Looking for nice outdoor furniture for your porch or garden? Here’s a DIY outdoor cable spool bench that’s not only cheap but also sturdy and pretty if you’re into rustic furniture!
This cable spool bench is made from an empty wooden cable reel and a pallet assembled in a simple yet stylish manner. If you can get your hands on a cable reel that’s not being used and pallets for free, then you can practically have an outdoor bench for a song. It’s also very easy to make, using only simple tools that DIY-ers would most likely already have in their toolsheds.
You can modify the design to make it look uniquely your own. You can choose to paint it, put a backrest or extend a small space on the armrest to place your drinks on! Need some inspiration to get your creative juices flowing? Have a look at our album below :)
Cheap, easy to do, rustic and a great conversation piece for your backyard parties – what’s not to love about this DIY furniture item?
Is this going to be your next outdoor project?
You’ll need these materials:
- Wooden Spool
- Pallet
- Screws and Bolts
- Paint
And these tools:
- Jigsaw
- Wrench
- Angle Grinder
- Welding Tool
- Power Drill
- Router
- Circular Saw
- Chisel and Hammer
- Sander
- Paintbrush
Click on any image to start lightbox display. Use your Esc key to close the lightbox.
You can watch step-by-step instructions from thepoultrypeople here:
Crafting Comfort: Exploring 5 Design Options for Building a Beautiful Cable Spool Bench
Cable spools, once used solely for housing electrical cables, have emerged as versatile and sustainable materials for DIY furniture projects. Among the various creations, cable spool benches stand out as functional, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally friendly additions to any outdoor or indoor space. In this guide, we’ll delve into five design options for building a beautiful cable spool bench, exploring their unique features, construction methods, and potential for enhancing your living environment.
1. Rustic Charm
Embrace the natural beauty of wood with a rustic cable spool bench design that highlights the raw and weathered character of the spool. Begin by sanding and refinishing the spool to enhance its texture and grain while preserving its rustic appeal.
For seating, consider attaching wooden planks or reclaimed boards to the spool’s top surface, creating a comfortable and durable seating area. Add finishing touches such as decorative hardware, cushions, or throw pillows to complement the bench’s rustic charm and create an inviting outdoor retreat.
2. Boho Chic
Infuse your outdoor space with bohemian flair by transforming a cable spool into a whimsical and eclectic bench design. Start by painting the spool in vibrant hues or applying a colourful mosaic of tiles or broken ceramics to create a unique and eye-catching base.
For seating, layer on cushions, rugs, or fabric scraps in an array of patterns, textures, and colours, incorporating tassels, fringe, and pom-poms for added flair. Complete the boho chic look with string lights, lanterns, or hanging plants to create a cozy and inviting oasis for relaxation and entertainment.
3. Industrial Elegance
Channel the sleek and modern aesthetic of industrial design with a cable spool bench featuring clean lines, metal accents, and minimalist styling. Begin by painting or staining the spool in a dark or metallic finish to evoke an industrial vibe.
For seating, consider attaching metal or wood slats to the spool’s top surface, creating a streamlined and sophisticated bench design. Add industrial-inspired accessories such as metal legs, rivets, or chain link accents to enhance the bench’s visual appeal and create a striking focal point in any outdoor or indoor setting.
To further enhance the industrial vibe of the bench, consider adding rivets or metal accents along the edges of the slats. These decorative elements can create visual interest and add a touch of authenticity to the design. Additionally, chain link accents can be used to create unique patterns or motifs that reflect the bench’s industrial theme.
4. Coastal Retreat
Capture the laid-back vibe of coastal living with a cable spool bench design that reflects the colours and textures of the seaside. Start by painting the spool in serene shades of blue, green, or aqua to evoke the colours of the ocean.
For seating, layer on cushions, pillows, or fabric in nautical-inspired patterns such as stripes, anchors, or seashells, incorporating weather-resistant materials for durability. Add beachy accessories such as driftwood accents, rope details, or seashell embellishments to complete the coastal retreat look and create a tranquil outdoor sanctuary.
5. Garden Oasis
Transform your outdoor space into a lush and inviting garden oasis with a cable spool bench design that celebrates nature and greenery. Begin by leaving the spool in its natural state or staining it in earthy tones to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
For seating, consider adding a built-in planter box or trellis to the spool’s top surface, allowing vines, flowers, or herbs to cascade over the sides and create a living bench design. Add finishing touches such as outdoor cushions, pillows, or decorative planters to enhance the bench’s comfort and beauty, creating a tranquil retreat for enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
Building a beautiful cable spool bench offers endless possibilities for creativity, functionality, and sustainability in home decor. Whether you prefer rustic charm, boho chic, industrial elegance, coastal retreat, or garden oasis, there’s a cable spool bench design to suit your style and enhance your living environment.
By repurposing a humble cable spool into a stunning and functional piece of furniture, you not only add character and personality to your space but also contribute to the ethos of sustainability and eco-conscious living. So roll up your sleeves, unleash your creativity, and embark on the journey of crafting a beautiful cable spool bench that will be cherished for years to come.
Wrapping It Up
As we conclude our exploration of building a beautiful cable spool bench with these top five design options, it’s evident that these versatile furniture pieces offer a myriad of possibilities for enhancing outdoor and indoor spaces.
From rustic charm to industrial elegance, each design option presents a unique opportunity to repurpose a humble cable spool into a stunning and functional bench that reflects your style and creativity.
Cable spool benches embody the essence of creativity, sustainability, and craftsmanship, making them more than just pieces of furniture; they are symbols of ingenuity and resourcefulness. By repurposing a simple cable spool into a beautiful bench, you not only add character and personality to your living space but also contribute to the ethos of sustainability and eco-conscious living.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice crafter, building a cable spool bench offers a rewarding and fulfilling experience that brings joy and satisfaction.
Each of the five design options—rustic charm, boho chic, industrial elegance, coastal retreat, and garden oasis—offers a unique aesthetic and ambience that can transform any environment into a welcoming and stylish retreat.
Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of rustic charm, the free-spirited vibe of boho chic, or the sleek sophistication of industrial elegance, there’s a cable spool bench design to suit every taste and preference. By choosing materials, colours, and accessories that resonate with your personal style, you can create a bench that reflects your individuality and enhances your living space.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are cable spool benches difficult to build?
While building a cable spool bench may require some basic carpentry skills and tools, it is generally considered a beginner-friendly DIY project. With the right materials, instructions, and a bit of patience, anyone can successfully build a cable spool bench. Additionally, there are numerous tutorials, guides, and online resources available to help you through the process, making it accessible to crafters of all skill levels.
2. Where can you find a cable spool for building a bench?
Cable spools can often be found at construction sites, utility companies, or hardware stores. You may also be able to purchase them from online marketplaces or salvage yards. Alternatively, you can ask friends, family, or neighbours if they have any unused cable spools they’d be willing to part with. Remember to choose a cable spool that is in good condition and free from any damage or defects.
3. How can you personalize my cable spool bench?
Personalizing your cable spool bench is part of the fun and allows you to create a bench that reflects your personality and style. Consider adding cushions, pillows, or throws in your favourite colours or patterns to enhance comfort and visual appeal.
You can also incorporate accessories such as planters, lanterns, or decorative accents to add personality and flair. Let your imagination run wild and unleash your creativity to transform your cable spool bench into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
4. Are cable spool benches suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, cable spool benches are well-suited for outdoor use, provided they are properly sealed and protected from the elements. Consider treating the wood with a weatherproof sealant or stain to protect it from moisture, UV exposure, and pests. Additionally, using outdoor-friendly materials such as weather-resistant cushions, pillows, and accessories can help prolong the lifespan of your cable spool bench and ensure its durability in outdoor environments.
