Step By Step Process of Building A Van | DIY Ford Transit Camper Conversion

[@BarbaraJoanJohnson]

Shannon, I have watched a lot of van builds but they are so complicated and cost a lot of money. Your video is great. I am 67 and just want a simple build to keep me warm and make life comfortable. Thanks!

[@sjoerdbalfoort7170]

I've seen a lot of video's how to build your own Van into a camper. Being 67 years old and finally enjoying my pension, I bought a Transit from 2005. I hope to start building next week cos all the stuff or most of it I already bought. Your video really helped, thank you for that. I want to keep you informed if possible but not sure how. Anyway lots of succes and fun in your own mobile home.

[@ShannonLawford]

good luck with your build!

[@samscott7532]

How you getting on?

[@sjoerdbalfoort7170]

​@@samscott7532hi everybody... going slow but steady. Lots of stuff going on in the private sector, that slowed me down. Roofhatch mounted and in one go watertight. Kitchenwindow has two safetymarkings on the window so yes..... first time upside down. Now finally watertight after doing it all again but this time right

[@HelluGoes]

@@sjoerdbalfoort7170 keep at and enjoy the process, good job!

[@Poeticfloetic]

*videos

[@Smickster01]

ok, thanks Shannon, this video is more valuable to us than all the professional builds combined. well done on the transit. its perfect. what youve done here is the best start video for transit camper. im sure each of us will use some or all of your ideas and keep it simple and functional. everyone will make their own tweaks to suit their needs but again, a brilliant starter video. love your work

[@Joe-uv9jo]

It's my dream to do this and travel. I always overhype it but I love seeing everyday people just doing it, you're right there is no need to overcomplicate it.

[@SturleyArt]

Thanks for taking the time to shoot and narrate this. Great to see your process and learn a bit more.

[@keyplayer5]

Wow. Absolutely love what you did! Makes me want to do it even more than I already did.

[@Britec09]

Well done Shannon. Turn out great..

[@samsonsilverhand5159]

Really appreciate you taking the time to talk through your build. I watch loads of videos for ideas for my own rig, and see plenty of nice looking stuff, but no explanation of how to get the end result. This video was super helpful, thanks for sharing!

[@Jack-hv3uj]

Brilliant video... Always great to see someone explaining each step in as much detail as they can!!! (I have no building experience but can imagine doing it yourself feels better than paying someone else to do it!)

[@mysweetdiy1]

OMG I really enjoyed this video! You made the build look so easy which I love! I am always watching all these van build videos and I get so discouraged of how complicated they look. Thank you!

[@Normanskie]

I learnt a long time ago, despite not doing much 'Destroy-It-Yourself', it is well worth investing in a second drill just for needing a drill and a screw-diver at the same time.

[@hanginlaundry360]

HUGE time-saver!!!!!

[@envsurf]

I really enjoyed this video. Great start to finish and commentary. Great budget friendly build. I'm going to start Van hunting!

[@MichaelThomas-ul4cj]

Speaking as a professional carpenter myself, and considering you said you had no experience of carpentry before this, hats off to you! That was a great video to watch, the units you built turned out brilliant, my personal preference for the drawer fronts though, would not be what you used. I would've used solid ply or timber to make the drawers, but hey i wasn't the one building them lol. Shame you didn't include any of the electrics though, maybe for another video??

[@ephemerio]

Hopefully my journey will go half as smooth as this when I build my van

[@mattbowtell1250]

For all those watching this. If you don't want to have to repete this entire process I'd MASSIVELY suggest a vapor barrier on top of the insulation if not the condensation will rot all your carpet timber etc etc

[@robertbalkovec4087]

What do you suggest?

[@Greenfingers101xo]

A vapor barrier.....

[@rgruenhaus]

​@THEREALnicastle how?

[@maxbobbigames]

Or... Hear me out cause it may be considered an hot take by some : Cut a hole and put a ceiling aeration fan like every normal person

[@DebbiePotter-xh7kv]

What about that paint for a truck bed? I saw someone do that on the ceiling of the van and left it like that. He said he never got any condensation. I would try it. Prob cheaper

[@petecarrollmusic]

Well done Shannon, good on you for just going for it - looks excellent and you've shown how easy it can be, a lot of builds are complex, but it all just depends on your needs etc. Hope to have my own soon. One thing I would say is, if there was any rust on the floor, you mentioned you painted over it ? if yu can't lift floor again, I would look underneath and maybe paint/spray those areas with a rust preventing paint/barrier,rust can grow quickly. Otherwise, brilliant, happy and safe van life. All the best from Scotland.

[@janetkoball44]

What a great build. Wonderful detail. I'm very glad I was able to watch this . Thanks from Central Oklahoma.

[@highlightoftheday7058]

Very nice build. I loved your ceiling with the gaps between the lengths of wood. Not seen that on other builds. Well done.

[@NOKK72]

You did an amazing job. Something to be proud of.

[@MichaelHayward-b1l]

Amazing build I’m in the planning phase not even got a van yet but can’t wait to get going soon well done fantastic build that you have done

[@NoName-ds5uq]

I love the explanation Shannon, thank you! I intend to do something like this in the next 12 months, and people like you are an inspiration.

[@paulcridland5230]

I think you did an absolutely amazing job for someone with no experience or training! I cannot even put a shelf up without it being on the wonk! That said i am still wanting to do a van build and get out the rat race. Kudos to you!

[@joanies6778]

Thanks for sharing your process. Great job for a first time build. The main thing I would do differently is remove one of the front passenger seats and leave an opening so if I ever have to leave a site in a hurry, I won't have to go outside to get into the driver seat. A young person like yourself could potentially crawl over the cabinet, but it's not practical for so.eone my age. You could always have a roll away cabinet to fill that space for the interim. Anyway, I love the colors and the ceiling, especially. The finished job looks amazing. Great job!

[@derekrichardson9035]

Cool , very well done. I'm converting my van into a fishing van for me and my son to go on adventure with . Its on ly a small ish van but I'm sure I will make it cosy .

[@stephenasbridge878]

Terrific and very professional looking work.

[@MillerTheOfficialGaming]

Thank you for show how time consuming this is. When I started I only had do much time before my lease ended with so much extra stuff to get rid of.

[@jcfra420]

With the floor, you need some kind of sub flooring, even if it is 1/4 inch particle board or plywood. Something. Eventually, you flooring will buckle from the stress. Also, I would recommend staggering your seams in the roof, though it was a cool idea with the black carpet and the stained wood.

[@ShannonLawford]

There is plywood under the laminate

[@scottsimpkins9993]

You done a really good job at to say you did 95% your self … you gave me a few ideas for mine … hope you enjoy your new adventure

[@MissJnet]

Awesome job! I’m just dreaming about maybe trying this one day.

[@stevefilby2838]

Love how your van interior looks, great job. Hope your still enjoying it.

[@lindac446]

First .. LOVE the spacing on the ceiling wood! Brilliant.

[@NaCreagachaDubha]

That's really amazing and your first attempt! Brilliant. Well done & thanks for the video!

[@cjgettinout7030]

Well done Shannon, some builds you see are so complicated, especially the electrics. I noticed you had a Bluetti power bank, I'm planning the same, sooo much easier.

[@robertgenelli8685]

I’m just about to start my conversation and you have given me so much confidence in doing so . I have a basic knowledge of woodworking and most of the tools needed to do the job . I’m amazed at the level you finished the van , well done , regards , Robert .

[@adriangarahy]

Bravo , young lady . Fair play to you ! All the best from Geneva.

[@Obsidian456]

You're a very fast worker, an inspiration to us all 😁

[@alexandrawalsh333]

You’re amazing!! Thank you so much for filming everything it looks bloody awesome 🎉🎉🎉

[@dfxdfx5368]

It's incredible how fast you can move!

[@Louquillis]

This was an excellent video. I’m going to get one next year when I move back to the uk and give it a crack and these videos are great for someone like me. Cheers

[@EdithWeston]

well done, looks fantastic!

[@someoneelse7629]

You are a much better van-builder then I am, and I got plenty of tips from this video, but maybe the best tuo is to just start building and learn as you go, like you did

[@richardcwmason4492]

This is amazing , you should be very proud - good luck on your adventures, 👍👏

[@mystikel6267]

You are awesome ! I feel inspired to start my own instead of buying one that someone else has done :)

[@alimunns]

You did a good job. Amazing what we can do if we set our minds to it. Im about to have ago myself. Thanks for your advice and words of encouragement. Great video and your van look so cool. I'd happily call that home. All the best and keep doing what your doing.

[@nathanwebster1759]

Great build, using KISS methodology. Well done. 👍

[@tammylouisedrayton5285]

I really enjoyed this video, you made it look so simple...well done you xx

[@brendanhoffmann8402]

I'm looking forward to starting work on my van. It's going to be a learning experience. I have no carpentry skills but hope to figure it out.

[@StarCaledonia]

I really like your layout with the exception I’d probably have a section cutout to get into the cab so I wouldn’t need to get out.

[@ShannonLawford]

@@StarCaledonia I climb over the worktop all the time, I mean I guess that depends on flexibility but works for me 😂

[@StarCaledonia]

@ LOL, I think I’m a bit too long in the tooth for that, but I am glad you have a safety exit 😁

[@r5gtturbo197]

That was really good and looked very nice finished , my conversion journey starts tomorrow , hope i do it as well as you 👍🏻

[@tomscotland]

So good, lots of hard work paid off.

[@martinedwardfleet]

Looks good and well built for limited experience

[@yvonnealexander6075]

Great video. I loved your voice over its refreshing and honest. You are right about not over thinking the build. It looks amazing and I hope you have a great time in the van. Have you named the van. Lol

[@ShannonLawford]

Thankyou! He’s called Clifford, the big red van 😊

[@stumpgrinder13]

Hello from Commiefornia (California USA), I think you did a great job and it looks great. Good for you 👍 👏

[@MarkThirt33n]

Glad this popped up in my feed, so rad!

[@paddybrowne5742]

Hi Shannon excellent job you should be proud of your van project Fantastic work. I have two old transits you have me put thinking to do something with them well done ,Patrick j

[@inquisitive1911]

Great job!! Well done!! Much Love from Scotland, ❤ X ...

[@46number1]

Really enjoyed watching your video, planning on a camper van build for the Isle of Man TT 25… this is the most informative video I’ve personally seen on KZbin, thanks for the advice and your time and effort are both greatly appreciated in creating an excellent, very informative watch on how to reach my camper dream with the least amount of stress, kind regards….take care , David ✌🏻

[@myname-ie3ke]

Hats off to you. You really make it your own

[@MistReated-c6p]

This was an amazing video Thank you Going to start my journey by fall I really love all the detail you put into everything Take care and thanks again 💕

[@craigward6052]

Yours is the best video I've seen so far, I've been watching so many and they're all complecated and off putting, so I agree with you, keep it simple, you did a great job, all I need now is a van. Subscribed. 😁

[@MeiraArtCreations]

So nice to watch! Very instructive. Thank you!

[@dawnroder5101]

You have done amazing, I want to do the same but I get worried that I'll mess it up. Thank you for putting this up as it give me a little bit of confidence that I can do it lol xxx

[@ThomasDomizi]

We enjoyed your build.. Cheers Thomas & Cathey

[@ShannonLawford]

I’m glad you enjoyed it 😊

[@tamukachikanyairo9792]

Good Job Shannon..... Would you mind sharing how you did the electricals and whats your plan on a toilet

[@josegomes4706]

Brilliant looks amazing well done

[@NarrowboatLiberty]

Well done Shannon - it looks fab. We've just bought a similar vehicle but with a h high roof and your video is truly an inspiration!!! ❤❤❤

[@Anyoneelsei]

You did an excellent job

[@elloitsmelucy]

Yey I just decided to start my van today so this is great timing thankyou!

[@ShannonLawford]

Woo have fun! If you have any questions let me know 😁

[@elloitsmelucy]

What is the name for the sound deadening and insulation? So I know to get the right stuff. I'm going to follow your build for reference then hopefully will all go smoothly😅

[@KailasWorlds]

Great job, I want to do this soon, I have saved this video for later to reference.

[@bryan3dguitar]

Would have been nice to see how the dinette setup changed to a bed setup. Does the Lagoon table fold down to create the bed's middle area? Or is it removed altogether and some other box is placed there instead? And what about a toilet instead of storage?

[@kleitosaliagas5668]

Amazing job! Can I ask about more details on the van and how much you paid for it? Thanks 😊.

[@JordanCharters]

Appreciate the video, good job. One suggestion: when you're doing things like painting the van at the start of the video, list or explain what paint. Was it a special type at all etc? Connecting the batterns to the van before putting the flooring, did you glue or screw in. If glue, what glue, etc. Thanks

[@RoCk-On-FoReVeR]

See I'd find the painting the most tedious part lol really good conversation I liked it because it wasn't over completed 😂😂

[@Jillslater2024]

So brilliant that the fire is finished well done. Have a great Christmas see you soon.🎅🧑‍🎄🤩❤️😻

[@Vlad-bu3mr]

Really good build, this is what we can do..its not an Instagram I million pound van and I prefer it :)

[@silverkijh]

You've done an amazing job! Way to go! 🎉🎉🎉

[@davidbieloh1382]

I would like to see more how you planned the wiring and power

[@baswymiatacz]

Wow nice job, you are pretty good handyman

[@nemanjagradinac5419]

Brilliant build, really well done 👍 made it look easy

[@gnarlybadger690]

Enjoyed watching your van build

[@WagnerGimenes]

Very well done. Hardly any tools as well. Looking forward to future expeditions 😇

[@TheAdventuresofPeteNoR]

Lovely job! Well played!

[@adeh503]

Nice one Shannon looks really nice 👍the only thing i would have done different to you is on the ceiling, i would have staggered the joins. I like your design for the ceiling, seen a lot of van builds on here and that is quiet unique 👌👌

[@Senna-xi1gr]

Well done Shannon, top job 👍🏆🇬🇧

[@stevecunningham6537]

Youve totally inspired me, As you say keep it simple. Simple is good for me. 😂

[@sirsancti5504]

My thing is to build a full-independent machine. So the only thing missing would be a bathroom and water/waste management. How is the termic foam working? Great work! Thank you. Cheers!

[@anniewisecarver744]

Beautiful job but don’t you want to be able to get to the driver’s seat from the back in case you need to leave a place?

[@thomaspalmer1938]

ceiling looks mint !

[@ExtremePainGames]

That ceiling ................................................izzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz DOPE.

[@ST3G0NZ0]

this is very brilliant and ispirational, thank you so much for sharing your experience.. i saw no electrics elements, how do you charge the fridge and the lights? it's only from the 12v of the van?

[@australianwoman9696]

And now you have a $15,000 van ! Congratulations it looks lovely. 💙🎉

[@ShannonLawford]

Yes! Thank you!

[@joanies6778]

Ummm... it would sell for much more than $15K in my part of the world. 😉

[@russelblackwell6041]

great job i though you might put an extra rib in the floor before laying the flooring for less flexing

[@aaronshaw2577]

Your floor runs parallel with the supports underneath adding some perpendicular could eliminate the bounce

[@setapart3452]

Speechless and Impressive.

[@felicitaswerthmann4400]

How long did it take? And what was your budget?

[@flemingo7687]

Pure effort-njoy ur travels! 👌🚚💯

[@jaymax4579]

Love the video I’m using it to convert my Ford Transit. I was wondering what was the brand of insulation roll with sticky back used on the walls and floor before the laminate? Many thanks 😊

[@TinaWilliams-jl7sf]

Well done van build❤

[@thealchemist8877]

Thank you for explaining what you are doing...

[@KazzAvalonCharleston]

I loved watching this! Very real and easy to follow! Well done! 🔨🚐

[@Gdad-20]

Great job, well done 👍