This project was built and designed by Tom from Alley Picked, a channel focused on creative woodworking and practical DIY builds. In this video, he turns an old license plate and scrap wood into a fully functional dustpan that’s both durable and eye-catching.
It’s a great one-hour project that makes use of leftover materials while solving a real workshop need. Whether you’re sweeping up sawdust or the occasional glitter spill, this dustpan handles it with character.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Tom’s channel:
A Practical Example of Upcycling
Upcycling gives new life to things that might otherwise be tossed out, and this project proves just how effective that can be. The dustpan is made from common workshop scraps: a license plate, some offcut wood, and a bit of leather for the handle.
It’s a great reminder that functional tools don’t always have to be bought—they can be repurposed, rebuilt, and reused. The final product has a handmade charm and a rugged utility that fits right into any workspace.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need
This build doesn’t require a specific cut list or fancy materials. The key components are:
- A standard license plate
- A piece of scrap wood for the handle and backplate
- Screws for mounting
- A drill for pilot holes
- A saw to shape the wood
- Water-based polyurethane for the finish
- Leather (or similar material) for the hanging loop
Everything used in this build is common in most workshops, making it a great low-cost weekend project.
Preparing the Wooden Base
Tom starts by selecting a block of scrap wood that feels good in the hand. The shape is refined for comfort and strength, and the piece is trimmed down to size using basic tools.
Once the wood is sized, he marks the area where the license plate will be attached. To help the metal wrap naturally around the base, small bends are made on either end of the plate. This curved shape lets the dustpan scoop effectively without digging in or scraping unevenly.
Drilling Pilot Holes for Assembly
Before attaching the license plate, Tom drills pilot holes in both the wood and the metal. This step prevents splitting and ensures that the screws pull the two pieces together cleanly.
A standard drill is all that’s needed here. The key is to align the holes so that the plate wraps evenly and stays tight against the wooden back. This gives the dustpan its strength and shape.
Screwing It All Together
After the holes are drilled, the license plate is mounted using screws. Tom lines up the metal with the wooden base and secures it in place, being careful not to over-tighten and warp the metal.
This part of the project is quick but important—if the plate isn’t square, the dustpan won’t sit flush with the floor. A steady hand and a little patience go a long way in making sure it turns out right.
Adding a Protective Finish
With the structure complete, Tom applies a coat of water-based polyurethane to the wood. This gives it some resistance to wear and dirt while keeping the natural grain visible.
It’s not a finish that needs to be perfect—it just needs to protect the surface from regular shop use. The water-based formula dries quickly and is easy to work with, especially for small projects like this.
Making the Leather Handle Loop
To give the dustpan a clean finish and add some function, Tom adds a loop of leather to the back. This makes the dustpan easy to hang up and keeps it out of the way when not in use.
He cuts a short strip, applies a bit of wax or oil for conditioning, and then screws it to the top of the wood. It’s a small detail that gives the dustpan a bit more personality and everyday usability.
Why This Dustpan Works
This project isn’t just about recycling materials—it’s about making something you’ll actually use. The dustpan is strong, light, and sized perfectly for workshop messes. And the license plate gives it a distinct look that you won’t find in a store.
It’s also a good reminder of how creative woodworking can solve real problems with simple tools and smart design. Tom’s approach highlights how even the most basic scraps can become something functional.
Ideas for Variations
While this version uses a license plate, you could take the same concept and apply it to other metal scraps—sheet aluminum, appliance panels, or even old baking pans.
The size of the dustpan can also be adjusted to match your needs. A smaller one could be used in the house, while a larger version could live next to a jointer or sander for quick cleanup.
A Fun, Fast Build for Any Skill Level
In the end, this is a no-fuss build that delivers a lot of value. It’s a great introduction to upcycling, requires minimal tools, and can be completed in under an hour.
The finished dustpan has a handmade charm and real utility, making it a worthy addition to any shop. And because it’s made from scraps, there’s no pressure to make it perfect—just useful.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Tom’s channel: