This retro-esque “Rocket Camper” is one of a kind and is absolutely out of this world. Brilliantly handcrafted by instructables.com user longwinters, this fine piece of machinery is built almost entirely of wood.
(All photos via: longwinters)
The base trailer looks to be a small boat trailer, retrofitted with a propane tank and some tie downs to hold the rocket ship camping module in place. In its finished condition, the propane hoses and position on the trailer make this rocket camper appear like its ready for a camping mission to the stars.
Plywood rib framing forms the skeleton of the camper.
Thin strips of wood provide a base for the skin.
Cutting out the kitchen window! The curved framing is similar to the construction of a boat, or canoe.
The exterior “skin” is paper mache, with glass fiber matts and filler for a top coat. The inside is paneled in custom cut Luan plywood panel pieces.
For windows, a front “windshield” which serves as a kitchen sink window, and six round portholes that captain Nemo would be proud of provide natural light. The portholes also “tilt” to open and allow fresh air, when the climate control is not in use.
The kitchen sink is a work of art, combining tile work, laminate and copper trim. The cooking area sits in the nose of the camper and in addition to the copper edge banding, features a gorgeous wood marquetry backsplash in a diamond “harlequin” pattern.
Builder Bill Guernsey
Bill Guernsey was recovering from surgery and could not “work”. So for two years, this became his job – six hours a day, six days a week. He says building the unique camper is what gave him the patience to add the detail that makes the “Atomic Camper” the masterpiece it is.
All surfaces except the floor – both inside and out – are curved.
Over the course of the two years, Guernsey spent over $15,000 to see his vision come to life. Much of it he picked up from the Habitat for Humanity “Re-store” where recycled and overstocked building materials are sold to raise money for the organization.
The camper’s entrance
How awesome is this camper? So cool!
