What Can I Make Out of Wood Pallets? [13 Different Ideas]

Wood pallets have been growing in popularity for years. People are getting to the point of calling local department stores hoping to stock the garage and shed full of back up wood-pallets. I can’t say that I blame them. They can make beautiful décor for any home and the possibilities are virtually endless. Whether you want to create the perfect footboard for your bed or get some great hanging wall décor, it’s possible. Some people do however wonder, what can I make out of wood pallets? I was in the same spot as you at one point in time.

So if you’re still asking yourself what can I make out of wood pallets? Here’s a simple answer for you. Anything and everything. You can use wood pallets to create indoor and outdoor furniture including tv stands, coffee tables, and headboards.

The options are so deep that’s hard to sum it all up in a blog post.

We do however forget to double check a few things along the way.  You need to ask yourself a few critical questions double check a few things before you get started.  Let’s break down a few key things to look for when planning to use wood pallets for your next DIY project. Following that, we will get to the meat and potatoes of different projects you can get started today!

Why Should I Use Wood Pallets for DIY Projects?

First and foremost, why should you even consider using wood pallets for your next DIY project? One of the biggest reasons we came up with is the plethora of information available. It’s quick and easy to find guides, tutorials, and videos that can take an average handyman to look like Chip from “Fixer Upper”.

Here are a few other top reasons for considering using wood pallets for your DIY projects.

Wood Pallets Are Cheap and Or Free- Who Doesn’t Want That?

Wood pallets cost next to nothing.  Often, a simple relationship with the truck loaders at a local department store can land you these pallets for free. At least that’s how it uses to be for me.  We used to be able to strike a conversation with the local stocker at the ACE Hardware store and get plenty of pallets basically any day, anytime.

Unfortunately, we weren’t the only people that saw the value in these free soon to be garbage pieces of wood.  It got a little tougher to get them free around our area but it’s still doable.  If you can’t get them for free, chances are you can get them dirt cheap.  I don’t many people who don’t enjoy the ability to complete a home project for “dirt cheap”.

Are Wood Pallets Treated?

Anyone who wants to use wood pallets for outdoor use may run into this question. Are wood pallets treated? Wood pallets are designed to be a one-time use. In most circumstances, they are heat treated instead of being treated with Methyl Bromide Fumigation. Additionally, wood pallets are required to use an IPPC logo.

The IPPC logo will distinguish if the pallet has been treated using heat-treatment or if it has been treated using Methyl Bromide Fumigation. You’re looking for 1 of 3 codes. These are stamped on long-running large board on one the 4 sides of the pallet.  The code will either read “HT” or “MB” or “DB”.  The codes mean the following and make it easy to navigate what you’re dealing with.

HT- The Wood Pallet Has Been Heat Treated and NOT Debarked or Treated with Methyl Bromide

MB- The Wood Pallet Was Not Heat Treated and NOT Debarked- Methyl Bromide Was Used to Treat

DB– The Pallet Was Not Heat Treated NOR was Methyl Bromide Used- The Pallet Was Debarked

 

Why Is Any of This Important Before Beginning My DIY Project?

The IPPC logo stamped on the pallet is important. If the pallet is not stamped with this logo, you will want to avoid using it altogether. It’s 100% possible that using the pallet without the stamp would be perfectly fine but it’s also possible that chemicals have been used to treat the wood.  At this point and with the abundance of pallets available, it’s not worth the risk of using with knowing with 100% certainty.

Why Would the Chemicals Make That Big of a Difference?

In theory, it may not be a huge deal but anytime you have wood with these chemicals inside your home could pose problems in the future. In an article published by Kitay Law, it was stated that some wood pallets have been linked to the following issues.

• Mold and Mold Spores
• Fungi
• Pathogens
• Carcinogens
• Methyl Bromide

You need to ensure that your pallet is stamped in a favorable manner is a quick and easy way to ensure you are good to go before beginning your home DIY project.

Ok, enough with the safety concerns.  Let’s assume you have done your due diligence and we are clear for launch with your pallets and it’s time to get to work. What’s other reasons why you SHOULD use wood pallets around your home and the benefits associated.

Wood Pallets Look Stunning Used in The Correct Application and Setting

This should be the only other reason you need. We have covered how cheap and easy they are to get in large quantities. Outside of that, they can turn into stunning projects or décor for your home.  Some of the most visually stunning projects are completed with limited work and time involved. The options are endless and it’s a trending way to bring your home alive before your house warming party.

Now, let’s dive into some ways to spruce up the home, save some money and create a stunning project out of these hidden gems.

I recently joined a community online with talented DIYers and more specifically DIYers that create some unique and stunning projects out of these wooden pallets.  Check out some of these ideas you can use to get started today.

9 DIY Wooden Pallet Projects to Start Today-

The Headboard and Footboard for Your Bed

Level of Difficulty Involved- 5

Making a headboard and footboard out of wood pallets isn’t necessarily difficult, it just takes some finesse and the right tools. Here’s a look at what will be needed to get started.

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools – Pallets Needed 3-5

The Wooden Pallet Accent Wall

Using wood pallets to create an accent wall and can really make any room pop. The wall you decide to use it on can be almost anywhere. Most commonly you will notice these used in master bedrooms, man-caves and basements and most recently, you are seeing a lot of individuals use wood pallets to create accent walls in nurseries and kitchen backsplashes.

It’s possible to get one of these walls installed in finished in as little as 24 hours. Not only that but if you have the handyman skills, you can make a killing installing these. The pallets can often be found free, the installation is fast and the demand for these pallet walls is growing more by the day.

One project to definitely take the time to learn, complete and to add to any home to give it that extra flare.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 6

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 15-20- More If A Larger Wall

• Table Saw
• Reciprocating Saw
• Pin Nail Gun
• Tape Measurer
• Level
• Drivel
• Wood Screws
• Stud finder
• Nails/ Nail Gun

The Key Holder and Coat Hanger (2 Feet By 3 Feet)

A universal piece to any mudroom or laundry room. We all need somewhere to hang those coats and keys to keep the clutter from other areas of the home. Especially in smaller square foot homes. This is one of the easier projects you can complete using wood pallets and the cost will probably land under 50.00 dollars to complete. You can’t beat that. These are great for laundry room/ mudrooms and entryways. A nice easy spot to store the hassle items in life and keep the rest of your home looking clean and ready for guest.

Other features do not ignore about this project is the built-in book holder, the ability to write down key reminders such as a chore list for that neglected teenager.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 4

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed- 2-4

• Pallet Chalkboard
• Smooth Board/Plywood
• Chalkboard Paint
• Circular Saw
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Power Drill
• Coat Hangers
• Key Holders
• Stud Finder
• Paint Brush

Wooden Pallet Stuffed Animal Bin

This is one of the most unique items I’ve seen lately for DIY wood pallet projects.  It is a unique way for your kids to store and access their stuffed animals and toys. The front “bars” on the front are just made with bungee cords giving you the ability to easily see and access what’s stored away.  Outside of that, it can also be used for other storage items to fit your needs. It’s a simple project that you can knock out quickly for dirt cheap.

This example to the right was actually created from wood pallets gathered for absolutely free and sold for over $200.00.

The possibilities are endless.

Level of Difficulty Involved 3

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 3-5

• 1/2 Inch Steel Bar
• Bungee Cords
• Spray Paint
• Table Saw
• Pry Bar
• Hammer
• Nail Gun
• Electric Sander
• Power Drill
• Wood Stain Finish
• Paint Brush
• Wood Screws
• Nail/ Nail Gun

The Wooden Pallet Coffee Table

Commercially purchased coffee tables can surprisingly get pretty costly and that’s not including purchasing a coffee table with a lot of pop and style. Also, doing your own coffee cannot only save plenty of money but can give your living room that extra unique touch it needs to really stand out.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 2

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 1-3

• Circular Saw/ Table Saw
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Power Drill
• Paint Brush
• Wood Screws
• Nail/Nail Gun

The Wooden Pallet Outdoor Chair

One of the simplest projects on the list. Making a rocking outdoor chair has a few additional steps involved. We have all been to the outdoor stores and know that your total bill can get into the thousands easily for a full set. Knocking out the table and chairs yourself could save a substantial amount of money and make you have the best backyard on the block for the next barbeque.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 4

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 1-3

• Circular Saw
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Power Drill
• Stud Finder
• Paint Brush

The Wooden Pallet Wine Glass Holder

My wife loved this idea for a DIY project out of wood pallets. Also, wine holders not only look fantastic, but they serve a great purpose. They increase overall storage near your basement bar or in your kitchen.  You can create these to the length you choose to hold wine glasses and bottles.

This could also make for the perfect gift to a spouse, family member or friend for an extremely low cost and not much effort involved from start to finish.

These wine holders are easy to create. Taking some small wooden pallets, cutting them in half and adding the board to the bottom is the majority of the work. From there, it’s a simple 1-inch hole cut with a jigsaw and install the slides. Doesn’t get much easier than that.

Another big positive about this project is it can be thrown together with ease. You need minimal skills to complete this to make it look perfect for any home.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 2

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 1-2

• Circular Saw/ Jigsaw
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Power Drill
• Paint Brush
• Hinge for Folding Bottle Holder
• Stud Finder
• Nails/ Nail Gun
• Wood Screws

The Wooden Pallet TV Stand/ Media Center

One of my favorites on the list. I’m a big fan of nice electronics and showcasing them in the best possible light.  Additional, you can size this to meet your needs. If you have a 65-inch tv, create a longer more reinforced stand.

You can also custom make the number of cutouts in the stand for your other electronic storage needs such as soundbars, DVD players, gaming consoles. The options are endless with this project and can save a substantial amount of money while still creating the perfect media center to showcase next Sunday for the football games.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 5

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 3-5

• Circular Saw/ Table Saw/ Reciprocating Saw
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Power Drill
• Custom Pull Knobs
• Hole Saw for Cutting Perfect Holes to Run Wires
• Glass Finish for Opening/Swinging Cabinets
• Custom Hinges
• Paint Brush
• Wood/ Wood Screws
• Nails/ Nail Gun

The Wooden Pallet Dining Room Table

This one is great and dining room tables from your local furniture store get very pricey. This is one you will want to really slow down and take your time with. In addition, it’s no more difficult than the other projects but dining room tables are where friends, family, and colleagues will come for the holidays and common get-togethers. When finishing this project, give it your best to make sure it really stands out for your next together.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 3

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 5-8 Depending on Size

• Circular Saw/ Table Saw
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Power Drill
• Paint Brush
• Nails/ Nail Gun
• Wood Screws

The Wooden Pallet Night Stand

Another great project for getting creative and custom with. Maybe you just need the basic setup to set a lamp and maybe you have other needs. Pick the number of drawers and pullouts you want and create this to fit your personal style and preferences. An easy project that won’t take much time to knock out after work.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 3

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 2-4 Depending on Size

• Table Saw and Reciprocating Saw
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Power Drill
• Pull Knobs
• Slide Rails
• Paint Brush

The Wooden Pallet Outdoor Shed

The most complex and lengthy project on the list. However, it wouldn’t necessarily be a difficult wood pallet DIY project, but you would need more time to complete it. In addition, it would also require you have the highest number of pallets compared to other projects on our list. For this project, it will be important to protect the wood to hold up against the outdoor elements. You can see our guide on treated vs. untreated wood here.

Level of Difficulty Involved 7

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed -35-50 Depending on Size

• Circular Saw- Table Saw
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Power Drill
• Stud Finder
• Paint Brush
• Sealing and Outdoor Protecting Agents
• Nails/ Nail Gun
• Wood/ Wood Screws

The Wooden Pallet Puppy Crate/ Storage Container

This is a great little crate for the dog breeder needing a nice box to keep your pups in until a potential buyer shows up to see your showcase of cuddly puppies. This can also double as a storage box to carry or hold a wide variety of objects. Whatever purpose you intend on using this project for, you won’t be disappointed with the results. It’s fast and easy to throw together. I’m sure, you will get use out of it fairly quickly once it’s thrown together.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 1

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 1-2 Depending on Size

• Table Saw
• Nails and Nail Gun
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Paint Brush
• Wood Screws
• Nails/ Nail Gun

The Wooden Pallet Beach Rocking Chair (Or Outdoor Patio Chair)

This will be strikingly like making the outdoor patio chair, However, a little more precision and TLC will be involved. This could make the perfect project for making dual rocking chairs for your wrap around front porch. By the end, your front yard could look like something out of a Joanna Gaines magazine.

Level of Difficulty Involved- 4

What You Need and How to Get Started Including Tools- Pallets Needed 3-5

• Table Saw and Reciprocating Saw
• Pry bar
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Electric Sander
• Wood Finish Stain
• Power Drill
• Paint Brush
• Sealing Agents If You want to use it Outdoors
• Wood Screws
• Nail/ Nail Gun

Putting It All Together- Safe Wooden Pallets Can Make Your Home Better Than The Neighbors Home

This barely scratches the surface of what’s possible when using wood pallets for your own DIY projects. Thousands of possibilities are always on the table.  The new ideas keep coming on a daily basis and this is a trend that continues to grow.

Nonetheless, if you’re trying to give your home that touch of love and a little boost of visually appealing décor, wood pallets are the place to begin.  Not only are they affordable but they look “eye-popping” and unique in any home, backyard or even displaying your favorite sports team logo on a garage wall frame.

Ultimately, the choice is yours when using wood pallets. What projects have you used pallets on in the past and how did they turn out?

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