From Barrel to Beautiful: DIY Ideas for Your Shed & Garden

by | May 23, 2025 | Beer, Wine, Spirits, DIY Do It Yourself, Entertaining, Gardening, How to, Outdoor Living | 0 comments

If you’ve ever looked at an old wine barrel and thought, There’s gotta be more life in this thing, you’re absolutely right! Wine barrels aren’t just great for ageing a fine Aussie Shiraz—they can also be upcycled into stunning furniture, planters, and decorative pieces for your shed and garden. So grab a glass of your favourite vintage, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get into some top-notch DIY projects.

1. Wine Barrel Planter

A wine barrel planter is a classic way to bring rustic charm to your backyard. What You’ll Need:
  • Half a wine barrel (or a full one, if you prefer taller planters)
  • Drill with drainage bit
  • Potting soil
  • Plants of your choice
Instructions:
  1. If using a full barrel, saw it in half for two planters.
  2. Drill drainage holes in the bottom to prevent root rot.
  3. Fill the barrel with high-quality potting soil.
  4. Plant your flowers, herbs, or even a small tree!
  5. Position your new planter in a sunny spot and give it a good watering.
Pro Tip: Pair your planter with a glass of Just Wines’ Australian Sauvignon Blanc while enjoying your hard work.

2. Wine Barrel Table

A wine barrel table adds character to any outdoor or indoor space, perfect for those backyard barbies and wine nights. What You’ll Need:
  • Full wine barrel
  • Circular wooden table top (or a repurposed round glass top)
  • Screws and brackets (if securing the top)
  • Wood stain (optional)
Instructions:
  1. Clean and sand the barrel to remove rough edges.
  2. If staining, apply an even coat and let it dry.
  3. Secure the tabletop using screws and brackets or leave it loose for easy mobility.
  4. Place it in your shed, garden, or entertainment area and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Use a wine barrel table as a drinks station for your next gathering—stock it with Just Wines’ finest reds and whites to keep the Aussie vibes going.

3. Wine Barrel Garden Bench

Want a one-of-a-kind seating solution? A wine barrel bench brings a unique, rustic touch to your garden.

What You’ll Need:

  • Two wine barrels
  • Wooden plank (for the seat)
  • Screws and brackets
  • Sandpaper and wood stain (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Position two barrels parallel to each other.
  2. Secure the wooden plank across the top with screws and brackets.
  3. Sand and stain if needed.
  4. Test for stability before kicking back with a cold glass of Just Wines’ Aussie Pinot Noir.
Wine Barrel Faucet

4. Wine Barrel Water Feature

If you fancy the soothing sound of trickling water in your garden, a wine barrel fountain is an excellent project.

What You’ll Need:

  • Half wine barrel
  • Pond liner
  • Submersible water pump
  • Decorative stones (optional)
  • Water plants (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Line the inside of the barrel with a pond liner.
  2. Install the submersible pump, ensuring the tubing extends above the water surface.
  3. Fill the barrel with water and test the pump.
  4. Add decorative stones or water plants for extra flair.
  5. Sit back and relax with a glass of Just Wines’ crisp Chardonnay, listening to the peaceful water sounds.

Upcycling old wine barrels is a great way to blend craftsmanship with sustainability, all while adding a touch of Aussie charm to your shed or garden. Whether you’re planting, building, or just appreciating their rustic appeal, these projects are a great excuse to sip, create, and enjoy.

Looking for the perfect wines to complement your DIY projects? Check out Just Wines Australia for top-quality selections to sip while you work. Cheers to good wine and great craftsmanship!