Table of contents
- Why use pallets?
- Where to find free wood pallets
- Safety tips before starting
- Top 20 wood pallet projects
- Pallet coffee table
- Vertical herb garden
- Mud kitchen for kids
- Pallet wall shelves
- Rustic coat rack
- Outdoor benches
- Pallet planter box
- Pallet patio sofa
- Compost bin
- Hanging garden for climbing plants
- Garden storage cabinet
- Shoe rack
- Pallet wall art
- Bed frame from four pallets
- Bookshelf with pallet boards
- DIY pallet bar
- Outdoor table
- Tool organiser for garage
- Indoor plant stand
- Upcycled wine rack
- Tools and materials you’ll need
- Paint and finishing ideas
Looking for a stylish and affordable way to spruce up your home, garden, or patio? Look no further than the humble wooden pallet.
Whether you’re new to DIY or a seasoned upcycler, there’s no shortage of pallet ideas you can try out using pallets you may already have—or that are free to collect locally.
From shelving to outdoor furniture and space-saving solutions, we’ll cover everything you need to get started on your next creative project.
Why use pallets?
Wood pallets are sturdy, abundant, and often discarded after a single use. Repurposing them is not only an excellent way to save money, but it’s also environmentally friendly.
Most pallets are made from hardwood or softwood like pine, making them durable for furniture and outdoor projects.
Whether you’re using pallets to build furniture or garden storage, you’ll enjoy both their rustic appeal and practical functionality.
Where to find free wood pallets
Free wood pallets are often found behind supermarkets, warehouses, or at industrial sites. Always ask permission before taking them.
Ensure the pallet doesn’t have the stamp "MB" (methyl bromide), a toxic chemical used for fumigation.
Instead, look for the "HT" stamp which stands for "heat treated"—a much safer choice for your DIY pallet projects.
Safety tips before starting
Inspect your pallets – Avoid damaged or mouldy pallets.
Sand the wood – Most pallets have rough slats and may contain splinters or nails.
Check for stamps – Use only HT-stamped pallets and avoid those treated with methyl bromide.
Wear protective gear – Gloves, goggles, and a mask when sanding or sawing.
1. Pallet coffee table
This stylish piece is a go-to for anyone looking to add rustic charm to their living room or garden space. By stacking two pallets and securing them with screws, you create a sturdy base.
Add caster wheels for mobility and a glass top for a polished finish. Use pallet slats underneath to create a lower shelf for magazines, books, or decorative storage.
2. Vertical herb garden
Perfect for balconies or smaller gardens, this project transforms vertical space into a living wall of flavour. Take one pallet, sand it down, and secure landscape fabric to the back and bottom of each slat to form planting pockets.
Fill with soil and insert herbs like rosemary, parsley, or mint. Hang or lean against a garden wall for a fragrant and practical display.
3. Mud kitchen for kids
Using just two pallets, a bit of plywood, and some old kitchen utensils, you can craft a creative outdoor play kitchen. Cut out a rectangular hole to insert a basin or bowl, screw on knobs or old taps, and add shelves for storing pots and pans.
This is a brilliant way to let your kids enjoy imaginative outdoor play with natural materials.
4. Pallet wall shelves
Remove the back boards of a pallet, saw it into segments, and mount each piece on the wall using brackets or screws. These shelves are ideal for displaying books, succulents, or framed photos.
You can also create a tiered effect by hanging shelves at staggered heights across your wall for a modern rustic aesthetic.
5. Rustic coat rack
Repurpose a single pallet board by sanding it and attaching a row of hooks or old drawer knobs. Mount it near your front door or hallway. You can personalise it with stencilled paint or add a small shelf on top for sunglasses or keys.
It’s a tidy and attractive way to keep coats, bags, and scarves organised.
6. Outdoor benches
Sturdy and practical, pallet benches are made by stacking four pallets—two for the seat and two for the backrest. Sand and finish with outdoor paint or stain to withstand weather.
Add cushions and throw blankets for comfort. Place them around a firepit or patio table to create an inviting seating area.
7. Pallet planter box
Break down a pallet into individual boards and nail them together to form a rectangular planter box. Line it with landscape fabric, fill with soil, and plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables.
These are perfect for patios or balconies where raised beds are needed. Add handles to make them portable and functional.
8. Pallet patio sofa
Stack multiple pallets lengthwise for the base and backrest, securing with screws. Cover with waterproof cushions or foam padding, and add bright outdoor fabric for flair.
You can build corner units or sectional seating by cutting pallets to size. These sofas are ideal for entertaining or relaxing on summer evenings.
9. Compost bin
Create an eco-friendly compost system using four upright pallets nailed together to form a square frame. Leave the top open and optionally add a hinged front for easy access.
It’s a cost-effective way to compost garden waste, peelings, and kitchen scraps while enriching your garden soil.
10. Hanging garden for climbing plants
Mount a pallet vertically and lean it against a sunny garden wall or fence. Grow climbing plants such as jasmine, clematis, or morning glories through the slats.
As the plants grow, they weave through the boards, creating a green wall effect that adds privacy and natural beauty to your garden.
11. Garden storage cabinet
Use pallet boards to create a custom-fit garden cabinet with shelves inside for pots, tools, and seeds. Add a plywood back and hinged doors to protect contents from the weather.
Paint it in garden-friendly colours like sage green or navy blue, and install it next to your greenhouse or shed for easy access.
12. Shoe rack
Disassemble a pallet and use the boards to build tiered shelves. Each row can hold a couple of pairs of shoes. Make it free-standing for flexibility, or mount it on the wall for an entryway space-saver.
This is a simple yet functional piece for keeping muddy shoes off the floor.
13. Pallet wall art
Use slats from old pallets as your canvas. Sand them smooth and use stencils or freehand painting to add quotes, botanical illustrations, or abstract patterns.
Hang your artwork using picture hooks or wire. You can also attach small jars or lights for added effect.
14. Bed frame from four pallets
For a minimalist and affordable bed frame, place four pallets in a rectangle and secure them with brackets. The design provides a low-profile look and natural ventilation.
Optionally, stain or paint the pallets and attach a pallet headboard. Underneath space can double as discreet storage for baskets or boxes.
15. Bookshelf with pallet boards
Combine pallet slats with plywood to build a freestanding bookshelf with multiple compartments. Vary the shelf heights to accommodate tall books and small décor pieces.
Reinforce with corner brackets for stability, and place it in your lounge, office, or kid’s room.
16. DIY pallet bar
Stack pallets to build the body of a bar and use a smooth plywood or glass sheet as the countertop. Add shelves at the back for bottle storage and mount hooks for bar tools or glasses.
This project is a centrepiece for garden parties or indoor entertaining.
17. Outdoor table
Use a pallet as the tabletop and attach repurposed legs or stack another pallet underneath. Sand it thoroughly and seal with weatherproof paint or oil.
Add a hole in the middle for a garden umbrella. This makes a charming table for al fresco dining or tea in the garden.
18. Tool organiser for garage
Mount a whole pallet or a section on the wall of your garage or shed. Hang tools on the slats using S-hooks, nails, or custom holders.
Label each slot for quick access. This keeps your workspace tidy and your tools off the floor.
19. Indoor plant stand
Stack and nail together various pallet slats into stepped shelves for an eye-catching plant display. Use it by a window or in a conservatory.
Paint it to match your decor or leave it raw for a rustic touch. It's a brilliant way to bring greenery indoors and fill awkward corners.
20. Upcycled wine rack
Cut circular holes into a vertical pallet section to hold wine bottles horizontally. Below, attach hooks to hang glasses. You can mount it on the wall in the kitchen or dining area.
Finish it with wood stain for a sleek, polished look or paint it for a playful, artsy vibe.
Tools and materials you’ll need
To get started with most pallet projects, you’ll want the following tools and supplies:
- Hammer and nails
- Screwdriver or drill
- Sander or sandpaper
- Saw (manual or electric)
- Measuring tape
- Paint or wood stain
- Protective gear
- Hooks, hinges, and other hardware
Paint and finishing ideas
After building your furniture or decor, consider adding paint or stain to match your interior style. You can opt for neutral tones for a minimalist look, or bright colours for something fun. Applying a sealant will protect your project, especially for outdoor furniture and planter boxes.
Conclusion
If you’re feeling inspired, there’s never been a better time to roll up your sleeves and create something beautiful from pallets. Whether you're working on a new planter, coffee table, or garden storage solution, using pallets is a practical, affordable way to transform your space and enjoy a rewarding project.
Smart storage. Creative freedom. That’s HOLD.
Working on large pallet projects can take up quite a bit of room. If you're short on space at home or don’t want tools and wood cluttering your living area, HOLD Self Storage offers flexible, affordable units in London.
We offer a wide range of storage unit sizes, so whether you’re storing a couple of pallets and tools or an entire collection of upcycled furniture, there’s a space that suits your needs. With 24/7 access, you can work on your projects on your own schedule.
Store your materials and finished projects safely while keeping your house tidy and organised. Our locations are secure, accessible, and ideal for weekend DIYers.
Need extra storage? Visit our box shop to pick up packing supplies, storage boxes, and more for your DIY needs.
Ready to make room for your creativity? Get your free quote today!
Frequently asked questions
What are the best pallets to use for DIY projects?
Always choose heat-treated (HT) wooden pallets that are free from paint, chemicals, or significant damage. Avoid pallets stamped with "MB" for methyl bromide.
How do I clean and prepare wood pallets before use?
Remove nails, wash with soapy water, and allow them to dry completely. Then sand down rough edges to avoid splinters.
Can I use pallet wood for indoor furniture?
Yes, as long as it’s properly cleaned, sanded, and treated. A coat of sealant or paint adds protection and enhances appearance.
Is pallet furniture safe for kids?
Absolutely, provided the wood is clean, sanded smooth, and securely assembled with child-safe finishes.
Do you provide storage for DIY materials and furniture?
Yes! HOLD Self Storage units are perfect for storing tools, pallet boards, and even finished pallet furniture.
Can I buy storage supplies from HOLD?
Definitely—visit our box shop for a wide range of packing materials and DIY essentials.
