Upcycled Step Ladder: Easy DIY Decor for your Home
This DIY upcycled step ladder project is easy! A little bit of paint, scrap wood and some distressing and you have yourself an adorable plant stand for a front porch or even in your home!
upcycled step ladder project
We were at a yard sale, meandering and searching for all sorts of vintage treasures, when I spotted this rustic wooden step ladder off to the side. It wasn’t even part of the main sale, but it kept grabbing my attention as I looked at the yard sale tables. I swear, I felt it calling my name! “Cindy…..Cindy…..Cindy”
Side note: does junk speak to you or am I just an absolute flake?? A question ran through my mind, “What can I do with an old ladder?”
I mean, if the people who were running the yard sale didn’t even think they could get anyone to buy it, who was I to think anything could be done with a dirty and broken wooden ladder? So, I asked if I could buy it and then bought it for $1 with no idea what I would do with it. 🙂
At the minimum, I knew I would paint it. The color was pretty but very worn out and it needed a fresh coat of paint. In fact, the more I looked at the color, the more I loved it. I was on a mission to find the exact color of the original finish and I did just that! You will see it listed in the supplies list.
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This post is sponsored by Dixie Belle. All opinions are my own!
list of supplies:
Use the links below to purchase some of the supplies for this project! You are helping to support this blog and all the free tutorials we offer here! Thanks so much!😊
- White Lightening Cleaner
- Caviar Chalk Mineral Paint
- Farmhouse Green Chalk Mineral Paint
- paintbrush (the 2″ mini angel is my FAVE paintbrush!)
- clear coat sealer
- Gator Hide exterior top coat
- chop saw
- orbital sander
- sanding discs
- beeswax
how to repurpose a step ladder
Let’s go over the steps for repurposing a step ladder. BTW, these steps can be adapted for other diy upcycling projects!
step one: clean the step ladder
One of my favorite ways to clean any upcycle project is outside with the garden hose. I filled a bucket with a solution of water and White Lightening. This tsp alternative cleaner is a power house! Next, I used a scrub brush and microfiber cloth to thoroughly clean the ladder.
If you don’t have a tsp cleaner on hand, fill a bucket with soapy water. Use a strong soap like Dawn dish soap or Simple Green and scrub the ladder to your hearts content!
Next rinse the step ladder usng the hose. Once the ladder was completely cleaned and rinsed, I allowed it to dry in the sunshine. A clean surface will ensure a good base for this makeover.
thanks for being here!
I hope you are enjoying this project! Let me know if you have any questions. Or leave me a comment to tell me about your project and ideas!
thanks, Cindy 😀
step two: paint the the step ladder
The painting process was finished in two steps. I wanted the time-worn look chippy paint finish.
The easiest way to create the contrast needed for a good chippy paint finish is to paint the first coat a dark color. Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint in Caviar was a perfect choice. One coat of any dark color will do. Deep brown colors work well too.
When the dark color was completely dry, I used a chunk of beeswax to act as a resist. You can see how easy this is to do in the video below. Simple rub the beeswax on areas where you want a chippy look. Edges, corners and near hardware are all good areas to apply the beeswax.
After I applied the beeswax, I turned on a podcast to pass the time and applied two coats of chalk paint in Farmhouse Green, which was the same color as the original paint color!
how to create a chippy paint finish
Once the green color was completely dry but not yet cured, I used the sharp edge of an old knife to scrap away the green paint in the areas where I had applied the beeswax.
It is important to use this method BEFORE the chalk paint has time to cure. Use this method to create the texture of chippy paint within 2 hours of the final painting. If the chalk paint has cured for more than a few hours, it will be more difficult to scrape away.
This mehod exposes the dark black color under the green paint creating an authentic chippy finish and giving the piece character. I used this chippy paint method on another step ladder that you can watch below!
step three: fix a broken step on an old ladder
We always have scrap wood left over after building farmhouse tables. The wood we use for the farmhouse tables is reclaimed oak boards that are about 1 1/2″ thick and 6″ wide. It’s just too good to throw out and my hubby and I use the scraps for various diy projects.
I grabbed two sections of the reclaimed wood and cut them to the correct length for the steps. Only one step on this upcycled step ladder was broken, but I thought it would look better to have both of the steps match.
The very top ‘step’ was in perfect condition and someone had previously added a piece of wood to it so I didn’t need to repair it.
I used screws long enough to go through the new step and into the original step. I put the screws in from the underside so they wouldn’t show. Three screws will hold it snug.
This ladder isn’t intended to be used for its original purpose so I didn’t need to think about the ladder folding up. This was a simple way to restore part of the old ladder.
step four: seal the upcycled step ladder
The last step is to seal the paint. Chalk paint is porous so it must be sealed. I sealed this step ladder plant stand using an interior clear coat. I applied two coats allowing ample drying time between coats.
If this plant stand is going to be outside, I suggest you use Gater Hide which is an exterior clear coat that is very durable. Apply two coats with the proper drying time between coats. This will protect your DIY step ladder decor.
upcycled step ladder project
Cute isn’t she?? The color is perfect if this is used as a plant stand, don’t you think?
My pothos plants look amazing on the upcycled step ladder but I can also envision potted herbs for the kitchen! Place this near a brightly lit window and you could have fresh herbs all year! Step ladder decorating ideas are endless!
more step ladder decorating ideas
There are many decorating ideas you can use for a step ladder makeover. Here are just a few of the ideas that came to my mind for this adorable step ladder:
- Use this upcycled ladder in a bathroom to stack towels and bathroom necessities on.
- Place it next to a bedside to stack your current nightly reads, creating a unique nightstand.
- Put the ladder in the corner of a front porch and add seasonal potted plants to brighten your porch and welcome your guests, a lovely display.
- Add baskets to the steps/shelves and use them to store small toys for the kids, offering creative storage.
- Place it between two outdoor chairs for a fun spot to hold your coffee cup for morning coffee, a charming side table.
- Add a thrift store cutting board to the top of a smaller step ladder, and you have an instant side table!
diy step ladder decor
Some of my friends have the greatest ideas for decorating with ladders! Be sure to click the links below for some ladder decorating inspiration!
- What To Do With Old Fence Posts (trust me, this is a fun ‘ladder’ project!)
- Quirky 2 Ladder Shelving (this upcycle is so creative!!)
- Wooden Ladder Idea Video (you will love the look she creates!)\
upcycled ladder shelves
You can see that using the 6″ wide oak boards creates a nice surface for just about anything from plants to stacks of books. We used reclaimed lumber but if you do not have access to reclaimed boards, simply purchase the sizes you need at your local lumber store.
repurposed wooden ladder
Now that was a fun diy project, don’t you think? Start keeping your eye out at yard sales for ladders sitting off to the side. Always ask if something is for sale!
This post is part of a blog hop I did with some of my thrifty blogging friends! Be sure to visit their posts to see the fun projects they have to share with us!
- Tap below for more upcycling inspiration!
- How To Spray Paint Wood Furniture
- Upcycle Vintage Metal Library Stool
- How to Upcycle a Floral Centerpiece
- Shutter Mail Organizer
- Upcycling Plates into a Snowman
- Pine Tree Embroidery for Winter Decor
- How to Easily Paint Wicker
- Thrifted Wooden Box Boho Makeover
- Upcycled Stepladder Decorating Ideas )You’re already there!)
Recreate and Decorate
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Cindy Rust
Cindy has been decorating her home with thrift store finds for 40 years. She is an avid thrift store shopper who loves to makeover the items she finds into vintage-inspired home decor and furniture. When she isn’t thrift shopping or painting a piece of furniture, you can find her making homemade butter, working in her garden, or painting with watercolors.
Oh my goodness! I’m thinking spring with the fresh green ladder! The added wood to the rungs was genius!
Isn’t that Farmhouse Green so pretty?? I’m thinking spring too!
Oh my this is a fantastic upcycle. I can see this filled with beautiful flowers.
Pinned!
That’s the plan – fill it up with pretty plants this summer on our front porch. Unless someone wants to buy it 😉 Thanks for pinning Cindy!
I love the end result of this project and can think of so many places that it could be used in a home.
The front porch, the laundry room, the kitchen and even a bathroom with stacks of towels! So many ideas. Thanks for stopping by Paula! 😊
Gimme all the ladders! Great links included to…so much inspiration! Cindy, your photography is incredible! Love this project.
Yay for all the ladder projects! Thank you for your sweet words about my photography Suzanne! 😊
I love ladders, and YES, junk speaks to me too! lol I have some that look great, and I feel like I should sell some of them at my booth, but I just can’t let go of them yet.
I love all your junk! 🙂
pinned!
gail
Thanks for pinning Gail! I totally get it – most of the projects we do live in our for only a little while until they go to our vendor spot. That’s the life of a vendor booth owner!😊
Great job no your makeover. I love the green color.
Thank you, Rebecca! Isn’t that green so pretty? It’s got me thinking about spring!
So much fun! I would love to make a few of these for my home. That light, minty green color is so pretty.
Doesn’t it remind you of spring?? Thanks for hanging out on my blog today my friend!
Such a cute project! I have 2 in my home and use one as a sort of side table, and one has the sweetest hardware on it. Both were more than $1 though – but I love them. …and YES, junk does talk to me too lol. Too much at times.
‘Too much at times”. That made me chuckle! I bet your ladders are adorable!
This couldn’t be more perfect! I love the color and how you added the wood planks, it’s just gorgeous! I had an old ladder and I used to use it around Christmas but threw it away, now I have regrets. Beautiful job!
Oh no!! I think this ladder was headed for the trash heap too! You’ll find another one!
I loved reading your decorating tips for old ladders. Now I’ll be on the lookout for one for my porch. Thanks for sharing. Pinned. 🙂 xo
Thank you for pinning Do! Your front porch would be the perfect spot for a ladder plant stand😊
I love these ladder makeover ideas! So cute and creative!
Thank you, Michele! This project would look great in neutrals too!😊
I love all of the chippy goodness on this ladder! The color is gorgeous and is perfect for spring! Pinned!
Thanks for pinning Lynne!
What a great idea Cindy. I love the color you chose to paint the ladder. Pinned multiple images!
You’re the best!! Thanks Anna!
I love this project. The ladder is amazing!
It was a fun project too! Thanks for stopping by Renae!
You got to love an old ladder. Love the color of it. Also, I really enjoyed the video with the flip ladder. Loved the custom color.
Thanks for watching the video for the flip ladder my friend! 🥰
So many tips to upcycle! I can’t believe you got it for a buck! I love the end project. Thanks for sharing!
The projects that cost the least are always fun! Thanks for stopping by Kim 😊
I absolutely love this cute plant stand!!! Old ladders are one of my favorite things, and you made this one so cute!
Aren’t ladders great?? So glad you stopped by Danielle😊
Makes me wish I had my mom’s old red one we used in the kitchen, for painting rooms, etc
I bet that was an awesome ladder if it was red! It’s hard to think about all the treasures we have let get by us but at least we have the memories. Thanks for stopping by Linda! 😊
I am glad you were able to find the color match! It is unique and so cheerful. You’re so creative 🙂
Thank you Marie! 😊
The green and plant combo is just perfect!
Isn’t the green so pretty? Thanks for stopping by 😊
I love the colors you used, Cindy! Great projects!
Thanks Marieza! The green is becoming one of my faves!
Great job Cindy. This turned out to be the perfect place for your plants.
Isn’t it perfect for plants? Thanks for stopping by Janet!😊
I absolutely love this upcycled step ladder, Cindy! I found a wooden step ladder a bit taller than yours on eBay a few years ago. When I asked the price, the owner said she would swap it for a bag of coffee – what a deal! I upcycled it and still use it as a clothes hanger in our guest room. I love the colour of yours and what a clever idea to make larger steps for plants and things – love it! Pinned!
That’s a great deal for a bag of coffee! And I love your idea about using it in your laundry room! Thanks for pinning 🙂
Wow … love the refresh and the ladders versatility in your home. The paint color is dreamy. I admire your ability to see the potential in these old pieces. xo
Thanks, Juliet – it’s fun to see past the obvious and look for another use for old pieces! 🙂
I adore this DIY! What a great way to show off plants. It turned out beautifully.
Thank you! I’m excited to put it on our front porch this spring 😊
the ladder turned out so cute. I love the paint color and how you repurposed it as a plant stand. What a great idea!
Thanks Jen! It’s going to look nice on my front porch when the temps warm up! Thanks for stopping by 🙂
This is adorable for a plant stand! And it’s not just you…stuff calls to me too, though in my case it’s usually vintage dishes and tableware 🙂
This is such a beautiful upcycle project, Cindy! I adore how you styled the ladder as shelves with flower pots. The photos are so well done.
Just lovely, Cindy! Love the steps being left with the wood finish, and your styling is perfect, too!
Hi Julie! Thanks so much! It looks amazing on our back patio this spring!
This was a great blog post😄. Your detailed instructions of the how to’s and supply list (as well as the alternate cleaning solution) makes this task achievable! Thanks for sharing😄
So glad you found it helpful Patti! Thanks for stopping by!🥰
OMG!! LOVE that color green. 💚💚💚 Your new plant stand is adorable!!
It’s a gorgeous green for spring and summer!