The next time you see someone throwing out a wooden pallet, grab it and copy these DIY ideas

If you love DIY projects, then discovering a wooden pallet that you can use, is nothing short of finding your own gold mine. Pallets are a versatile source of wood for a number of home improvement projects, from spice racks and vinyl record displays to wall-mounted bottle openers. Many of these ideas double as unique gifts that friends and family will love. One thing's for sure: you'll never look at a pallet left on a curb the same way again.
Before you grab the first pallet you see, pay attention to what type of wood it's made of. Pallets are commonly made of pine or oak. Pine, which is a softwood, is lighter than oak. Oak, a hardwood, is heavier and more difficult to cut than pine, but is also more durable. You might complete a few of these projects before you know which type of wood pallet you like best.
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Hanging shelf with boards from a pallet
This hanging shelf would look chic in a living room and is just right for displaying small accessories and souvenirs. You could even make a matching set and use them instead of nightstands beside a bed. In addition to a few pallet boards, all you'll need to make this shelf is twine and a few common tools. Watch the full tutorial here.
Simple shelf with a pallet
Small kitchens don't have to be short on style or storage. With this pallet shelf, the possibilities for storage are endless. The top of the shelf can hold canisters, jars or glasses, whereas the hooks hold coffee cups, tea towels or keys. The best part is that this takes no time at all to make because it uses one row of boards already connected on the pallet. Find all the instructions here.
Wine rack bar with a pallet
Having a wine rack in the kitchen or dining area is an inexpensive way to add an element of luxury to your home. This rack not only holds bottles but also hangs glasses and has a tabletop for a cheese plate. The spaces between the pallet boards are already the perfect width for holding bottles, so all you'll need to do is add paint and a few details to make this piece multifunctional. Set aside some project time this weekend, and find the how-to guide here.
Spice rack with a pallet
Every ardent home chef loves to have plenty of spices on hand, but no one likes having to rummage around cluttered cabinets to find them. Bring joy back to cooking with this easy spice rack made from pallet boards. A few hooks on the side can hold a set of teaspoons or measuring cups. When you've stocked it, you'll be able to grab and dash your favorite flavors quickly. Watch the video tutorial here.
Cube with a pallet
This darling end table is sure to catch a few eyes for all the right reasons. It's as charming as it is understated and fits right in with a farmhouse-styled room. You could even make a bigger version of this and use it as a coffee table. Finish it with a stain to bring out the wood's natural grain. Here's the full tutorial.
Magazine rack with a pallet
If you have a weekly magazine subscription, it's not always easy to read the full issue before the next one arrives. Clear clutter off the coffee table with a magazine rack made from part of a pallet board. A few pieces of pipe, flange fittings and elbow fittings hold the page of whatever you're reading so you can come back to it later without losing your place. Grab a pallet, view the full tutorial, and make one of your own.
Record stand with a pallet
Vinyl enthusiasts will agree that the record sleeve is just as much a work of art as the music. This simple and beautiful display stand will let you admire the records in your current rotation. It also makes it easy for anyone to see what music is playing. Watch the how-to video, and make this for yourself or as a gift for a friend.
Wall-mounted bottle opener with pallet wood
This wall-mounted bottle opener would be perfect for a house party or as a fun detail on the patio. The ingenious box at the base collects bottle caps as they fall, so you'll never have to dive after them on the floor. Consider making one for a sports fan and painting it in the team's colors. Get all the instructions here.
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