Innovative Woodworking Projects from Recycled Wood

Free Projects

• In addition to renovation and demolition, a lot of good material is tossed out on new construction job sites. Get your plans together for your next backyard shed or other structure and set the schedule with some extra time for reclaiming old materials. See how far you can get on your project for free -- you might be surprised. Many DIY carpenters have built entire projects for free with recycled wood.

Decorating

• Many times, old wood has a patina that cannot be matched with new materials. If you like the rustic look, collect items like old barn wood, pieces of signs and old house siding with crackled paint. Turn these relics into trim, picture frames, paneling or anything you would normally do with new materials. You get a one-of-a-kind custom look for the cost of some fasteners and a little time.

Furniture

• Most of us have seen furniture that has been reclaimed. Many times a piece that is being thrown away may not be usable in whole, but still has good pieces, such as legs, drawers, doors and decorative trim. Scavenge these pieces and incorporate them into your furniture building projects. While you're at it, carry a cordless drill and scavenge expensive hardware such as drawer pulls, slides and hinges. Save large panels of hardwood that are undamaged to save even more.

Doors

• Old wooden doors have a lot of character and craft detail. It is not always practical to hang an old door in a new jamb, since the door has probably been cut down and may not be completely square anymore. Use old doors hinged together to create room dividers or screens for privacy, or to hide unsightly features in your home. Doors can also be cut down and turned into furniture, such as desks and benches. Sand and refinish your doors, or leave the unique weathered finish as is.