Are you looking to up your home entertainment game? Look no further than a DIY bar cart! A bar cart is the perfect addition to any living space. Plus, customizing your own bar cart means you can showcase your personal style and save some cash in the process.
One of the best things about crafting your own bar cart is the endless possibilities for customization. Add some quirky coasters or unique glassware to show off your personality. Choose the perfect color palette or theme to match your decor, or even DIY some custom labels for your favorite beverages. The options are endless!
Not only is a DIY bar cart budget-friendly, but it also adds that personal touch to your home. Nothing beats the satisfaction of creating something yourself and being able to show it off to guests. Plus, you can customize it to fit your specific bar needs.
So why settle for a cookie-cutter bar cart from the store when you can create your own masterpiece? With a little creativity and some elbow grease, crafting your perfect beverage station has never been easier. So, grab that toolbox and let’s get to work – your happy hour thanks you!
Considerations before building a DIY bar cart: the basics
If you’re thinking about building your own bar cart, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. After all, an ill-planned bar cart can end up looking like a clunky eyesore instead of a stylish, functional addition to your home bar.
Consider how and where you’ll use it
First, decide how and where you’ll be using your bar cart. Will it be stationary or do you need it to be mobile? If you plan on rolling it around the house or taking it outside for parties, you’ll want to make sure you choose wheels that are sturdy and durable enough to handle the weight of your drinks and glassware.
If, however, you plant to keep it your living room, you’ll want to make sure it goes with the rest of your decor! So, think about whether you want your bar cart to be more decorative or practical. Depending on your vision for the cart, you may want to incorporate design elements such as glass shelves, decorative gold accents for some glam, or distressed paint for a rustic farmhouse look. Consider creating a bar cart that doubles as your home coffee bar… but make sure you create something with room for both cocktail and coffee making tools.
Decide Which Materials to Use
One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make when building your own bar cart is which materials to use.
Metal, wood, or upcycled materials can all be great choices, depending on your taste and design style. Metal DIY bar carts can range from industrial and rugged to glamorous and high-end, and can be as simple or complex as you want, depending on your skill level and the plans you choose.
Wooden bar carts can also be a great choice, especially if you want to incorporate other design elements, such as glass or decorative metal accents. However, keep in mind that many metal bar cart designs also incorporate wood into the project, so it’s possible to create a hybrid design that incorporates the best of both worlds.
If you’re feeling particularly eco-conscious or creative, an upcycled bar cart might be just the ticket. This option allows you to repurpose an old dresser or nightstand into something new and functional, with an added dose of character and charm. Just be sure to sand down any rough edges and give the piece a good cleaning before you start your project.
Do You Have Access to Power Tools – and Know How to Use Them?
Finally, it’s important to consider whether you have access to power tools – and whether you know how to use them safely.
While some designs may only require a simple saw and drill, more complex projects may involve advanced tools such as a table saw or router. If you’re not comfortable with power tools or don’t have access to them, don’t worry – there are plenty of beginner-friendly DIY bar cart plans that require only basic hand tools.
DIY bar cart ideas
Here are some of the best DIY bar cart ideas to try:
Modern Z shape bar cart
For those who prefer a sleek and minimalist design, this modern Z-shaped bar cart is a great choice. The plan by Kreg Tool includes detailed instructions and diagrams for cutting, drilling, and assembling each element of this stylish bar cart.
DIY wood bar cart with copper pipes
If you want to add a touch of industrial chic to your bar cart, this DIY wood and copper pipe one is worth a try. The tutorial provides a list of materials and tools needed, but they’re pretty basic.
Bar cart made with aluminum tubing
For a more edgy and futuristic look, you can make a DIY bar cart using aluminum tubing as the frame. This project is a bit more advanced, but the tutorial will walk you through everything you need to do.
Industrial rolling bar cart
If you’re a fan of the industrial style, but don’t want to get too complicated with the building process, then this industrial rolling bar cart is a good compromise. Here’s how to do it.
DIY pipe bar cart
Another industrial-inspired bar cart is this DIY pipe one that uses black iron pipes and wooden boards. And guess what, the tutorial is designed to help you get it done in just an afternoon!
DIY metal bar cart
This DIY metal bar cart is a rustic and industrial blend that has a vintage appeal. The tutorial by Jen Woodhouse shares how to build the cart from metal angle iron and sheet metal, and how to weld them together.
The natural wood and metal finish gives a raw and rugged look, but you can add a clear coat or spray paint for protection and color.
DIY copper bar cart
If you’re into the metallic trend, you’ll love this DIY copper bar cart by Homemade Modern that is both stylish and durable. I love how the fresh pink copper color is complemented so well by the bottles of rose here!
DIY outdoor serving cart
This chic all-wood cart by Remodela Casa is perfect for those who want something simple yet stylish. And it looks like it’s got plenty of space to help you serve your friends for any outdoor gathering!
Outdoor bar cart tutorial
This cart is made from affordable materials and can easily be customized to fit your personal style. Plus, the wheels make it easy to move from the patio to the pool and back again.
Easy DIY rolling bar cart
This cart not only has plenty of storage for all your grilling essentials, but it’s got style, too! You know there’s a great tutorial too, because it’s made by Ana White, one of our favorite sources for woodworking plans!
DIY grilling and bar cart
For those who love to grill and entertain outside, this bar cart with ample storage is the way to go. You’ll keep your guests happy and hydrated with that awesome built in ice bucket keeping all their beverages cool outdoors. Find the tutorial here.
DIY bar cart from old drawers
If you’re looking to repurpose old furniture, this DIY bar cart by Anika’s DIY Life is a great option. It’s made with repurposed old drawers and features a unique, vintage-inspired design that’s sure to stand out!
Bar cart from an old dresser
We’ve got another great idea to repurpose old furniture! This cart is made from an old wooden dresser and features a bold, colorful design that’s sure to be a conversation starter. Btw, if you need to find a way to repurpose an old dresser, check out our post full of ideas on how to repurpose an old dresser!
DIY spinning bar cabinet
If you’re looking to test your woodworking skills this DIY spinning bar cabinet by Family Handyman is perfect for you. The stylish design would look great in a midcentury decorated home and your friends will be so impressed you built it yourself.
Bar carts you can buy online
Don’t want to DIY? No sweat! There are some amazing bar carts you can buy online, too.
Here are some of our favorites:
Conclusion
No matter which DIY bar cart design you choose, these functional and stylish pieces are sure to make your outdoor entertaining area the envy of all your guests. So grab your tools and get started on your own unique creation today! Ready for more ways to level up your entertaining game? Make sure to check out our DIY patio ideas for more outdoor fun, fresh and pretty bathroom ideas to ensure your guest bath is ready for your friends, and then of course our list of guest room essentials so you’ll always be ready to have friends in town! Oh, and these tips to prepare for hosting guests over the holidays are applicable year round!