Feature wall from SALVAGED FLOORING

Do you have some scrap or remnant hardwood flooring that it would be a crime to turn into firewood? Why not make a feature wall?

Do you think hardwood floors are overrated, or unsuitable in a home with a big muddy dog? Here's a project that will use up those leftovers and turn heads when company comes for dinner.

I had some salvaged oak wall panelling that was full of nails and glue that nobody wanted to deal with, but you could just as easily use hardwood flooring. After a dozen years of shifting this wood from one storage spot to another, I decided to use it - one way or another.

Tools and materials.

• Hammer 
• Chop saw
• Table saw
• Belt sander and belts
• Power brad nailer and nails
• Framing square
• Level
• Measuring tape
• Carpenter's pencil
• Good quality orbital sander and disks
• Folding aluminium saw horses
• Brushes
• High quality UV resistant clear varnish and paint thinner
• Respirator
• Sandpaper 
• Cloth (for wiping off the dust)

Step-by-step guide

Step 1: Prepare your wood
I found a local cabinet maker who was not interested in buying the material, but would refinish it in his shop provided I could guarantee I had pulled all the nails.