The Original Pallet Shelf Tutorial

pallet shelf tutorial
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Take a pallet and turn it into wall shelves for free!  The shelves are very useful and can be used for storage or decor, indoors or out, in any room of the home.  This is a very easy project to tackle.

The original tutorial to recycle a discarded pallet into a very useful wall shelf by Ana White

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To make this pallet shelf, you'll need a good pallet, look for a clean one that is suitable for your needs.

 

Identify the ends that are perfect for a shelf.  Use a reciprocating saw or a jigsaw to cut the ends off as shown.

Measure the spaces at the bottom.

Insert a 1x4 or 2x4 cut to fit into the spaces.  Use a nailer or screws to attach in place.  Easiest option is 1-1/4" brad nails with an 18 gauge brad nailer.

This completes the bottom.

Sand and finish as desired.

The shelf will be heavy. It is recommended to screw through the back piece directly into a stud in the wall for hanging.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Preparation

Tools
Tape Measure
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Drill
Jigsaw

Comments

Treva (not verified)

Wed, 04/14/2010 - 20:50

Two days too late! I almost grabbed a nicely patinaed pallet on trash day from my neighbors. I decided I was maybe going a little too far with my "upcycling". I finally decided to let it go as I had no immediate use for it. Now I am kicking myself. Next time.

elei (not verified)

Wed, 04/14/2010 - 21:13

my sister used pallets to line the reception area for her wedding. my dad cut points at the top and painted them white to look like picket fences. these shelves are cool

aklatina (not verified)

Wed, 04/14/2010 - 21:13

00000hh I used to work in a warehouse and saw these come and go and tried so hard to think of what i could do with one, best i thought of was some planter boxes that didnt look half as nice as those cute shelves! nice job!

Shell (not verified)

Wed, 04/14/2010 - 21:18

Haha I just googled yesterday stuff to make from pallets since we always have them laying around. I was too ashamed to ask you if you could actually use that wood for stuff.

Landry (not verified)

Wed, 04/14/2010 - 21:26

Does anyone know definitively about how pallets are treated? I've come close to starting quite a few pallet projects, but have shied away because of reports that many (most?) are chemically treated with toxins.

I would love to find out otherwise so I can build these amazing shelves tomorrow!!

Frugal Mamma (not verified)

Thu, 06/14/2012 - 07:48

Pallets are treated in one of 2 ways - heat or chemical. Laws in US require 2 stamps on the wood to identify how they are treated. Heat Treated pallets contain HT (meaning no chemicals are used to protect the wood from bugs and rot). Chemically treated pallets have MB on them indicating the use of methyl bromide. If possible, you want to stay away from using these in your home, especially if you have kids. There are additional concerns using pallets for ANYTHING that will come in contact with your children or food. Pallets used in shipping foods may contain listeria, e.coli and salmonella as the wood is porous. Methyl bromide is used to kill bugs (as when shipped from one country to another) but does little for bacteria that causes food bourne illness.

Bottom line - I love pallet projects and use them where appropriate, but never for things my children or my food will touch. A sign? Fine. Wall art? Great! A cutting board or toddler bead? ABSOLUTELY not. Not ever.

Katie (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 01:06

That is such a great project! I have several (like 100, literally) pallets in a burn pile right now. Running out to rescue them!

Rachel (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 01:38

THIS IS AWESOME! I think I could even do this! Now...how to score a pallet for myself...:)

Peggy (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 01:44

Wow what a great idea! Another reason to find some pallets... Once I find a local source we will be in like Flin (we just moved from Nenana to Indiana. So do you know many in Delta? Friends of ours moved back after being gone a few years. The Helkinn's. small world, huh? I started reading your blog before the move but never got around to reading old posts to realize we were so close! I must admit I could now kick myself! Keep up the good work!!)

Back to the pallets... I see these book/magazine racks, garden signs and a compost bin in our near future.

Who do you get your organic produce from? Sorry just curious. We have friends who are trying to eliminate the once a week trip up to town for produce from Fred's so I thought I could pass it on to them.

Once again thanks for all the great ideas, plans, and work you put into this blog!!

Remodelaholic (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 02:37

I LOVE this! I really love the look with a few dishes etc in it, it is rustic but then the dishes offset that! Perfect! I love the commentary too! A woman on a mission- don't mess!

Kathy (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 03:09

You have the most AMAZING creative mind! This is a great idea and I have a huge stack of rescued pallets in my back yard that I scored from the warehouse next to where I work.
My Handyman (DH) is always asking me, when I come up with ideas, "does your brain ever hurt?"

Christina (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 03:19

I love looking at all you do and come up with! So I gave you an award. Come check it out at Mamafabulous.blogspot.com

CountryBelle (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 04:07

Ha ha! I'm laughing because I think my husband would have a hissy fit if I used our pallets from the wood shed. I guess this one will have to wait until I we get some concrete!

marsha (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 04:16

Ever since I found your website I have had my eye on pallets at work wondering what I could build with them. Thanks for the great idea!

HUMBER (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 04:27

Are you kidding me?! I HAVE (!!!) a pile of those behind the shed at the far end of my yard!... I think... Well, guess where I will be this afternoon? All I can say: SUPER IDEA! Thank you.

Judi B (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 05:02

I LOVE this idea. I was just telling my hubby about trying to get some broken up pallets to use in making garden boxes. Maybe you little project will help to get the creative juices flowing. pallets could really have some possibilities!!!

the mama monster (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 05:05

oh my goodness those are amazingly cool! i was going to make some of your other shelves for my boys books but how cool would these be in a little boys room! thank you so much for all you do. you are rad!

Jeannine (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 05:06

Love it! I will have to go to the place I saw the other day that had a sign - FREE PALLETTS, and make some for our lake cottage - not much storage there and some of these hung on the wall in the eating area to hold paper plates, plastic silverware, napkins, etc would be great! Thanks again for another great idea!

TYP - Jay (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 05:18

I really like this idea! I am currently trying to find ways to spruce up my small townhouse backyard! I think this is an exellent idea in which I can plant hanging flowers in on the cheap. Excellent drainage and I'm sure it would look great!

Scrapity Anne (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 05:30

Just went outside and grabbed back the pallet that I had in the trash pile. This is an AWESOME idea!! Thanks so much for all you do!

Ana White (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 05:33

Thank you all, I am so happy with my shelves! And Landry, I am not sure if the pallets are treated or not. Mine came from an organic farm, so I sure hope not! But I imagine in some places, pallets could be treated to keep rot/bugs out. I would inspect the end grain of the wood and any cracks, seeing if there is any discoloration. You could also seal with a sealer, sealing in any possible chemicals, or paint.

Ana White (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 05:35

I really love this hack all, and I hope as you took a second to comment, you also take a second to share/stumble/digg etc because I think this is something just about anyone can do and find a use for! You would be doing our planet a favor - here's to reclaiming trashed pallets!

Lacking Productivity (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 05:38

I love pallet furniture. I have seen so way cute table/toy chests made of pallet wood, so as soon as I have some of my own little kiddies, I'm making one.,,but this idea gives the toy storage unit some matching shelves.

Rock on!

MaryJanes and … (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 05:41

As the wife of a commercial carpenter I have unlimted access to palletts, I'm about to text him to bring one home so we can make these this weekend! LOVE it, thank you!!!!

SaraReno (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 07:18

Oh, fabulous! I have been needing to make a magazine rack for two of the bathrooms and I think this will work perfectly! And luckily, I know a guy who can probably hook me up with a pallet or two.

Michelle Spark… (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 07:30

Love this! My husband told me he could get me as many pallets as I can use from his work, for free.....can't wait to make this.

Amanda (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 07:49

That's great! I won't be surprised if Pottery Barn decides to hack this idea for their next catalog!

Charlene (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 08:07

Love it! I've used pallets to build a compost pile container, but never thought about the designer aspect. I, too, will have to keep my eyes open for a lonesome pallet just looking for a makeover and a new home...

Vanilla Comfort (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 09:00

These are awesome! I was actually JUST going to ask you if I could reclaim the lumber from wood pallets and use it to build anything? (read my post on your facebook page to find out why :-( I'm Lisa Rene on there) We have 2.5 acres of woods and wetlands behind the house and I took the dogs for a hike to burn off some steam and vent my anger from my unsuccessful, VERY disappointing trip to lowes to buy lumber, and I came across a TON of lumber. And I don't mean tree. There are scraps all over back there. We just moved here in December, and the former owners left a bunch of wood in the garage, but I never noticed the stuff in the yard: lots of random scraps left over from some long ago boys building a fort (which still stands) and more scattered amongst the compost and grass clippings. Most on it looks to be in bad shape, cracked and rotting from weather damage and sitting in the snow all winter. But the real jackpot was my next door neighbors fire pit: wood pallets stacked higher than me! His aren't as pretty as yours are though. They look grey and weathered. What do you think? Can I use them? Should I sand them down and stain them? Or can I just stain them without staining to keep the reclaimed wood look?

Ana White (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 09:06

Vanilla comfort, actually, I think the rougher shape the pallets are in, the more character! Of course, if you want a smooth finish, you could either build flat wall book holders or sand and finish / paint.

I'm excited for your jackpot find!

And I'm sorry about the big box store. In these rough economic times, they should be happy to help. It's giving someone a job. I would try calling around first.

shares (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 09:22

amazing! i've been intimidated & amazed by almost everything on the website, but this i think i could do! now to find a pallet...hrm...

3Janes (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 09:57

Dang! You're soooooo SMART for thinking of this! I stand in awe of your awesome creativeness!! :-))

Chels (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 13:04

Uh, LOVE IT>
So easy! Well, I dont have the tools, but it would be SO EASY. Im thinking that for christmas I am going to ask for a plethera of power tools!
Maybe you can help me? What ones are the most useful & best to have?

Cottage Dreamers (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 13:47

Oh my goodness! I love this so much and want to do it so badly, I think I'm dying! It's the perfect solution to something I was working on this very afternoon, a silverware caddy, but permantly mounted on the wall. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! If hubs can get a pallet for me from work and I get this done, I'll be sure to let you know.
☺ Celeste

Ana White (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 13:55

Hi Chels, you could actually "build" this using a handsaw and a hammer and nails. To make life easier, have Blue or Orange cut your 1x4 boards at the store. Then all you have to do is cut the pallets (handsaw is going to take some sweat, but so does yoga class) with straight cuts (no fancy cutting required - you don't even have to be straight. And then just use the hammer and nails to fasten the bottom in place.

As far as buying tools, I would start with a good drill. Then some saws and an nailgun. I have a section of "tools" in a label on the right sidebar that talks about all the tools we use here.

Midnight Rambler (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 17:54

Wood pallets are everywhere and plentiful, but now I'm on the hunt for a sawsall!! A girl could really have a pallet of fun with a sawsall!

Christy (not verified)

Thu, 04/15/2010 - 18:28

I saw this post today and knew I had to have these shelves for my breakfast area. I was prepared to drive around tonight looking for pallets, but I actually saw one (on my way home) left out for the trash by my neighbors. I guess it was meant to be. Thanks so much for this idea!

Wonky Girl (not verified)

Sat, 04/17/2010 - 07:05

Great idea for pallet use but... Those pallets get transferred and used all over. They sit in dirty alley ways and loading docs. Who knows what some of the lovely marks and staining are from? (Dog urine, feral cats spraying, squished mouse droppings)? All kinds of nasty organisms can live in wood. I think you should steam pressure wash any pallets and then at least put a clear sealer on that wood.

Over here in AZ some people use pallets to create stucco walls. Stand them up and secure with rebar so they wont tip over. Then cover with wire mesh and spread your cement and then stucco texture mix all over to cover. Very rustic but blends well with the local architecture.

Kelly (not verified)

Sat, 04/17/2010 - 16:23

I was so inspired by this project that I set out to find some pallets and today I picked up three for free!!! Can't wait to start the project!!!

JackieSue (not verified)

Sat, 04/17/2010 - 19:13

Most of all I loved the way you told the story of building these shelves. And yes, I fully agree with the rest, they are AWESOME!!!

Seasonal And Holiday

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!