Don’t Toss That Scrap! Give It New Life

If you’ve spent time woodworking, chances are you’ve accumulated a collection of scrap wood—those leftover pieces from larger projects that feel too nice to throw away. At Forest 2 Home, we know that every piece of premium hardwood has potential. With a bit of creativity and the right tools, those scraps can be transformed into functional, beautiful, and even gift-worthy pieces.

Here are some inspiring small project ideas to help you get the most from your scrap wood.

1. Hardwood Coasters

Turn flat, square scraps into elegant drink coasters. With a little sanding, edge rounding, and a food-safe finish, you can create a stylish set from species like cherry, walnut, or maple. Add laser engraving or woodburned monograms for a personalized touch.

2. Cutting Boards and Cheese Boards

Cutting boards are a go-to project for woodworkers of all levels. Use multiple scrap pieces to create a striped edge grain cutting board, or stick with a single hardwood species for a sleek minimalist look. Don’t forget to finish with mineral oil or beeswax to make it food-safe.

3. Phone Stands and Charging Docks

A small block of hardwood can become a beautiful, functional phone stand. Cut a groove for the phone, optionally drill a hole for a charging cable, and bevel the edges for a polished finish. These are great desk upgrades and make excellent gifts.

4. Wall Hooks or Key Holders

Mount small, shaped pieces of hardwood on a backing board to create unique key holders or wall hooks. Add metal hardware for hooks, or use dowels for a more natural wood-on-wood aesthetic. These projects are practical and stylish in entryways or mudrooms.

5. Planter Boxes and Display Trays

Scraps can be joined together to build small indoor planter boxes, perfect for succulents or herbs. Likewise, use offcuts to create trays for jewelry, candles, or catch-all items. A little creativity with shape and joinery goes a long way in making these feel high-end.

6. Toy Blocks or Puzzles

Got kids or grandkids? Sanded and rounded hardwood scraps make perfect, safe toy blocks. You can also get creative and craft simple wooden puzzles—either interlocking shapes or jigsaw-style creations—for fun and functional playtime.

7. Wooden Bookmarks

Thin scraps are ideal for making slim, elegant bookmarks. Shape, sand, and finish with tung oil or shellac, then add a leather or twine tassel. They’re quick to make and ideal for using even the smallest pieces of wood.

8. Inlay Practice or Test Cuts

Scraps are perfect for testing finishes, practicing your joinery, or experimenting with inlay techniques. Use your leftover boards as test canvases to refine your skills before applying them to your next big project.

Tips for Working with Scrap Wood

• Sort by Species & Size: Keep your scraps organized by wood type and length for easier project planning.

• Clean It Up: Always inspect for nails or glue residue before reusing.

• Use a Thickness Planer: Re-mill your scraps to ensure consistent dimensions and surfaces.

Start Creating with Forest 2 Home Hardwood

From offcuts to beautiful small builds, there’s no limit to what you can do with quality hardwood scraps. Whether you’re working with walnut, cherry, maple, or red oak, Forest 2 Home provides kiln-dried, sustainably sourced lumber that’s ideal for every level of woodworker.

Want to stock up on premium lumber for your next project—or make sure your "scrap pile" is full of potential? Shop hardwood bundles and live edge slabs now at forest2home.com