Rustic side table made with pallet wood.

Spring is here! Time for outdoor DIY projects.

This week I’ve designed a shabby-chic side table for your deck or patio. Anyone can build this project with just a few basic tools and no large workshop space is necessary. I made this entire project using free wood obtained from old pallets.

• You can make this entirely using hand tools, but it will be much easier if you have a jigsaw and a power sander. Both are inexpensive, easy to use, and will save you a lot of time and muscle aches.
• If you would like to try your hand at busting apart a pallet (it’s quite easy to do) you will need a crowbar and a hammer with a claw for prying out nails.
• I used 1/2″ dowels for the exposed pins. These are decorative and not necessary for the strength of the table. If you would like to include them, you will need a drill and a 1/2″ bit for boring holes.
• I used wood glue, 1″, and 3/4″ nails to assemble the project. The glue gives the table it’s strength: the nails are just needed to hold the pieces in place while the glue dries.
• A couple of clamps would be handy.
• I finished my table using Spar Urethane. It’s a great outdoor finish that will protect the wood from the elements.
•  I used 80 grit (rough) sandpaper, mostly to clean off dirt, and stopped there.

Plans