How To Build Pallet Garden Furniture: Step By Step DIY Guide

With 21st century gardens, we are continuously trying to be more harmonious with our DIY, recycling efforts. 

For example, pallets are multiple objects that can be transformed into furniture too with a little touch of DIY. In this article, we’ll explore how easy it is to transform ordinary wooden pallets into stunning, functional outdoor seating. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DIYer, our step-by-step instructions will help you create your own pallet furniture masterpiece. 

Are you still on the fence about building your own easy pallet furniture step by step or other DIY projects? Read this guide on the benefits of building your own wooden furniture.

How To Build Pallet Furniture

Building pallet furniture is not a simple process, hence we have broken these down into easy to follow steps:

Choosing Your Pallets

The first step in building your own pallet furniture is selecting the right wood. Pallets made of pine or oak are ideal because they absorb paint well and are easier to handle during crafting. Before you start, ensure your pallets are safe for home use—avoid those marked with “MB” (methyl bromide) or brightly coloured pallets, which may contain harmful chemicals.

Look for opportunities to get pallets for free from local businesses like supermarkets or construction sites. They often have spare pallets they’re willing to give away. If not, check online marketplaces where you can often find pallets at a minimal cost. Ensure the pallets are in good condition, free of cracks, splinters, or rot to ensure the durability and safety of your furniture.

Materials Needed

For this simple DIY project, you’ll need:

• At least three wooden pallets
• An electric sander
• Garden furniture chalk paint
• A small roller and tray
• A paintbrush
• Electric drill with screws
• Metal joining plates for stability
• Scatter cushions for decoration and comfort

On our blog, we have plenty of articles regarding inspirational advice for your garden, including garden seating ideas, outdoor garden table decoration ideas, and more.

Building Pallet Furniture: Step by Step

Now that you have gathered the necessary components, we can begin constructing the furniture:

1. Get prepped

Before diving into the assembly, preparing your pallets is crucial. This step involves inspecting each pallet for any protruding nails or rough patches that need smoothing. Using an electric sander, sand down all surfaces, edges, and corners of the pallets. Make sure to sand along the wood grain to avoid creating scratches that could be exacerbated by painting or staining later. This preparation ensures a smooth base, ideal for a comfortable sitting area.

2. Sanding Pallet Furniture

Even if your pallets look smooth initially, a thorough sanding is necessary to prepare them for finishing. Focus on areas that will contact cushions or clothing. A detailed sanding process enhances the wood’s texture and prepares it for further treatment. 

Remember: wear protective gear like goggles and gloves during this process.

3. Wood Treatment: Coating Wood

To ensure your pallet furniture withstands the elements and lasts long, treat the wood before painting. Apply a wood preserver to all surfaces following the manufacturer’s instructions and allow it to dry completely. This step helps prevent future rot and decay.

For a beautiful finish, choose between staining and painting. Staining maintains the natural wood grain, while painting provides a uniform colour. Prepare your paint or stain by diluting it according to the viscosity required for your sprayer.

Fill the sprayer, attach the spray head, and test on a scrap piece of wood to ensure the settings are correct for a smooth application. Then, evenly spray your pallet furniture, maintaining a consistent distance to avoid drips and uneven coverage. Always wear a respirator, especially when working with potentially toxic substances.

4. Start Painting

Selecting the appropriate paint is crucial when creating pallet garden furniture. Oil-based and water-based paints are popular choices, each available in various finishes. 

For a vintage and rustic appearance, chalky finishes are ideal, enhancing the natural charm of pallet furniture. When painting, thoroughly stir your paint and apply it along the wood grain using a mini roller for uniform coverage. Brushes can help reach intricate areas. Apply multiple coats for the best results, allowing adequate drying time between layers.

Consider environmental factors while painting as well. In damp conditions or direct sunlight, drying times and the quality of paint can vary significantly. Opt for painting in milder weather or shaded areas to avoid these issues, ensuring a smooth and durable finish on your easy pallet outdoor furniture.

5. Securing the Base

The next step in creating your easy pallet furniture is to secure the base properly. 

Start by stacking your pallets to achieve the desired height for your seating. Prioritise stability and safety here; use either metal or wooden panels to connect the pallets firmly. 

Drill screws through the panels and into the pallets, placing a panel at each corner and using four screws per corner for a solid construction. This method ensures that your pallet furniture remains durable and secure.

6. Form the Back

For the back of your pallet seating, position another pallet vertically against the secured base. This pallet will act as the backrest, providing support and comfort for your seating. Secure this pallet in place using a drill and screws, making sure it’s firmly attached to ensure safety and comfort. This step is essential in transforming your stacked pallets into a functional piece of furniture.

7. Display Pallet Bench In Style

Once your base structure is complete, it’s time to add style and comfort to your pallet garden furniture. Our garden bench cushions would work perfectly here on the pallet seats. Adding these cushions will provide comfort as well as a splash of colour and texture to your outdoor space. 

For those looking to expand their seating options, consider placing two pallet furniture benches side by side to accommodate more guests. Alternatively, you can create a larger, more luxurious seating area by building a pallet corner sofa. This involves arranging multiple pallets to form a right angle and securing them to a custom-made wooden frame, which provides a spacious and inviting outdoor seating area.

To truly showcase your new pallet furniture, position it in a prime location in your garden or patio. Decorate around your pallet bench with potted plants, outdoor lanterns, or other garden accessories to create a welcoming and inviting space. The rustic charm of pallet furniture combined with stylish accessories will make your outdoor area a favourite spot for relaxing and entertaining. You could even learn how to hang festoon lights here, too, and allow your pallet furniture to steal the spotlight in the evenings.

For the patio enthusiasts, maintain it this summer by learning how to clean a patio. 

Is Pallet Wood Suitable for Furniture?

Pallet wood can be excellent for creating furniture, especially when it’s ensured to be safe and free from harmful chemicals. It’s essential to select pallets that are not treated with hazardous substances. Look for kiln-dried, FSC-accredited pallets often available at DIY stores, which are safe and sustainable options for building pallet garden furniture.

When choosing pallets for your DIY projects, avoid:

• Stained Pallets: The origin of the stain and its components are often unknown.
• MB-Stamped Pallets: Indicates treatment with methyl bromide, a toxic pesticide.
• Coloured Pallets: These may contain harmful paints and often belong to rental services.
• EUR Stamped Pallets: This marking can indicate that the pallets are old and potentially weak.

For the best results, always inspect pallets thoroughly and treat the wood appropriately to enhance its suitability for outdoor use. Proper treatment also extends the life of your pallet furniture, ensuring it remains beautiful and functional in your garden or patio setting.

Selling Your Upcycled Pallet Furniture

Once you’ve created your easy pallet furniture, selling it can be straightforward, especially on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. This site allows you to reach local buyers interested in unique, eco-friendly furniture. 

Items like pallet armchairs and sofas can be quite bulky, so local sales eliminate the need for costly shipping. For wider reach, consider listing on eBay with local pickup options. Many sellers find that these pieces can sell quickly due to their popularity and the growing interest in sustainable, handmade home goods.

Pallet Garden Furniture Made Easy

By following these steps, you can easily create beautiful and functional easy pallet outdoor furniture. Not only will this project enhance the look of your outdoor space, but it also offers a satisfying DIY experience. So grab your tools, gather your pallets, and start building—your next favourite spot to enjoy the outdoors is just a few steps away!

FAQs

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Sources

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Timber 2 U Direct. (2021) 3 Main Benefits of Building Your Own Wood Furniture. [online] Available at: https://www.timber2udirect.co.uk/3-main-benefits-of-building-your-own-wood-furniture/ [accessed 16/05/24]   

Forest Stewardship Council. (2022) What Is FSC? [online] Available at: https://uk.fsc.org/what-is-fsc [accessed 16/05/24]