Skip The Shade Sail: Turn Old Wood Pallets Into A Shaded Daybed

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Who else here dreams of a comfy, relaxing spot that overlooks your lush backyard? Yep, us too. But creating that spot is easier dreamed of than done. Many homeowners turn to the all-purpose shade sail to add shade to the backyard. And while this definitely does the job, does it create a cozy fall patio space for you to watch the sun set over your garden after a long day? It doesn't quite meet the bill. Instead, take some inspiration from a clever YouTuber, skip the shade sail, and turn those old wood pallets in your shed into a dreamy shaded daybed.

In her YouTube video, Yoduvh Essentials started by arranging the pallets into her perfect daybed composition (hers has a backrest, resembling a large chair). She then added casters to the underside of the bottom pallet and glued the top pallet to the bottom with heavy-duty adhesive. To make sure the back of the daybed was fully supported, she used L brackets to secure the two pieces together. Then she stapled pillows into place to cover the seat and back. Finally, she built a shade cover by securing PVC lattice to PVC boards to create a box and slid it over the top.

While this is a project you might want to spare a weekend (or two) on, it's much more budget-friendly than buying a shaded outdoor daybed. Plus, there are some unexpected places you can get free wood pallets, or you can turn to Facebook Marketplace to help keep the cost down. To make it even more affordable, swap out the PVC lattice and boards for reclaimed wood; just make sure to seal it properly first.

When tackling any kind of project with wood pallets, start by checking for damage or distortion. Because these pallets need to safely hold weight, make sure they're rated "HT". Once you're sure they're safe, sand them down with coarse-grit sandpaper to remove any rough patches. Then, smooth it down with fine-grit sandpaper. Add a protective layer of wood-friendly paint or create and apply a DIY natural wood stain. Then, cover it with a coat of sealant and let it dry.

Then finalize the daybed structure. Do you want an open daybed, or do you want to add pallets to the sides to create an enclosed, cozy space? Adding casters, as Yoduvh Essentials does, is perfect if you want to be able to easily move it around. If you don't plan on moving it often, add feet or use bricks to prop it up. Then examine the angle of the back pallet, or backrest. Is it more comfortable at a 90-degree angle, or would you rather have a deeper lean? Secure with L brackets once you have an angle you like. Then, add an outdoor mattress or weather-resistant foam to the daybed's seat.

As for shade, you can take a page from Yoduvh Essentials and DIY a lattice shade box. For a more bohemian vibe, secure wood poles to the side of the daybed and hang sheer curtains or shades on each side. For a more structured look, carefully take apart additional wood pallets you may have and use the pieces to create cross supports and the actual roof beams.

To make your outdoor daybed last through all seasons, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Wipe it down regularly and clean the bed and any other cushions or pillows you've added. If you are using curtains, make sure to wash those too. How often you clean will depend on where your daybed is located, how exposed it is to pollen and dirt, and the weather. A good place to start is once a month, then adjust more or less as needed.

One of the biggest threats to wood is water, meaning it's important to protect the wood pallets your daybed is made of. The best way to do this is to add a coat of sealant every year and keep the daybed up away from water. As the seasons change and the weather gets wetter, throw a cover over the daybed to give the wood extra protection. You could pick up a universal outdoor furniture cover, like F&J Outdoors Patio Table/Furniture Cover, or, for a more budget-friendly option, tuck a large tarp around it, such as the CARTMAN Multipurpose Waterproof Poly Tarp Cover. Then, come spring, take the cover off, give the daybed a fluff, and get ready to relax and enjoy.