Leftover Floor Planks? (4 Upcycling Ideas Now!)

Ever walk into a home and just feel the warmth? The character that tells a story? I’m talking about that cozy vibe where every room seems to whisper, “Welcome home.”

A big part of that feeling often comes from the flooring. Natural wood, with its unique grain and texture, has a way of grounding a space and making it feel inviting.

And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the smell of freshly cut timber? It’s the scent of potential, of new beginnings, and of good old-fashioned craftsmanship.

But what happens after the flooring project is done? You’ve got that gorgeous new floor installed, but… uh oh. A pile of leftover planks.

Don’t let those beautiful pieces of wood end up as landfill fodder! I’m here to tell you they’re not waste; they’re raw potential. Think of them as blank canvases just waiting for your creative touch.

Ready to transform those leftovers into something amazing? Let’s dive in!

The Beauty of Upcycling

Okay, let’s talk upcycling. It’s more than just a trendy buzzword; it’s a mindset. It’s about seeing the hidden value in things we might otherwise discard.

Think of it as giving materials a second chance to shine, often in a way that’s even better than their original purpose.

Upcycling is all about taking something old, unwanted, or discarded and transforming it into something new, functional, and beautiful. It’s not just recycling (though that’s great too!), it’s elevating the material.

We’re talking about turning trash into treasure, junk into jewels!

Think about it: that old ladder becoming a bookshelf, those glass bottles turned into stunning light fixtures, or tires transforming into a garden planter.

The possibilities are endless!

Why is upcycling so important? Well, for starters, it’s fantastic for the environment. By reusing materials, we reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize our impact on the planet. According to the EPA, in 2018, landfills received 27 million tons of wood. (Source: EPA.gov)

Upcycling helps to reduce that number!

But it’s not just about being eco-conscious; it’s also about adding a unique touch to your home. Upcycled pieces often have a story to tell, a history etched into their very being.

They bring character and personality to a space that you just can’t get from mass-produced items.

And let’s not forget the emotional connection we have with wood. It’s a natural material that evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia.

Upcycling those leftover floor planks allows you to keep that connection alive, to preserve a piece of the original project and infuse it into something new.

Plus, there’s a real sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with creating something with your own two hands. Seeing that pile of planks transform into a beautiful and functional object is incredibly satisfying.

It’s like saying, “I made this! And I saved it from ending up in the trash!”

Upcycling Idea #1 – Rustic Shelving Units

Alright, let’s get our hands dirty! Our first upcycling project is creating rustic shelving units.

These shelves are not only practical for storage and display, but they also add a touch of rustic charm to any room. Think exposed brick walls, cozy reading nooks, and that “lived-in” feeling.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Leftover floor planks (obviously!)
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Wood stain or paint (optional)
• Polyurethane or other sealant (optional)
• Screws or nails
• Wood glue
• Shelf brackets (metal, wood, or even repurposed items)

Tools You’ll Need:

• Saw (hand saw, circular saw, or miter saw)
• Sander (hand sander or power sander)
• Drill
• Screwdriver or hammer
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Level
• Safety glasses
• Dust mask

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Plank Selection and Preparation: Start by carefully inspecting your leftover floor planks. Look for pieces that are relatively straight, free of major damage, and have a consistent thickness.

   If some planks are warped or heavily damaged, you can still use them for smaller shelves or decorative elements.

   Give each plank a good cleaning to remove any dust, dirt, or debris. Then, it’s sanding time! Start with a coarser grit sandpaper (like 80 or 100) to remove any rough spots or old finishes.

   Work your way up to finer grits (like 150 or 220) for a smooth, even surface. Remember to always wear a dust mask when sanding!

2. Cutting the Planks: Decide on the dimensions of your shelves. Consider the space where you’ll be hanging them and the items you plan to display.

   Measure and mark the planks according to your desired length. Use a saw to cut the planks to size. If you’re using a hand saw, take your time and make sure your cuts are straight.

   A circular saw or miter saw will make the job faster and more precise.

3. Finishing the Planks (Optional): This is where you can really personalize your shelves. You can leave the wood natural for a truly rustic look, or you can stain or paint them to match your décor.

   If you’re staining, apply the stain evenly with a brush or rag, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the stain to dry completely before applying a sealant.

   If you’re painting, prime the planks first for better adhesion and a more even finish. Apply two or three coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.

4. Assembling the Shelves: Now it’s time to put it all together! If you’re creating floating shelves (shelves without visible brackets), you’ll need to create a hidden support system.

   This can be done by attaching a cleat to the wall and then sliding the shelf onto the cleat.

   For shelves with brackets, simply attach the brackets to the underside of the planks using screws. Make sure the brackets are evenly spaced and securely fastened.

5. Mounting the Shelves: Use a level to ensure your shelves are perfectly straight. Mark the location of the bracket holes on the wall.

   Drill pilot holes into the wall and insert wall anchors if necessary. Attach the shelves to the wall using screws.

Tips for Personalization:

• Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to use planks of different widths or thicknesses for a more eclectic look.
• Distress the Wood: For an extra touch of rustic charm, lightly distress the wood with sandpaper or a wire brush.
• Add Decorative Brackets: Choose brackets that complement your style. Metal brackets add an industrial touch, while wooden brackets enhance the rustic feel.
• Incorporate Found Objects: Attach vintage knobs, hooks, or other found objects to the shelves for a unique touch.

Rustic shelving units are incredibly versatile. They can be used in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, or even home offices.

They’re perfect for displaying books, plants, photos, collectibles, or anything else you want to show off.

I once used some leftover oak flooring to create a set of floating shelves in my own living room. I stained them a dark walnut color and used black metal brackets.

They added so much character to the space and became a real conversation starter!

Upcycling Idea #2 – Custom Picture Frames

Next up, let’s turn those leftover planks into custom picture frames! This is a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your photos, artwork, or even mirrors.

Imagine framing your favorite family photos with wood that was once part of your home’s foundation. It’s like adding another layer of history and meaning to those cherished memories.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Leftover floor planks
• Glass or acrylic sheet (optional)
• Cardboard or foam board (for backing)
• Picture hanging hardware
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint (optional)

Tools You’ll Need:

• Saw (hand saw, circular saw, or miter saw)
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Clamps
• Sandpaper
• Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Measuring and Cutting: Start by measuring the photo or artwork you want to frame. Add a little extra to the dimensions depending on how much of a border you want.

   For example, if your photo is 8×10 inches, you might cut the frame pieces to be 10×12 inches.

   Use a saw to cut the floor planks into four pieces, each with a 45-degree angle at one end. These angled cuts will create the corners of the frame.

   A miter saw is ideal for this task, but you can also use a hand saw with a miter box.

2. Assembling the Frame: Apply wood glue to the angled edges of the frame pieces. Carefully align the pieces to form a rectangle, making sure the corners are flush.

   Use clamps to hold the frame together while the glue dries. This will ensure a strong, durable bond.

   Let the glue dry completely, usually for at least 24 hours.

3. Sanding and Finishing: Once the glue is dry, remove the clamps and sand the frame smooth. Pay special attention to the corners, making sure they are even and seamless.

   You can leave the wood natural, stain it, or paint it to match your décor. If you’re staining or painting, follow the same steps as with the shelving units.

4. Adding the Backing and Hanging Hardware: Cut a piece of cardboard or foam board to fit inside the frame. This will serve as the backing for your photo or artwork.

   If you want to protect your photo or artwork with glass or acrylic, cut a piece to fit inside the frame as well.

   Insert the glass (if using), the photo or artwork, and the backing into the frame. Secure them in place with small nails or brads.

   Attach picture hanging hardware to the back of the frame. This can be a simple sawtooth hanger or a more elaborate wire system.

Ideas for Finishing Touches:

• Distressed Finish: Create a distressed finish by lightly sanding the edges of the frame to reveal the wood underneath the paint or stain.
• Painted Designs: Add painted designs to the frame using stencils or freehand techniques.
• Wood Burning: Use a wood burning tool to create intricate designs or personalize the frame with names or dates.
• Gallery Wall: Create a gallery wall by combining several custom picture frames of different sizes and styles.

I once made a set of picture frames from some reclaimed heart pine flooring. I left the wood natural and simply applied a clear coat of sealant.

The frames added a rustic and charming touch to my gallery wall, and they were a great conversation starter.

Custom picture frames are a wonderful way to display your treasured memories and add a personal touch to your home décor. They also make great gifts!

Upcycling Idea #3 – Unique Planters

Ready to bring some greenery into your life? Let’s transform those leftover floor planks into unique planters!

This is a fantastic way to add a touch of nature to your home, whether you have a sprawling garden or just a small windowsill.

Plus, custom planters allow you to showcase your plants in style, creating a cohesive and visually appealing display.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Leftover floor planks
• Wood glue
• Screws or nails
• Waterproof sealant
• Landscape fabric
• Potting soil

Tools You’ll Need:

• Saw (hand saw, circular saw, or miter saw)
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Drill
• Screwdriver or hammer
• Staple gun
• Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Design and Cutting: Decide on the size and shape of your planter. You can create simple square or rectangular planters, or you can get more creative with tiered planters, angled planters, or even planters with decorative details.

   Measure and cut the floor planks according to your design. Remember to account for the thickness of the planks when calculating the dimensions.

2. Assembling the Planter: Apply wood glue to the edges of the planks and assemble the planter box. Use screws or nails to secure the planks together.

   Make sure the corners are square and the joints are tight. Use clamps to hold the planter together while the glue dries.

3. Waterproofing: To protect the wood from moisture damage, apply a waterproof sealant to the inside of the planter.

   You can use a variety of sealants, such as polyurethane, epoxy, or even a rubberized coating. Apply several coats of sealant, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

4. Adding Drainage: Proper drainage is essential for plant health. Drill several drainage holes in the bottom of the planter.

   You can also add a layer of gravel or pebbles to the bottom of the planter to improve drainage.

5. Lining the Planter: Line the inside of the planter with landscape fabric. This will prevent soil from leaking out of the drainage holes and will also help to protect the wood from moisture.

   Use a staple gun to secure the landscape fabric to the inside of the planter.

6. Planting: Fill the planter with potting soil and plant your favorite flowers, herbs, or vegetables.

Exploring Different Designs:

• Tiered Planters: Create a tiered planter by building several smaller planters and stacking them on top of each other. This is a great way to maximize space and create a visually interesting display.
• Angled Planters: Build planters with angled sides for a modern and stylish look.
• Hanging Planters: Attach chains or ropes to the planter to create a hanging planter. This is a great way to add greenery to small spaces or balconies.
• Indoor Herb Garden: Create a small planter specifically for growing herbs indoors. Place it on a windowsill or near a sunny spot in your kitchen.

I once built a tiered planter from some leftover maple flooring. I used it to grow a variety of herbs and vegetables on my patio.

It was not only functional but also added a beautiful touch of green to my outdoor space.

Custom planters are a wonderful way to showcase your plants and add a touch of nature to your home. They’re also a great way to recycle those leftover floor planks!

Upcycling Idea #4 – Decorative Wall Art

Last but not least, let’s transform those leftover floor planks into decorative wall art! This is a fantastic way to express your creativity and add a unique focal point to any room.

Think beyond traditional paintings and prints. With a little imagination, you can create stunning wall art pieces that are both beautiful and meaningful.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Leftover floor planks
• Paint, stain, or other finishes
• Stencils, stamps, or other decorative elements
• Wood glue
• Screws or nails
• Picture hanging hardware

Tools You’ll Need:

• Saw (hand saw, circular saw, or miter saw)
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Sandpaper
• Paintbrushes or rollers
• Safety glasses

Techniques for Creating Wall Art:

• Geometric Designs: Cut the floor planks into various shapes and sizes and arrange them into geometric patterns. You can create symmetrical designs or more abstract compositions.
• Abstract Art: Experiment with different colors, textures, and patterns to create abstract art pieces. You can use paint, stain, or even wood burning to add visual interest.
• Stenciled Designs: Use stencils to create intricate designs on the floor planks. You can stencil words, patterns, or even images.
• Wood Burning: Use a wood burning tool to create intricate designs or personalize the planks with quotes or images.
• Mixed Media: Combine the floor planks with other materials, such as metal, fabric, or even found objects, to create mixed media wall art.

Assembling the Wall Art:

1. Planning and Design: Before you start cutting and assembling, take some time to plan your design. Sketch out your ideas on paper or use a computer program to create a digital mock-up.
2. Cutting and Sanding: Cut the floor planks according to your design. Sand the edges of the planks smooth to prevent splinters.
3. Finishing: Apply paint, stain, or other finishes to the planks. You can use a variety of techniques to create different effects, such as distressing, layering, or even creating a faux aged look.
4. Assembly: Arrange the planks according to your design and glue them together. Use screws or nails to reinforce the joints.
5. Hanging: Attach picture hanging hardware to the back of the wall art piece. Make sure the hardware is strong enough to support the weight of the piece.

Making it a Conversation Starter:

• Tell a Story: Create a wall art piece that tells a story or represents a significant event in your life.
• Incorporate Meaningful Quotes: Add meaningful quotes or phrases to your wall art piece.
• Personalize with Photos: Incorporate photos into your wall art piece to create a truly unique and personal display.
• Express Your Style: Let your personality shine through in your wall art. Choose colors, patterns, and designs that reflect your personal style.

I once created a wall art piece from some leftover cherry flooring. I cut the planks into various shapes and sizes and arranged them into an abstract design.

I then used a wood burning tool to add intricate details and patterns. The piece became a real focal point in my living room and a great conversation starter.

Decorative wall art is a fantastic way to express your creativity and add a unique touch to your home décor. It’s also a great way to recycle those leftover floor planks!

Conclusion

So there you have it! Four fantastic upcycling ideas to transform those leftover floor planks into something beautiful and functional.

I hope this article has inspired you to see your leftover materials not as waste, but as an opportunity to create something special.

Upcycling is not just about saving money or being eco-conscious; it’s about embracing creativity, adding personality to your home, and making a statement about your values.

Remember, creativity knows no bounds! Don’t be afraid to experiment, to try new things, and to let your imagination run wild.

Who knows what amazing creations you’ll come up with?

By reusing materials, we’re not only reducing waste but also preserving resources and minimizing our impact on the planet. It’s a win-win situation for everyone!

And let’s not forget the personal benefits of upcycling. The satisfaction of creating something with your own two hands, the pride of displaying your unique creations, and the joy of knowing that you’re making a difference in the world.

I envision homes filled with personalized, handcrafted treasures, each with its own story to tell. Homes that reflect the creativity, values, and personality of the people who live there.

So go ahead, grab those leftover floor planks and start creating! The possibilities are endless, and the journey is sure to be rewarding. Happy upcycling!

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