This is my first project on Instructables and also my first time working with pallets. These planters are meant to house two large pots in a more attractive manner. To me, working with pallets takes a good amount of work but I do like the feeling of up-cycling something that would have gone to the landfill.

Drawing File – Plan 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B21TbB8gGNQbMEl2...

Drawing File – Plan 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B21TbB8gGNQbUWUw...

Step 1: Pallets

Find free pallets from Craigslist. If not available, you can purchase them locally for very little money. When searching through the pallet stack, look for the pallets with the most usable wood. The length of the slats is ~ 3 feet. The thickness varies from ½ to ¾ thick. The width of the slats can vary from 2.5 to 6 inches.

Step 2: Deconstruction

Breaking the pallets apart takes a decent amount of work. Use a jig or circular saw to cut the ends. Pry the wood from the center support. This should give you 8 to 14 boards per pallet. Remove nails from slats.

Step 3: What's Left?

Before you start cutting, determine the best pieces to get the desired width (see drawing). I had multiple long pieces with cracks and/or damage down one side. I was able to cut the damage off and still have usable pieces.

Step 4: Cut/Sand Boards

Refer to the drawings in the intro for the length of each board. After cutting the pieces, sand them with course sandpaper to remove rough spots or major staining/paint…unless that is your desired look.