Unless you have ever been involved in a woodworking project, initiating one may very likely look too intimidating for you. The numerous strange terms you find in the instruction would make it seem as though it wasn’t written in English. Ignoring them and keeping on believing that everyone can take on any woodwork would only lead you to failure that also spells waste of time and money. Still, once you manage to finish your first project satisfactorily, you’re bound for skill improvements as well as confidence boost. Both are crucial for you to step further.

For that reason, our rule of thumb is always starting it simple and easy. There are quite a few woodworking projects that you can accomplish even with very little skills and low self-confidence. Some of them may look like child’s play but never underestimate them because for woodworker novices, they’re like the most basic stepping stone. Below are 5 easy woodworking projects you can cover with minimum effort, time and money. All of them require basic tools and technique while the materials can be taken from unused scrap woods.

1. Birdhouse

The fact that most people can squeeze out a birdhouse under one hour makes most of us think that that it’s not worth it at all but don’t get it wrong. Its simplicity may prove to be quite a challenge for those who have hardly held a saw. Another advantage of a birdhouse is that it’s pretty rewarding and long lasting. Seeing some delicate birds make a nest on the birdhouse you build with your own hand is really a pleasure. See the plans here.

2. Storage Crates

Who doesn’t need extra storage these days? With appliances and stuff keeping on adding up on your end, a few more bins are always handy. While there are a bunch of storage crates offered for low price, it’s always a fun to make some on your own. Sure, it takes more time but consider it as an investment for the advanced carpentry skills you’re going to have in the future. Still, before you jump into the project, make sure you know what type of storage crate you want to make because with different design comes different aesthetic value and also different functionality.

3. Window Box

By window box, we mean that nice little container placed right under your window people commonly used as a replacement for flowerpot. The steps necessary to create such a box are pretty straightforward and the materials can be taken from some wood craps in your garage. There is no hard stuff or such a thing in the process.

4. X-Leg Table

In terms of construction, X-leg table is quite similar to picnic table, only it’s much smaller and simpler. Assuming that those who are reading this post are all beginners, we don’t suggest going with picnic table. Anyway, this project will be a lot easier if you have some leftover fence boards as you just need to nail them down together.

5. Repurposing

Believe it or not, a good deal of beautiful woodworks start from scrap wood that you can get from unused appliances. Try to look up your warehouse or garage for some old shipping pallets that do nothing but collecting dust. You can repurpose it to become a nice plate rack or a small desk. A deconstruction might be necessary before the reformation but overall the process isn’t all that daunting.