Pallet Crafts

Creating interesting, useful, and beautiful things out of wood has always been a huge passion of mine. I inherited it from my father, who taught me so much when I was a child. We turned doors into unusual tables, made shelves out of old floorboards, and decorated our various homes together. This book combines my passion for working with wood and the growing trend for recycling and upcycling pieces of interest for people’s homes. Instead of buying new items, I enjoy the challenge of refurbishing something old, or the process of transforming basic materials into something special. It is also a great way to participate in saving the planet. Pallets play beautifully into this trend, as they are accessible, affordable, and attractive. You don’t need to be a highly experienced…

If you look carefully, you’ll be surprised at how often you spot discarded pallets in skips or at recycling centers. However, there are lots of businesses that are worth asking if they have unwanted pallets you can take away. Building sites are a great starting point because most building materials are delivered on pallets. You’ll find that a lot of builders are more than happy to let you take away the ones you want. Garden centers, bathroom and furniture stores are other useful places to check out, as they can get inundated with pallets. Always ask before you take one, though, as larger companies sometimes have a system in place to get refunds on returned pallets. Smaller businesses are also well worth a look: They often have a weekly delivery…

USING A HAMMER This method can only be used on the European style of pallet (see page 4). Start off by hitting the blocks that hold the two sides of the pallet together to loosen them. Then continue to tap the planks in a downward direction until they separate from the blocks. This is time-consuming but effective. USING A HAMMER AND BRICK CHISEL Place the chisel between the board and the support to which it is attached. Hit the chisel with the hammer so that the chisel breaks the nail. Continue this until all of the planks are released. USING A HAMMER AND CROWBAR Place the crowbar between the board and the support and tap it with the hammer until it is secure beneath the board. Pry the board using…

Handsaw A good handsaw will save you time and energy. For pallet builds, you will need a general-purpose saw, normally called a panel saw. This is the general “go-to” saw for any DIY enthusiast. Jigsaw A jigsaw with sharp blades can cut both straight and curved lines, helping you to tackle tricky corners. They are available corded or cordless; I prefer the freedom of movement afforded by a cordless one. There is a range of blades for different purposes, so make sure you get the right blades for the job. Reciprocating saw/hammer and brick chisel/hammer and crowbar You can use a hammer and brick chisel or crowbar to dismantle pallets (see pages 6–7), but the easiest option is to use a reciprocating saw. You don’t need a top-of-the range one,…

YOU WILL NEED • 1 x American pallet (chosen for its shaped detailing), plus several extra pallet planks• Handsaw or jigsaw• Pencil or marker pen• Ruler or tape measure• Drill• 1¼in (30mm) wood screws• Wood glue• Sander and sandpaper (120-grit) • Oak wood stain and cloth to apply it (optional)• Beeswax and cloth to apply it (optional)• Wood filler (optional)• 4 x metal hairpin legs (these are usually sold with screws included, otherwise you will also need to purchase the correct size and number of screws for the legs)…

YOU WILL NEED • Pallet planks (any type; the number required will depend on the size of table you want to make)• 1 x 2in (25–50mm) wood battens for frame• Handsaw or jigsaw• Drill • 1½in (40mm) and 1¼in (30mm) wood screws• Sander and sandpaper (120-grit)• Danish natural oil and cloth to apply it (optional) TIP For a more finished effect, apply natural Danish oil with a cloth to seal the wood.…