Embarking on a Skoolie conversion project is an exciting journey of transformation, creativity, and a whole lot of DIY. Today, I’m thrilled to share a snippet from our journey, focusing on an often-overlooked aspect of bus builds: trim work and detailing. This piece aims to inspire and guide fellow enthusiasts looking to add a touch of home to their short bus or Skoolie conversion.
The Challenge: Trimming the Steps
Our adventure in trim work began with a common issue many face during DIY projects: missing pieces. Originally, we had all the trims for the stairs in our bus, but one piece went missing. Instead of letting this hiccup stall our progress, we decided to innovate. We repurposed an existing piece, adapting it to fit where we needed it most. This not only solved our problem but also added a unique touch to our Skoolie.
The Solution: DIY and Repurposing
The process involved cutting and fabricating the existing trim to fit the new space. This task required precision and a bit of creativity, especially when compensating for earlier mistakes. I had to cut a small piece off and then reattach it with super glue. It wasn’t the neatest job, but it got the trim in place on the bus steps, which was a significant milestone for us.
For the top portion of the steps, leading into the living quarters, we decided on using regular wood trim to create a seamless transition. This choice allowed us to maintain the bus’s original aesthetic while giving it a homely feel.
The Home Depot Run: Finding the Perfect Match
In pursuit of the perfect trim to complete our project, we headed to Home Depot and found an eight-foot piece for about fourteen dollars. Our goal was to install this new trim without any cuts, ensuring it fit snugly against the existing structure. After some trial and error, and creating a makeshift template, we managed to achieve a close enough fit.
The Final Touch: Floor Trim Installation
Despite the challenges and the learning curve, the floor trim installation was a success. We even recycled the old screws to save money and maintain a piece of the bus’s history. The result was a beautiful trim that complemented the flooring, striking the perfect balance between the bus’s original charm and our vision for a cozy, inviting space.
A Family Affair: Collaborative Efforts Bring Warmth
The transformation wasn’t just a solo effort. My mom played a pivotal role, lending her skills and enthusiasm to the project. Her contribution not only accelerated the process but also added a layer of warmth and love to our Skoolie. The newly installed trim, a blend of Home Depot finds and the original bus trim, was a testament to our collective vision and hard work.
Looking Ahead: Curtains, Countertops, and More
With the trim in place, our focus shifts to the next stages of our Skoolie conversion. Curtains, both temporary and permanent, are on the agenda, aiming to enhance privacy and add a soft touch to the bus’s interior. We’re also eagerly anticipating the installation of the fridge and countertops, which will mark significant milestones in our journey.
Conclusion: A Labor of Love
This Skoolie conversion project is more than just a DIY endeavor; it’s a labor of love, a canvas for our creativity, and a testament to the power of perseverance and family collaboration. The journey of transforming a short bus into a cozy, personalized space is filled with challenges, learning opportunities, and moments of triumph. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a curious newcomer, we hope our story inspires you to embark on your own Skoolie adventure, embracing the quirks and joys of DIY along the way.
Hello, welcome to our channel! We are Lee's Living Out of The Norm. The lifestyle that we seek doesn't quite fit the norm. We are developing a complete off the grid homestead in Arizona desert and currently helping to build our daughter's Skoolie. Both projects are progressing very slow, but we are enjoying documenting our journey. Please come along! #busbuild #skoolie #goodenough