How You Can Upcycle Broken Wood Pallets To Create A Sturdy Lock Box

Pallet projects have been all over the internet for years, in part because pallets are in abundant supply, sturdy, and add a touch of rustic charm to your space. As designers ever more wholly embrace working with environmentally-conscious, recycled, and upcycled materials, the popularity of pallet projects that even beginners can do shows no signs of waning. But very few pallets are perfect, so what to do with the leftover or broken parts and pieces? This DIY makes use of that scrap wood in a beautiful and functional way — by turning it into a sweet and sturdy lock box.

If you don't happen to already have several pieces of pallet wood lying around, check with local construction companies, grocery and furniture stores, motorcycle dealerships — even schools. Specifically request damaged or broken pallets and you may just get it for a great deal (perhaps even for free).

To begin, plane your boards and cut to your chosen dimensions. Then, cut each of the four side pieces at a 45 degree angle on the top side, and on both ends. Next, you'll create a ¼ inch groove at the "bottom" of each side piece into which a piece of plywood will slide, creating the base. Sand everything, then glue the plywood into the grooves on each of the side pieces. Secure the pieces with a clamp or rubber bands until fully dry. Do the same thing with a few pieces of pallet wood glued side to side to make the top of your lock box. When your box and its top are dry, you're ready to fit them together.

Cut all four edges of your box top at that same 45 degree angle so that the top of your box fits seamlessly onto the 45 degree cut sides of the box itself. Glue the top in place, fully sealing your box closed, and leave to dry. Next, you'll cut the top of the box completely off, creating a lid. Add your hinges to one side, and the lock at the front, and you're done. Of course, you don't have to be.

Stain the wood and use it to hold your gourmet tea bags or organize your spices. Or, add some ornate trim to the top and turn it into a DIY jewelry box to keep your closet organized. You could even burn the name of a friend or family member into the top — this burning kit from AOUTK even comes with stencils — and give your project as a heartfelt gift. Consider adding thrifted hardware for an eclectic look, or use a teeny tiny padlock as the closure and gift it as a memory box. Your styling will make it your own, but the fact that you made it is what will make it special.