10 Outdoor Furniture and Fixtures You Can (and Should) DIY

Ready to DIY your way to the perfect outdoor space?

Image source: Cool DIY Ideas

Putting your outdoor space together just the way you want it can cost quite a bit of money, especially if you have particularly trendy taste. Luckily, it doesn't all have to be expensive. There are a lot of things that you can build yourself—from hammocks and fire pits to planters and picnic tables. 

Not only do DIY projects typically cost a lot less, but also they offer you the freedom to customize your outdoor space exactly the way you want it. So, if you're a little bit handy, these projects might be just what you need.  

1. Patio Seating

Image source: 101 Pallets

There are a lot of options when it comes to outdoor seating, but if you are into furniture that is natural and good for the environment, consider building your own outdoor seats by recycling wooden pallets. This DIY project is easy to do, and it's super cheap if you can find a few wooden pallets for free. Chances are, you should be able to snag a few to recycle for your new seating area. Whether you use your pallets to make an outdoor sofa or chairs, you'll be free to paint and decorate to your heart's content.

You can also snag some large logs or stones for a rustic seating arrangement—albeit a slightly uncomfortable one.

2. Hammock

Image source: Stephanie Lynn

Hammocks are an excellent addition to your outdoor space; they're super comfortable and relaxing. Making your own rope hammock is a lot simpler than you might think. For this DIY project, all you need is some rope made from either nylon or cotton, but apparently nylon rope hammocks are more durable than cotton ones. Plus. You can choose a colorful rope that matches your outdoor decor.

Once completed, throw some decorative outdoor pillows nearby and enjoy the summer breeze through this airy hammock that you can feel proud to have made.

3. Wood Planter

Image source: Correctly Design

There are many reasons why having a planter box is a great way to garden, rather than planting directly in the ground. However, a lot of wood planter boxes at the store are very expensive—we're talking hundreds of dollars. Fortunately, you can make your own for a fraction of the price and it's quite easy to do.

All you will need to complete this DIY project is untreated wood boards, a measuring tape, saw and either hammer and nails or a screw driver and screws. Then, in just a short amount of time, you will have a lovely planter box (or two or three or four) to add to your outdoor space.  

4. Cement Planters

Image source: HomeDosh

Not into wooden garden boxes? You can DIY a concrete planter just as easily, although you will need a few more supplies. Concrete planters are also a lot cheaper to make than they are to buy, and they can add a sense of luxury and class to your garden.

Now, when it comes to concrete, we suggest starting out small. Wood is a lot easier to maneuver, so a large wood planter can be moved. Concrete is heavy and can be a bit trickery. Try making some small, decorative planters and word your way up to larger models when you're ready.

5. Porch Swings

Image source: Simply Designing with Ashley Phipps

Adding a porch swing to your home is a great way to spruce up the front of your house by adding some old-fashion charm. Porch swings are great for sitting on while you read the paper, watch the kids play outside, or simply catch up with the neighbors.

Creating a porch swing for your home is a lot cheaper than buying one, and it gives you the option to make it fit perfectly on your porch because it will be fully customized. This DIY project shows you how to make your own front porch swing in just four simple steps.

Keep in mind of course, there are thousands of different ways to build a custom swing for your home. Plus, you don't have to have a porch to make one. You can always build between trees or install posts in the ground told hold the swing up. 

6. Fire Pit

Image source: Home Talk

There are a lot of fancy looking fire pit available to purchase at various stores. So, you could go that route. But, fire pits are one of the easiest outdoor pieces you can build on your own (or with a helper).

There are so many different styles you can create when it comes to a fire pit; it can be in-ground or above-ground. It can be made with bricks, stones, or even metal. But, if you're looking to make one that's easy to build and still looks nice, check out this DIY guide on how to build your own backyard fire pit.

7. Gazebo

Image source: Home Stratosphere

Gazebos are particularly useful in yards without a lot of shade. They can function as a small seating area to sit and enjoy time with friends and family—without getting sunburned.

Building your own outdoor gazebo can be a big project, but if you enjoy working with your hands it can also be a really fun one that will really ramp up your space. 

8. Compost Bin

Image source: Harvest to Table

A lot of gardeners prefer to make their own compost with kitchen scraps and yard waste. While composting is eco-friendly and useful, it isn't the most pleasant to look at or smell.

If you've ever considered composting or you're tired of your composting trash bin looking like an eyesore, why not also consider making your own wood compost bin? 

9. Outdoor Storage

Although a lot of big outdoor equipment can be stored in a shed or garage, there are some things that you might want more accessible when outside like extra cushions or yard games. That's when an outdoor storage shed or bin comes in handy!

Making your own outdoor storage shed can be completed in a day or two, and if you decide to make a storage bin, it can be done in just a few hours time, and will save you money compared to buying one at the store. An outdoor storage unit, no matter white kind you choose, will be perfect for storing seasonal gear or outdoor toys.  

10. Picnic Table

Image source: Home Depot Blog

Picnic tables may not be as fancy as some other outdoor dining tables, but they have that classic outdoor dining look and feel that so many of us think of fondly. Picnic tables are great when you have kids, too, but they can be so expensive to buy from the store!

Luckily, it's not terribly difficult to build your own outdoor picnic table. And when you're done, you can paint it any way you'd like.