47+ Easy Woodworking Projects

By Ty Criswell

Last Updated

woodworking projects collage

Use these great beginner plans to get started building an awesome wood project today. This article is for anyone who wants to try their hand at building some easy woodworking projects that don’t require a ton of specialized skills or tools.

Any skill level can use this list of projects, but beginners will see the greatest benefits.

In this post we have separated these easy projects into four different categories:

Home Decor
Furniture
Games
Outdoor

For many getting into woodworking, it can seem like a daunting task. It is sometimes difficult to figure out where to start.

It doesn’t need to be this way because you can build plenty of projects with simple tools. You may already own some of these tools.

If you are wondering what these tools may be, take a look at my guide for beginner woodworking tools here.

Get Started

It is best to start out with a simple project.  Preferably something that you need in your house.  For example, you may need a shelf because you have some books lying around.  Now you have some motivation to get started.

Then you will need to find what you need to build that specific piece.  You’ll generally need tools, fasteners, hardware, lumber/materials, and paint/finish.

Don’t get intimidated if you don’t any of the stuff required for a project.  Most of the tools are affordable.  And once you have the tools, building a piece yourself is almost always cheaper than buying a completed piece from a store.

Find your project and check out the tools and materials required. Then compare it to what you already have. 

Here is a list I’ve compiled by browsing the web for simple, easy woodworking projects.  Use it at your leisure.  It took some time to compile this list. None of these are my projects – I have linked to great blogs across the internet.  Enjoy!

Home Decor

  1. Painted Wooden Flag
  2. Pallet Skyline Wall Art
  3. DIY Blanket Ladder
  4. Wood Wall Art
  5. DIY Succulent Frame
  6. Wooden Hexagon Tray
  7. Wood Star
  8. Plywood Quote Art
  9. Scrap Wood Sign
  10. Scrap Wood Wall Art
  11. DIY Wall Shelf

The projects in this section are primarily meant for decoration around the home. They are all fairly easy to accomplish and should require minimal tools.

1. Painted Wooden Flag

Wooden Flags

These are great items to make for anyone, and especially for those who have some artistic talent for painting.

These were made with cedar boards and attached along the back with screws.

You can make these pretty much any size you want and paint anything you desire on the front. Go to the plans here.

2. Pallet Skyline Wall Art

Project 1
Image Credit: Pallet University

This is a great project for beginners.  It is straightforward and doesn’t require very many tools.

3. DIY Blanket Ladder

Featured Image for DIY Blanket Ladder

If you are looking for a simple upgrade to your decor, then this wood ladder might do the trick.  This project by Bigger Than the Three of Us is super quick, simple, and infinitely customizable.

Some of my favorite projects are the ones where they give you a foundation.  Sometimes you don’t need exactly what the project entails, you just need a guideline to give an idea of how to proceed.

Go to the plans here.

4. Wood Wall Art

Project 3
Image Credit: Bigger Than the Three of Us

It is so simple and the result is great.  A neat design like this can add interest to the room and cost next to nothing. I guarantee it would probably be 10 times the cost to buy a piece similar to this.

This project is so easy that anyone can do it.  Plus, with a little creativity and imagination you should be able to make something unique you can put on your wall with pride.

5.  DIY Succulent Frame

DIY Succulent Frame
Image Credit: Shanty 2 Chic

Make this product with one board and just a few tools.  Shanty 2 Chic offers a good video tutorial with this one, so the process should be super simple.

The best part is you can grow succulents or herbs in the jars.  It is an easy yet effective project.

6.  Wooden Hexagon Tray

Hexagon Tray
Image Credit: My Love 2 Create

This tray is made with few materials and it is entirely customizable.  I like how it is strong enough to use but also looks good merely as a decoration.

Any beginner should have little trouble building this.  It is a great project to introduce yourself to woodworking.

7.  Wood Star

DIY Wooden Star
Image Credit: That’s My Letter

Add some interesting decor to your wall with these 3 dimensional stars.  I like how the depth makes it stand out.

This project requires very little in the way of tools and materials.  Simply cut a board a few times and then nail the pieces together.  Stain or paint it the way you like.

8.  Plywood Quote Art

DIY Plywood
Image Credit: Reality Daydream

If you love the look of plywood then this project is for you.  It can be attractive in the right setting, such as this example.  This project is simple and the only major undertaking is using the jigsaw.

Make this for yourself or as a gift.

If you have a CNC router or laser engraver, the possiblities are almost endless.

9.  Scrap Wood Sign

DIY Sign
Image Credit: Little Glass Jar

This project is for you if you need more decor on the walls.  It is attractive and simple.  Also, you can pretty much write or paint what you want on the board in any color.

It requires very few tools and only some simple wood pieces widely available.

This is similar to the wooden flag design, but using scrap wood.

10.  Scrap Wood Wall Art

Scrap Wood wall art
Image Credit: Fix This Build That

Do you have plenty of scrap wood laying around?  You can make good use of it with this wall art project. Not only is it easy and straightforward but the results are pretty cool.

A beginning woodworker should have a fun time building this, and others will be asking just how you did it.

11.  DIY Wall Shelf

DIY Shelf
Image Credit: iHeart Organizing

Build a wall shelf and get your home organized.  This shelf is easy to build and looks great in every room of the house.

You can expand this design and make it bigger or smaller. Use any color or stain that you would like.

I like how it incorporates the pre-made corbels so that it looks fancier but doesn’t actually require extra effort.

Furniture

12. Pallet Bench
13. Command Center
14. Painted Wood Headboard
15. DIY Pocket Shelf
16. DIY Stool Plans
17. Stacking Storage Cubbies
18. Entryway Coat Hooks
19. Number One Shelf
20. Produce Storage Bin
21. Pet Bowl Stand
22. Entryway Organizer

This section contains slightly more difficult projects than the others.  This is to be expected because furniture can involve many different parts and require some more tools.

Don’t let that deter you, however, because the tutorials I gathered here are all straightforward.

12.  Pallet Bench

Pallet Bench
Image Credit: Pallet University

If you love the look of pallet wood like many people do, then you may want to add this bench to your collection.

Because it is stained, it allows you to have some customization over the finished look of the wood.

This is a simple project that will get you a good feel for building more structural pieces of furniture.  It does not require many tools and most beginners should be able to do it.

13.  Command Center

DIY Command Center
Image Credit: Shanty 2 Chic

A great project for organizing your entryway.  It is very beginner friendly and does not require very much material.  A few hardware pieces are required, such as the hooks and notepad clips.

Paint or stain this piece whatever color you would like to match your house.

14.  Painted Wood Headboard

Painted Wood Headboard
Image Credit: Remodelaholic

This is a great project for many reasons, the main one being how cleverly it is designed.  It uses few materials and hangs on the wall with easy to make french cleats.

It is not complicated, however, and you will find many ways to customize this design.  Colors, shapes and sizes can all be changed.  Use the well made tutorial for expanding your piece.

15. DIY Pocket Shelf

DIY Pocket Shelf
Image Credit: Remodelaholic

If you have a kids room with books scattered on the floor, then this project is for you.  These neat looking shelves serve a very useful purpose.

It requires few materials and should be simple enough that just about anybody could make these.  It is so much better building something lasting like this for yourself or your kids than going out and buying a pre made piece.

16.  DIY Stool Plans

DIY Stool Plans
Image Credit: Rogue Engineer

These stools could not be much simpler to build.  Simply cut the pieces to the right length and screw it all together.

They are sturdy and useful for any kind of outdoor bar or deck party.  Paint them or stain them whatever color your heart desires.

17. Stacking Storage Cubbies

Stacking Storage Cubbies
Image Credit: Pretty Handy Girl

Here is a neat project for organizing all kinds of things.  Start with your kids rooms and build more from there.

They are super simple to build, requiring very few tools and little materials.  I especially like how they can be stackable.  It makes them appear very modular and gives it a clean organized look.

18.  Entryway Coat Hooks

Entryway Coat Hooks
Image Credit: Little Glass Jar

Sometimes a simple upgrade like this entryway coat hook piece can transform a wall from useless and bland to handsome and productive.

I like the way that the wood was antiqued and beat up.  Any beginner can achieve this look with a little practice.  Just get some stuff like a hammer or a small chain and make some indentations on the wood.

19. Number One Shelf

Number One Shelf
Image Credit: Addicted 2 DIY

This is one of those designs that doesn’t seem like much as you are building it but when the finished product is done it is super cool.  I can imagine having this in my room as a kid; I would have loved it.

It is easy to build, just use a few boards and some paint.

20. Produce Storage Bin

Produce Storage Bin
Image Credit: Anikas DIY LIfe

I can see myself building a piece like this but expanding the plans to 3 or 4 cubbies.  It is always nice to have an organizer like this instead of having some apples rolling around in a bag on the countertop.

This project is really simple and it should last a lifetime.  Make it how you want it.

21. Pet Bowl Stand

Pet Bowl Stand
Image Credit: Centsational Style

You could buy one of these at the store, but why not make it yourself?  You can customize the design and make it any color you would like.

Also, if you have specific bowls you like to use for your pets then you can build it to suit those.  Stop the spillage of food and water and build this neat pet bowl stand.

22. Entryway Organizer

DIY Entryway Shelf

This entryway organizer is on that we made using 1×6 boards and pocket hole joinery.

I really like the customizability of this piece, but you can also follow along with the plans that are available here.

Crafts

23. Heart Vase Wreath
24. Fall Yard Signs
25. Wine Caddy
26. Mug Holder
27. DIY Trivet
28. Outdoor Chalkboard
29. Tool Tote
30. Dinnerware Caddy and Paper Towel Holder
31. Wood Burning Tags
32. Handcrafted Rulers
33. Wood Napkin Rings
34. Paint Stick Basket

These crafts can double as awesome home decor and perfect gifts.  They are all easily made by a beginning woodworker.

Pick out your favorite and get started.

23.  Heart Vase Wreath

Heart Vase Wreath
Image Credit: Simple Country Life

This is a neat project that should be accessible for a beginner.  I love how the jar is cleverly held to the bead board with a large hose clamp.  Its something that I may not think of doing.

You could easily change the style or design to something like a star or do some different colors.  It does not have to be limited to hearts or the Valentine’s day theme.

24.  Fall Yard Signs

Fall Yard Signs
Image Credit: Simple Country Life

These cool signs are easy to make and fully customizable.

Obviously anything related to fall decor is perfect for these, but don’t let that limit you.  Make some signs for a classroom or a business.  The design could be used for all kinds of things.

25. Wine Caddy

Wine Caddy
Image Credit: Shanty 2 Chic

Make this fun craft with just a few materials and tools.  I like the fact that you’d probably be hard pressed to find anything like this to buy, so you know its one of a kind.

It is very beginner friendly and it could even make a neat gift if you know someone who appreciates wine.

26. Mug Holder

Mug Holder
Image Credit: Shanty 2 Chic

Everyone I know has a ton of coffee mugs everywhere.  So instead of giving the gift of a coffee mug you should make this holder for someone.  It is super simple and so useful.

The amount of wood and tools required is so little that anyone should be able to build this.  I wish I had one for my kitchen.

27. DIY Trivet

DIY Trivet
Image Credit: My Love 2 Create

This is an easy and practical project for any amateur woodworker.  It does not require very many tools or materials.

The best part about it is you can put these to work in the kitchen and make them fit your pans.  Not all trivets are the correct size for the specific pans that you own.

28. Outdoor Chalkboard

Outdoor Chalkboard
Image Credit: Addicted 2 DIY

This is a neat craft that will spruce up any area that you put it in.  It is fairly basic construction with 2x4s and hardboard backing.  It is built strong too, so don’t worry about it falling apart later.

Build this to whatever size and style you would like.

29.  Tool Tote

Tool Tote Gift
Image Credit: Pretty Handy Girl

Build a tool tote as a gift or just to use yourself around the house.  Not only is it strong and durable, but you will enjoy the simple and clean design.

If you choose to give this as a gift, you can fill it up with tools to give as well.  Pretty cool.

30. Dinnerware Caddy and Paper Towel Holder

Dinnerware Caddy and Paper Towel Holder
Addicted 2 DIY

This two part project will make your outdoor meals much more legit.  I like how you can start with the caddy and paper towel holder for now, but with a little imagination you can easily come up with some new ideas for expansion.

Just design something else and build it in the same style.

Check it out at Addicted 2 DIY.

31. Wood Burning Tags

Wood Burning Tags
Image Credit: Anika’s DIY Life

Make these tags to give as a gift or to organize any other crafts that you may make.  They are cute and colorful.

If you are interested in wood burning, then this is a great craft to begin with.  Start with a letter and add some flair as you desire.

Check it out at Anika’s DIY Life.

32. Handcrafted Rulers

Handcrafted Rulers
Image Credit: Sawdust Girl

These wood rulers are easy to make for any beginner woodworker.

They are fully customizable with any color and style you would like.  I think they would make a great gift for any schoolteacher in your life.

33. Wood Napkin Rings

Wood Napkin Rings
Image Credit: Sawdust Girl

Display your creativity and love of woodworking with these unique napkin holder rings.  Or give them as a gift.  I like how if put on a dinner table they would add a great sense of style to the setting.

These are easy to make and you can even use your scrap wood that you have sitting around.

34. Paint Stick Basket

Paint Stick Basket
Image Credit: Build Basic

This craft would be good for all kinds of situations.  I can imagine using it as a centerpiece for all kinds of events.  What better way to add a personal touch than to build these baskets yourself.

They use few materials and the construction is quite simple.

Games

35. Yard Dice Game
36. Ring Toss
37. Football Toss
38. Playing Card Holder
39. Bowling Lane
40. Cornhole Board
41. Four In A Row

These woodworking games will definitely impress at your next gathering.

Build a few and let the fun begin.

35. Yard Dice Game

Yardzee Game
Image Credit: Remodelaholic

I think these yard dice are super fun.  They should be easy to make for nearly anyone.  And the plans allow for different ways of coloring in the dots.

It only requires a few woodworking tools and one piece of 4×4 wood.  The plans also come with printable stencils and a logo to put on a five gallon bucket.

36. Ring Toss

Ring Toss
Image Credit: My Love 2 Create

This is a fun and simple game that a beginner woodworker should enjoy making.  I’d say you shouldn’t buy any game like this, you should instead always make it yourself.

It is a neat design.  I like the use of pocket holes to hold it together.  Build one for your next outdoor get together.

37. Football Toss

Football Toss
Image Credit: Rogue Engineer

This project is fairly easy for a beginning woodworker.  It requires just a few tools and you can always add your own personal flair to it.

I like the nice touch of led lights inside the rings and he even adds a bluetooth speaker to this board.

38. Playing Card Holder

Playing Card Holder
Image Credit: Reality Day Dream

This is a neat craft to help with holding cards for any card game.  It is especially useful for children who have trouble holding the cards in their hand and being able to see them all.

I like the simplicity of it plus the cool colors that you can make them.

39. Bowling Lane

Bowling Lane
Image Credit: Handmade with Ashley

I think this game looks like a lot of fun.  It requires a few steps that should be easily accomplished by any beginner woodworkers.

If you love bowling then this game would be the perfect addition to your outdoor activities.

40. Cornhole Board

Cornhole Boards
Image Credit: Handmade with Ashley

Cornhole is a popular game these days and no one should be without these playing boards.  Customize them with your own design.  Any sports team or college can be painted on the front.

These would be a great addition to your outdoor activities.

41. Four In A Row

Connect Four
Image Credit: Build Basic

Four in a row is a game many grew up playing.  You can make this yard sized one with a little bit of time and effort.

The holes can be tough to drill out, but any woodworker is going to have to exercise a little patience to experience the reward.  Impress everyone by busting this out at your next outdoor gathering.

Outdoor

42. Plywood Plant Stand
43. Cedar Planter
44. Address Number Planter
45. Wooden Welcome Mat
46. Cedar Wall Planter
47. Pallet Wood Planter
48. Chair Drink Holder
49. Drawer Planter Box

Spruce up your outdoor areas with some home made decor.  It is super simple to get started on any of these projects, so don’t hesitate to pick one out and make it.

42. Plywood Plant Stand

Plywood Plant Stand
Image Credit: Bigger Than The Three of Us

This project makes good use of some scrap plywood.  If you have some laying around and need to upgrade your patio area then this is a great task.

It appears to be quite simple and definitely won’t cost you very much to make.  I like how low key it is, and the fact that you can make it the exact size you need depending on your planter.

43. Cedar Planter

Cedar Planter
Image Credit: Shanty 2 Chic

Build this planter with simple tools and basic wood.  You only need some cedar 2x4s and pocket holes to make this neat project.

The best part is how great the wood looks.  Not only is it pretty but you know that it is solid and strong.  It looks great once you put some plants in it.

44. Address Number Planter

Address Number Wall Planter
Image Credit: Shanty 2 Chic

This project uses cedar wood to enhance your entry way.  If you need to upgrade the exterior of your house, making this cool planter will do the trick.  You can then put your house number on it to add the finishing touch.

It should be easily doable for a beginning woodworker.

45. Wooden Welcome Mat

Wooden Welcome Mat
Image Credit: Domestic Imperfection

Make this wooden door mat and enhance the entryway to your place.  It is super simple to make and is very rewarding.

It won’t cost much to get these materials and it is certainly easy enough for the beginner to build.

46. Cedar Wall Planter

Cedar Wall Planter
Image Credit: Rogue Engineer

Make use of this wall planter by growing your favorite herbs in it.  I especially like the use of cedar.  It is a cool wood that does well outside and in damp environments.

This project is really simple and is geared towards updating the exterior of your house without breaking the bank.

47. Pallet Wood Planter

Pallet Wood Planter
Image Credit: House by Hoff

This is a versatile planter box that you can use around the house.  Make it as big or as small as you would like to fit whatever container you may have.

I like how you can use some reclaimed wood or pallet lumber to make it more rustic.  Add some stenciling and it is good to go.

48. Chair Drink Holder

Chair Drink Holder
Image Credit: Build Basic

This is a really simple project that can be done in one day.  Make several of these and everyone can benefit from cup holding convenience.

This project requires minimal materials. It is nice looking and probably better than most cupholders you might find stock on chairs.

49. Drawer Planter Box

Drawer Planter Box
Image Credit: One Project Closer

Although you could use an old drawer and replicate this project, it is more fun to build it from scratch. Not only will you get practice building a drawer, but you will make a super cool planter.

It requires a couple handy woodworking skills to make.  A beginner should be able to navigate the plans without much trouble.

If this list helps you start a woodworking project then I will consider it well worth the effort gathering these tutorials together. I will be checking for more projects that I can add to this list.

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