45 Awesome DIY Scrap Wood Projects You Can Make By Yourself
Scrap wood isn't totally a waste. There's a lot that you can do with the scrap wood that you have lying around. In addition to building something helpful, you'll also get to free up space in your shop or yard.
If you have some scrap wood lying around and you are wondering what you can do with them, following is a collection of projects to inspire you.
I put this list together from across the web and it will show you how other DIY folks have managed to turn scrap wood into something useful, and which they used to upgrade their home.
Ready for your next project? Here are some plans that I recommend for you to read such as workbench plan, table saw fence, miter saw stand, lathe stand, router dado jig, woodworking project for beginners, router table, woodworking plan, homemade log splitter.
1. Easy DIY Wooden Arrows for Travel-Themed Nursery
Ashley made these arrows for her baby's nursery. She used a miter saw to cut some 1x4's and create that arrow shape, then used mending plates to hold the different wood pieces together.
She also stained the wood pieces a very dark brown, but she neither sanded, waxed nor oiled the arrows. She includes lots of pictures in her tutorial, making it easy to understand the steps.
The tutorial begins with a list of the needed tools and materials, with the toughest part being the ability to make 45-degree cuts, which is quite simple to do anyway.
2. DIY Pallet Wall Shelf Tutorial
This project is relatively easy and should take about an hour to complete. The goal is to turn a pallet into a wall shelf. A simple but very ingenious design.
You will, of course, require a pallet, plus sandpaper, some paint, and stain. This tutorial lists the tools you will require, before going into details of the construction.
The entire lesson is delivered in a step by step manner, with each step having an accompanying picture to make things easier to understand.
3. DIY Switches & Locks Play-Board Tutorial
If you have little kids up to about 3 years old, then this project will make a great gift and toy for them. It uses plywood with a 1x2 pine frame, plus all locks, switches and other hardware pieces that you can find.
This tutorial includes a supplies list and lots of pictures. You will need to paint the plywood first before attaching all the items to it.
The final product, including the color, will depend on the items that you have at hand. What's important here is that you have interesting items to attach to the board.
4. DIY Owl Bookends Tutorial
This project shows just how much you can achieve with a little creativity and some pieces of scrap wood from the shop.
The final product here is an owl bookend, which is unique because of the eyes and the nose. They are about 6 inches high and 5 inches wide and you'll have to make 2 of them.
A cut list and a 5-step guide with images show you how to slowly turn your scrap wood into these useful bookends. You'll also be needing a jigsaw to cut the shapes.
5. Colorful DIY Kids Scooter Tutorial
You will need 2x12 scrap wood in order to build this project because you need it to be really solid. Other needed materials include 4 casters, 2 handles, a curved object, and some paint.
This tutorial first lists all the materials and the tools that you'll require, and then moves on with a 5-step guide for the construction.
You will need the curved object in order to draw curves on the corners of the wood boards, where you will then saw of for a smooth feeling. You are free to paint this one as you wish, especially in bright colors.
6. DIY Rustic Wood Jewelry Organizer Guide
Here we have a rustic jewelry organizer, which might not be everyone's type but it is sure easy to build. All you need are some pieces of scrap wood and some tools.
You will also need to decide on what style of knobs that you need, or choose to make changes like painting the organizer instead of staining or adding other hardware.
The tutorial begins with a materials list before moving on with the instructions, which include lots of pictures. You also get to learn how to turn glass bowls into your jewelry bowls by painting and gluing them to the organizer.
7. Brittany's DIY State Capital Rustic Tray
If you are proud of your state or city and not afraid to show it, then this project offers you the opportunity to build a representative tray.
You will need to print a large map of your favorite city and then protect it with a sheet of glass or Plexiglas. This guide lists everything you need, including a picture of the tools.
Proper measurements are needed in the project. The tutorial is presented with large and clear pictures, making every single step easy to understand.
8. Rustic DIY Pallet Serving Tray Tutorial
Few ideas are as lovely and inspired as this tray. It uses pallet wood or old boards to create a tray that is both functional and amazing.
You will need to fold and cut a large piece of paper to make a template. Trace it on plywood and cut it out, then use the plywood to trace out a 1-inch larger pattern on the pallet boards.
This guide takes you through all these steps and it includes lots of pictures as well. The last stage is the addition of handles, which makes this a special tray for your home.
9. Wood Block & Horseshoes Candle Stand Tutorial
Here's a re-purposing project that takes creativity to a whole new level. It uses a chunk of wood and horseshoes to create a candle stand that will grace any room with charm and beauty.
You can add twists to this plan or make changes as you see fit. The important thing is to realize how several scrap items could be put together to create something so beautiful.
This tutorial is short and sweet. It also includes photos that let you quickly understand the project.
10. DIY House Shaped Mailbox Tutorial
This is for those who really have the time and patience to go through with it. Such a project as this takes time and requires some woodworking skills, but these skills are easily learned.
One thing to keep in mind is that there are mailbox regulations, so a little research beforehand can be quite helpful.
Plenty of pictures and a detailed step by step tutorial show you exactly how to go about building this project. You also get a list plus a picture of the materials to buy.
11. DIY Creative Block Using 2x4's Tutorial
A creative block will always make a great gift for anyone who likes to get creative from time to time. Here, the block is made from 2 pieces of equal length 2x4's which have been glued and screwed together.
To add some words to the block, you will need to print out words and then trace them onto a strip of painter's tape. You will then remove this tape from the block after it has dried from painting.
The last stage in this guide is the drilling of holes for pencils, scissors, brushes, and other creative tools and items.
12. Address Number Wall & Planter DIY Guide
With just a few pieces of scrap wood, you can spice up the area around your front door with this address number wall and planter.
The fun thing is that you can actually plant flowers or even cactus inside this. The entire thing including plants will set you back about $25, but you can also do it cheaper.
There is a list of materials to purchase, tools list, and the detailed tutorial with pictures for every step. Feel free to make changes here that will fit into your own home.
13. DIY Baseball Cap Rack Plans
If you have a loved one who is a baseball fan, then here's something that is worth making and gifting him: A rack for all those baseball caps.
This is a very detailed plan with a cutting list, a shopping list, tools list, and even extra woodworking and finishing tips.
You will have to download and open the PDF file though, but it's 7 pages long and contains everything you need.
14. Personalized DIY Wall Shelf Tutorial
What if you feel like creating a truly personal wall shelf? This tutorial will get your creative juices flowing. It is simple but very functional.
You will need a scrap piece of plywood, MDF pre-cut letters, robe hooks, and other items. You can also customize this one to your taste.
The tutorial includes everything from a materials and tools list, pictures, and a 12-step construction guide.
15. Pretty Handy Girl's DIY Marble Game Tutorial
Brittany the Pretty Handy Girl built this to help keep her kids entertained. It's based on a simple marble game of scoring points with better throws.
She includes a materials list, a cut list, and a tools list. You will need a piece of 1/4-inch plywood for the face, plus 1/2-inch plywood for the sides, and 2x3's and 1x3's for the frame.
This guide is very detailed and well documented with pictures. It also includes the painting and carving of the games to make it look really professional.
16. Kids Table & Chair Set from Scrap Wood Guide
If you happen to have enough scrap wood, then maybe you should try out this kids table and chair set project. It's amazing how beautiful it turned out.
There is a list of all needed materials, including 1x6, 1x4, and 2x4 boards. It is then followed by a cut list, plus lots of detailed drawings and the step by step guide.
The table is 21 inches high and 22 inches wide. The chairs are 22 inches high and 4 in number. What makes this project outstanding is the color choice. You can also build a version of this table with a storage option.
17. Wreath from Tree Branches DIY Guide
You will need ordinary tree branches for this one. The goal here is to make a wreath, but you could, of course, make something different once you understand the needed steps.
It begins with the gathering of the different sized branches and cutting them into equal sizes. You may need to sterilize them, after which you will then use the pieces to create something beautiful.
This guide includes everything you need, including bright and clear pictures.
18. House-Shaped Door Decor Tutorial
If you've got 1x3 pine boards or anything similar lying around, then you could try out his project. It creates a house-shape décor with a heart inside for hanging on the front door.
This project is 21 inches high and 18 inches wide. The frame is made from 1x3 which have 45-degree cuts from a miter saw.
The hearts are made from plywood and then painted. Everything is provided in this tutorial, including detailed diagrams and pictures.
19. Vintage Rustic Sign Guide
While this tutorial shows you how to make a rustic sleigh ride sign, you can also take this idea and create a lot more from it.
The guide begins with the building of the board using scraps of wood. You can make it as large as you need it to be, then stain or paint it, your choice.
Next comes the projection of an image on the board using a smartphone and then tracing out the image and finally painting it out.
20. DIY String Art & Engraving Project
With this project, you get to explore your creativity and do something more artistic than usual. It includes both string art and wood engraving.
This guide includes the material list and a step by step guide. You'll also learn how to make the string art, beginning with the nails and how to guide the string as well.
Next comes the engraving part, plus the attachment of both parts together. Remember there is lots of room here for you to improvise and do your thing.
21. Abstract Snowflakes DIY Tutorial
Katie built this decorative abstract snowflake for a scrap wood challenge. She had to use only scrap wood, but she ended with beautiful pieces that could easily go for $100.
She made 2 snowflake patterns, a diamond, and a sunburst pattern. This tutorial begins with the cut list for each of the patterns and then moves on with the steps.
You can change the colors or finishing if you want but keep in mind that there should be different colored wood pieces to produce the right effect.
22. A List of Woodcraft Projects for Kids
Dan Harmon is a long time hobby woodworker and presents a few projects here that would be great for kids to build.
The plans are not free though, but they do contain enough projects to choose from and have a parent/child quality time while building something interesting.
23. Mini Pie Safe DIY guide
Do you like to bake pies? And do you need a system to keep them safe? Especially from flies? Well, this pie safe is a fun project that every household can benefit from.
You have to begin with measuring your favorite pie pans first, so you can build something fitting. This guide used 1x1's to make the frame, then used 1x12 for the base and the top.
Next stage is the painting, following by the installation the screen. It was the only purchased item and it cost about $8.
24. Magnetic Bottle Opener DIY Guide
Here is another Scarp Wood Challenge project. You will need some scrap wood in a shape of your choice, a metal bottle opener, magnets, and other stuff.
This guide provides you with a materials list and a detailed step by step guide with large pictures. The idea is to open a bottle with it and stick the bottle top to it as well.
One major piece of work here is that you will have to drill holes into the boards in order to install the magnets. All the other steps are much easier.
25. Shadow Box Frame from Scrap Wood DIY Guide
If you've got a flag or something else important to proudly display and preserve as well, this tutorial can help you out.
It uses plywood and Plexiglas, plus a backer board, which can be made from plywood as well. You will have to glue your scrap boards to the plywood and then trim them to shape in order to get this same wood effect.
After that, it's staining and framing. This guide provides you with everything you need, including a materials list and plenty of photos.
26. Brittany's DIY Feather Art
If you like birds and creating art out of bird feathers, then you might want to try this one out. You should first of all note though, that it is illegal to collect the feathers of certain birds.
Asides from that, this is an easy project to do, and you can even use fake or paper feathers just to be on the safe side.
Brittany provides all the information that you need to get going and she also shows you how to get it done with a detailed step by step guide with pictures.
27. MDF Bunny Place Cards DIY Guide
Jaime shows you in a very brief but straightforward guide, how to make these fun bunny place cards. You will need MDF boards and some spray paint.
This tutorial begins with a supplies list and with tracing out a bunny template on the MDF. It is then followed by a 6-step guide.
In step 6, you secure clothespins to the bunnies and the project is finished. All you'll then need to do is to print out names onto heavy cardstock whenever you need to use these bunnies.
28. State Pride DIY Magnetic Key Holder Guide
You can decide to show your love for your city or state by building such a key holder. This guide shows you what you need to do and you just have to make your own changes.
You will need a nice piece of scrap wood and a template of the area you want to cut out. You will also need a drill, a jigsaw, and neodymium super magnets.
This guide is simple and easy to follow. Asides from changing the shape of the wood block, every other step is well explained.
29. DIY Pumpkin Art Guide
This is another simple and fun project. You will need some paint, a 1x8-inch pine board and plywood for the pumpkins.
Jaime shows you what to do in 7 simple steps, beginning with finding pumpkin clip art and tracing it out on the plywood.
You can paint the pumpkins any color you wish, and you can also make the entire project as large as you want, just make sure you have some fun doing it.
30. Lindi's DIY Rustic Home Sign
This is a simple 'home' sign but which on the other hand, can mean quite a lot. It's, therefore, a great way to show your love for your home.
You will need a wood board, drill, pencil, sandpaper, a scroll saw and wood stain. The instructions are straightforward and include lots of pictures to make things easier to understand.
31. Ronja's 4-Bottle Vase Tutorial
Ronja is German, so her blog and tutorial are also in German. But this doesn't stop you from understanding the beautiful idea of her 4-bottle vase project.
The idea is to have 4 bottles in a row, which are framed together with scrap wood. You will have to drill holes to hold the bottlenecks though.
You are not limited to plain or even identical bottles. You can also choose to the make the wooden frame a little more exciting or simply add more color to the entire project.
32. DIY Hand-Painted 'Celebrate' Script Sign Tutorial
A party is always much more fun with decorations and this 'Celebrate' sign or any other script that you might fancy can really be helpful.
This tutorial shows you how to go about making this, although you are not limited to this exact script or color.
You get a supplies list, plus the tutorial which begins with printing out the word from a computer at an 800 point size. You then trace it onto your board and add some shadows and highlights.
33. DIY White Shelf with Crown Molding Tutorial
Here's a multi-purpose shelf that you can install in many areas around the house or use for many other purposes asides from the bathroom.
It starts off as a simple shelf but also includes crown molding, which makes it quite a special piece.
This tutorial is well detailed, including a materials list, lots of pictures, and detailed explanations of each of the steps.
34. DIY Wooden Spoons Guide
How about carving your very own wooden spoons? It should be a great way to make use of the scrap wood pieces you have lying around.
You will need a pencil, wood carving tools, sandpaper and food-safe oil. This tutorial is presented in 8 steps.
It begins with the drawing of the spoon on a board, then cutting it down with a saw, before beginning with the carving. The final step is the oiling, which makes it more water-resistant and durable.
35. Wooden Sofa Sleeve & Cup Holder DIY Tutorial
This is one very useful project that you can build using scrap wood. It offers your sofa a sleeve with a cup holder and even offers some space for books.
Since sofas are all different, your first step will have to be measuring your sofa. This tutorial includes a materials and tools lists, plus lots of bright and clear photos.
You can either finish the wood like in the guide or you could also choose a different finish option that better matches your sofa. Just remember to seal it against moisture.
36. Designer Cutting Board DIY Tutorial
This tutorial requires a little more skill with woodwork than most of the previous projects in this list. You will also need more tools to get it done.
The trick is to cut different types of wood and arrange them in any way to create a lovely design. The boards are then glued and clamped together.
This tutorial also includes a video for those who prefer videos. It has a tools and supplies list, plus a 5-step detailed guide with pictures.
37. Kitchen Shelves from Scrap Wood DIY Guide
With a little focus and hard work, you can also transform your scrap wood into a beautiful kitchen shelf like this one.
You will need to know how much wood you have and if they will be enough for the shelf. You are also free to either make your shelf larger or smaller than this one.
This guide explains and shows you all the steps from the cutting of the wood to the sanding and oiling with butcher block oil.
38. Mason Jar Crate DIY Guide
You could also use your scrap wood to make a mason jar crate. Such a crate can either be used to hold flowers or even your silverware when cooking out.
The aim of the project is simple. You will need 1x6 or similar boards for this. This guide shows you in a step by step manner, how to work each step.
39. DIY Rustic Farm Crate Sign Tutorial
This tutorial uses a system called Silhouette, which has both a computer software and a cutting machine for quickly making signs.
These are the tools you'll be needing for this project. The tutorial is based on this system and shows you in a step by step manner how to transfer the sign from the computer onto any item that you want.
A further tutorial shows you how to age wood and make it look more old and rustic.
40. Scrap Wood Candle Holder DIY Guide
This beautiful project combines scrap wood pieces together to create a lovely candle holder. By combining different types of wood, the end product looks even much better.
There are 7 steps in this tutorial. It begins with a list of the tools and the materials that you'll need. Step 2 is all about measurements and how big or small you want it to be. This particular candle holder measures 3 x 3 x 2 inches.
The next steps lead you through the gluing together, sanding, drilling, and finally finishing off the candle holder.
41. DIY Easy Drawer Dividers Guide
One simple way of bringing order into your drawer is by including dividers. This DIY drawer divider guide shows you how to simply achieve this.
You will need 1/4-inch poplar boards. Its width and length will depend on the size of your drawer. You will also need glue, shelf paper, and other items.
This guide is simple and straight to the point. It shows you how to measure out the drawer and how to put the dividers together.
42. DIY Wine Crate Window Box Tutorial
Wine crates can be lovely, so why not turn them into something useful once the bottles have been emptied?
Since wine crates and windowsills come in different sizes, you'll probably have to take the crate apart, before rebuilding it into the right size.
This is what this guide does. It takes you through all the steps necessary to transform it from a wine crate into a beautiful window box that you can be proud of.
43. DIY Scrap Wood Christmas Tree Stand Tutorial
You can also choose to use your scrap wood to make a Christmas tree stand, which is what this tutorial teaches.
It begins with the choice of wood boards. You can also combine boards like 2x2's and 2x4's, as was done here to create the frame.
There are enough pictures in this tutorial, plus detailed explanations as well. This tutorial also shows you how to make a mortar mix with a pipe inside it, which is used to hold the tree.
We have reached the end of this long list of the amazing projects that you can make using wood scraps. You should be hopefully inspired by now and ready to build something too.
If you are in the mood, feel free to let me know what you plan on building.
Also feel free to share this list on the web and to pin any images that you fancy.
Last Updated on August 7, 2020 by