21 Creative and Easy Pallet Wood Project Ideas

Pallet wood is pretty popular among DIYers because of its budget-friendly and versatile nature. Here are 21 creative pallet wood project ideas you can build for free.

Image collage of six projects made from pallet wood

Pallet wood has been a longtime favorite material of DIYers for its budget-friendliness (often free), rustic charm, and versatility. These pallets are often made from hardwoods like oak or softwoods like pine and are used to transport goods. Repurposing the pallet wood helps reduce waste and promotes recycling, contributing to a more sustainable environment.

It takes a little bit of elbow grease but with a little patience and persistence, you can turn pallet wood into functional items for your home.

Where Can You Get Pallets for Projects?

You can usually get pallets for free from stores like grocery stores, big box retailers, warehouses etc that receive shipments on pallets. You may want to ask for permission before taking any because some stores reuse the pallets or have to ship them back.

You can also check local online marketplaces where people might list pallets for free. When we had flooring delivered, it came on a pallet and we listed it on the Facebook Marketplace because we didn’t have any projects planned for it.

Before picking up a pallet, make sure to thoroughly inspect the pallets for any signs of damage, mold, or pests. Avoid using pallets that appear to be contaminated or structurally unsound.

Some pallets are treated with chemicals to prevent rot and pests. Look for stamps indicating treatment methods: “HT” (heat-treated) is safe, while “MB” (methyl bromide) should be avoided due to its toxic nature.

If you can’t find them for free, you can also buy them from a local pallet-making company.

How Do You Prepare Pallet Wood for Projects?

Once you get the pallet home, you need to clean and take it apart before you can use it in a project. Always wear gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask when handling and working with pallet wood to protect against splinters, dust, and potential chemical residues.

  1. Start by cleaning the pallet to remove dirt, grime, and potential contaminants. A mixture of soap and water, followed by a bleach solution is a great way to clean it up.
  2. Using a pry bar, hammer, and saw, carefully take the boards apart. Be careful of the the nails and staples.
  3. Sand the wood thoroughly to remove rough edges and splinters. You can also send the boards through a planer to make them all smooth and ready to work with.

Pallet Wood Project Ideas

I have picked a few great easy pallet wood project ideas that you can build below to inspire your creativity.

1. Laptop Stand

laptop stand kids woodworking project idea
Image Credit: Anika’s DIY Life

Although this laptop stand is made from scrap wood, you could absolutely make it with pallet wood. It’s an easy beginner project that helps to add organization to your desktop and brings your laptop up to eye level to keep you from slouching when you work.

See how to make this DIY laptop stand.

2. DIY Wall Clock

DIY wall clock

This DIY wall clock is made using scrap plywood but can also be made with pallet wood. The directions are the same; just substitute pallet wood, and you’ll have a wall clock made from repurposed wood!

Tutorial here.

3. Pallet Wood Shelf From My Repurposed Life

organizing wall shelf made with pallet wood

This pallet wood shelf is a great way to get organized. It features cubbies, shelves, drawers, and hooks. You’ll need wider and regular-sized pallet wood to make this repurposing project. Hang it in your entryway, mudroom, or office for the ultimate organization.

See how to make your own here.

4. American Flag From Diva of DIY

pallet wood projects American flag

Show your patriotic spirit with this DIY pallet American Flag. There is no need to tear the pallet apart for this DIY project. All you need are some star stencils and spray paint. It’s a simple DIY project that you can use for Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day as outdoor decor.

Tutorial to make it here.

5. DIY Coffee Table From DIY Candy

square coffee table made from pallet wood

I love this coffee table made from pallet wood! The base and frame are made using regular wood boards, then pallet wood is laid over the frame to enclose it. You can stain the pallet wood any color you want.

See the full tutorial here.

6. Pallet Wood Side Table From Making Manzanita

pallet wood side table

To make this DIY furniture project for your space, you’ll need pallet wood and a few basic tools. It’s easy to make in an hour or so, and you’ll have a rustic table to use in your bedroom, living room, or anywhere else you need it.

See the tutorial here.

7. Pallet Wood Pumpkins From the Handyman’s Daughter

pumpkin trio made using pallet wood

Seasonal rustic decor is easy to make using pallet wood. These pumpkins can sit on your porch or your mantle until Thanksgiving.

See how to make your own

8. DIY Pallet Bookshelf From Lolly Jane

DIY pallet wood project wall mounted bookshelf

It’s a known fact that a child will want to read when books are placed forward facing on a bookshelf. This DIY pallet bookshelf is easy to build and showcases their favorite books within easy reach.

Tutorial to make it here.

9. DIY Planter With Hose Holder From DIY Candy

pallet wood planter with hose storage

Hide your garden hose with this cute DIY pallet wood planter. The top has space to plant flowers, while underneath, there is plenty of room to hide your hose from view.

10. Moroccan-Style Planter Wall From Pillar Box Blue

planter wall made from a pallet

Use an entire pallet without the headache of taking it apart to make this DIY planter wall. Stencils and paint are all you need. It will look great in your outdoor living space!

See this tutorial to make your own.

11. Pallet Wood Coat Rack

pallet wood coat rack

We love the rustic look of this pallet wood coat rack, and you will too. It’s perfect for the person who loves rustic farmhouse design. Pieces of pallet wood stained in different colors are attached to a board behind them for easy wall mounting in your entryway. Make it as long as you want to accommodate your family’s needs.

12. Pallet Coffee Table on Wheels From Liz Marie Blog

pallet wood project coffee table with wheels

Pallets are the perfect size for a coffee table. This one’s rustic natural finish will complement any design style and make it a unique piece in your living room.

Learn more here.

13. Colorful Outdoor Chairs and Side Table

outdoor chairs made from pallet wood painted red and yellow

Add color to your back patio that coordinates with the flower garden. These fun chairs and the side table are made using small pallets and then just add legs. You’ll need five pallets if you decide to make your own set to have in your garden space.

14. DIY Pallet Bed Frame

pallet wood bed

Make your own platform bed with pallets. This easy pallet project adds rustic boho charm to your bedroom. Don’t forget the headboard! And it’s a great place to add some faux greenery to the space. Sand and bleach the wood for a light-colored finish, or paint it in the color of your choice.

Learn how to make a DIY pallet bed here.

15. Pallet Armchairs

Cushioned chairs made with pallet wood

Minimal and cozy, the design of these pallet armchairs invites you to curl up and read a good book. If you love Scandinavian design, these will be the perfect pallet wood project for you. The base of each chair is a pallet with wooden sides built to accommodate the most enormous cushions we have ever seen.

16. Planter Box From Pillar Box Blue

This simple plant holder is easy to make with pallet wood. Line up your fave flowers or herbs and keep them all together for easy care.

Tutorial to make this here.

17. Pallet Desk Organizer

Desk organizer from a pallet
Image Credit: Shutterstock

Use a pallet to add storage and organization to your desk top. By adding a piece of wood to create a shelf, you can store office supplies, artwork, and even greenery. It’s a great way to add some rustic charm to your workspace.

18. Pallet Wood Serving Tray From Pretty Handy Girl

Check out this cute tray! It’s made from pallet wood and would be an excellent gift for your favorite hostess.

See how to make it here.

19. Pallet Wood Christmas Trees From the Country Chic Cottage

Make these cute Christmas trees with pallet wood. Decorate them with craft supplies you already have for a free holiday decoration.

See the tutorial here.

20. DIY Pallet AC Unit Cover from Making Manzanita

AC cover made from pallet wood

Hide that ugly AC unit with easy DIY pallet project. You can make it in 45 minutes or less. Free and easy, now that’s the kind of project I like!

Tutorial here.

21. Pallet Wood Porch Swing From Pretty Handy Girl

porch swing with pallet wood slats painted green and yellow

Build a DIY porch swing and save big — even more when you use pallet wood! The seat slats on this porch swing are pallet wood boards painted in fun colors that I love.

See the tutorial here to build it.

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Anika's goal is to inspire and empower beginners with woodworking, DIY, home improvement, and home decor ideas.
She wants everyone to unlock their creative potential and experience the feeling that comes with making something. Nothing feels better better than seeing something and saying "I can make that!"

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