most pallets are made from junk wood that is not dried very well. depending on the look your want the could be a problem. When use inside the wood will spit and crack if you don't let it dry for some time. This would depend on the look you want
I have a bunch of old Tupperware type containers of different size to put small thing in you can also add cleaners and let soak. I pick up all I can at yard sales and even find cheap ones at the dallor store
I have a chopsaw,horizontol bandsaw,and a power hacksaw all have up and down sides if you are looking for cheap and easy try a sawsall with good blades they will cut anything are cheap and handy will cut straight with a little practice