Introduction: Making a Coffee Table From Reclaimed Pallet Wood
In this Instructable I show you how I made an awesome rustic coffee table from reclaimed pallet wood.
This pallet wood project is simple to make and does not require any fancy tools or tiptop woodworking skills.
Materials you will need; 1 or 2 pallets, chunky wood for the legs (I use old fence post) screws, wood glue and a nice wood finish (I used dark oak satin varnish).
Tools you will need; hand saw, tape measure, drill, screwdriver and a paint brush.
Step 1: Pallet Wood Prep
To start, dismantle and clean your pallet wood by removing all nails and screws, give everything a good sanding with 80 grit.
Step 2: Measuring Legs & Frame
Measure out 16 inches for each leg. I used an old fence post for the legs.
Next I measured out 2x 23 and 2x 36 inch pallet wood planks for the frame and attach to legs (see image).
The coffee table frame will need a supporting beam in the middle to give it extra strength, I used what was left from the legs.
Step 3: Picking the Best Parts
I played around with the top panels to see which ones would look the best, and once happy I glued and screwed.
Step 4: Sand Like You've Never Sanded Before
Starting from 80, I worked my way up to 240 grit and gave the whole coffee table a good sanding.
Step 5: Select a Finish and Drink Coffee
Next I gave it two coats of dark oak satin varnish. (my preference)
I then finished by putting the table in my living room and having a cup of coffee.
Jobs a gooden...
More awesome pallet wood project by BearWoodWork

Participated in the
Pallet Contest

Participated in the
Reuse Contest
22 Comments
8 years ago
thanks for the inspiration, here's my attempt at a copy
Reply 8 years ago
Look great, thanks
8 years ago on Introduction
Just made this version but in a dining room table (just longer legs) and it turned out great!!! Thanks for this!
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Awesome, love to see an image if possible!
8 years ago on Introduction
I made this great table today, totally proud and thank you so much!
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Great job, looks awsome.
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
I'll upload another one when its been waxed and stuff! The technique is brilliant.
8 years ago on Introduction
You should try finishing this using the shou sugi ban technique: Char all the wood surfaces with a propane torch, brush it off with a stiff brush, then apply the finish of your choice (I like tung oil).
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Nice tip, thanks. Danish man myself XD
8 years ago on Introduction
This is a great looking table! Love the rustic, simple look. Very well done!
7 years ago
I like this project because it doesnt have a million fancy tools involved :)
7 years ago
I made this but I don't have pictures of it. this is a present I am making for m moms Christmas present.
8 years ago
Beautiful table, very clear instructions.
8 years ago on Introduction
I am not a woodworker but I am a hunter and my 7 guns were stolen from my clothes closet. I plan to redesign this table to be deep, long, and wide enough, to house several gun supports, plus be lockable and hidden to view.
8 years ago on Introduction
8 years ago on Introduction
Love this one and making it hopefully this afternoon!!!
8 years ago
I see a lot of pallet projects on this site but I can't ever track any down
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
What? Single use pallets are so easy to come by that I'd never run out if I started to "harvest" them from local shops. Ask any shop; grocery and hardware stores for instance.
8 years ago on Introduction
This pallet table turned out beautiful. Thanks for the clear instructions
8 years ago
I'm inspired.