Have you ever looked at those rustic blanket ladders in home stores and thought, “I could make that!”? Well, you absolutely can. And the best part? You can do it for next to nothing if you have access to a wooden pallet. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to make a blanket ladder out of pallets with simple tools, minimal cost, and zero woodworking experience required.
This isn’t just another weekend DIY. It’s a way to declutter your space, showcase your favorite throws, and add that farmhouse-style warmth to your home. Let’s get started.
Why Use Pallets for a Blanket Ladder?
Pallets are an underrated goldmine for DIYers. They’re sturdy, easy to find, and best of all—free. Using reclaimed pallet wood means you’re saving money and keeping usable wood out of landfills. Plus, pallet wood has that naturally weathered charm that gives your ladder character.
And here’s a bonus: once you get the hang of working with pallets, you can create more than just ladders. Think storage boxes, coffee tables, even planters. But let’s focus on your ladder first.
Materials You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to build your DIY blanket ladder:
- One standard wooden pallet
- Pry bar or hammer
- Saw (hand saw or circular saw)
- Measuring tape and pencil
- Drill and wood screws (or nails and hammer)
- Sandpaper (80 & 120 grit) or power sander
- Wood glue (optional)
- Stain, paint, or wood sealant (optional)
- Safety gear: gloves, goggles
Step-by-Step: Build Your Pallet Blanket Ladder
1. Disassemble the Pallet
Start by prying apart the pallet. Take your time and remove each board carefully to avoid splitting the wood. You should end up with a few long boards for the ladder sides and several shorter boards for the rungs.
2. Choose Your Ladder Height and Width
Decide how tall you want your ladder. A common size is 5 to 6 feet tall and 16 to 20 inches wide. Cut two side rails to your desired height.
3. Cut the Rungs
Plan for 4 to 5 rungs, spaced about 10 to 12 inches apart. Cut each rung to fit between the side rails (usually 16-18 inches). Make sure they’re all the same length.
4. Sand Everything Smooth
No one wants splinters in their blankets. Use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth down every surface, then follow up with fine grit for a clean finish.
5. Assemble the Ladder
Lay the side rails flat on the ground. Space your rungs evenly. Drill pilot holes and attach the rungs with screws or nails. For extra strength, add wood glue at each joint.
6. Customize the Look
Now comes the fun part. Stain for a rustic vibe, paint it white for farmhouse chic, or leave it natural. Seal the wood if you’ll place the ladder in a humid room like a bathroom.
7. Display Your Blankets
Lean your finished ladder against the wall and drape your favorite throws over the rungs. It’s a functional piece of art.
What to Do with Extra Pallet Wood?
Got leftover pallet boards? Great! Here’s another project:
How to Make a Blanket Box Out of Pallets
A blanket box is perfect for storing seasonal bedding. Use the remaining boards to create a simple chest with a hinged lid. It’s a great complement to your new ladder, and just like the ladder, it uses free wood and basic tools.
Wondering About “A Pallet of Blankets”?
If you’re sourcing blankets in bulk—maybe for donation, resale, or staging your store—you might be looking for a pallet of blankets. These are wholesale bundles stacked on pallets, often including hundreds of blankets.
Curious about how many? Here’s a quick breakdown:
How Many Per Pallet of Cases of 24 Fleece Blankets?
- Each case: 24 fleece blankets
- Avg. pallet: ~30 cases
- Total: 720 blankets per pallet
Need a supplier? Check out Blankets and Beddings Pallets for affordable bulk options.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use “HT” (heat-treated) pallets only—avoid chemically treated ones.
- Angle-cut the ladder legs for better floor contact.
- Add felt pads to the bottom for floor protection.
- Use clamps to keep pieces in place while drilling.
- Always sand before staining for best results.
FAQs
Can I make this without power tools?
Yes! A hand saw, hammer, and some elbow grease are enough.
Is pallet wood safe?
Only use pallets marked “HT” (heat-treated). Never use “MB” (methyl bromide-treated) pallets.
Can I make a ladder wider or taller?
Absolutely. Just adjust the cut lengths to suit your space.
Where can I get free pallets?
Try local hardware stores, warehouses, or ask small businesses. Many are happy to give them away.
Final Thoughts
Making a blanket ladder out of pallets isn’t just a smart way to organize your throws—it’s a chance to build something with your hands, reuse materials, and create a piece you’ll be proud of. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your living room or start your next DIY adventure, this project checks every box.
Ready to cozy up your space with a ladder you built yourself?