Today, I’m sharing a couple of pallet top side tables. I have this thing for tables, and have collected several metal table bases.
Metal Side Tables
One metal table base had a top that was not made for outdoors, another didn’t have a top when I got it. Pallet wood is perfect for this project because a) it’s free, b) it is more or less weatherproof, and c) I LOVE it!
I went shopping in the wood shed to find some yummy pallet boards already dismantled. How do you dismantle pallets? Did you know the HT means “heat treated”?
Prep Metal Side Table
This is the deeper of the two tables. I chose two different thicknesses of pallet boards to fit each of the two tables. After removing the swollen wood top, I used a putty knife to remove glue and a small wire brush to remove rust and debris.
Carefully Cut Pallet Boards
Using reclaimed lumber can be dangerous! Use caution when sawing, making sure to avoid all nails. You can see the two holes on the right. Not only do I not cut where nails were, I always hold the board up to the light to make sure I can see through the board where the nails use to be.
Test Pallet Board Fit to Side Table
The pallet boards fit very snuggly in the metal side table. Three boards aren’t enough, four are too many.
Related Content: Penny Top Nesting Tables
Trim Pallet Board on Table Saw
Again, be very careful when sawing pallet boards. I trimmed a little off of each side of all the boards.
I purposely trimmed the boards to leave a small gap in between the boards so water won’t stand on the outdoor side table. Looking pretty good, eh?
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Fasten Supports to Boards
Scrap pieces were used to hold the boards together. I placed the four pallet boards on the work surface, leaving the gap—then using my nail gun, I attached the supports to the pallet boards. I did not attach the pallet table top to the metal side table.
Sand Pallet Top Smooth
My orbital sander made this a quick and easy task!
Easy Paint Job
A large chip brush and some very old paint will make this table match other items in my backyard such as the repurposed firepit outdoor table.
I've had this paint stored in a jug for years, have you seen how I deal with Rusted Paint Cans?
Tip: I always paint the underneath side first. That way I can turn it over and paint the front side without worrying about messing anything up.
Spray Painting Table #1
This table has long been one of my favorites. It actually belonged to my daughter Jamie when she was a tween! I love the shape of the base.
Pretty Pallet Top Side Table
Please save & share on Pinterest!
Side Table #2
This is the little metal table that didn’t have a top. It’s very rusty, and you can see that the opening is not as deep as the first table. I’ll be using thinner pallet boards for this table top.
Spray Paint Small Metal Table Base
After using a wire brush and then hosing the table base, it was ready for spray paint. The pallet boards were cut and installed the same way as table # 1.
These pallet top side tables are just large enough for a drink, and your phone. My goal is to get enough tables for everyone to have their own personal table. I have a few more to go. Counting the brass table makeover, this makes three side tables for around the fire pit.
There is one more table I worked on in the middle. It was in really good shape, so all I did was spray paint it.
This was my view from the camper over the weekend. It’s easily become my favorite place to hangout during this trying time.
Do you hoard collect metal table bases? Or is it just me?
I have a couple more table base ideas, stay tuned!
gail
Gail Wilson is the author and mastermind behind My Repurposed Life. She is obsessed with finding potential in unexpected places and believes that with a little hard work and imagination, any old thing can be made useful again, including herself!
Gail reinvented herself during a midlife crisis and has found purpose again. She hopes you will find new ideas for old things and pick up a few tools along the way.
girlfromwva
these look so nice! love how you finished them off.
Jennie
No, but I should hoard table bases. Itās always what someone is looking for on my side porch. A place to put their glass, bottle, or plate. They look great. Iām still in lockdown with the grandsons, or weekend cleaning after them. My husband went back to his office in the really world a week ago, with mask firmly in place. My daughter and son in law are still working from their home.
The funny things you learn when youāre together with your husband so much more than normal. I thought I would have to go to work if he ever retired, but heās not bad to be around even though there is no baseball to watch. š
Gail Wilson
Jennie,
They say that if a marriage can make it through this, it will last forever! I'm happy I live alone-but I do miss human touch. I'm still sheltering at home only going out when necessary. I really do miss going to thrift stores and home depot!
I hope things continue to do well where you are. Stay safe!
gail