Learn how to use pallet wood to create a gorgeous Herringbone Pattern Wood design! This method can be used for furniture, shelves or flooring!
There is simply nothing that elevates the look of a project as well as an intricate Herringbone pattern. This unique design is a timeless feature that adds character to any project. While this pattern looks intimidating, with a little planning and preparation you can certainly create this DIY on your own!
In this post you will find detailed instructions to help you achieve this look at home. For this project I am using pallet wood. I love repurposing items like pallets because they are easily accessible and often free. If you are new to working with pallets you will find a video and step by step instructions on how to easily disassemble them without spitting boards here.
Materials Needed to Make a Wood Herringbone Pattern
- Boards
- Nails
- Hammer
- Circular Saw
- Speed Square or Combo Square
- Table Saw, Rip Fence Attachment, or Circular Saw
- Power or Manual Miter Saw
- Glue
- Wood Clamps
- Pencil
How do you make a Herringbone Pattern with Wood?
This pattern is part of a larger project that I will be sharing later this week. I made a tall leaning shelf that has herringbone shelves. However, this method can still be applied to other projects such as coffee table trays, accent walls or any other DIY.
- Most bases are plywood but I will be using materials harvested from a pallet for this project.
- The base will be made of two pieces ripped down to five inches and tacked together using scrap pieces from the ripping process, they will be removed later.
- This pattern will have a 1 ½ wide frame built around the pattern.
- Before building the pattern we need to locate the center of the patter just above the 1 ½ frame mark.
- Using a combo square or speed square, draw a line marking 45 degrees on the right and left side of the center mark.
- Start in the corner of the 90 degree corner in the center of the piece.
- Cut several 8 inch pieces to begin building the pattern.
- Finish each side of the pattern by adding the pieces needed.
- Measure and mark the inside edge for 1 ½ inch frame.
- Adjust the circular saw base plate to match the depth of the pieces used to build the pattern.
- Cut along the lines to create space for the frame.
- The frame is to be 24 inches by 10 inches, each end will be cut at a 45 degree angle and placed beside the pattern and on the base the pattern was built on.
What kind of wood should I use?
You can use any kind of wood you prefer. As mentioned, I used pallet wood but if you do not have access you can easily use purchased wood from a lumber yard or hardware store.
You can also use aged barn wood to create a really unique look. If you like the look of aged wood, but cannot source any you can try this method to age wood naturally.
Tips and Tricks for Woodworking
In your DIY projects some of these other posts may help you achieve the perfect look:
Other DIY Projects
How to Make a Herringbone Pattern with Wood
Equipment
- Nails
- Hammer
- Circular saw
- Speed Square or Combo Square
- Table Saw, Rip Fence Attachment, or Circular Saw
- Power or Manual Miter Saw
- Wood Clamps
- Pencil
Materials
- Boards
- Glue
Instructions
- 1. Most bases are plywood but I will be using materials harvested from a pallet for this project.
- 2. The base will be made of two pieces ripped down to five inches and tacked together using scrap pieces from the ripping process, they will be removed later.
- 3. This pattern will have a 1 ½ wide frame built around the pattern.
- 4. Before building the pattern we need to locate the center of the patter just above the 1 ½ frame mark.
- 5. Using a combo square or speed square, draw a line marking 45 degrees on the right and left side of the center mark.
- 6. Start in the corner of the 90 degree corner in the center of the piece.
- 7. Cut several 8 inch pieces to begin building the pattern.
- 8. Finish each side of the pattern by adding the pieces needed.
- 9. Measure and mark the inside edge for 1 ½ inch frame.
- 10. Adjust the circular saw base plate to match the depth of the pieces used to build the pattern.
- 11. Cut along the lines to create space for the frame.
The frame is to be 24 inches by 10 inches, each end will be cut at a 45 degree angle and placed beside the pattern and on the base the pattern was built on.
[…] the show are the shelves themself. Made from pallet wood, these wooden shelves feature a striking herringbone design that adds character and warmth. This is the perfect DIY project for those looking for more storage […]