How to prep your old wooden pallets for your next craft project!

Outdoor swing made from a reclaimed pallet
 http://www.dumpaday.com/genius-ideas-2/35-amazing-uses-for-old-pallets/

I can't remember exactly how the topic came up last weekend but while sitting with my parents at their house we started discussing wood pallets.  I do remember the jaw dropping, vein popping moment that has stuck with me and now inspired this post.  The moment my Dad said "We get tons of those things at work and just throw them away or chop them up for firewood" and think my response came out in a pitch that only dogs can hear of "You do WHAT?!?!?".  After reading the rather confused look on his face as to why his 32 year old daughter just squealed at him, I along with my Mom proceed to explain the trend of "wood pallet crafts and projects".  For those of you who just had the same reaction as my Dad, let me explain.  You don't have to be an obsessive Pinner on Pinterest (I am guilty :)) to see the slew of reclaimed wood pallet projects out there, I see at least one a week posted on Facebook alone.  If you do Pin you can find pallet projects that would blow your mind!

For those that have a few pallet projects they want to tackle or for those who are now completely intrigued by this new trend I am here to offer you a bit of help!  Finding these pallets can be as simple as looking in your garage or going on craigslist.  Once you have your pallet how do you begin turning it into a thing of beauty?  Just as with all wood, you can refinish it.  Most wood pallets are made of either Cedar, Douglas Fir, or pressure treated wood.  If you find a pressure treated pallet do not use this for any projects that involve storing or growing food as the chemicals used in pressure treated wood can seep into soil.  Better be safe than sorry!  If you pick up a graying or dirty pallet it can be prepped and restored to make you project beautiful.

Take your pallet outside and wash it with a pressure washer, if the pallet is really grey or dirty an exterior wood stripper can be sprayed on the pallet and then QUICKLY washed off with the pressure washer.  While the wood is still wet spray a wood brightener on it, this will not only brighten the wood but open the pores to accept stain.  Once the pallet is fully dry you can use a good quality outdoor or indoor stain (depending on the project) to give it some color and protection.  If using the pallet for an outdoor project I do not recommend painting it as the paint will chip, peel and eventually rot out your hard work.  If all that seems like a lot or you do not have a pressure washer contact a local deck refinishing company (for our Denver friends, I have a GREAT one I can recommend :)) or a painting contractor.  They may be able to complete the cleaning for you for a reasonable price.

Now go forth and find your next up-cycled pallet project and have fun!  For those of you who are still wondering where my Dad works so you can get your hands on some of those pallets, that is a secret I am keeping close to my heart :).