Pallet Wood Potting Bench Makeover with Iron Clay

Did you know that Fusion Mineral Paint is excellent for outdoor projects? If you’ve been searching for the perfect project to add charm to your outdoor space, this DIY pallet wood potting bench is a great way to combine functionality with rustic style. Using Fusion Mineral Paint in Iron Clay from our 2024 colour collection, we gave this simple build a stunning, earthy terracotta finish that will look beautiful while weathering the elements. Pallet Wood Potting Bench Makeover with Iron Clay:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Fusion Mineral Paint in Iron Clay
• Fusion Mineral Paint Tung Oil
• Fusion Mineral Paint Odourless Solvent (to dilute the Tung Oil)
• Staalmeester Round Brush, Flat Brush, and Bended Brush
• Staalmeester Roller
• Chip Brush (for applying oil)
• Pallet Wood
• Upcycled Wood Pediment

Step 1: Dismantling the Pallets

The first step was to undo the pallets and salvage the wood for this project. Pallet wood is not only affordable but also lends itself to a rugged, natural look—perfect for outdoor projects like this one. After we constructed the basic frame of the bench, we felt like something was missing, so we scoured our wood stash and found a decorative pediment to add to the top, giving the bench a unique, upcycled personal touch. Additionally, we built a small shelf to hold extra pots and small plants.

Quick safety note: When working with pallet wood, please ensure it doesn’t have any hazard codes stamped on it, as these can indicate chemical treatments. Here’s a helpful chart and article to reference.

Step 2: Applying the Paint

For the paint application, we chose Fusion Mineral Paint in Iron Clay, a warm terracotta shade that brings a rustic feel and complements outdoor settings.

We rolled on 2 coats of paint, alternating between the roller and brushes for even coverage. Since the bench had slatted wood, some areas were tricky to reach. That’s where the Staalmeester Bended Brush came to the rescue—it’s specifically designed for those hard-to-reach spots, ensuring smooth application even in tight corners.

Step 3: Sealing Raw Wood for Outdoor Use

Because this bench will spend its life outside and had some raw wood exposure, we knew it needed extra protection from the elements. If you paint only one side of the wood outdoors, and allow for moisture to enter in the bare wood, when the sun hits the surface over time that water will force its way up and through the paint causing peeling and chipping. You can easily prevent this by coating all sides of the wood to prevent any moisture from entering. For best results and a long-lasting finish, remember to seal all sides of outdoor wood projects. This simple step stops moisture from sneaking in and causing damage.

Enter Fusion Mineral Paint Tung Oil, a natural finish that’s perfect for outdoor furniture. Tung Oil was applied to the back and on any raw wood areas left unpainted to ensure they’re protected from moisture and weathering. Although Tung Oil doesn’t penetrate Fusion Mineral Paint as it’s a non-porous surface, it can still be applied lightly over the painted areas without any harm done. This method provides a slight sheen that enhances the look without compromising the paint layer. Be sure to buff off any excess oil after application to avoid a tacky finish.

We applied the first coat of Tung Oil mixed with Odourless Solvent in a 50-50 ratio. The solvent helps the oil dry faster, which is especially useful for outdoor projects. Using a chip brush, we applied the mixture, let it sit for a few minutes, then rubbed the oil into the wood, finishing by wiping off any excess. After allowing the first coat to dry, we applied a second coat of Tung Oil without dilution. This layer gave the bench a rich, protective finish. 

See this post all about Tung Oil 

Step 4: Pallet Wood Potting Bench Makeover with Iron Clay

The combination of Iron Clay with the Tung Oil finish gave this potting bench a beautifully rustic, earthy appearance. It is sure to age gracefully outdoors. With a touch of vintage charm, the shelf is perfect for organizing small plants or extra pots. This could also be used as a makeshift bar in the summer!

Tips for Your Own Potting Bench Makeover

• Prep Your Pallets: Be sure to remove any nails or rough patches before building to ensure a sturdy and safe bench.
• Use a Bended Brush: If your project has tight spots like slats or crevices, the Staalmeester Bended Brush will make painting those tricky areas a breeze.
• Protect with Tung Oil: If your project is going outdoors, Tung Oil is an excellent choice to protect it from moisture and wear.

Have you tried using Iron Clay on your own outdoor projects? Share your creations with us by tagging @FusionMineralPaint for a chance to be featured on our blog and social media!