VardoForTwo
“We aren’t building big, we are dreaming big and dreaming innovation.”
Mokihana and Pete have recently finished their beautiful VardoForTwo and are living in the woods of the Olympic Peninsula of Washington with their cat, Jots. Mokihana suffers from multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS), an illness that makes her very sensitive to laundry products, perfumes, household cleaning supplies, pesticides, wood smoke and traditional building and construction materials. She and Pete decided to control their own environment by building a small gypsy caravan, or vardo, to live and travel in.
Photos by VardoForTwo
To combat Mokihana’s MCS, they painted their 12 foot long by 8 foot wide vardo with paint made from milk and have insulated it with recycled denim batting and wool batting. They use a ceramic heater and an air filter inside their tiny home. Their cooking area is outside under an awning.
The couple got a lot of their ideas from the Tumbleweed Tiny House Company and also embrace the same tiny house concept as Jay Shafer. Their blog sums up the concept of creating a house that is both healthier for the homeowner and the enviroment:
“Building VardoForTwo as an MCS safe home involves attention to detail and conscious choices every step along the way. The cost of a simplified and safe home means it takes more time and a willingness on both our sides to be respectful as we learn what works, and what doesn’t. We are building a sustainable lifestyle in a teeny home to be. In so many ways this is contrary to the old American Dream.”
Photos by Mokihana and Pete/VardoForTwo
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Gypsy Wagon Workshop
Gypsy Wagons with Jim Tolpin
Learn the Art and Craft of Building Gypsy Wagons
I want to thank EJ for this great find. I know there are many people here in the states interested in this type of building and I haven’t found anything like this anywhere else. You need to get your name in now as the class is filling up fast. Here are the details:
In this week-long class we will explore how the late 19th century, English-made “Living Wagons” (called “Vardos” by the Gypsies)—were designed, built and used. Then you will discover how modern design and construction techniques can be used to create a wagon that will be enchanting and cozy, yet roadworthy for travel at today’s highway speeds. In the balance of the course you will learn the techniques and practice the hands-on skills that you’ll need to return home and build a Gypsy Caravan for yourself.
Here’s what we’ll be doing:
- Drawing full size patterns for various components such as the end walls and the superstructure supports.
- Designing a suitable chassis frame and running gear.
- Building an endwall for a bow top.
- Making a sample door and window.
- Carving a knee bracket and a length of molding with “butterfly” chamfers.)
- Designing the interior built-in cabinetwork
- Bending hoops with a steam box and setting them to a form.
- Designing electrical and plumbing systems
- Designing the chimney for a wood-burning stove
- Painting and varnishing some sample parts.
- Talking about how to outfit a wagon for the road.
Included in the cost of the course are practice materials, detailed handouts and access to a free online forum where you can ask further questions and solicit advice.
To learn more and get the dates of this coveted class go here.
Photo Credit: Tim Lawson
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