If you’re looking for a practical, budget-friendly way to create furniture for little ones, this project is perfect. In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make a toddler chair from recycled materials. I built this sweet little seat using leftover timber from an old desk, repurposed table legs, and reclaimed hardware. It was made to match a sandpit table I created for my great-niece, who loves playing in the sand, just not sitting in it! This upcycled toddler chair keeps her happy, dry, and comfortable while she plays. Plus, it fits neatly under the sandpit table when not in use.

Upcycling materials is not only cost-effective but also reduces waste. If you have leftover timber, spare table parts, or even an old chair to break down, this project is a great way to give them new life. This chair is sturdy, toddler-safe, and sealed with outdoor varnish, making it perfect for indoor or outdoor play.

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How to Make a Toddler Chair from Recycled Materials

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Materials Needed

• Scrap timber (for seat and backrest)
• Old table legs
• Hanger bolts with Insert nuts
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (120 grit)
• Wood stain (Dark Mahogany)
• Outdoor wood varnish (2 coats recommended)
• Orbital sander
• Wood router
• Drill
• Clamps

Step 1: Measure and Plan Chair Dimensions

Start by measuring the height of the sandpit table to determine how tall the chair should be. Make sure there’s enough clearance for the chair to slide underneath. My design used the exact gap under the table to guide the seat height.

Step 2: Reuse Existing Table Hardware

I reused the hanger bolts and insert nuts that had attached the original legs to the old table. Drill a hole in the top of each chair leg slightly smaller than the bolt diameter, then screw the hanger bolts into place.

Step 3: Prep the Seat Base

Drill holes into the chair seat to match the bolt size, making sure not to drill all the way through the front two (like I accidentally did!). Attach the insert nuts into the bottom side of the seat, aligning them with the bolts on the legs.

Step 4: Add the Back Support

Drill holes into the top of the rear legs to accept the backrest supports. Insert nuts go in the bottom of each backrest piece.

Then screw the backrests to the rear legs using bolts. If you accidentally drill through anywhere, just fill the holes with wood filler.

Step 5: Sand and Round Edges

Sand all surfaces thoroughly using an orbital sander with 120 grit paper. Round off sharp edges with a wood router to make it safer for small children. This step is important for comfort and safety.

Step 6: Stain and Seal the Timber

Stain the chair with a dark mahogany wood stain. After drying, apply two coats of outdoor-grade varnish to protect the timber and make it more durable for messy toddler play.

The Finished Toddler Chair

And that’s it! A gorgeous and functional toddler chair made from recycled wood. Not only does it look great with the sandpit table, but it also saves a heap of waste from going into the landfill. It’s sturdy, stylish, and made with love for little ones.

If you enjoy making projects for your children, here’s another fun idea—an activity table I created from an old desk.

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