Upcycle: Ironing boards aren't boring...

It's been a while since I was inspired to create a round up like this. But this morning I saw the ironing-board Christmas tree below and realized (a) I have always hated ironing and (b) I've never thought about how ironing boards could be repurposed! 

And let's face it, the modern metal ironing board is ugly and the leg mechanisms break. So they're perfect candidates for a good upcycle! Here are two groups of ideas for interesting things to do with old ironing boards, one for metal and one for wood:

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The Christmas tree! This is such a fun idea. Instructions and lots more images at Beyond the Picket Fence.

I love the simplicity of this turquoise plant / flower hanger. I have one of these little boards that I hate. When I finally trade up for a real-size one, this is probably what I'll do with mine. More at Electric Marigold.

If you sew, how cool is this?

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Great idea from The Rehab Boutique. It's a craft organizer but also a great message board (see the little magnet at work?

Another version of a magnetic message board ... and it's a clock!

These old metal versions also make great display stands for vintage jewelry.

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This bright yellow outdoor coffee table by Junk Tales might be my favorite idea :)

Vintage wood ironing boards are beautiful. A quick Pinterest search yields many examples of them being upcycled into shelving. They don't really need much help. But if they do...

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Beautiful ironing-board shelving idea via Sock Fairies

In combination with old wood hangers, make a great coat or towel rack (for more ways to repurpose hangers, click here)

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Great idea for outdoor restaurant seating via Remodelista

Use pieces of old belts and build a wine rack! Click through for instructions.

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Ironing board bookshelf anyone? Paint it a bright color and use it to display coordinating books! Via Recycleart