Upcycle Wood Pallets Into A Sleek DIY Bar To Upgrade Your Outdoor Space

Pallets are a staple of industry, with nearly 2 billion used to help carry goods in the United States alone every year. They come in all makes and materials, including molded plastic and paper, but solid wood pallets are undoubtedly the most well-known option given they make up the lion's share of the U.S. market. One of the best things about wood pallets is they're easily recyclable, whether you are taking them to a local recycling center or using the leftover material for your own upcycled DIY projects. For example, the TikTok channel @lifeonwillowtree offers the fun idea of crafting an affordable outdoor bar using three repurposed wood pallets.

In their video, the TikToking couple says this project is going to be part of their backyard wedding, but the cases for having an affordable outdoor bar go far beyond that. Whether you're hosting friends for a luncheon or need an extra place to store accessories for your pool, it's hard to argue with any excuse to pick up a sturdy new platform. With a relatively low material cost, using little more than a few 2x4s and some plywood sheets that are easy to customize, it's also clear to see how this piece could fit a variety of home aesthetics. It would look great alongside DIY projects like a wood pallet bookshelf. Once you've gotten your hands on wood pallets, starting is as easy as deciding what shape you want for your new piece of decor.

Although @lifeonwillowtree sets up three pallets in an L-shape, this is the first stage in which you can add your own twist by adjusting the number and shape of your repurposed pallets (if you end up with extras, there's always time to declutter your home with DIY coffee mug storage, too). The important thing is to lay your pallets on their sides with the flat ends outward, that way you can attach them by screwing 2x4s in the gaps between their sets of feet — ideally smaller pieces of lumber that won't be visible between planks.

From there, cut out the countertop using plywood, which you can make steady atop the edge of your pallets by nailing in some diagonal support arms. The basic structure is then complete, which means the sky's the limit as far as how to finish your outdoor bar. It's important to sand things smooth to the touch, then apply Thompson's WaterSeal wood sealer and an insecticide repellent to protect your pallets from the elements and harboring bugs, but general aesthetics and customizations are open to interpretation.

For example, you could continue to add or subtract pieces. Try nailing additional plywood shelves on gaps beneath the plywood countertop to store extra goods. If you're looking to use this piece as a genuine DIY home bar, you could also cut holes out of your countertop to run hoses for alcohol taps. Apply different coats of paint, stick-on decor, or trim pieces made from sheet wood, steel, or anything else that might fit to make this affordable build more your own.