My top 10 vintage caravan styling tips

Taking on a vintage caravan project is fun and rewarding, here are my top tips for getting the best out of your baby:

1.Enjoy yourself. Decorating can be fun! Doing up your caravan gives you the opportunity to do something different from what you would do at home.

2. Assess carefully before you rip anything out. In my caravan the original 70s orange/brown plaid heavy weave upholstery fabric isn’t exactly up my street but started a train of thought for a grooved up 70s retro look. Similarly, if yours is a gorgeous old Carlight, aim to restore rather than replace, and get advice where necessary from professional restorers.

3. Fix things first. Give the caravan a serious clean, repair any leaks and carry out any interior and exterior repairs. Then, take time to track down any missing bits and bobs such as hub caps, indicator light covers, etc. This will give you a good canvas to base your styling on.

4. Use your imagination. As much as vintage florals & bunting are in fashion there is a world beyond!

5. Find an inspirational item to start with. For me it was the upholstery, but an unexpected item like a chandelier or a picture can inspire a look.

6. You don’t have to follow the crowd. The 1950s are currently a cool vintage style, but that isn’t the only one. Follow what you like.

7. Pay attention to flooring. Unless your caravan is just a ‘showhouse’, you’ll want flooring that will withstand regular use. Flooring must be easy to clean, and to use this as a strong design feature usually pays off (see the black and white checked flooring in Diddy in ‘my cool caravan’, pictured above).

8. Add in an iPod or radio. Idle days, rainy evenings, relaxed breakfasts… you’ll have more time than usual to listen to things

9. Add some books. That literary classic or modern blockbuster that you have been meaning to read, short stories and quiz books all have a place on those lazy days, too.

10. Make yourself a simple sunshade. Something that’s quick & easy to put up means that you can enjoy seeing your retro caravan, rather than covering it up with an overpowering full on awning. It also means you can get those nice stripy vintage camping chairs & table after all!

Jane’s new book My Cool Shed is now available! Order your copy from Amazon now.