How to Measure Your Van for Wall Panels - Featherbuilt

How to Measure Your Van for Wall Panels

📏 How to Measure Your Van for Wall Panels

Because “close enough” rarely fits the first time.

Ever try to eyeball a panel cut and end up with a piece that’s “just a hair off”—then spend your Saturday shaving, trimming, and convincing yourself it’s good enough? You’re not alone. But with a handful of tools and a few solid tips, you can get wall panels measured right—first try.

This guide keeps it simple. No builder’s license required. No math olympics. Just a tape, a notepad, and your favorite playlist in the background.

What You Actually Need

  • Tape measure (the longer, the better)

  • Level (old-school bubble or your phone)

  • Notepad (paper or digital, up to you)

  • Pencil or marker

  • Blue painter’s tape (optional, but makes life easier)

The Quick Steps

1. Start at the Bottom

Work from the floor up. Vans aren’t perfectly square—measuring at the bottom, middle, and top will save you from surprise gaps. Note all three numbers.

2. Find the Studs and Curves

No two vans are the same, and the walls love to curve. Mark out where you’ll need to cut for ribs, windows, or funky angles. Use painter’s tape to outline any tricky spots—it’s easier than guessing.

3. Record Everything, Twice

Measure each section twice and write it down. Don’t trust your memory (no one’s is that good after a long day).

4. Don’t Forget Openings

Measure around windows, outlets, and any planned cutouts. Jot down width, height, and how far they sit from the nearest edge. (You’ll thank yourself later.)

5. Test with Cardboard

Before you touch that beautiful birch ply or composite, grab some cardboard and test your template. It’s fast, cheap, and it’ll keep your actual panels safe from first-try oopsies.

6. Level Up

Even if your van looks flat, the ground might not be. Use your level to check your measurements before you cut. It’s a one-minute job that saves hours of regret.

Why Bother Getting It Right?

A panel that fits right saves time, sanity, and money. You’ll get tighter joints, less draft, and a build that feels pro—even if you’re learning as you go. Plus, you won’t have to live with that one weird gap staring at you every morning.

Pro Tips (from Folks Who’ve Learned the Hard Way)

  • Always err a bit long—easier to trim than to add.

  • Mark left/right and top/bottom as you go so you don’t flip your panels.

  • If your van’s old or well-loved, double-check both sides. Symmetry is a myth.

TL;DR: Measure Well, Build Once

Getting your wall panels right doesn’t take magic—just a little patience and a solid plan. Grab your tape, take your time, and double-check before you cut. Your future self (and your panels) will thank you.

Ready for the next step?
Check out our full guide or shop Featherbuilt’s panel kits—sized and ready for real-life vans.

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