Last Updated on August 21, 2024 by teamobn
A used and empty drum just lying around a yard is an ugly sight. Some will just walk past it, while others can see the amazing potential of ‘ugly’ metal drums and create an amazing metal drum project.
A metal drum project is a way of upcycling an empty metal drum which is an inexpensive way to get a sturdy, weather-resistant trash or storage container. Old metal drums can also serve as planters and mini barbecues.
If you’re one of those who own (or have access to) metal drums but don’t have much talent in turning ‘trash’ into treasures, then you will enjoy looking at this album!
The most common upcycling idea we have for metal drums is turning them into BBQ smokers. This DIY tutorial is just one of the best examples there is.
But metal drums can be a lot more! Below, we show you some of the most beautiful upcycled metal drum projects from DIY-ers. We hope these inspire you and help you get your creative juices flowing to convert an ugly metal drum into a beautiful piece of art!
Importance of Upcycling Metal Drums
Gallon metal drum projects hold significance for several reasons, contributing positively to sustainability, creativity, and community engagement. Here’s why these projects are important:
1. Environmental Sustainability: Metal drum projects play a crucial role in environmental sustainability by repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded. Instead of ending up in landfills or requiring energy-intensive recycling processes, metal drums find new life through creative reuse, reducing waste and conserving natural resources.
2. Resource Conservation: By repurposing gallon metal drums, these projects contribute to resource conservation by extending the lifespan of existing materials. This reduces the demand for new raw materials and minimizes the environmental impact associated with their extraction, processing, and transportation.
3. Promotion of Upcycling: Metal drum projects promote upcycling, a process that transforms waste materials into valuable products of higher quality or functionality. By showcasing innovative ways to repurpose metal drums, these projects inspire individuals and communities to rethink their approach to waste and adopt more sustainable practices.
4. Creative Expression: Gallon metal drum projects offer a platform for creative expression and artistic innovation. From furniture and decor to functional items and art installations, these projects allow individuals to unleash their creativity, experiment with design concepts, and express their unique style.
5. Community Engagement: Metal drum projects often foster community engagement and collaboration. Whether undertaken individually or as part of a group effort, these projects bring people together, encourage knowledge sharing, and build a sense of camaraderie among participants. They provide opportunities for community members to connect, learn from one another, and work towards a common goal.
6. Practical Solutions: Many gallon metal drum projects result in practical and functional solutions for various needs. Whether repurposed into storage containers, outdoor furniture, or garden planters, these projects offer tangible benefits that enhance the functionality and aesthetics of living spaces.
7. Educational Opportunities: Metal drum projects serve as educational tools to raise awareness about environmental issues, waste management, and sustainable living practices. Through hands-on participation in these projects, individuals gain insights into the importance of resource conservation, recycling, and creative problem-solving.
Gallon metal drum projects are important because they contribute to environmental sustainability, promote creativity and innovation, foster community engagement, offer practical solutions, and provide educational opportunities. By embracing these projects, individuals can make a positive impact on the planet while expressing their creativity and building stronger communities.
Gallon Metal Drum Project Ideas
BBQ Smoker
Charcoal and wood are traditional barbecue fuels, but metal drum barbecues have become increasingly popular since the 1990s.
The most common types of metal drum smokers are made from 20- to 45-gallon steel drums, although many other containers have been used including old oil barrels, sheet metal boxes, and 55-gallon drums.
Garden Bench
This garden bench is made from an old recycled steel oil drum and recycled wood. It is a great way to reuse the oil drums that often get thrown away.
You can use a drum any size you like. I used a 55-gallon drum, but it is much larger than I actually needed. A 50-gallon drum or even a 30 or 40-gallon drum would have been just fine.
Choosing a smaller drum size presents several advantages. It ensures the bench fits seamlessly within your garden space without overwhelming it. Additionally, smaller drums are generally lighter and easier to manage during assembly and relocation, making them ideal for DIY enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Moreover, opting for a smaller drum size can reduce material costs and resource consumption. Less material is needed to fill smaller drums. This not only benefits your budget but also aligns with sustainable practices by minimizing resource usage.
Selecting the right drum size for your garden bench project ensures optimal functionality, aesthetics, and resource efficiency, allowing you to create a charming outdoor seating area tailored to your needs and preferences.
Sofa
This metal drum project cuts the drum in half and is made into a sofa. It has been upcycled into a retro sofa, bar, or storage solution. It’s a great way to add style and storage to a room without spending a lot.
You can find metal drum furniture in vibrant colors, as well as neutral tones. Metal drum furniture can be painted, or left in its natural state. It also makes a great project to do with kids.
One of the advantages of metal drum furniture is its adaptability to different design preferences. You can choose to leave the drum in its natural state, showcasing the industrial charm of the metal, or opt to paint it to match your decor and add a personalized touch to your space. Painting the drum allows for endless creativity, whether you prefer a single solid colour, a bold pattern, or even a whimsical design.
Metal drum furniture is also an excellent choice for DIY projects, offering endless opportunities for creativity and customization. It’s a fantastic way to get the whole family involved in a fun and engaging activity. Kids can unleash their creativity by helping to paint and decorate the drum, turning it into a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture that they can be proud of.
Table
This unique circular metal drum table is a perfect example of up-cycling. Drum tables are pretty easy to come by, but the recycled nature of this one is what gives it the added cool factor.
The concept of upcycling involves repurposing discarded or unused materials to create something of higher quality or value, thus reducing waste and minimizing the need for new resources. In the case of this metal drum table, the process of upcycling involves giving new life to a previously utilized drum, diverting it from the landfill and transforming it into a unique and eye-catching furniture piece.
The circular shape of the metal drum table adds to its visual appeal, creating a focal point that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Its rounded silhouette lends a sense of warmth and balance to any space, while its sturdy construction ensures durability and longevity.
Lighting
If you want to light up a room with a special touch, you will be quite pleased with these upcycled metal drum lightings. They are quite easy to make, the only thing that you will need is a metal drum and light bulbs.
In addition to their visual appeal, upcycled metal drum lighting is also a sustainable choice for illuminating your home. Creating your own upcycled metal drum lighting is a rewarding and fulfilling experience that allows you to add a personal touch to your home decor.
Whether you’re lighting up a living room, bedroom, or outdoor patio, these DIY fixtures are sure to make a statement and spark conversation among your guests. So why settle for ordinary lighting when you can create something truly extraordinary with just a metal drum and a little imagination?
Sink
Upcycled metal drums as sinks would be a unique and one-of-a-kind idea. The metal drum sinks are made with the use of old metal barrels.
This is a very creative metal drum project to transform old stuff into something really cool. Metal drums are easily available at scrap yards or junkyards.
You can purchase them for very low prices. They are very ideal to use in the kitchen. You can use them for storing essential items in a storage box.
These sinks are long-lasting as they are made from durable materials. If you want to add a rustic touch to your home, these are the ideal options for you
Bike Rack
I’ve seen many creative bike racks around town and always wondered about the story behind them. The vast majority of bike parking in Austin is metal, so it makes sense that a lot of creative metalwork is inspired by bike parking.
These artistic bike racks contribute to the aesthetic appeal of Austin’s urban landscape, transforming mundane parking spaces into vibrant works of public art. They invite exploration and discovery, encouraging pedestrians and cyclists alike to pause and admire their craftsmanship and creativity.
Beyond their visual appeal, these creative bike racks also play a practical role in promoting cycling as a sustainable and eco-friendly mode of transportation. By providing safe and convenient parking options for cyclists, they support efforts to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in the city.
Which of these amazing metal drum ideas do you like the most? Think you’re ready to make your very own version? 🙂
The Wrap Up
Metal drum projects represent a harmonious blend of creativity, sustainability, and practicality. These projects showcase the transformative power of repurposing ordinary materials into extraordinary creations, breathing new life into discarded items and minimizing waste. Whether it’s crafting furniture, lighting fixtures, garden beds, or sinks, metal drum projects offer endless opportunities for innovation and self-expression.
By embracing these projects, individuals not only add unique touches to their living spaces but also contribute to environmental conservation efforts by reducing the demand for new materials and diverting items from landfills.
Metal drum projects stand as shining examples of this ethos, showcasing the boundless potential of everyday objects to be reinvented and given new life. At their core, metal drum projects embody the principles of sustainability, resourcefulness, and environmental stewardship. 
By salvaging old drums that would otherwise end up in landfills or recycling centres, individuals harness the latent potential of these materials and unleash their creative energies to craft functional, aesthetically pleasing, and often ingenious creations.
Moreover, metal drum projects foster a deeper connection to our environment and a greater appreciation for the materials that surround us. As we engage in the process of repurposing metal drums, we become more mindful of our consumption habits, question the disposable culture that prevails in society, and actively seek out alternative pathways towards sustainability.
As we continue to explore the possibilities of upcycling and creative reuse, metal drum projects stand as beacons of hope and inspiration, reminding us that each discarded item holds the potential for transformation and renewal. By embracing the principles of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and imagination, we can shape a world where sustainability is not just a goal but a way of life—one metal drum project at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of projects can you make with metal drums?
Metal drums can be repurposed for various projects, including furniture (tables, chairs), storage solutions (shelves, cabinets), outdoor decor (planters, fire pits), and functional items (sinks, lighting fixtures).
Explore functional items like sinks, lighting fixtures, BBQ grills, or rainwater collection systems made from repurposed metal drums. With a bit of creativity, metal drums can fulfill various functional needs around the home and garden.
Where can you find metal drums for your projects?
Metal drums can be sourced from industrial suppliers, recycling centres, online marketplaces, or local businesses that use or dispose of them regularly.
Explore online platforms such as Craigslist, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace, where individuals and businesses list surplus or used metal drums for sale. You can often find a variety of sizes and conditions to suit your project needs.
Reach out to local businesses that use or dispose of metal drums regularly, such as manufacturing plants, automotive shops, or food processing facilities. They may be willing to sell or give away their surplus drums, providing you with a cost-effective source for your projects.
Are metal drum projects difficult to undertake?
Difficulty levels vary based on project complexity and individual skill level. Some projects may be relatively straightforward, while others require advanced skills and tools.
The difficulty level of metal drum projects is contingent upon several factors, including the complexity of the design, the intricacy of the required modifications, and the individual’s proficiency with tools and techniques. While some projects may be relatively straightforward and suitable for beginners, others may necessitate advanced skills and specialized equipment.
For instance, repurposing a metal drum into a basic planter or storage container might require minimal tools and expertise. It primarily involves cleaning the drum, making any necessary modifications such as cutting openings or adding drainage holes, and possibly applying a protective coating or paint. These types of projects can be accessible to DIY enthusiasts of all skill levels and serve as excellent introductory endeavors.
How do you ensure the safety of a metal drum project?
Before starting, clean and inspect the drum for damage or hazardous materials. Wear appropriate safety gear and exercise caution when cutting, drilling, or welding.
Adequate ventilation is crucial when working with metal drums, especially during processes that generate dust, fumes, or gases. Work in a well-ventilated area or consider using fans or ventilation systems to remove airborne particles and maintain clean air quality. If working indoors, open windows and doors to allow for proper air circulation.
Additionally, consider wearing a respirator or dust mask to protect your respiratory system from inhaling harmful substances. By adhering to these safety measures, you can ensure a safe and secure working environment while undertaking your metal drum project. Remember to prioritize safety at every step of the process to minimize risks and enjoy a successful and rewarding crafting experience.
Can you customize the appearance of a metal drum project?
Yes, metal drum projects offer ample opportunities for customization through painting, adding decorative elements, or modifying the drum’s shape.
Add a personal touch to your metal drum project by engraving or etching custom designs, patterns, or text onto the surface of the drum. Whether you want to include your name, initials, or a meaningful quote, engraving or etching allows you to create a one-of-a-kind piece that is truly unique to you.
By embracing these customization options, you can transform ordinary metal drums into extraordinary works of art that reflect your personality, style, and creativity. Whether you’re crafting furniture, decor, or functional items, the possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to unleash your imagination and bring your vision to life.
Are metal drum projects environmentally friendly?
By repurposing old drums for new projects, we prevent these items from ending up in landfills where they would contribute to environmental pollution and take up valuable space. Instead, repurposed drums find new life and utility, reducing the overall volume of waste destined for disposal sites.
Repurposing old drums reduces the demand for new raw materials, such as metals used in manufacturing. This conservation of resources helps preserve natural habitats, reduces energy consumption, and minimizes the environmental impact associated with extracting and processing virgin materials.
The energy required to produce new drums is considerable, involving mining, refining, manufacturing, and transportation processes. By repurposing existing drums, we save the energy that would otherwise be consumed in the production of new ones, thus lowering greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
If you liked these repurposed metal drum project ideas, you might also like these recycling ideas…
