W need fancy materials or a big budget. Just use things you already have lying around! With old pallets, bits of wood, pipes, or even old signs, you can build a fun and safe ice rink right in your garden It’s cheap, simple, and great for the environment too
Let’s show you how!
If you’re like most families, you probably have old bits and pieces tucked away in the shed or garage Instead of throwing them out, why not turn them into something fun? Building your own backyard ice rink with recycled things is smart, kind to the planet, and doesn’t cost much.
Here’s why it’s a good idea:
● Saves money
● Cuts down waste
● Makes use of stuff you already have
● Easy to find and use
Before you build, make sure you’ve got everything ready The ground should be flat and the weather needs to be cold enough to freeze water.
Here’s what you’ll need:
● A flat space in your garden (around 20x40 feet works well)
● Old pallets, wood, pipes, or plastic boards
● A strong plastic sheet (called a liner)
● Screws, stakes, or anything to hold the sides in place
● Water (and cold nights to freeze it)
Tip: Use a long piece of string or a spirit level to check the ground is even. It’ll help keep the ice smooth!
There’s no one “right” way to build your frame It depends on what you have! Here are some ideas other families have tried that work really well.
Old wooden pallets are perfect for rink frames They’re strong, already shaped into panels, and best of all – lots of places give them away for free! Many shops, warehouses, or DIY stores will let you take them off their hands
Why they’re a great choice:
● You don’t need to build from scratch
● Tough and sturdy
● Easy to find
How to use them:
● Place them side by side around your rink
● Screw them together at the corners
● Use stakes or bricks to hold them up
● Pop the liner inside and fill with water
Got old fence posts or bits of timber? Great! Reclaimed wood is perfect for rink walls. You can cut it to the size you need, and it holds up well in winter
What’s great about old wood:
● Saves you from buying new timber
● Already used to the weather
● Easy to cut and fit
How to use it:
● Cut to fit your rink shape
● Stand the boards up and hold them in place with stakes
● Screw them together
● Line the inside and fill it up
PVC pipes (the white plastic ones) are often leftover after garden jobs or home repairs They’re light, easy to cut, and won’t soak up water
Why PVC works well:
● Won’t rot or get soggy
● You can bend and shape it easily
● Quick to put together
How to set them up:
● Cut them to fit each side of your rink
● Connect with T-shapes or elbow joints
● Push metal rods into the ground and slip the pipes over
● Add the liner and water
After elections or local events, you might find plastic signs lying around Ask if you can take them! They’re waterproof and easy to clean – just what you need for an ice rink border.
Why people like these:
● Safe and smooth for kids
● Easy to wipe and reuse
● Usually free!
How to use them:
● Line them up to form the rink shape
● Tape or tie them to something strong (like stakes or old poles)
● Add the liner
● Fill it up and wait for the freeze!
It’s fun to build your own backyard ice rink – but safety always comes first Make sure the sides won’t fall over and the ice is thick enough before anyone skates
Important safety tips:
● Ice should be at least 3 inches thick before skating
● Cover corners with something soft if little kids are using it
● Check for any sharp nails or splinters
● Keep an eye on the weather – warm days can make ice soft or cracked
The Jones family in Canada wanted a winter activity for their kids but didn’t want to spend lots of money. They used leftover wood and a few free pallets from a garden store. After a weekend of building and filling, their kids were skating and the whole street wanted a turn! Now, it’s a yearly tradition
Q: Can I really build a rink with junk from my shed?
Absolutely! Lots of families have done it Just check that what you use is strong and safe
Q: What if I don’t have a big garden?
That’s okay You can build a mini rink even 10x20 feet is enough for little ones
Q: Will my rink last all winter?
Yes, as long as it stays cold and the frame is strong, you’re good to go!
Q: What’s the best free material to use?
Old pallets They’re strong, easy to work with, and often free from local shops
You don’t need a big budget to create big winter fun With a few old materials and a bit of elbow grease, you can build your own backyard ice rink that your family will love all season.
Why wait? Start looking for free wood or pallets today! Tag us in your rink pics – we’d love to share your story. Stay safe, have fun, and enjoy the ice!