Wooden Pallet Bookshelf

My kids love books and bookcases are not C-H-E-A-P! So for under $5 a set... these are a great deal AND super easy to make.

These are made out of wooden shipping pallets.  I love them because they are readily available and, essentially, free wood that has already been distressed!

Here is what you need:

• A wooden shipping pallet (ask around at different places that you go...I got one from a school and the other I paid $5 for at Ace Hardware)
• A saw (handsaw or jigsaw will work)
• 1 x 4 piece of wood cut in the width of your pallet
• wood glue
• 6- 2" wood screws (get a few extra to hang it into the studs)
• screwdriver/drill
• sanding block for the rough edges

Step One:  Lay your pallet flat on the ground.  Pallets come in all shapes and sizes, but try to find one that looks similar to this.  I like way they curve at the sides.

Step Two:  Make six cuts.  

Step Three:  Place a small line of wood glue at the end of each support and lay 1 x 4 across to create the bottom of your shelf.

I know you like my photoshop wood glue :o)

Step Four:  Screw a 2" wood screw up through the bottom into each support.

Step Five:  Decide where you want your shelves.  Find the studs and use 3- 2 inch wood screw to secure it to the wall.  It is absolutely necessary to find the studs... these things are heavy and will pull straight out of drywall!

This may sound like a lot, but it really only takes about 15 minutes to do if you have all of your supplies and is incredibly easy. 

They can be used for more than just books!  I have seen them used as display shelves for plates, wine storage, picture displays, and even bathroom shelves!  They are extremely versatile.

NOTE:  There has been some controversy over these due to the fact that some of them have been treated with pesticides to keep the bugs away and they can become contaminated if they have been used to ship food.  I have been careful where I found mine.  I try to avoid food places.  If this concerns you, you can buy pallets new or this tutorial may be another good option.

I will be doing the giveaway at naptime, so you still have a few more hours to get a comment onto your favorite post!  Stay Tuned!

A preview of what my day looks like... I'm so excited!!!

Have a great weekend!