VAN TOUR | DIY Sprinter Van Conversion 144" WB

Hi everyone, welcome to our first home on wheels! We recently sold this van, and filmed the impromptu van tour for a potential buyer while we were sheltered-in-place during the pandemic. We've never filmed anything like this before, so please excuse the amateur iPhone filming + background noise. The van is now sold, but we're happy to answer any questions you have about our build.
xx Matt + Natalie

[@aryansunil24]

The wallpaper just adds so much life to the interior. Great job!

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!

[@rhondacook4302]

I agree. Pop of color!

[@cristyclark5933]

@@nataliewages8717 What was the backing for the wallpaper? Smooth cabinet grade plywood? Love the walk paper look!

[@MsGnat83]

@@cristyclark5933 Yeah we used 1/4" maple plywood and painted it to give it some grab.

[@nathaliamendes4794]

At last I've found a van convertion that the kitchen is in the back, this is what Im looking for and its in my mind in my build soon. Thanks Natalie...

[@dieselboatman5357]

I know that space is a premium, but so many people design such tight spaces for their electrical equipment. As a former electrician's mate on submarines, I can attest that the shock danger factor increases measurably when the equipment that you need to access is in a really tight space. You have a really nice design/set up, but that equipment under the bench gives me the willies. All the best, and enjoy the road.

[@nataliewages8717]

Haha, appreciate the tip! Matt designs smart transportation systems for a living and has some electrical experience. We unplug the battery when we have to work on the electrical, but agree - in our next build we'll probably give ourselves a little more room to access.

[@ray8328]

Hi Natalie, thanks for showing us your van, it was really interesting to see the kitchen area located at the back and bed/lounge area up front. The design of the extending bed that can also lift up to get access to the storage/services area is really impressive. Well done to you both.

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks Ray! We wanted it to feel more like home than a van, mission accomplished. We can't take credit for the layout though, we took inspiration from lots of lovely vanlifers out there ; )

[@ameliaodell9505]

Truly functional and refined. Amazing! I particularly like the cane on the seating as a texture and am so glad you opened up the water storage so I could see how you created the supporting structure. Finally a van build that doesn’t look like a rustic shabby chic exterior of a home. Wooop woop!

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks Amanda! I was determined it would be both functional and pretty ; )

[@BankruptMonkey]

The ventilated base of the benches looks so pretty and is also probably great for preventing mildew issues

[@tomcorbett7027]

Your's is one of the nicest, most original designs I have seen! It has everything,g necessary without blocking out the open space.

[@jackelynjones]

I like how slick and clean it is. Too much empty storage though. I'd replaced the closet with a shower room and nature's head toilet.

[@SBrady-sj4ts]

I love the idea of wallpaper instead of the usual wood or stick on tile walls that most vans have. Very pretty

[@clemmycat]

Love the bed setup and easy breezy then an amazing sofa space. Wallpaper is great!

[@lasharonbrown9454]

This van conversion is elegantly functional. Pegboard as a venting option; and the window over the sink, Love it!

[@popette13]

Thanks for using that wallpaper - I'm planning on using palm leaves on the walls and clouds on the ceiling so it was a great visual to actually see it in an actual van and it looks amazing!!!

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you, good luck!!

[@geraldinewillis5926]

That looks like the best looking fold out bed I’ve seen yet, lovely van 👍

[@MsGnat83]

Thanks Geraldine!

[@Trang-xq9fn]

Glad to see the wallpaper because I want to use wallpaper instead wall panels.

[@margmcgill1645]

Great looking van build. I especially like the wall covering. Love the giant pattern. Happy and safe travels to you and your hubby.

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you, Marg! xx

[@robbilusher254]

I hope we get to see your next van redo as this one is the best I’ve seen also.

[@nataliewages8717]

Aw thanks Robbi, absolutely!

[@saidaswift9531]

This is beautiful. Compact and perfect for one or two.

[@jessicac8986]

I love the extra storage space. Clever build! ❤️

[@AlexRochette]

Wow. This is an AMAZING build! This seems beyond the skills regular Jane & Joe might possess: are you guys working in design, architecture, or theater? So many simple yet great ideas like the two-material custom mattress or the bungee cord lining.

[@nataliewages8717]

Oh man, thanks for the kind words XO! Nope...husband is an engineer, so everything in life is researched + measured with excruciating detail lol. He's had a little bit of experience working with wood and metal, and that probably helped through the build process. He's also one of those people who is annoyingly good at just about whatever he tries. I just like design, and occasionally, when we put our heads together, we're able to make some magic ; )

[@SatumainenOlento]

@@nataliewages8717 Magic is right! ✨👍😁

[@DonaldMayne]

Fantastic set up , well done love the modular lounge , convert to be best ifea ever , and the ratten looks really nice n casual great job all the very best to you both

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!

[@kaylaanne5725]

Love the wallpaper!

[@teresa0923]

Kayla Anne it looks so real

[@andreasa8486]

I really like how the bed/sitting area is located at the front of the van. Very few vans do this and I think is so much better and makes the van feel more 'roomy'.

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks! That was the goal, it feels super spacious. Only drawback is having to make and unmake your bed on a lazy day.

[@andreasa8486]

Natalie Wages yea but that is the case for all non permanent bed designs.

[@peakyparttimers9362]

Love this van build, and the wallpaper is a brilliant idea better than just having a boring wall! All best Guys. Just subscribed looking forward to your videos 😊😊👍

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!!

[@valerieann2751]

This is the first van I have seen that I would not change a thing ! It’s perfect. Really really nice. Too bad it sold to someone else.

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks Valerie!!

[@SatumainenOlento]

Yes!!! I would be very happy to live in this van! And I did not need to change anything!!! Quite amazing!!!

[@walk2miles]

Love the wallpaper the the trim around the bed/couch!

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks Grace!

[@diy_dirtbag]

So fun. The van life is awesome! We definitely enjoy it!

[@carolynadams1249]

Fantastic build, I love everything about it. I also love the colours you chose, very clean lines.

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you so much!

[@zoeyal8041]

Awesome van! Has someone ever told you that you look like Princess Kate? So pretty 😍

[@nataliewages8717]

You're so kind

[@henryharrison3988]

Nice setup. Look forward to more videos

[@tigerbyte0]

Great walk thru!… do like the rear kitchen front lounge/bed for a change!

[@rebeccabullock1960]

Best conversion I have ever seen

[@nataliewages8717]

Shucks, thanks Rebecca...best comment on this thread! xx

[@mohammedomrani5846]

really good job and simple interaction for home van , thank you and God bless you

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!

[@jhglake]

Very nice, clean, and economic. Thanks

[@jacquelinelu8900]

Love the closet, and the van

[@jonnies6655]

Love the wall paper and plenty of storage.

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks John!

[@scotch340]

Great video - no annoying music in the background. 👍

[@Gorgeousmepinay]

I love watching van life/couples and happy to watch your van tour. You have a Nice van design as well. Looking forward for more of your travel adventure films. Good luck to your journey 🤗

[@nataliewages8717]

Aw thanks Bethy!

[@MultiRabe]

Wow, awesome interior layout...excellent job 👍🏼👍🏼

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!!

[@mikemanjo2458]

Beautiful van! Great job!

[@Thelifestyleofmarie]

Just came for that wallpaper 😍😍😍😍

[@macyjoym]

One of my favorite vans/layouts I’ve seen in a while. Gave me so many ideas!

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you, glad we could help! ; )

[@salvaseville719]

Love the bed system and design is awesome Nice job guys :)

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks Salva!

[@sallygalfriday]

well WOW i thought i was looking at Kate MIddleton! The Van is beautiful as well.

[@nataliewages8717]

🥰🥰🥰

[@josegonzalez-di7rf]

GOOD JOB,I LIKE IT!

[@amaropargo8532]

Wow....Beautiful !! I also liked the van 🤪

[@nikkikkin]

Love, love, love this build! Especially the layout and the bed. I read in the comments that you don't have a materials list, but would you be willing to share some tips and tricks for the sectional sofa bed? I'm using your sofa bed as a model for my van build! Thanks so much!

[@nataliewages8717]

Aw thanks, Nikki! Happy to - what questions can we answer for ya?

[@janadawn68]

Very pretty, nice use of space and beautiful kitchen

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you Jana!

[@vuthu8075]

Your decord very nice and professional !

[@yourmyboyblu6307]

Thank You Beautiful you both did a wonderful job on the design and layout. No need to address Haters because as we all know every build is different. Hope to see you on the Road sometime if you get a new Van till than Stay Healthy Live with Love Every Day. Blu

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks Blu, much love!

[@SatumainenOlento]

Ultimate van build!

[@anamariapardonavarro6485]

Muy bonita!! Espacios para guardar.. Elegante.. Me gusto mucho la distribución.. Pero no vi wx y ducha algo importante para nosotros que viajamos meses y no solemos ir a camping para ducharnos. Muy buen gusto gracias por compartir. Bellaaa

[@nataliewages8717]

Muchas gracias! La mayor parte del tiempo nos bañábamos en ríos, sin jabón. A menudo basta con un enjuague rápido. También hay muchas instalaciones donde es posible ducharse, como aguas termales, etc. Al pasar por ciudades en viajes largos, ocasionalmente nos dimos el capricho de un hotel y una ducha por la noche. ¡Gracias por las amables palabras!

[@anamariapardonavarro6485]

@@nataliewages8717 claro!! Me encantas los ríos. Playas. Nacimientos.. Pero invierno el frío mata y una tiene una edad. Lo mejor en jabón y que respeta la naturaleza es el jabón de toda la vida llamado de la abuejja.. Marsella.. En casa lo hago en crema y pastilla totalmente ecológico 100/100 yo misma lo hago. Si pasáis por algún pueblecitos pequeño preguntáis que en muchas casas se hace para ducharte y lavar ropa.. Seguro os lo regalan es magnífico pero... no hace espuma solo limpia. También se llama jabón de Castilla aún comprado es barato un euro como mucho las pastilla y a el ser caseras pesan de 250 a 300 gramos. Besos de luz y feliz vida amores!!

[@sammic974]

Nice layout. Loved the wallpaper and the cosy seating being up front. Makes sense to me to have it there. However, you do lose garage space that way. I think for anyone who doesnt do loads outdoor activities, this layout works well. Sadly the bed would not be long enough for my lanky OH so we'd need a longer van! Three additions for me would be a shower system, drop down table space for food prep, and swivel seat for guests.

[@maggiemay8303]

this was an awesome tour! Thx for givin us a peak :)

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks Maggie!

[@setiabudhysetiawan4391]

your van is really nice and the one who has it is also beautiful 😊👍👍👍

[@curtisrennie5652]

I like your wall paper beautiful addition

[@clemmycat]

Very nice!!!

[@mlmora09]

Beautiful build! Great job guys

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!!

[@lilianaprina5991]

If you two plan to visit Las Vegas, NV is best to add an air conditioner in all Van Conversions. Love your Van is adorable...

[@nataliewages8717]

Good tip, thank you!

[@tonydavis5053]

Top shelf build!

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks Tony!

[@mscampbell1242]

Love the wallpaper for sure! Nice layout, !also

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!

[@coquemue]

Amazing project, beautiful van!!!!

[@finncalenborne3116]

Wow thats such an awesome van😁

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!! It was a labor of love ; )

[@robertwsrwick398]

Nice van love the plantation wall paper .😘

[@seankuzma1827]

Really nice Van thanks 4 sharing

[@oraliaarreola6277]

Hola! Me encanto en la entrada el sofá/cama/comedor , ese tapiz está fenomenal !! 😍. La cocina al ultimo , me parece perfecto , Lo único para mi sería ecencial , una regadera con la taza , ( en privado). en vez de uno de los guarda ropa.

[@ThatGirlDetective]

I would love a list of supplies and items used in the van (affiliate links would be awesome). I'm really inspired by this layout, and think I'll make a few modifications to include a shower/toilet bathroom area but otherwise love the couch/bed layout and the awesome wallpaper :) Thanks for sharing! Just the inspiration I needed lately to have alignment in my mind.

[@jtuckerstone763]

Yep, small step in shower with wrap around curtain.

[@cnnproperty]

👍🏻 keep up the videos rolling nice lady...

[@BuyotBunniesPh]

This is one of the best van conversions that I have watched but I am just a bit confuse why you did not install bathroom for this? I think it will be great if it has a bathroom instead of the closet😊but anyhow I really loved the layout and design..so refreshing to watch❤❤❤My dream van in the future but I will include a small bathroom in it🙂Love lots from🇵🇭

[@nataliewages8717]

Hi Buyot, thanks for the kind words! We weren't living in it full time, and we spent most of our time in the mountains...we were squatting in bushes while camping long before we had the van. Public restrooms are plentiful in cities, and we didn't want to mess with toilet smells in a small space, nor having to dump it. All for it if you need it!

[@NinaWangfacialforlife]

Natalie Wages yes I like your idea.

[@kristigainey7798]

This van is awesome.

[@hankkuya4354]

Awesome

[@Telencephelon]

Very pragmatic built. Very good looking. Very thought out. Except for noise isolation. That''s gonna be a huge thing. But I only realized that now through your vid.

[@nataliewages8717]

Hey thanks. Are you referring to the background noise in the video? We filmed this on the side of the road with our iPhone just to show the van to an interested buyer. If you have a need for higher quality video, better camera equipment should help.

[@Telencephelon]

@@nataliewages8717 Ah okay. Not at all. The video quality was great. I am talking that glass, like the cockpit or the kitchen window, provides the least sound proofing. From experience: Noise is mostly a problem if you are "vanning" and working in the city, and your lazy ass can't be bothered to commute even 300feet to a quieter spot. But I be damned, if that "no commute" part isn't addictive.

[@Octopusmaster]

The wall paper is the same as a headboard in the Golden Girls house

[@cheryljones6194]

Q1: Did you insulate your van during the buildout? If so, did you spray foam, wool or another kind of insulation. Q2: love the floral wallpaper, did you adhere it directly to plywood or a different type of backing material. Ps: I really like how your van turned out and the easy of access to the mechanical components is spot on!

[@nataliewages8717]

Hey Cheryl, thanks for the love! We insulated the walls with the sprinter insulation kit from RB Components. It looks like really thick wool panels, but it's made from recycled water bottles. Here's a link: rbcomponents.com/products/sprinter-van-insulation-kit-144-wb-2007. For the floor we used closed cell mini cell foam strips (not spray) under the stock flooring, and then we laid our vinyl flooring on top. The wallpaper was installed on top of our 1/4" maple plywood wall, which we painted before hanging the wallpaper for added protection against moisture.

[@bianconico6913]

You failed the lagoon table license, you will have to apply again 🤣👍

[@nataliewages8717]

Totes! 😂

[@shirleythomas3416]

I love your van yes i do

[@MrKlawUK]

love the layout and not really seen it done like that before. I guess you could apply similar to a pop top, although can only seat 2 for driving with seatbelts?

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you! It would totally work with a pop top. We had two seatbelts at the sofa, which I think would be fine for taking friends on short trips etc, but it definitely wasn't to code for kids.

[@willg023]

Did anyone else scream OH NOO when you saw water and electricity on top of each other like that.... but other than that great design

[@marianfrances4959]

One o the best i have seen! 😉🇨🇦

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!

[@TrustNotMyHeart]

He had the biggest attitude. Loved the hosting but he seemed super mad he was selling his vehicle. It is beautiful

[@nataliewages8717]

We're all a little cranky sometimes ; )

[@dra.andreaschillingr.9228]

Congrats

[@TheGrandmashand]

Awesome van build! You did an amazing job of explaining every little detail about your your van. I really like the wallpaper. How does it hold up in the van due to the moisture? Thanks for sharing a tour of your home!

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!

[@NICOMEEKER]

wow im in love with this one!!

[@nataliewages8717]

That you!

[@anestholiver]

Like the banana wallpaper background

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!

[@mazavaroo5959]

Awesome design & project ….,particularly the bed ……did not see the shower ? Hopefully your leg is better ….Take care guys….

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks, Maza ; ) We didn't have a shower in this van, but if you wanted one with this layout, you could turn the closet space into a shower. Or install a solar shower on the roof. Happy trails!

[@mazavaroo5959]

@@nataliewages8717 Many Thanks ….I now understand / brilliant idea.

[@KarinWilcox]

Is there a link to the Craigslist post? I was curious how much you were asking

[@Lotuslaful]

Gorgeous!

[@freedomtrailamerica2981]

You look like Princess Kate!

[@janmarks]

Congratulation! I like the extraordinary layout. What size is the bed?

[@teresabueno7916]

Beautiful

[@MrBoandy07]

Really nice done !

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!

[@motivason]

Great job! It does look very nice. Question can you share the link of the table kit?

[@nataliewages8717]

Thanks Jason! Sure thing, here you go: www.lagunusa.com/lagun-table-system-category

[@motivason]

@@nataliewages8717 tks Natalie

[@bereniceperez4952]

Me gusta

[@volkunltd]

Love the sofa

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you!

[@dorianmeyette8560]

Beautiful van. You might want to invest in a wireless mic or film not to obviously close to a highway. It was so hard to hear you at times.

[@nataliewages8717]

Thank you. No need for a mic, only filmed this to sell the van ; ) Found the quietest place we could during shelter-in-place.

[@CampervanTravels-cd4ye]

We’re in the middle of changing the layout of our van. I do love the inserts cane/lattice on the units. What do you call this material? Would love to order some for our van. Like the idea of ventilation.

[@nataliewages8717]

Hey, thanks! We love it too ; ) It's just natural cane webbing, and we bought ours from the Caning Shop in Berkeley, CA. I bet you can buy some online www.caning.com/

[@TheGrandmashand]

I am very excited about making my van build similar to yours. Do your have a video showing how it was put together? I really love ❤️ your van! Thanks for sharing

[@nataliewages8717]

Aw thank you! No we didn't film the build, but there are tons of build videos on KZbin. Eamon & Bec have some of my favorites. Good luck with your build!

[@jtuckerstone763]

@@nataliewages8717 insurance companies are requiring pictures during the process. Once completed its then a RV. Must have kitchen of course. ( GEICO)

[@freedomtrailamerica2981]

Did you find the wallpaper hindered or helped sell it. I love it, but curious.

[@nataliewages8717]

Hey Teri! Hard to say. It's been a crowd favorite both on the road + at our van showings. We didn't speak with anyone who didn't love it, but it's entirely possible it prevented others from reaching out. We built this van for ourselves, so wasn't thinking about resale then.

[@vioricatibu8285]

👌👍

[@RicardoOliveira-pb3ih]

Muito bonita. Tanto a caravana como a menina. Está bem organizada.

[@christophermoon3717]

You explained everything minus the boot on your foot. How were you able to make that happen?