20+ DIY Bar Carts You Can Make in a Day
Need some functional yet stylish storage options? Look no further than these DIY bar carts!
Bar carts are versatile and functional pieces of furniture that not only serve as a practical storage solution but also add a touch of sophistication to any space.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some great DIY bar cart ideas from repurposed furniture, the functionality of bar carts, creative styling ideas, and how they can go beyond mixing cocktails.
Bar carts aren’t just for mixing drinks any more! With their compact size and mobile design, bar carts can be easily moved around your home, making them perfect for entertaining guests and serving a functional but stylish purpose in any room. It’s the perfect addition to small spaces, like a studio apartment, small kitchen, living room, dining room, or bathroom!
From storing glassware and bottles to displaying decorative accents, the possibilities are endless when it comes to utilizing a bar cart.
But, purchasing a brand new bar cart isn’t always a practical solution. Plus, sometimes a DIY furniture makeover allows you to create exactly the piece you want!
Repurposing Old Furniture into a Bar Cart
If you want to upcycle a bar cart, the first step is selecting the perfect piece of furniture to transform into a bar cart. Ideally, you want something with ample surface area and storage space. Old side tables, console tables, bookshelves, or even small desks can work beautifully for this project. Look for pieces with sturdy construction and interesting design details.
Once you’ve chosen your furniture piece or built a new one, you’ll want to determine just how you are going to make it your own.
Does it need a good sanding and a fresh coat of paint for a pop of color? How about staining the original wood? Are you going to add decorative knobs or handles?
All of these questions will play into the end result of how your bar cart will look and how it will match with the vibe of your home.
Replacing old knobs and handles and accessorizing the finished product will also help your bar cart feel brand new! Attaching caster wheels is also a great way to add even more functionality to this project!
20+ DIY Bar Cart Ideas to do in a Day!
Ready for some great bar cart ideas? Here are some beautiful, yet practical, bar carts for your next DIY. It’s the perfect project you can finish in a couple of hours.
Mix Different Materials and Textures
I love this copper and wood combination! Plus, the free plans to make your own DIY wood bar cart from scratch are included!
Add Patterns with Paint
This thrifted piece of furniture got a totally new life with fun painted stripes!
Make a Cute Coffee Station
Create the perfect coffee station using a bar cart! I love this DIY bar cart with an industrial feel! The top shelf is a great place to keep the coffee maker and coffee pods.
Use Inexpensive Construction Lumber
A single board of construction lumber was used in this Scandanavian-style cart. A video and building plans are included so you can make your own DIY bar cart.
I love that the natural wood color comes through on this one - it looks a bit rustic.
Complementary Textures and Colors
This stunning olive green color looks beautiful with the wrap-around rope on the handles. I've got some serious love for this one.
Use Another Piece of Furniture
It doesn't have to be a bar cart to transform into one! Check out the transformation of this old stand from the thrift store into a white and gold rolling bar cart lined with gold tile inside!
Use a Beautiful Wood Stain
Use a pretty hardwood, like walnut, or try select pine and a walnut stain to get that expensive look without breaking the bank. What a beautiful finish!
Choose Materials for Your Style
This build is great for beginner woodworkers. You can customize it with whatever paint or stain you choose.
The handles on this sleek design are a great place to hang a towel too! The bottom shelf of your bar cart can hold cups, decor, drinks mixers - or even plants.
Hack an Old Purchase
An IKEA hack bar cart made from a Sniglar changing table?! See how easy it was to transform, plus get a few tips for putting together a beverage station for outdoor entertaining. I love the idea of an outdoor bar cart.
Complete a Corner
A simple big box purchase was updated to complete this adorable coffee station in the corner of a kitchen.
Bring the Outside Indoors
This worn-out, outdoor cart was stripped, repaired, and painted to create this bright, happy rolling cart. I love this use of a bar cart for holding office supplies!
Don't be Afraid of Antique Furniture
Talk about a conversation piece! This antique ice chest turned bar cart is wowza transformation.
Visit a Thrift Store
An ugly old television stand from the thrift store transformed into a DIY bar cart that is not only super functional but also gorgeous!
Reflection Adds Interest
Adding glass pieces to the top and bottom shelves adds so much dimension and interest to this stylish drink trolley. I love this idea for displaying bar supplies and accessories!
Repurpose Different Elements
This unique drawer repurposing project is a great way to utilize every bit of an old piece of furniture.
Bookshelves are Versatile
Turn an old bookshelf into a cool and functional DIY bar cart with this simple tutorial.
Don't Overspend
A $5 microwave cart got a complete makeover with just a little paint!
Cabinets Keep it Neat
A antique cabinet is transformed into an industrial liquor cabinet! I love how this hides any items that are stored. It keeps this look minimal, clean, and uncluttered.
Use Spray Paint
How to transform a rusty old backyard bar cart using a few cans of spray paint from Rust-Oleum's line of rust-stopping primer and spray paint. Great ideas for rusty furniture makeovers!
You Can Paint Any Surface
Learn how to paint laminate furniture with this complete tutorial! There are so many different ways you could use a little utility cart, like this, in your home.
Why Upcycle Furniture?
Upcycling is a trend that’s gaining serious momentum. It’s not just about reusing old items; it’s about transforming them into something new, functional, and stylish.
I love to upcycle old pieces of furniture and give it a new life! With these ideas, you will see examples of bookcases, console tables, shelving units, an Ikea hack, and other unique ideas to create your very own bar cart. Plus, there are a few building plans in case you want to build your own.
By repurposing existing items, you’re reducing waste and minimizing your carbon footprint. Also, upcycling allows you to unleash your creativity and add a personal touch to your home décor.
Plus, it’s cost-effective. Instead of splurging on brand-new furniture, you can breathe new life into something you already own.
Here are some materials you might need for this project if you’re building a bar cart:
- Kreg jig
- Pocket hole screws
- Wood pieces or wood boards
- Wood screws
- Brad nailer
- Dowel rods
- Wood glue and filler
- Spray paint
Styling Your Bar Cart
When it comes to creating a stylish bar cart, the sky’s the limit. Whether you prefer a sleek and minimalist look or a bohemian-inspired vibe, there are countless ways to personalize your cart to suit your taste and décor.
Here are a few styling tips to get you started:
- Classic Cocktail Haven: Arrange your favorite spirits, mixers, and glassware neatly on the cart. Add a stylish shaker, cocktail napkins, ice bucket, and a few decorative elements like a bowl of fresh fruits or herbs to create a chic cocktail station.
- Keep it Organized: Arrange your bottles, glassware, and accessories in an organized and visually appealing manner. Use trays or baskets to corral smaller items and keep everything tidy.
- Add Greenery: Incorporate fresh flowers or potted plants to add a touch of greenery and life to your bar cart. Not only will it add visual interest, but it will also help purify the air in your home.
- Mix Textures: Experiment with different textures and materials to add depth and dimension to your bar cart. Mix metallic accents with natural wood, or juxtapose sleek glassware with rustic ceramics for a chic and eclectic look.
- Personalize with Art: Showcase your personality and interests by adding artwork or framed photographs to your bar cart. You can also decorate the top of the cart with a stylish tray, a vase of flowers, or a decorative lamp.
- Glamorous Display: Use your bar cart to showcase your collection of fine glassware, vintage bottles, candle sticks, or even ornate decanters. Add a touch of glamor with metallic accents, such as gold or brass accessories.
Alternative Uses for Bar Carts
While the term “bar cart” may evoke images of shaken martinis and clinking glasses, these versatile pieces can be repurposed for a multitude of functions.
Here are a few alternative ways to use your bar cart:
- Coffee Bar Cart: Transform your bar cart into a stylish coffee cart complete with a coffee maker, mugs, and a selection of your favorite beans. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your mornings and impress guests with your barista skills.
- Extra Storage: Use your bar cart as extra storage in any room of your home. Whether you need a place to store books and magazines in the living room or toiletries and towels in the bathroom, a bar cart can provide stylish storage solutions without taking up too much space.
- Tea Time Station: Set up a tea station with an assortment of teas, cups, and a charming teapot. Perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a peaceful moment with your favorite brew.
- Crafting Corner: For those with a creative streak, turn your bar cart into a mobile crafting station. Store art supplies, knitting materials, or scrapbooking essentials for easy access.
- Entertainment Hub: Place a small Bluetooth speaker, a selection of board games, cards, or your favorite vinyl records on the cart. It becomes an instant entertainment hub, ready for impromptu gatherings.
Upcycling a piece of furniture into a bar cart is not only a fun and creative DIY project but also a practical and stylish addition to your home décor.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for ways to maximize space, a bar cart offers endless possibilities for organization, decoration, and personalization.
Which was your favorite idea from these DIY bar carts?
