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7 Rustic and Gorgeous DIYs You Can Make with Old Ladders
Do you have an old ladder gathering dust in your garage or attic? Instead of letting it go to waste, why not repurpose it into something rustic and beautiful for your home? Ladders, whether wooden or metal, can be transformed into functional and decorative pieces that add a charming, farmhouse-inspired touch to any space. Here are seven creative DIY ideas for turning your old ladder into a stunning, one-of-a-kind piece.
1. Ladder Shelf
Turn your old ladder into a unique shelf for your living room or bedroom! This project is incredibly easy and versatile. Simply place the ladder against a wall and add wooden planks or thick boards across the rungs. The result is a stylish open-shelving unit with a rustic, vintage vibe. You can use it to display books, plants, photo frames, or any decor that reflects your personal style.
What you’ll need:
- An old ladder
- Wooden planks or thick boards
- Screws or nails
- Sandpaper (for smoothing the ladder if it’s rough)
Tip: You can leave the ladder as is for an authentic worn look or give it a fresh coat of paint or stain to match your interior.
2. Ladder Towel Rack
Upgrade your bathroom by turning an old ladder into a towel rack! This is a fantastic way to add a rustic touch to your bathroom while providing extra storage space. Simply lean the ladder against a wall in your bathroom, or hang it on the wall for a more permanent installation. Use the rungs to hang towels, robes, or even baskets filled with toiletries.
What you’ll need:
- Old wooden ladder
- Hooks (optional for hanging towels)
- Sandpaper and paint (if desired)
Tip: If you want a more space-efficient design, hang the ladder horizontally and use the rungs to display rolled-up towels.
3. Ladder Planter Stand
Bring nature indoors with a rustic ladder planter stand! Old ladders make the perfect base for displaying a variety of plants in your home. Lean the ladder against a wall, and use the rungs to hold small pots or hanging planters. This DIY project adds a touch of greenery while showcasing your love for plants in a creative, rustic way.
What you’ll need:
- Wooden or metal ladder
- Plant pots or hanging planters
- Small hooks (if you want to hang the planters)
Tip: Mix and match different plants, such as succulents, herbs, and trailing vines, to create a beautiful, layered effect.
4. Ladder Wine Rack
If you’re a wine enthusiast, this rustic ladder wine rack is a must-try project! By leaning your old ladder against a wall, you can create a stylish, functional wine rack that holds bottles horizontally. If you’re feeling creative, you can even add a few additional rungs or hooks to store wine glasses, making this a complete home bar solution.
What you’ll need:
- Old ladder (wooden works best)
- Sandpaper
- Screws or brackets (for securing the ladder if needed)
Tip: Customize the ladder with decorative wine-themed elements or vintage labels to give it a personal touch.
5. Ladder Mirror Frame
Transform a simple mirror into a rustic statement piece with an old ladder! This is an easy yet impactful way to repurpose your ladder. Simply cut the ladder to the desired size, remove any excess steps, and attach a mirror to the back of the ladder frame. Hang it on the wall for a stunning, farmhouse-style addition to your entryway or bathroom.
What you’ll need:
- Old ladder (cut to size)
- Mirror (cut to fit the frame)
- Nails or screws for assembly
Tip: You can also add some small shelves to the base of the
