DIY Feature - Tom Drake
After stumbling upon Wander Tears, Tom and his wife thought about purchasing a custom teardrop. Ultimately, they decided to take on a DIY project and build their own.
Tom started building his own DIY Vaga in San Diego, California.
What made you want to build a tiny camper?
My wife and I were seriously looking at purchasing one but with the long lead time and cost I thought what the heck I'll build my own and save a little money.
What was your experience level with the skills required to build a camper (wood working, electrical, metal work, etc.) when you started?
I think the old cliché "Jack of all trades master of none" would best describe my skill level. I have done some woodworking and have a good understanding of 12v wiring, I have no metalworking skills so I had a friend build my frame.
What was the first step in your build?
Stumbling across WT and purchasing their plans.
What was your favorite part of the build?
Wiring and seeing the aluminum go on.
What was the most difficult part of the build?
I’m not sure yet, I have yet to build the hatch and galley drawers. I'm pretty sure they are going to be the most difficult for me.
How long did it take you?
6 months so far.
If you're comfortable sharing, what was the total cost of the build?
I’m coming in right around $13K.
Would you do anything differently?
Nothing comes to mind.
What has been the best part of owning a tiny camper?
Most looking forward to our first trip out to our local desert and enjoying this wonderful trailer.
Any tips for someone that wants to build a tiny camper but doesn’t know where to start?
Get a set of plans or a kit and take it slow. Use the resources on WT's site, Facebook.
How did using Wander Tears DIY plans and having the resources provided affect your build process and time?
I would have not been able to build my teardrop without them.
“Daring to plunge into the unknown may very well land you in paradise.” ”
Looking to build a DIY Teardrop Trailer of your own? Check out our detailed DIY plans to get started now and adventuring sooner!