Create a shabby-chic shelf from a recycled shipping pallet.
Pallets are used worldwide for the easy transportation and shipping of goods. Traditionally they are of wood, and many see years of hard use. Wooden pallets will have character, and make for interesting furniture when recycled. Wooden pallets' constructions lend themselves particularly well to becoming recycled shelves that will bring personality to any room. One pallet can make two shelves. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Orient the pallet so that the slats are running vertically. Cut each end off the pallet around 4 inches in from the second slat. Most pallets have three braces which the slats are nailed onto, so you will have to cut through the three braces to sever the ends of the pallet.
2. Measure the open edge of the pallet ends (which will be the shelf bottom) and take off one of the unused pallet slats and cut it to size to fit the bottom of the pallet end. Repeat so you have two slats sized for the bottom of the pallet ends.
3. Secure the slats to the bottom of the pallet ends with 1 5/8-inch nails hammered in around the perimeter every 4 to 5 inches. Stand the pallet ends upright on the bottom. The two slats that are attached to the braces should be at the back, with the braces, with the under support plank of the pallet and the bottom forming a box to store items in.
4. Sit the pallet shelf on a bench, or an existing shelf to hold books, magazine or other items, or use 2-inch screws driven through the back slats of the pallet shelf into wall studs to secure the shelf to the wall.
Tags: pallet ends, bottom pallet, bottom pallet ends, pallet shelf, three braces, will have
