Happy Camper: Dad Builds Toddler a VW Bus Bed

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Happy Camper: Dad Builds Toddler a VW Bus Bed

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For his daughter’s third birthday “DIYDad” decided to build her a bed in the shape of a VW bus, based loosely on the classic “type 2” model. (If you’re wondering, the birthday girl was not made to sleep outside, as the image above might imply; rather, the bus was used for kids to play in during her party.)

The idea, DIYDad explains on his website, was born out of the fact his now 6-year-old had outgrown her crib — and that he had scored an assortment of free VW Beetle parts via Craigslist. For the sake of frugality, the “bus” was constructed around a metal frame bunk bed, also from Craigslist. And given the chance that the three-year-old in question wouldn’t like this type of bed, the possibility of making it into something else in the future was an added benefit.

Besides a great paint job — and a kid-sized hammock hung inside — I thought the curved front “bumper box” was a nice touch. Many screws allow a thin piece of plywood to be bent around into a curved surface. It looks good, and this technique will be something I’ll have to keep in the back of my mind for future builds!

Additional photos of the build can be seen here.

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Jeremy is an engineer with 10 years experience at his full-time profession, and has a BSME from Clemson University. Outside of work he’s an avid maker and experimenter, building anything that comes into his mind!

View more articles by Jeremy S Cook

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