11 Amazing Ways to Upcycle a Pool Table

Upcycling a pool table can be a creative and fulfilling project, transforming an old or unused table into something new and functional.

MDF pool tables don’t last as long as slate, so it’s likely you may be recycling your MDF table.

However, whether MDF or Slate, there are various innovative ways to repurpose a pool table, offering a new lease of life to this classic piece of furniture.

Key Takeaways

Transforming a pool table into a dining table or desk offers practical new uses.
Creating a ping-pong table or bookshelf adds fun and style to your space.
Repurposing the slate for countertops or turning the table into a wine rack or picture frame provides unique home decor solutions.

11 Amazing Ways to Upcycle a Pool Table

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or simply looking for inspiration on how to repurpose your old pool table slate, I have you covered with some amazing ideas below.

Transforming into a Dining Table

Converting your old pool table into a dining table is a fantastic way to repurpose it.

Most pool tables are the perfect height and size for a dining table, typically standing between 29–31 inches tall.
To convert, remove the pockets and rails, fill in the holes, and attach a wooden top that matches your decor.

Repurposing as a Desk

Turning a pool table into a desk creates an ample workspace, ideal for multiple monitors or gaming setups.

Remove the rails, fill in the pocket holes, and consider adding shelves, drawers, or a glass top for a customized, functional desk.

Upcycling into a Ping-Pong Table

An old pool table can easily become a ping-pong table.

Simply add a net in the center, along with ping pong paddles and balls.
This is a cost-effective alternative to buying a new table and offers a fun addition to your home.

Creating a Bookshelf

Transform your pool table into a bookshelf by:

Removing the felt and rails.
Fill in any gaps or holes to create a flat surface.

You can then add shelving units, either by attaching them directly to the tabletop or by using brackets to support them.

This creative upcycling idea allows for a unique design, using different materials and colors to match your home’s style.

Utilizing Slate for Countertops

The slate from a pool table is ideal for making things like:

Countertops
Coffee tables
Workbench tops

It is extremely heavy, impervious to water and resistant to heat, which are ideal qualities for applications around the home.

Recycling into a Wine Rack

Convert your pool table into a wine rack by mounting the tabletop against a wall and adding wooden planks as shelves for wine bottles.

This innovative idea adds a stylish element to your home decor.

Wall Mounted Picture Frame

An old non-slate pool table can be upcycled into a wall-mounted picture frame.

Remove the legs, mount the bed to the wall, and use the felt surface to pin photos, notes, or reminders, creating a personalized memory board.

Converting into a Gaming Table

Transforming your pool table into a gaming table is perfect for board game enthusiasts and role-playing game fans.

By adding a felt surface and compartments for game pieces, you create a dedicated space for gaming nights.

Crafting a Home Bar

A pool table can be upcycled into a home bar table.

The frame can serve as the base, with added shelving for bottles and glassware.
This not only recycles the table, but also creates a focal point for entertaining guests.

Making a Garden Planter

For those with a green thumb, turning a pool table into a garden planter is a unique way to bring nature indoors.

The table can be filled with soil and plants, creating a stunning indoor garden.

Building a Children’s Play Area

An old pool table can be converted into a children’s play area.

By adding a soft surface and toys, it becomes a safe and fun space for kids to play and explore.

Final Thoughts on How Do You Upcycle a Pool Table?

One of the first things people do when they are finished with their pool table is to try and sell it.

However, lots of us have tonnes of memories and good feelings associated with a pool table, which may have been in the household decade.

Which is why upcycling your old pool table is an often better alternative to dumping it, and there are some incredibly creative ways to give it a new lease of life.

It can be a great side project to have on the go, and it’s something you can do with your family.