surfboard bench, DIY

You’d be surprised what you can make out of the junk in your garage. Get creative this National Recycling Week with one of these clever repurposed projects to keep your bank balance healthy and to be kind to the planet, preventing excess waste.

1. Convert an old door into a coffee table

Decorate on a budget by turning a door into a modern coffee table with storage.

a door that was upcycled into a coffee table with storage
An extra door was upcycled into a coffee table which measures 820 x 820 x 500mm.

2. Overhaul a pallet into a rustic kitchen trolley

Create a handy kitchen trolley out of an old hardwood pallet and other spare timber pieces. You’ll be saving cash and trees, it’s a win-win.

timber pallets were used to build a kitchen trolley island
Handyman reader Damien Kelly used reclaimed timber to build this useful trolley.

3. Refresh chairs with a coat of paint for a fun new look

Use simple paint finishes and repurposing techniques to give old timber pieces contemporary style.

old chairs given a new look with paint and a new seat
Old timber furniture that is structurally sound can be easily reinvented using paint.

4. Makeover the garden using old pallets

Vertical pallet gardens are easy to make and don’t require much maintenance, making them a great DIY project for newbies.

Green succulents really pop against the colour of this timber pallet. Project by: Design Sponge - See more at: http://www.handyman.netGreen succulents really pop against the colour of this timber pallet. Project by: Design Sponge
Green succulents really pop against the colour of this timber pallet. Project by: Design Sponge

5. Transform a surfboard into a seat

Create quirky outside seating with an old board instead of turfing it into the trash.

surfboard bench, handyman magazine,
Handyman reader Geoff Pearce turned an old piece of sporting equipment into a handy and unique outdoor bench.

Want to do more? Go to Planet Ark to find out about events running in your community.

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