Put pallets to use! 9 budget-friendly ideas for your patio and garden
A pallet is a handy, budget-friendly material that can help you build patio furniture, an outdoor bath, or even a summer kitchen. Check out our selection of unique ideas!
1. A sofa for relaxing
You can build an affordable sofa for your patio or balcony using pallets. No tools are needed—just stack them to a comfortable height, add a mattress, and pile on cushions. The result is a cozy lounge spot for the whole family. Check out our instructions for a Euro-pallet sofa with armrests! [in Finnish]
2. Outdoor bath for the summer
How about a bath or a refreshing shower right in the middle of your garden? Pallets provide a neat floor area and just enough privacy for a summer soak. The shower fits between two pallets and leans against the end of the tub. The tub is clad in smaller pallets. If you have leftover boards, add a seat or side table near the tub. Attach hooks to a wall panel for towels. Then simply fill it up and enjoy!
3. Unify the set with one shade
In this corner of the patio, the sofas and table are made from pallets tinted in a warm brown. Pallets often vary in color, so you might treat them with tinted wood oil. The table has wheels so you can easily move it around as needed.
4. A green thumb’s home base
Transform pallets into a cheerful potting table which will be a big help in the garden. Painted black, it’s ideal for potting and storing tools. You can also set up a water station on the top level for washing up after a busy day of gardening.
5. Hanging herb garden
In just a few hours, you can turn a pallet into a handy herb shelf—great for a balcony or porch. Hang it on the wall or from the ceiling to keep it away from curious pets or little hands. Check out instructions for the herb shelf! [in Finnish]
6. Stacked as a table
Under the pergola, a stack of pallets topped with a cloth acts as the coffee table in this lounge area. Use tablecloths, throws, and other textiles to quickly change up the look of pallet tables and benches.
7. A resting spot under the tree
A garden chair built from pallets invites you to enjoy a coffee break or take a rest from yard work. Wheels make it easy to move around to find sun or shelter from rain. Add cushions and a couple of pillows for extra comfort.
8. Tools in order
With pallets and a few extra boards, you can build a tool shelf and solve storage dilemmas in the garage or shed. It has space for hammers, screwdrivers, and other tools. Check out our instructions for building a tool shelf!
9. Summer kitchen at the ready
You can asseble a summer kitchen from pallets in one day. This practical setup includes dish storage, an island, and a stool. If you prefer, treat the surfaces with outdoor furniture paint or tinted wood oil. Left uncoated, the pallets will weather gracefully over time but they may absorb more dirt. This kitchen is perfect for a cottage, backyard, or even next to a gazebo. Check out our instructions for building your own summer kitchen!
Where can you find pallets?
You can ask for pallets at store loading docks, construction sites, or recycling centers. Even damaged pallets can be used to salvage individual boards. You can also buy new or used pallets from specialized suppliers.
