Last Updated on May 19, 2025 by Team Ideas24
It’s a simple yet stylish furniture piece for your outdoor living area. This end table is another great project using one of our favorite resources to work with… pallets!
This DIY furniture is very easy to build. It’s a perfect project for those working with pallets for the first time.
And though this article says ‘pallet’, you can definitely use other timber such as offcuts from a previous project or pieces from old furniture. What’s important is – and what makes this end table beautiful – that they are made with very inexpensive or free material! Just finished building your deck? Then you might have some decent leftovers you can use.
Imagine taking a break, enjoying your drink, or having a good conversation with your loved ones with this end table and a comfortable set of chairs. You can even complete your outdoor living area with a matching pallet planter!
Read on to learn how easy it is to build this pallet end table and see the matching pallet planter which you can also try building!
Contents
Building Pallet End Tables
Materials:
- Pallet
- 1 1/4″ Finishing Nails
- Wood Glue
- Wood Stain
- Outdoor Urethane
Tools:
- Measuring Tape
- Jigsaw or Circular saw
- Pry
- Sander
- Hammer
- Drill
Steps:
Find free pallets from Craigslist. If not available, you can purchase them locally for very little money. (Learn more about pallets and where you can get them here!)
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.
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.
Cut pieces per drawings. After cutting, sand with course sandpaper to remove rough spots or major staining/paint…unless that is your desired look.
Assemble the two frames (nail & glue). Note how it is put together – should be a square.
Attach horizontal slats to frames (nail & glue).
Nail and glue legs as shown.
Now you’re parts are all ready for final assembly…
Attach the legs as shown (nail & glue). Drill holes for the pins. Insert and glue into place.
Here are photos of the final product:
See the matching pallet planters!
Thanks to mtairymd for this great project!
Choosing the Right Wood for Durability
Not all pallet wood is created equal. If you want your pallet end tables to last, especially outdoors, it’s important to choose timber that can stand up to wear, weather, and time.
Hardwood vs. Softwood Pallets
Many pallets are made from softwoods like pine or spruce. These are easier to cut and assemble, but they wear down faster. If you’re after longevity, look for hardwood pallets made from oak, maple, or hickory. These are denser and naturally more resistant to dents and decay. The downside is they can be tougher to work with and may dull your blades faster.
Look for Heat-Treated Wood
Always check for the “HT” stamp on pallets. This means the wood was heat-treated to kill pests and mold, not chemically treated. Chemically treated pallets can be hazardous to health and should never be used for indoor or outdoor furniture. If the pallet is marked “MB,” it’s been treated with methyl bromide and should be avoided altogether.
Inspect for Damage and Rot
Before using any piece of pallet wood, check for signs of rot, deep cracks, or water damage. Even if the wood looks fine on the surface, press your nail into it. If it gives easily or feels soft, it’s likely too weak for furniture use. Also, steer clear of boards with embedded nails or rusty stains. These can compromise both the look and structural strength of your pallet end table.
Sand and Seal Thoroughly
Even the best pallet wood needs preparation. Once you’ve selected your planks, give them a solid sanding to remove splinters and any surface grime. This not only makes the wood safer to handle but also helps your stain or sealant stick better. After sanding, seal the wood with outdoor urethane or an oil-based finish. This adds a protective barrier against moisture, UV rays, and general wear.
Use Consistent Thickness for Structural Parts
When building frames and legs, use pieces with uniform thickness and minimal warping. Mismatched or uneven boards can cause your pallet end table to wobble or sag. Set aside the most even and solid slats for high-stress areas, and reserve thinner or less-perfect pieces for decorative touches.
Picking the right wood may take extra time, but it pays off. Your pallet end table will look better, last longer, and require fewer repairs down the line.
Weatherproof Finishes and Maintenance
If you’re placing your pallet end tables outdoors, they’ll need proper protection from sun, rain, and humidity. A good finish will prevent cracking, rotting, and fading. Pair that with a simple maintenance routine and your table will stay sturdy and attractive for years.
Start with a Proper Sanding
Before applying any finish, make sure the wood surface is smooth and clean. Sand down every surface of your pallet end table to remove dirt, splinters, and old paint. Use coarse sandpaper to even out rough spots, then move to a finer grit for a smoother surface. Clean off the dust before you apply your finish so it adheres evenly.
Choose an Exterior-Grade Finish
Outdoor urethane is one of the most reliable options. It forms a tough, clear layer that resists water, UV rays, and scratches. You can choose from satin, semi-gloss, or gloss, depending on your desired look. For a more natural finish, consider a penetrating oil like teak oil or linseed oil. These soak into the wood, protecting it from the inside out while enhancing the grain.
Apply Multiple Coats for Maximum Protection
One coat isn’t enough for outdoor use. Apply at least two to three coats of your chosen finish, letting each layer dry completely before adding the next. Use a brush or foam applicator and follow the wood grain for smooth, even coverage. Don’t forget to seal the underside and inside edges too. Moisture can seep in from areas you might overlook.
Maintain with Annual Touch-Ups
Outdoor furniture needs routine care. Inspect your pallet end tables at the start of each season. If you notice peeling, discoloration, or dryness, sand the affected area lightly and reapply a fresh coat of sealant. Regular touch-ups prevent deeper damage and save you from a full refinishing job later on.
Protect Against Moisture and Sun
Whenever possible, place your pallet end tables in covered outdoor spaces. Use patio umbrellas, pergolas, or even a basic furniture cover during heavy rains or extended sun exposure. This reduces the wear on your finish and extends the life of your wood.
A strong finish and simple upkeep can go a long way. With the right weatherproofing and maintenance, your pallet end table will keep its charm through every season.
Creative Design Variations with Mixed Materials
Pallet end tables don’t have to be made from wood alone. Mixing materials adds texture, color, and personality to your build. Whether you’re after a rustic, industrial, or modern look, blending other elements with pallet wood can elevate your table into a statement piece.
Incorporating Metal Accents
Metal legs or frames instantly give pallet end tables an industrial vibe. You can use black iron pipe fittings, pre-made steel hairpin legs, or even repurposed metal brackets. These offer a sharp contrast to the warm, weathered texture of the pallet wood. Metal also boosts structural strength, which is helpful for heavier loads or larger tables.
Using Glass Tops for Elegance and Function
Add a touch of refinement by topping your pallet end table with tempered glass. This protects the wood while offering a smooth, easy-to-clean surface. It also highlights the natural grain and character of the pallet wood underneath. A glass top works especially well if you’ve used reclaimed wood with unique textures or stamping.
Combining Concrete with Wood
For a modern, architectural style, pair pallet wood with concrete. A concrete top adds weight and durability, perfect for patios or windy areas. Use a mold to create a smooth, polished slab or go for a rougher, natural edge. The cool tone of concrete pairs beautifully with the warm tones of stained pallet wood.
Adding Storage Baskets or Drawers
Turn your pallet end tables into functional storage units by incorporating metal baskets, wooden crates, or fabric bins. You can build a lower shelf to hold a basket or install a simple drawer using leftover plywood. These additions are perfect for keeping remotes, magazines, or garden tools tidy and within reach.
Accent with Tile or Mosaic Inlays
Decorative tiles or mosaic inlays can transform the surface of a pallet end table into a colorful feature. Choose ceramic, glass, or even broken tile pieces for a custom design. Set them into the tabletop using adhesive and grout, then seal the surface to protect it from the elements.
Blending different materials brings new life to your project. Whether it’s sleek metal, rugged concrete, or vibrant tile, these additions make pallet end tables more personal and purposeful, without taking away from their simple, handmade charm.
Conclusion
Crafting pallet end tables is a rewarding way to turn reclaimed wood into something functional and stylish. With the right tools, thoughtful design, and quality finishes, your project can last for years. You can keep it simple or experiment with creative add-ons like metal, glass, or tile. No matter the style, each piece you build adds a personal touch to your home or outdoor space.
We have more sustainable tables for your home. Check out our scrap timber end table project next!
