Introduction: Pallet End Table
Below are directions for a simple end table made from pallets.
Step 1: Find 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.
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 3: Cut Pieces
Cut pieces per drawings. After cutting, sand with course sandpaper to remove rough spots or major staining/paint…unless that is your desired look.
Step 4: Assemble Frames
Assemble the two frames (nail & glue). Note how it is put together – should be a square
Step 5: Add Horizontal Slats
Attach horizontal slats to frames (nail & glue).
Step 6: Leg Assemblies
Nail and glue legs as shown.
Step 7: Ready for Final Assembly
Step 8: Add Legs & Pins
Attach the legs as shown (nail & glue). Drill holes for the pins. Insert and glue into place.
Step 9: Final Product
Drawing File:
https://googledrive.com/host/0B21TbB8gGNQbX2dlNGdxR0NuOE0/end_table_RevA.pdf
Step 10: See Matching Planter Boxes!
If you liked this, see matching planter boxes.

Runner Up in the
Pallet Contest

Participated in the
Green Design Contest
22 Comments
1 year ago
Why do you have to have the pins
Reply 1 year ago
Adds strength to the table. Also, slightly decorative. You don't need them if you use screws.
Reply 1 year ago
Thank you
4 years ago
Are these measurements in inches?
Reply 4 years ago
Yes
6 years ago
Forgot to say I used bolts that had been spray painted black instead of dowels.
Reply 6 years ago
Nice. The bolts are a cool touch.
6 years ago
Made these for our new end tables. Thanks!
6 years ago
Only wish I had some stain, but the goal was to make it for free. I didnt have a table saw for the cuts, so I had to rely on a jigsaw and a few planers, but I love it!
Reply 6 years ago
Nice job! BTW, there are a few low cost stain options available. Search for natural stain on instructables.
7 years ago
what type of nails did you use?
Reply 7 years ago on Introduction
I think I used 1 1/4 inch finishing nails. I use a nail gun (1.5" nails) for the planter box shown in the last step
8 years ago on Introduction
love this!...where did you get the pins?...
Reply 8 years ago on Introduction
Thanks. 3/4" dowels - Home Depot or Lowes
8 years ago
Decided to use your idea as my first pallet project, worked fine, just found that finding straight boards is the biggest challenge, took me slightly longer and put my own spin on the dezign, thx for the info
Reply 8 years ago
Yes, straight pallet wood is a challenge.
Good job. I like the color.
Reply 8 years ago
Thanks, mounted some rubber feet yesterday and is steady as a rock
9 years ago on Introduction
Good job!
9 years ago
Steve Ramsey?
Reply 9 years ago on Introduction
Yes, very similar. The dimensions have been modified. I also wanted something to match the planters.