Affordable Outdoor Furniture Made From Wood Pallets

Want a piece of outdoor furniture made from wood pallets that’s easy to do, easy on the pocket, and beautiful? Here’s one idea that checks off all three criteria :)

Putting together a piece of furniture made out of pallets in your garden, patio or deck can seem like a big job and be costly. It can be difficult to come up with a good-looking setup, too, if you think you’re not artistic enough.

The solution to making this home improvement project easier is to work with pallets! They are easy to build with, inexpensive yet an effective alternative for making pallet patio furniture.

Creative Outdoor Furniture Made From Wood Pallets

You don’t even have to worry much about designing because this outdoor furniture made from wood pallets already looks as good as it does when set up outdoors. You can add the simplest cushions and pillows, and it will still look great in your outdoor area.

Need some inspiration? Have a look at our album of creative outdoor furniture made from wood pallets below. And check out the great tutorial from Sassy Sparrow!

Here are some of the things you might need when building a furniture set with pallets…

Building a Pallet Patio Furniture

Step 1: Gather Your Materials and Tools

Materials

Ensure you have every material and tool listed above. Ensuring you have everything at hand saves you time in building your outdoor furniture made from wood pallets project.

• Pallets(13 for a full couch)
• Wheel Casters
• Paint
• Outdoor Urethane
• Deck Screws
• Seat Cushions
• Throw Pillows
• 1 Gallon of seal and stain
• 1 x 4 wood pieces cut to lengths

Tools

• Pallet Breaker
• Cordless Drill
• Jigsaw
• Nail Gun
• Paintbrush
• Power drill
• Hammer or Mallet
• Sandpaper (or an electric sander if available)

Instructions

Step 2: Prepare the Pallets

• Inspect and Clean
  • Check the pallets for nails, splinters, or damaged wood. Then, clean them thoroughly to remove dirt or debris.
• Dismantle Pallet
  •  Use the pallet breaker to carefully dismantle some pallets into planks and blocks. For the base, stack them three high to match the height of an indoor couch.

Step 3: Design Your Bench

• Measure and Cut
  • Decide on the dimensions of your bench. Use the jigsaw to cut the pallet wood to your desired size. Cut additional pieces for the front-facing from 1 x 4 wood.
• Sanding
  • Once taken down, sand every surface of the wood. For outdoor furniture made from wood pallets, this is absolutely essential since it smooths out the finish for painting or sealing and stops splinters.
  • If possible, use an electric sander to make the process quicker and more efficient. However, if you don’t have access to one, a simple brick can be used as a makeshift tool for better grip and control while sanding.
  • The goal here is not perfection but to eliminate any rough edges that could cause discomfort or injury.

Step 4: Assemble the Frame

• Construct the Frame
  • Arrange the cut planks to form the bench’s seat and backrest. Use the nail gun to secure the planks to the supporting blocks or strips of wood.
• Strengthen with Screws
  • For additional durability, drill deck screws into the frame using the cordless drill.

Step 5: Attach the Wheel Casters

• Position Casters
  • Flip the bench over and position the wheel casters at each corner of the bench’s underside.
• Secure Casters
  • Attach the casters with screws, ensuring they’re tight and secure for easy mobility.

Step 6: Painting and Finishing

• Paint
  • Apply your chosen paint with a paintbrush for a personalized touch. Let the paint dry completely.
• Apply Outdoor Urethane
  • To protect the painted surface and ensure durability against the elements, apply a coat of outdoor urethane. Allow it to dry as instructed by the product’s guidelines.

Step 7: Add Cushions and Pillows

• Place Seat Cushions
  • Fit the seat cushions on the bench’s seating area for comfort.
• Arrange Throw Pillows
  • Add throw pillows for back support and an added aesthetic touch.

Step 8: Final Setup

• Inspect
  • Check all parts of the bench to ensure everything is securely attached and there are no sharp edges or splinters.
• Position in Your Outdoor Space
  • Move the bench to a desired location on your patio, deck, or garden. Use the wheel casters to easily adjust its position.

This blend of creativity and sturdy construction ensures your outdoor furniture made from wood pallets is not only functional but also a stylish addition to your outdoor living space.

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You can get more step-by-step instructions here…

DIY Outdoor Pallet Sectional: Is It Easy or a Challenge?

Building an outdoor pallet sectional can be an exciting and rewarding project, even for those who aren’t particularly crafty. However, it does come with its challenges. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect and some tips to help you succeed in this outdoor furniture made from wood pallets project.

Difficulty Level

• Skill Requirement
  • While advanced crafting skills aren’t necessary, basic handyman skills will be beneficial. Familiarity with tools and some hands-on experience will certainly make the process smoother.
• Time Commitment
  • Depending on your available time and pace, you can expect to spend a weekend or two completing this project. Patience is key.
• Tools Needed
  • You’ll need a drill, measuring tape, saw, and sandpaper. A power sander can save you time if you have access to one.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Materials:
   • Wood Pallets
     • Ensure you source sturdy, clean pallets. Typically, you’ll need 8-12 pallets, depending on the size of the sectional.
   • Cushions
     • Buy or make cushions specifically designed for outdoor use.
   • Screws
     • Choose durable screws that can withstand outdoor conditions. Galvanized or stainless steel screws are recommended.
2. Prepare the Pallets:
   • Sanding
     • Sand the pallets to smooth out rough edges and surfaces to prevent splinters.
   • Sealing
     • Apply a weatherproof sealant to protect the wood from the elements.
3. Assemble the Base:
   • Positioning Screws
     • Attach the pallets using screws at key points, such as the corners and centre. This will secure them together, ensuring a stable base.
4. Create the Backrest:
   • Secure additional pallets vertically to form the backrest. Make sure they are firmly attached to the base using brackets or more screws.
5. Add Finishing Touches:
   • Add the cushions for comfort.
   • Consider painting or staining for a polished look.

Helpful Tips

• Organization is Key
  • Make a plan and layout before beginning the assembly. This will help visualize the end result and spot potential issues early.
• Seek Guidance
  • Look up video tutorials or seek advice from DIY forums if you encounter any confusing steps.
• Safety First
  • Always wear protective gear like gloves and safety glasses when cutting or assembling.
• Height
  • To achieve the ideal couch height using pallets, start by stacking them to the desired level. A good guideline is to stack them three high, as this closely matches the standard indoor couch height.
  • While some online examples may show two stacked pallets, opting for three ensures comfort and a familiar couch feel. Adjust the height according to your preference and space requirements, but three pallets usually offer a perfect balance of elevation and ease.

While crafting a piece of outdoor furniture made from wood pallets does have its hurdles, it is certainly achievable even for those not naturally inclined toward DIY pallet outdoor furniture. With some preparation and patience, you’ll have a functional and stylish addition to your outdoor space.

Safety Tips for Handling and Preparing Pallets

One common do-it-yourself project is working with pallets, particularly for original outdoor furniture made from wood pallets like patio chairs. But guaranteeing safety during pallet handling and preparation is absolutely vital to prevent damage and guarantee the lifetime of your works of art.

Particularly targeted at building pallet patio furniture, these are some crucial safety precautions for handling and preparing pallets.

Inspect Pallets Before Use

• Identify the Type of Pallet
  • Determine the type of pallet by looking for marks or stamps showing the treatment of the pallet. Safe to use and heat-treated, pallets stamped with “HT” are Steer clear of pallets labeled “MB,” which have been treated with the poisonous pesticide methyl bromide.
• Look for Contamination
  • Chemicals, oils, or other hazardous materials may find their way on pallets used in transportation. These should be avoided since they are not safe for use in outdoor furniture made from wood pallets.
• Check for Damage
  • Examine pallets for broken planks or protruding nails which can pose serious safety risks. Opt for pallets that are in good condition to reduce the risk of injury.

Wear Appropriate Safety Gear

• Gloves
  • Always wear sturdy gloves to protect your hands from splinters and nails. Gloves also provide a better grip on the wood, reducing the risk of slipping and causing injury.
• Eye Protection
  • When dismantling or cutting pallets, wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Dust Mask
  • Sanding or sawing pallets can create fine dust, which can be harmful if inhaled. Wear a dust mask or a respirator to protect your lungs.

Handling Techniques

• Lifting Techniques
  • Lift pallets using your legs rather than your back to prevent strain or damage. Get assistance, or use a trolley if a pallet seems overly weighty.
• Disassembly
  • Break down a pallet for your outdoor furniture made from wood pallets gently and methodically to prevent snapping the wood or cutting yourself with tools.

As you prepare pallets for your outdoor furniture made from wood pallets, your first concern should always be safety. These guidelines will help you to guarantee that your do-it-yourself project is not only fun but also safe from beginning to end.

Recall that properly preparing takes time and can make all the difference between a possible hazard and a successful project.

Weatherproofing Pallet Furniture

To protect your affordable pallet patio furniture from damage, properly weatherproof it using this guide.

• Choosing the Right Finish
  • Choosing the correct kind of finish comes first in weatherproofing pallet patio furniture. There are several choices here with advantages of their own. Under the sun, a good outdoor urethane with UV protection helps stop the wood from fading and turning brittle.
  • On the other hand, you could want to think about applying a waterproof sealant made especially for outdoor wood furniture to help stop rotting and water rejection is facilitated.
• Staining and Sealing Tips
  • When it comes to staining your outdoor furniture made from wood pallets, start by selecting a high-quality stain and sealer combination. You’ll typically need about 1 gallon for a standard-sized couch, provided there’s no wastage.
  • If you’re working in a windy area or have eager helpers like children, consider purchasing a bit extra to account for spills. Apply the stain evenly using a brush or roller, ensuring coverage in all joints and crevices.
• Cleaning and Preparing the Surface
  • Make sure your pallet patio furniture is spotless, free of dirt, grime, and trash before applying any finish. Scrub the surfaces completely with a stiff brush; if necessary, a wood cleaner will assist to remove tough stains.
  • Once cleaned, let the furniture dry totally. This stage is crucial to avoid trapping moisture under the finish, so preventing wood rot.
• Applying Protective Coatings
  • Once your pallet patio furniture is clean and dry, you can begin applying the protective finish. If you’re using paint, choose a high-quality exterior paint that includes a weather-resistant formula.
  • Apply at least two coats, allowing sufficient drying time between layers. For stains or sealants, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Generally, a roller can be used for large flat surfaces, while a brush is better for getting into the nooks and crannies of the pallets.
• Reinforcing with Water Repellent
  • After the initial finish has dried, applying an additional water-repellent treatment can provide extra protection for your pallet patio furniture. These products help to further repel water and protect against moisture, which is particularly beneficial in wet climates.
  • Make sure to cover all surfaces evenly, including the undersides and back areas that might be more exposed to the elements.
• Regular Maintenance and Care
  • Your outdoor furniture made from wood pallets needs regular maintenance to last for as long as it should. Look often for any wear or damage, including a worn sealant or chipped paint.
  • Beginning to show wear areas should be cleaned, lightly sanded, and either resealed or painted. This not only maintains the great appearance of your furniture but also strengthens its weather resistance.
• Covering When Not in Use
  • Covering your pallet patio furniture when not in use is one basic but efficient approach to preserve it.
  • By shielding your furniture from UV light, rain, and snow, furniture covers—available in many sizes and materials—can greatly extend the lifetime of your furniture. Make sure the covers are tightly fitting and fastened to resist windy conditions.

Making sure your outdoor furniture made from wood pallets stays beautiful and useful for many years to come depends mostly on weatherproofing it.

To enjoy your handcrafted furniture in any weather, choose suitable finishes, apply them properly, and maintain regularly. By creating a stylish outdoor space, the effort put into caring for your pallet patio furniture will be worth it.

Conclusion

Outdoor furniture made from wood pallets provides a creative and environmentally friendly way to accentuate outdoor areas. Every piece not only brings special appeal and character but also shows how creatively materials might be used to cut waste. ‘

Any house would find great satisfaction in adopting this environmentally friendly approach since it offers not only aesthetic but also practical advantages. We have more projects to enhance your patio. Check out our weatherproofing guide next!