Pallet tables have become popular in recent years as the love for rustic style furniture continues to grow. Pallet wood is attractive to DIYers because it is inexpensive, and it is raw and imperfect. It has natural weathering, so no added patina is necessary.

Pallet Table

There are so many tutorials on how to build a pallet wood table of all different shapes and sizes. We have rounded up the best ones for you to consider. We even have a step-by-step tutorial at the end of the article to show you how to make an amazing pallet coffee table with hairpin legs.

Pallet Picnic Table

We love this design of a pallet picnic table from Beyond the Picket Fences. This beautiful picnic table is built using wood from an old pallet and then painted for a colorful and eclectic finished product. Also, we prefer this one to other designs because the benches are separate from the table making it easier to get on and off the benches.

Pallet Side Table

This wooden pallet side table from Grillo Designs is the perfect addition to any room! It is not just stylish, but it also has ample storage for all those books you’re not reading. This tutorial is very clear and takes you through the entire process from buying the materials to the completion of this pallet side table.

Pallet Dining Table

We love the look of this simple pallet table with hairpin legs. It is slender in profile and has a rustic industrial style. When you’re finished with the table, dress it up with a white tablecloth and candles, or leave it as is for casual dining. It would be perfect in both an outdoor and indoor setting. Find the full tutorial on A Beautiful Mess.

Pallet Wood Nightstand

This pallet wood nightstand from the DIY Huntress is a replica of a more expensive West Elm nightstand. It blends the industrial and rustic styles in a way that works with many different room designs. In addition, it has great closed storage and an open shelf for items that are more attractive to display.

Pallet Wood Coffee Table

We love the chevron top of this pallet table DIY from The Merry Thought. This pallet wood coffee table is the perfect option if you need a table that can withstand the wear and tear of a busy home life. Also, there is a handy shelf for quick storage items.

Pallet End Table

This professional-style tutorial comes from the Family Handyman. It has a video, a cutting list, project plans, and step-by-step instructions on how to build this pallet wood end table. This tutorial may be harder for people that have no building experience. However, the finished project is worth the learning time needed.

Kid’s Pallet Table

This is a project from Shelterness for a kid’s craft or dining table. It has a white-painted base with a dark pallet top. It is a sturdy design that will last through many years of playdough and peanut butter sandwiches. Also, it is a project that the kids can help you build. For example, let them paint the bottom while you finish staining the top.

Outdoor Pallet Table

We are excited about this particular table made from Remodelaholic. It is an outdoor table with a cooler for drinks in the middle. This is the most perfect party table that we have seen. Plus, it is practical and cost-effective.

DIY Pallet Coffee Table with Hairpin Legs

Create this inexpensive industrial modern coffee table using an old pallet and a set of hairpin legs to outfit your living room in no time! This coffee table is perfect for those who love to repurpose, apartment dwellers, or those looking for extra storage space- the open sides are great for storing books and remotes! Also, this project is easy and can be completed in about an hour’s time!

Supplies you’ll need to build a pallet coffee table with hairpin legs:

palletsawhammerpry bar (or you can use the back of your hammer)drillset of four 12 or 14-inch hairpin table legs (available from several online retailers)clear varnishpaintbrush

Step by step guide to recycling an old wood pallet:

Step 1: Clean and modify the pallet

Start by modifying your pallet to your desired size. Then, saw down to size (or leave as is if your pallet is already the perfect size for your coffee table specifications!)

Step 2: Remove slats

Remove and replace slats as needed. All pallets have different characteristics (and often with reused pieces of previous pallets) so they may have slats that are further spaced or closer together. Next, if the slats are further apart you can take pieces off the excess that you cut off and place them into the open slats as above. Use a hammer to loosen the slats and a crowbar to remove excess nails as needed. However, be careful during this step as the pallet slats could break when you are hammering them off if the wood is very dry. Use caution to remove the slats in one full piece!

Step 3: Extra slats

Use a few extra slats (or cut a few pieces of wood if needed) to reinforce the bottom of the pallet. Ensure that you have two pieces of slats going across the bottom of the pallet at each end so that you have enough room to put on the hairpin legs.

Step 4: Attaching the legs

Attach the hairpin legs by screwing one to each corner at the bottom of the pallet. In addition, you may want to pre-drill the holes prior to drilling the screws in place.

Step 5: Apply a coat of paint

Lastly, clear coat the table with a coat or two of varnish. Apply evenly and let dry for a few hours before bringing inside. Sanding down rough spots prior to varnishing is optional. Here we left the edges rough for an industrial look.

Once the varnish is dry your new coffee table is ready to come inside to its new home. Add a few books and a centerpiece for display!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ

How to make pallet furniture?

This article has given you some helpful links for pallet table-making tutorials. You can also search YouTube if you want tutorials that show the complete process.

What screws to use for pallet furniture?

You should use bichromate screws (yellow in color) for your pallet wood projects as they are weather-resistant. Also, you can use galvanized nails. However, screws allow you to take apart your project easier if you make a mistake or need to take the wood apart for another project.

What do you need to make pallet furniture?

Your list of supplies depends on the project you are going to make. However, at the most basic, you will need a pallet, screws, a saw, and a measuring tool. Also, you will need sandpaper and paint or stain to finish the project.

How to stain pallet furniture?

First, begin by preparing the wood for stain with a sander. Next, stir the stain and brush it on. Allow it to dry and recoat until you reach the color you want. Last, apply some type of sealer like polyurethane.

What pallets to use for furniture?

Not all pallets are the same, and you should consider the type of pallet you need for the project you are building. Make sure that you have the correct size and amount of wood for the project. Also, pallets are made from different types of wood, so find a pallet that you like the look of before using it in a project.

Are pallets safe for furniture?

Most pallets in the US are safe to use in furniture as they are not treated with chemicals. However, try to find out the origin of the pallet to be sure. Also, make sure that the pallet you use doesn’t have pests embedded in the wood. Pallet wood can also be quite rough. Therefore, if you have little ones, it may be best to sand the wood to remove splinters.

Where can I find pallets for furniture?

You can buy pallet wood, but you can also try to source it for free. Check with local supermarkets, furniture stores, and office buildings to see if they have any extra pallets that they are giving away. Also, look at your neighborhood sites like Craigslist and FB Marketplace to see if anyone has a pallet that needs a new home.

Where can I buy hairpin legs?

There are multiple sizes, colors, and styles of hairpin legs that you can order online. Also, if you want to see the legs in person, a local DIY store should have some options that you can see.

Conclusion

Pallet projects are loved all over the world for their style and inexpensive material costs. Pallet tables are sturdy additions to your indoor and outdoor spaces.

Though pallet tables are rustic in nature, these projects can be customized to work with industrial and modern design too.

By making a pallet table, you can create unique furniture, and hone your DIY skills at the same time! Try one of the amazing projects in our article and surprise yourself with your DIY genius!