Reclaimed wood or lumber is any type of wood that has been recycled. I.e., it’s been taken from its original application and repurposed.
An example would be wood used to build a wood crate or a barn that’s been deconstructed, restored, and reused to build a dining table.
Many creative DIY projects can be done with reclaimed wood – from chopping boards to flooring. Explore these 9 DIY reclaimed wood projects to try at home.
1. Chopping Boards
Best designed between 1.5 to 2 inches thick, wood chopping boards are quick and easy reclaimed wood projects you can DIY.
Use any leftover wood – ideally between 12 to 18 inches in length – and finish with mineral oil, reapplying every 3 to 5 weeks for a durable finish.
To create a unique reclaimed wood chopping board, use a single piece of reclaimed wood that fits to size. Or seal multiple planks together to create a shiplap pattern.
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2. Knife Boards
Another unique reclaimed wood project you can build from leftover wood is a hanging knife board.
Any small piece of reclaimed wood can be used, ideally with a thickness of 1 to 2 inches, height of 5 to 8 inches, and width up to 18 inches – depending on the number of knives you want it to hold.
Shape the board with straight or uneven edges (for an authentic look) and fit an earth magnet between the wood to allow the knives to float.
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3. Wall Panels/Wallboards
Wall paneling has quickly become a new home décor trend in modern homes. Popular for its natural look, reclaimed wood wallboards create a homely aesthetic in any lounge, bedroom, hallway, or home office.
This decorative wall feature can be easily made using reclaimed wood lumber of all shapes and sizes. To construct, you’ll need enough wood to fit the wall once cut into a shiplap pattern.
For a more authentic look, cut boards in varying widths and lengths, keeping the panels between ½ to ¾ inches thick. Fit the wallboards using nails for easy installation.
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4. Floating Wall Shelves
Another easy DIY project using reclaimed wood are floating shelves. Best used in the kitchen, laundry room, living area, or bedroom, these shelves are strong and sturdy by design.
Being so universal in their creation, floating wall shelves can be made from any cut of reclaimed wood.
The wood can be cut with straight edges for a neat, uncluttered aesthetic. Or it can be sanded as the board comes to create a natural, authentic look.
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5. Barn Doors
For living rooms and bedroom ensuites, reclaimed wood barn doors are becoming an increasingly popular way to style a modern home.
One of the more complex reclaimed wood projects to DIY, barn doors require careful cutting and planning to create a sturdy frame.
For a hassle-free installation, doors should be fitted with barn door hardware or a track kit to ensure it slides quietly and maximizes space.
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6. Wine or Bottle Racks
Add style to any kitchen, larder, or cellar with a reclaimed wood wine rack in your home. Wine racks can be designed small or large, depending on the strength of the wood and the intended capacity.
For an authentic look, design the wine rack with a straight base and edges, with a curved or uneven top. This creates a more authentic look and saves on cutting.
Smooth the edges with an orbital sander and finish with a wood sealant or stain.
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7. Coffee Tables
One of the most popular reclaimed wood projects to DIY are coffee tables for living spaces. Any recycled barn wood that’s thick (between 1 to 3 inches, depending on your preferences) can be used as a countertop.
Before using the wood for a coffee table, be sure to de-nail and kiln-dry the wood (if not already done by the manufacturer). Fit the reclaimed wood in one piece to metal or wooden frames, or use several planks to create a natural shiplap pattern.
With its variations in knots, splits, holes, and cracks, reclaimed wood can create an entirely unique coffee table that becomes a centerpiece in your home.
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8. Dining Tables
Instead of a coffee table, you can opt for a larger DIY reclaimed wood project and create an entire dining table from recycled lumber.
Choose any style conducive to the wood available – rounded, rectangular, or square – and style the edges smooth or distressed to mimic real wood.
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9. Ceiling Beams
Another modern-classic interior design trend for beach houses, cottages, or rustic homes are reclaimed wood ceiling beams.
Considerably easy to style and fit, the beams can be laid straight across a room’s ceiling to create warmth, depth, and a homely ambiance.
Reclaimed wood ceiling beams are best suited to living rooms, dining areas, and kitchens – but can also be added to larger bathrooms and bedrooms.
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Summary
Reclaimed wood is one of the most rewarding types of wood to use in a DIY project. Knowing the wood has had a former use and can be repurposed for something entirely new gives a home character and unique style.
With an authentic, natural look, it creates a rustic aesthetic in any home – particularly desirable in beach houses, modern homes, and log cabins. The wood is also environmentally and eco-friendly, as reclaimed wood is recycled and repurposed.
Completing one of these reclaimed wood projects at home can be significantly rewarding. But if you don’t have the expertise to make the items yourself, explore our stunning range of reclaimed wood homeware today.