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How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

If there is a snow sport that everyone can enjoy, it is sledding. Age, experience and skill level are never in question, and the only requirement is that you have a good time.


Snow sledding technology has evolved from the iconic wooden and steel racers to today's polished plastic pucks. Just because there haven't been a lot of innovations doesn't mean you can't get creative with building your own sled. If you have a pair of old skis that are just collecting dust in your closet, you have the makings of a DIY ski sled. This project is highly customizable; Use the materials you have on hand.

Materials and tools

  • wheelbarrow bucket:use an old one or you can buy one at a home improvement store.
  • Skis:We use kid length skis (approximately 5'), but you can cut a pair of adult skis to your desired length.
  • polyester braided rope
  • Cut 2x4's at least 4' long into 5" pieces (risers)
  • 2' x 2' 3/4”-thick weight plywood
  • 3-1/2" Galvanized Deck Screws
  • 5/16 bolts, lock washers and nuts (if cart hardware is not available)
  • tape measure
  • puzzle
  • cordless drill / driver
  • Oscillating tool with metal blade or handsaw with metal blade
  • sandpaper
  • safety glasses


Part of the joy of building this ski sled is that you'll be lifting used skis and possibly a worn out wheelbarrow. You can find used skis at most thrift stores, as well as on Craigslist. We decided to use children's skis as they were the perfect length for this project (5 feet).

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Remove bindings from skis

If your skis still have the bindings attached, remove them with a screwdriver or wireless controller. There are normally four bolts that hold each link on the ski.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Outline the base

Lay the wheelbarrow hub on the plywood and trace around the edge of the bottom of the wheelbarrow.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Cutting base and risers

Using a jigsaw, follow the path of the wheelbarrow base and cut out the piece of plywood. Measure out eight 5” pieces of your 2x4 and, using your saw again, cut your 2x4 to create the risers.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Arena base and elevators

Using sandpaper and a sanding block, smooth the edges around the base and risers.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Seal base and risers

Use a water sealer to treat the wood bands and base. This will slow the rotting of the wood and keep it waterproof. Let dry overnight.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Attach the Base to the Truck

The plywood base serves as a solid foundation for the ski sled. Using pre-cut holes in the wheelbarrow hub, mark the plywood underneath and drill holes, then attach to the plywood base using existing wheelbarrow hardware or the correct size bolts. Ours were 5/16".

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Remove excess bolt length

Using a hacksaw with a metal blade or oscillating tool, cut the bolts, leaving about a half inch.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Attach risers

Place two bands in the holes where the ski bindings were attached. Using the screws from your deck, you can try to take advantage of the pre-existing holes, but we ended up drilling new holes in the skis, which is probably a stronger joint. Use the 5 screws used to fix each set of bands.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Place the bucket on the skis

Now it's finally coming together. Put your bucket (seat) on the skis (runners) and check the alignment of the back of the skis and the front of the skis to make sure they are even and straight. If you want to control the speed a bit, you can slightly tilt the toes of the skis.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Screw cube

Attach the hub to the risers with the screws from your deck.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Add the handle

Drill two holes in the front of the bucket and thread the poly rope through them. This will serve as a handle to hold on to while riding, as well as a way to pull the sled uphill.

How to build a sled from a pair of old skis and a wheelbarrow

Hit the slopes

Sledding is fun, but it can also be a dangerous activity. Use this sled at your own risk; We recommend wearing a helmet. Every time you've finished sledding, check the sled for worn parts or cracks in the wood or skis, and make any necessary repairs before using the sled again.