a bud like you.

[@HIimMAC]

Came out great! Cutting board over the sink is what I was thinking the whole time, glad you guys did it!

[@BettyBearsNomadicTravels]

This is the second time I have watched this video. Great work. I am a retired female carpenter. But I always leave room in my brain for new ideas. Thanks. I am in the works of building out my van and live your ideas. Betty

[@craftedworkshop]

Nice, thanks Betty!

[@Shadow87-]

Helpful tip, using spit or an ice cube helps smooth silicone way easier. it wont stick to your hand or gum up.

[@bkxc]

Fantastic! Really came out great.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks Brian! Super happy with the finished product.

[@mambobond]

Something that I've done before, when installing a sink, is to fill it with water - this provided plenty of self regulating/even pressure to the silicone around the flange.

[@WHBJr]

This might be the most comprehensive function/ form build that I've seen!

[@billxam2674]

I'm building a modded version for our off grid cabin - using an old faucet, kitchen sink and food grade buckets with a fountain pump. And absolutely a p trap too. I do like the foot pump but I'm old - way too much exercise. :)

[@Special_Sharpie]

If I ever meet alex, I would really to see the van in real life, it's a work of art!

[@craftedworkshop]

I'm sure he'd give you a tour if he saw you out on the trails!

[@brendanmitchell3545]

thanks for all the needed parts in desc. I have these same jugs and didnt know what i was looking for.

[@64MAGA24]

Thanks so much for posting sink size. I knew I wanted over mount but wasn’t quite sure about size sans a tiny stainless steel bowl bought at 5 n dime. I knew I needed something that will provide the utility that a sink naturally provides. Thanks again.

[@lurklingX]

that dumping of the screws container at the end.... 💀💀💀 so relatable

[@rennemichaels2706]

Is Alex going to clear seal the back splash to help keep it cleaner? And paint the doors on the front?

[@craftedworkshop]

Maybe, if he gets around to it 😂 Just being honest, but in an ideal world, both would be done.

[@BoloMTB]

that's awesome! I could watch your video literally for hours! I've been following Alex's van building since the very beginning and I can't have enough...

[@paullydca]

Incredible job. That really changed Alex's van, looks amazing, love the functionality of it all.

[@xxxdroidmonkeyxxx]

Wow, that was definitely a huge upgrade. The walnut finish was an excellent touch. I love the contrast it added.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks a lot!

[@_tim]

That's such a perfect addition. If it were me I'd go straight to an electric pump but given Alex has spent an entire year living out of that van without ANY running water I can see how even just a manual foot pump would be a luxury right now. Great work.

[@MrLightPanda]

First vid of yours that I’ve ever seen- I love your style. Love may be too strong a word. I really liked it. I love how you tell us the details without being too wordy. Like how you used a utility knifes to cut that plumbing tubing. Small details like that make things like this seem less daunting.

[@1pho3nixmatt]

So sick. Another solid one. You two make such entertaining vids.

[@donald6749]

I have that exact same Bodum gooseneck kettle! It is really nice. Good job on the van.

[@greathornedowl3644]

WOW, thanks for the video of tips and tricks. You are a craftsman, adapt, and overcome at each step. I've hated that tool chest a waste of space, thinking something more fitting (simple shelving and plastic bins) and flexible (wood) could have been used. Overall good job.

[@tranquilitytravels2994]

Wouldn’t securing your water supply to the van rib on a shelf and spitting in your trashcan have been an easier solution? (...and cheaper! 😆 ) The finished product is lovely.

[@majamoore6209]

Absolutely love the faux tile backsplash!!!! Awesome job on the whole project!!!

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks a lot!

[@BestLittleStudio]

Add a spring to the foot pump so it comes back up, and put a simple pressure vessel in line with the pump so that you can pump it half a dozen times, pressurize the system then use it with the handle as if it were running water.

[@experimentalpyrographer1442]

I love watching the tiny house/ van life tours on youtube and it really nice to see the build process of it

[@JS-sj7sg]

Awesome work, looks and sounds like a friendship.

[@Escapepod2024]

Fantastic upgrade, and superb quality of workmanship! Well done!

[@shelbytomy07]

Yeah, Laura Kampf is amazing. She also inspired me

[@craftedworkshop]

She's great!

[@freerangemtb]

Dude, watching these videos on your and Alex's channels is making me want to buy a van and trick it out for travel. Only problem for me is that I have a large family. So I'd have to do something more along the lines of a small RV. Although Van Life may still be possible if we throw in some tents... Stay upright and keep the rubber side down! -Brian

[@mr.frogman9939]

Man, that little foot pump looks pretty slick

[@craftedworkshop]

It is pretty sweet!

[@mecyver]

It's like the tool chest fit the golden ratio. EVERYTHING IS PERFECT! 😅Awesome share, dude!

[@alechepper7387]

Absolutely unbelievable work here dude

[@craftedworkshop]

Much appreciated!

[@1stFlyingeagle]

On grey water tank install a 1" drain line with a ball valve. So you can dump on the ground or right into a city street drain. Without pulling the tank out. And filling your freshwater do it as mobile trailers do it. Have it hooked up to a line that is connected to a port on the outside of your van that is meant for that purpose. Now there is no moving tanks and no water dumping in your home.

[@Siracusa667]

That looks absolutely beautiful! Man, the amount of work and effort you put into this is totally worth it, that looks super efficient and sturdy.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks! Definitely a lot of work but the finished result is better than I expected.

[@donniegaskill1836]

Great project!!! I really like the home made subway tiles. I am going to steal this idea for my own kitchen... Keep these neat vids coming...

[@ChrisCXK]

Such a cool build! I enjoyed seeing more of how it was done on top of seeing the reveal.

[@seanallison8850]

Thank you so much for the video fellas. Starting a build here next week and this helped a ton 👌👍

[@Nathan-hd6lp]

the van has leveled up

[@chrisbaker1239]

Dude you must be so proud of Everyone’s efforts including yourself! Stand back with beer in hand and say “hell yeah” we did good, cheers all. You inspire a lot of people, keep on it. 🤟

[@craftedworkshop]

It is super exciting every time we open the van door, that's for sure. Crazy to look back at how it all started now. Thanks a lot!

[@pontussoderman4758]

The Van is really sick!! And something that inspire me a lot, been looking at some RV’s and caravans but this is something I could build a similar attempt at. So me and my family could go on camping trips and camp at various races!!

[@luisgallo5518]

I love collaborations.

[@matthewjohnston1017]

Awesome! Not sure why you didn’t use some kind of real tile for the backsplash. For that little of area could have easily found a single box of discontinued product for next to nothing. Still looks killer though!!!

[@joyfaithlove]

I don't often watch videos like this. But this is absolutely incredible! I appreciate the detail and although I don't have the capacity or the equipment, you earned a sub from me. I may just reach out to get some help for my van!

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks!

[@reviewsbynorm6730]

I love how you created this space and I never wanted to design a small mobile living space and this looks amazing!

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks Norman!

[@1bsbsbsbs]

Excellent craftsmanship.

[@shandrahaggerty5305]

i feel so educated after this video

[@ASCarvings]

Great job guys. Can’t believe this is a van

[@jewdd1989]

I’m so happy you took on Laura’s backsplash!!! To die for and so are your cabinets :) thanks

[@forgottenknowledge8917]

I like the old Kombi hand pump

[@Gonxu90]

It looks amazingly good! Good work!!

[@enbybus3840]

I've watched this video so many times and I'm so grateful. I feel like no where else could I find this info Thank you thank you thank you

[@LoyaltyNECO]

As a Lowes manager, I love the Lowes shout out as well as the Gatehouse packaging in one of the shots 😝👍🏼

[@sparks701]

Great work. Alex is lucky to have a friend so skilled.

[@nicklatino7157]

Wow, it looks so awesome! And super appealing to the eye. It's supper awesome! But I was thinking, aren't back splashes made out of tile not good, because bacteria can grow in between the tiles? If there's ever a next time, maybe you should make a solid steel backsplash? I imagine it would be easier to clean. If I were doing a van build, I would cut the back lip of the sink off, and push it all the way up against the wall. So, the back splash kind of flows into the sink. Either way, I think the project is amazing, and came out super good!

[@debybrooke157]

Great collaboration - and So creative!!

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks mama!

[@tumbleweed1976]

Really appreciate your honesty with what works and what doesn’t. Great teamwork gentlemen. -Dan, Van Life San Diego

[@fearless144]

Keep making more videos and projects like this, it's really helpful and a lots of fun and gives us a lot of ideas and inspiration of our own 💯❤️🙏💪.

[@lenn675]

That kitchen is freaking awesome. JOHNNY you did an amazing job and I love how detailed and informative you were throughout the build. Alex I noticed you have that stove close to your bed, plz if you don't already have one get a mini fire extinguisher and an exhaust vent.

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks a lot! And yup, Alex has a fire extinguisher and fan above the bed, good to go.

[@ethanslifka3904]

God job guys! Its coming together!

[@MrSharkphoto]

Alex, you should be stoked to know Johnny. Killer retro fit of the sink, and the wood tiles are money!! Nice work

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks!

[@noukhollands]

i loved the video from alex's van from a year ago its cool to see how you upgraded it with these super nice little things

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks!

[@YouTubehndl]

Excellent work! You sir need an oscillating tool. A lot those cuts would have been sooooo much easier with one of those. Great job making it happen with what you had on hand though

[@alejandroburaga5707]

You nailed it guys tumbs up

[@maz_mtb3266]

That turned out killer!!

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks!

[@TiiiBiiiMeows]

I can’t wait to build my van 🚐🥰💖

[@ItsOkRelaxMate]

So much better. Good work.

[@vanceflight3433]

Awesome!!!! Nobody tells how they do work on their vans or busses other than "I'm gonna put wood on the inside of the wall." Super informative bro. Hoping to start mine soon. Thanks for the info and great job!

[@craftedworkshop]

Glad it was helpful! If you want more details on the whole build, definitely check out the van build playlist. Between all of the videos on our channels, we went into a lot of detail.

[@vanceflight3433]

@@craftedworkshop Cool! Will do.

[@MotoErgoSum]

That foot pump needs a spring so it automatically returns. Great build.

[@stokedriders5184]

Awesome work guys , Alexander must be super stoked with your help in realising his vanlife dream 🤘 respect dude

[@christofix]

This is awsome! Nice to see the build man! This is something totaly different! very nice!

[@craftedworkshop]

Thanks a lot, super fun project!

[@johnprice5457]

Johnny, you are a great friend to Alex and Seth.