Lauren Caggiano
Lauren Caggiano is a Fort Wayne-based copywriter and editor with a nerdy passion for AP Style. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering, thrift shopping, fitness and travel. Learn more on her website: www.lovewriteon.com.
Who needs to spend a fortune on outdoor furniture when you can create your own, at a fraction of the cost? If you don’t mind putting in the time, you can make some awesome furniture for your outdoor space. Check out these 10 DIY projects sure to take your backyard from drab to fab:
- DIY Garden Storage Bench. This is an easy woodworking project that requires few materials. Plus, it combines both form and function so you can get more bang for your buck!
- Palette Lounge: Summer’s days are numbered but you can make this just in time for fall’s Indian summer afternoons. Experiment with a few cushions and plants to make your outdoor space a getaway.
- Outdoor Bar Cart: Looking to entertain outdoors? This cart is the answer! The best part? It’s tough enough to withstand sun, rain, and spills of your libation of choice. This tutorial shows how to put it together using cedar and outdoor-grade materials.
- DIY Wire Patio Table: This patio table made from upcycled materials will make and will look beautiful on the deck, patio, or porch. You can paint or stain it when you’re finished or paint it white for a rustic look. The minimal time and money investment make it a great weekend experiment.
- DIY Daybed with Canopy: Hello outdoor naps! This beautiful daybed as featured on Ana White’s blog would be perfect for taking in the late summer night sky or for reading and relaxing during the daytime. The skill level is beginner, so you’ll be able to complete it in a weekend.
- Recycled Rug Ottoman: Seating can be at a premium outside and this project can be the answer! Made with IKEA flatwoven rugs and stuffed with extra linens and such from around the house, the whole project will set you back about $15 bucks. Bonus: it acts like a little storage unit.
- Outdoor Old Door Table: Give an old door new life with this eco-friendly project! Your outdoor dining table is sure to be the talk of the neighborhood.
- DIY Tire Ottoman: You friends and family will never believe tires are the foundation of this project. And it’s as straightforward as it’s good looking. Watch the video for a step-by-step guide to creating your own version.
- DIY Outdoor Bench: This bench is the perfect statement piece of you front or back yard. While an intermediate to advanced level project, the end result is surely worth the sweat equity!
- Outdoor Sofa: This sleek DIY piece will be the finishing touch to your outdoor room. It’s amazing what you can do with a can-do spirit, wood pieces, a few outdoor sofa cushions from IKEA and some wood stain!
Your backyard and patio are both extensions of your living space, so you should furnish them with outdoor furniture pieces that send the right message. Whether your taste is rustic, modern, or vintage, you’re sure to find a way to bring those vibes outside. Happy DIY-ing!