Welding Project Ideas
Welding is not always about fixing or repairing something. If you’ve just started or recently purchased a machine, there are a number of different things you can try your new skills on. Here are 10 fun welding projects for the beginner to try at home with your new welder, some supplies, and a little bit of time.
Welding Table or Bench
You’re going to need a table to work on, so why not create one? A welding table made out of metal is going to be very durable and will last many, many years. It’s also a fairly simple beginner project since it doesn’t require complex welds or metal cut into difficult shapes or sizes. All you need are some lengths of angle iron or tubular steel and some light gauge plate steel for the table top.
You don’t necessarily need to create a solid top, either—instead, build a frame with slats for the top so you have space to slip clamps around your project. This design has all the features you really need.
A Welding Cart
Moving around your welding equipment, especially the shielding gas, can be a chore. A welding cart make it much easier while also keeping your welder, hoses and accessories neat.
While you can certainly buy one of these carts, it can be more fun to build one yourself and certainly cheaper. As a side benefit, your own cart allows for unlimited customization by adding only the shelves or drawers you need.
Check out this simple model from Instructables Workshop.
CNCcookbook has several as well.
Shelving
Shelving is another no-brainer project that’s perfect for workshop, garage or even inside the home for that ‘Industrial Look’. Creating metal supports for shelving definitely fits in this style, and it’s not an overly complicated project. There’s several different basic ‘L-Bracket’ designs to choose from and adding a durable hardwood will really make them pop.
Bar/Work Stools
Basic metal stools are another fun welding project and a way of adding an industrial touch to your home, and they’re likewise fairly easy for beginners.
You can make stools for your workspace, your patio, your kitchen island, and anywhere else you need seating.
Adding some height adjust-ability will give you more usage options as well. Piano stool hardware is easily adjusted and gives a great look.
Seating Bench
Seating benches are another great welding furniture project for the home welder. These are perfect for outdoor use once painted and pair nicely with fire pits and grills. Plans are available at wcwelding.com
Keep in mind that this project is a bit more complicated and will require some precise angled cuts on a band saw or similar tool.
Firewood Rack
Stack up your firewood and keep it all organized by building a simple firewood rack. This is another fairly simple project that is great for beginners with easy cuts and basic welds.
Grab the plans from here.
Bookends
Desktop/Bench Organizers
Some simple cut sections of steel tubing for a desktop organizer can make for another upcycling project. These organizers work great for desks, makeup or paint brushes, or even tools. Use several tubes of different sizes to allow for items of different heights.
Want to show off your TIG skills? Why not make a ‘jewelry tree’ for that special someone (or yourself). You can make it as complex and intricate as you like or simple and utilitarian. Making an organizer tree like this is a great way to practice small, delicate welds.
Plant Stands
Why buy plant stands when you can make them? Great for both inside the home or the backyard, stands are easy to build and customize for any size plant or small tree.
Another fun welding project and slight variation are hanging plant baskets. Use light gauge metal to keep the weight down and remember to spray paint for corrosion resistance.
Artwork and Sculptures
Have an artistic side? How about using metal as your medium. You’re truly only limited by your imagination here. With a little practice and some inspiration, you can make amazing sculptures, garden art, and other unique projects.
