Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

Recycled Pallet Cubby Houses – Big Backyard Fun on a Budget

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If you’ve ever spotted a few old pallets by the side of the road and thought, “I could make something amazing out of those,” you’re absolutely right.

One of my favorite discoveries lately is this gorgeous backyard cubby house made entirely from recycled pallet timber, created by The Empowered Educator. It’s proof that a handful of pallets, a bit of imagination, and some weekend effort can result in a truly magical play space for the kids—without costing the earth.

You can check out the full project with photos and step-by-step tips here:
Recycled Pallet Backyard Cubby – The Empowered Educator

This cubby house ticks all the boxes. It’s budget-friendly, environmentally conscious, and packed with creative charm. Better yet, it’s designed with children’s play needs in mind—there are spots for climbing, quiet corners for roleplay, and plenty of opportunities for little ones to let their imaginations run wild.

What makes this cubby even more special is that it was built not just for children, but with them in mind. The Empowered Educator shares practical tips and insights on how recycled builds like this one support imaginative play, gross motor development, and connection with nature. It’s more than a DIY project—it’s an invitation to create lasting memories outdoors.

If you’ve been dreaming of giving your backyard a makeover that both your kids and your wallet will love, this is the inspiration you’ve been waiting for. And the best part? No two cubbies will ever be the same. Yours might feature a little mailbox, a painted mural, or even a planter box full of herbs—let the creativity flow.

So grab some pallets, have a read through the tutorial, and start building a space where imagination lives right outside your back door.

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Pocket Emotional Support Chickens

There is something wonderfully sweet about these little Pocket Emotional Support Chickens. They are tiny, soft, slightly silly in the best possible way, and exactly the sort of handmade project that makes people smile before they have even finished reading the pattern.

This free knitting pattern is perfect for anyone who loves small comfort makes, quick gift projects, or quirky little knits with personality. Each chicken is small enough to sit in the palm of your hand, making them ideal as pocket companions, desk buddies, care-package gifts, or thoughtful little “thinking of you” presents for friends and family.

I especially love the idea behind this project. Not every handmade gift needs to be large or complicated to feel meaningful. Sometimes a tiny knitted chicken, made with love and tucked into someone’s bag, coat pocket, or bedside table, can be just the thing to brighten a difficult day. These little comfort chicks have that lovely handmade charm that feels personal without being overly sentimental.

The finished chickens have a simple rounded shape, cute beaks, tiny combs, and bead-like eyes, giving them just enough detail to feel full of character. They would be adorable knitted in natural chicken colours like cream, brown, grey, and speckled yarns, but you could also have fun with bright scraps, variegated yarn, or leftover wool from other projects. This is a great stash-busting project, especially if you have small amounts of yarn you do not want to waste.

Because they are small, they would also make a lovely charity knitting idea, a craft market item, a classroom reward, or a sweet addition to handmade gift baskets. You could knit a whole flock and package them with a little note that says “Pocket Emotional Support Chicken” for extra charm.

Overall, this is a delightful free knitting pattern for anyone who enjoys quick, comforting, personality-filled projects. It is cute, giftable, inexpensive to make, and full of handmade heart. Whether you knit one chicken or an entire flock, these adorable little comfort chicks are sure to bring a smile.