Cool Things Made from Pallets to Upcycle and Repurpose

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Burlap sacks of coffee beans stacked on a wooden pallet in an industrial warehouse setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Burlap sacks of coffee beans stacked on a wooden pallet in an industrial warehouse setting.

Pallets are a treasure trove of creative possibilities. You can turn a simple pallet into a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture, like a coffee table made from a pallet, which can be customized with metal straps and a glass top.

With some basic tools and a little imagination, you can create functional and stylish items for your home. For example, pallet shelves can be built to display your favorite books, decorative items, or kitchenware.

Pallets can also be used to create outdoor furniture, such as a pallet patio set, which can be made weather-resistant with a coat of sealant. This eco-friendly option is perfect for those looking to reduce waste and add some personality to their outdoor space.

From planters to pet beds, the possibilities are endless, and the best part is, you can get creative and make it your own.

Furniture and Decor

You can create a functional and sturdy bench by stacking two pallets on top of each other and covering them with thick outdoor cushions. This is a great way to make the most of your balcony space.

Detailed view of aged wooden planks, showing texture and screws for rustic design ideas.
Credit: pexels.com, Detailed view of aged wooden planks, showing texture and screws for rustic design ideas.

Pallets can be used to build a variety of seating options, including a 12-person dining set with matching benches that's perfect for organizing occasional family dinners.

To add some extra storage to your bench, you can fit quaint little drawers into the pallet holes, ideal for storing gardening books and potting tools.

Sofas and Lounges

You can create a cozy and inviting space with pallets by building a robust wooden pallet indoor party lounge.

Use pallets to make a 12 people dining set with matching benches for organizing occasional family dinners.

Build a sturdy and functional bed with pallets, complete with underside storage options for a practical and space-saving solution.

Pallets can also be used to make a one table and 4 stools set for playing games or having a beverage party.

Consider building a custom L-shape wooden table for a unique and functional piece of furniture.

You can even use pallets to build a mini chest or keepsake box for storing precious items, like wedding gifts.

Seating and Benches

Black and white image of wooden pallet benches placed in front of a brick wall, showcasing minimalist design.
Credit: pexels.com, Black and white image of wooden pallet benches placed in front of a brick wall, showcasing minimalist design.

You can create a cozy nook on your balcony by stacking two pallets on top of each other and covering them with thick outdoor cushions.

This bench can be beautifully colour coordinated with its surroundings and fits perfectly into a balcony corner. Quaint little drawers can be fitted into pallet holes to store gardening books and potting tools.

Pallet wood is a great material for building a corner bench, and you can coat the furniture in a protective varnish to bring out a rich tone. This will make your bench stand out and add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.

You can also build a stylish patio bench using pallet wood, and it's free because pallets are often readily available. This type of bench is perfect for a small patio or balcony, and it's a great way to reuse and recycle pallets.

Individual pallet lengths can be used to install mini tables that can be taken in use as nightstands, side tables, or end tables. This is a great way to add some extra seating and storage to your outdoor space.

Pallets can also be used to build custom boxes that can be used as toy boxes, storage chests, or keepsake boxes. These boxes can also be used as planters for your garden, and they can be decorated in a variety of ways to match your outdoor decor.

Decorative Items

Close-up view of wooden pallets in an outdoor industrial warehouse setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up view of wooden pallets in an outdoor industrial warehouse setting.

A vase can add a pop of color and style to any room, and when paired with a vase filler like beads or pebbles, it can create a unique and eye-catching centerpiece.

The right lighting can make or break the ambiance of a space, and table lamps are a great way to add warm and cozy lighting to a room.

Rugs can add texture and warmth to a room, and a good rule of thumb is to choose a rug that is 8 feet by 10 feet for a standard-sized living room.

Artwork can be a great way to add personality to a room, and a large piece of art can be a great focal point in a room.

Throw pillows can add a burst of color and texture to a room, and they're easy to swap out with the seasons to keep your decor fresh and updated.

A statement piece of furniture, like a bold-colored sofa, can be a great way to add personality to a room, but it's also important to balance it out with more neutral pieces.

Outdoor Spaces

Fire Pit in Close Up Photography
Credit: pexels.com, Fire Pit in Close Up Photography

You can turn even the tiniest of balconies into a pocket oasis with a little planning. A slim pallet slot in can be designed and installed to create a snug and inviting space.

Pretty LED lights can highlight a bohemian-style seating nook and add to the charm of the space. I've seen this done in a few backyards and it's always a conversation starter.

A wooden pallet can be dismantled and used to make a meandering pathway in the garden, like the one created by Funky Junk Interiors. This can be done in just one afternoon and can add a whimsical touch to your outdoor space.

Planters and Gardens

You can create a mini planter using a small section of a pallet and some succulents, which will look contemporary and charming mounted inside or out. Choose a contrasting wood paint shade like charcoal or slate to make the greenery pop.

The great thing about pallet wood is that the more used and weathered it becomes, the better it looks. This means that your pallet planter will only get more charming over time.

Brown Cardboard Boxes on Brown Wooden Floor
Credit: pexels.com, Brown Cardboard Boxes on Brown Wooden Floor

You don't need to be a professional tradesman to make use of a wooden pallet. There are plenty of tutorials and online plans for a beginner to create a practical addition to your home.

Painted part black with blackboard paint, this rustic wall-mounted planter will make a statement out of your greenery. You can also use a raised planter like this genius version that uses the pallet troughs on the side to create a tiered effect.

If you have room, why not create a full kitchen garden? For an urban edge, and extra protection, paint each planter black. This will make your garden stand out and add a touch of modernity to your outdoor space.

Walkways and Paths

You can create a beautiful walkway in your garden using wooden pallets. Dismantle a pallet completely and use the single planks of wood to make a pallet board pathway.

Funky Junk Interiors created a meandering pathway that bridges a large flower bed in just one afternoon, showing that it's possible to achieve this look quickly.

Using pallets is a great way to reuse and recycle materials, reducing waste and adding a personal touch to your outdoor space.

Pergolas and Canopies

A green and white pergola with green and white stripes
Credit: pexels.com, A green and white pergola with green and white stripes

A pergola is a great way to add some extra shade to your outdoor space, especially in areas with full sun. Pergolas can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and vinyl.

They're often used to create a sense of separation between different areas of your yard, like a dining area and a seating area. A pergola can also be used to support climbing plants like wisteria or roses.

Pergolas come in a range of styles, from simple to ornate, and can be designed to fit any budget. Some pergolas have a solid roof, while others have a more open design that allows sunlight to filter through.

A canopy, on the other hand, is a more portable option that can be set up in a variety of locations. Canopies are often used for outdoor events and parties, but they can also be used to create a cozy reading nook or a shaded area for lounging.

Canopies can be made from fabric or metal, and come in a range of sizes to fit different spaces. They're a great way to add some extra shade to your outdoor space without making a long-term commitment.

Garden and Yard Decor

Colorful hanging pots with lush green plants in an outdoor garden setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Colorful hanging pots with lush green plants in an outdoor garden setting.

Adding some greenery to your outdoor space is a great way to brighten it up, and pallet planters are a fantastic way to do just that.

You can use pallet troughs to create a tiered effect, like the genius version shown in Example 5. This is a great way to add some visual interest to your garden.

Pallets can also be used to divide the garden, making them ideal for budget-friendly privacy screens or garden dividers. The slatted design of wooden pallets makes them perfect for this purpose, as shown in Example 6.

Adding a climbing plant at the base of a pallet divider can encourage it to grow up and around the wood, adding extra colour and character to your garden.

A sheet of toughened glass can be installed onto a pallet wood coffee table to make the surface completely flat, protect the wood underneath from spills, and keep you and your guests safe from splinters, as mentioned in Example 1.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Gardening Pallets

A peaceful calico cat nestled in a garden planter amidst greenery in İzmir.
Credit: pexels.com, A peaceful calico cat nestled in a garden planter amidst greenery in İzmir.

Pallets can be used to create a raised planter, and you don't need to be a professional tradesman to make one. There are plenty of tutorials and online plans available to help you get started, as shown in Example 5.

Even the tiniest of balconies can be transformed into a pocket oasis with a little planning, as demonstrated in Example 4. A pallet slot-in can be designed and installed to create a snug and inviting seating nook.

Storage and Organization

You can use pallets to create functional storage and organization solutions for your home and garden. Pallets can be repurposed into custom stools and chairs to overcome kitchen sitting space issues.

For example, you can install pallet-made coffee tables and dining tables sets to organize your sitting and eating environments. This can also include custom pallet storage solutions for your kitchen, such as pallet shelves or pallet cabinets.

Rustic wooden pallets can also be used to create a traditional style of living, including rustic wooden sitting sets and patio sets that mimic the traditional style of living.

Storage and Shelving

A warm indoor bar scene with a bottle and takeaway coffee cup by the window.
Credit: pexels.com, A warm indoor bar scene with a bottle and takeaway coffee cup by the window.

You can create a cozy nook on your balcony by stacking two pallets on top of each other and covering them with thick outdoor cushions.

Stacked pallets can be used to create a bench with built-in storage, such as quaint little drawers fitted into pallet holes to store gardening books and potting tools.

Pallets can be used to make functional media stands or mini TV cabinets to organize your living room.

Disassembling pallets allows you to use the wood to build custom shelves or cabinets, like the beautiful cabinet built by @xwenchyx.

Pallets can be used to build a cabinet with a modern style that contrasts nicely against the rugged imperfections of the pallet wood.

Clear varnish can be used to protect the wood and give it a glossy finish.

Pallets can also be used to build a garden potting or work bench, or even a private room sliding wooden gate.

Pet Beds and Accessories

A pallet bed is a great way to create a cozy space for your furry friends. The surface area of a standard pallet is practically made for a pet bed project.

Add sides and a headboard to a pallet bed, and you'll have a pet palace.

Art and DIY Projects

A man sits by stacks of wooden pallets against a rustic facade with teal doors.
Credit: pexels.com, A man sits by stacks of wooden pallets against a rustic facade with teal doors.

You can create some really cool artwork using pallet wood as a canvas. Using stencil art, you can add a pop of natural texture and colour to your walls, as seen in a perfectly executed idea by UWoodBespokeDesigns at Etsy.

For a more creative display, try arranging pallets on their side to create a unique bookshelf. The spaces in the wood create handy shelves for displaying your favourite books, and adding houseplants can give it a trendy botanical touch.

Pallet wood can also be used to hide unsightly light fittings, like a ceiling power socket. Simply create a pallet lightbox, and you'll have a stylish way to separate pendant lights over a kitchen island, as done by Noting Grace for Remodelaholic.

Coffee Tables and Bars

You can create a coffee table that's both rustic and polished by upcycling a pallet. Extensive sanding gives it a smooth finish, and it even has hollowed-out storage for your laptop and books.

Artistic outdoor installation with colorful pallets and cushions in a rural setting.
Credit: pexels.com, Artistic outdoor installation with colorful pallets and cushions in a rural setting.

A pallet coffee table is a great project for those who want a unique piece of furniture, and it's surprisingly easy to make. You can find plenty of tutorials online to get you started.

If you're feeling ambitious, you can try building a coffee table from scratch using hardwood shipping pallets. It requires some advanced tools and materials, but the result is a beautiful piece of furniture.

Upcycled pallets can also be used to create an outdoor bar, perfect for events and parties. You can attach a shelf on the interior to hold bottles, glasses, and ice, making it a super functional piece of furniture.

Beds and Headboards

You can create a unique focal point in your bedroom with a pallet bed, which looks strong and industrial. This design can be stained to create a darker wood grain effect.

A pallet bed is also a great option for a pet bed project, as the surface area of a standard pallet is perfect for creating a cozy space for your furry friends.

Stylish minimalist bedroom featuring grey bedding and framed art on wooden pallet bed.
Credit: pexels.com, Stylish minimalist bedroom featuring grey bedding and framed art on wooden pallet bed.

To add some extra functionality to your pallet bed, consider adding sides and a headboard, as well as a comfortable mattress.

You can also repurpose pallets to create a pallet headboard, which can be made from three pallets. This project can be a bit more advanced, but the result is a beautiful and refined reclaimed wood headboard.

Pallets can also be used to create a storage bed with a nightstand, which can be a great addition to any bedroom. This design can be customized to fit your specific needs and style.

Lighting and Fixtures

Upcycling pallet wood is a great way to create unique lighting fixtures.

Noting Grace's pallet lightbox is a perfect example of this, made using pallet wood scraps from other projects.

This DIY project not only conceals an unsightly light fitting but also adds a touch of industrial chic to a kitchen island.

A trio of glass pendant lights is separated by the pallet lightbox, creating a visually appealing display.

Pallet wood's versatility makes it an ideal material for DIY projects, especially when it comes to lighting fixtures.

You can use pallet wood scraps to create a one-of-a-kind pendant light box, just like Noting Grace did.

Hooks and Hangers

Credit: youtube.com, Vintage Hinges | DIY hanger hooks - part2

You can create a beautiful coat rack with just a pallet and some basic tools. This DIY project is perfect for beginner woodworkers.

Screw two hooks on either end of a plank of pallet wood and you're good to go. Personalize the centre with stencils or vintage playing cards for a rustic touch.

You can also repurpose pallets to make a dog lead hook, which is super easy to do. It's a great way to add some storage and style to your home.

The pallet's blocks and treatment stamps can also be used to create handy storage cubby holes. This is a great feature in a coat rack.

You can get creative with pallet wood and make something truly unique.

Racks and Stands

You can create a unique coat rack by upcycling a pallet, which not only provides storage but also adds a rustic touch to your home.

Pallet coat racks are a great way to repurpose old pallets, and they can be customized to fit your personal style. The pallet's blocks and treatment stamps can even be left visible, creating a visually appealing feature.

Credit: youtube.com, 120 DIY Wooden Wall shelves ideas / Floting Shelves / Organizer / Storage Ideas

A pallet shoe rack is another creative way to reuse pallets, offering a stylish and functional way to store your shoes. You can find inspiration for pallet shoe rack designs online, such as on platforms like Pinterest or Instagram.

If you're looking for a more rustic look, consider building a pallet coat rack with a distressed finish. This will add to the overall charm of your home decor.

Pallets can also be used to create a shoe stand, providing a convenient and space-saving solution for your entryway.

Artwork and Displays

Using pallet wood as a canvas for stencil art can add an impressive pop of natural texture and color to your walls.

This creative idea can be perfectly executed, as seen in a design on Etsy, and can look striking and cool.

You can create statement artwork by upcycling old pallets into unique pieces of art that add a personal touch to any room.

Pallet wood stencil art is a simple yet effective way to add some visual interest to your walls without breaking the bank.

The natural texture of the wood provides a beautiful contrast to the crisp lines and colors of the stencil art.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to take pallets from behind stores?

Taking pallets from behind stores without permission may not be allowed, as businesses may be financially responsible for their return. Always check with the business owner before removing pallets

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

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