Easy Tray Project


This is a really simple tray project that I did over the weekend. You can pick up the supplies at a local craft store for around $20 or less. It only takes about 2 ½ hours, and most of that is dry time. Instructions and pictures below. Enjoy!

Supplies:

  • Tray (in the unfinished wood section of your local craft store)
  • Stencil of your choice (I chose a cherry blossom)
  • Spray paint of your choice (I chose an Espresso – Satin Finish)
  • Acrylic Paint of your Choice (I chose Leaf Green)
  • Clear Acrylic Coating
  • Paint Brush (I prefer a foam brush or roller)

Spray paint the tray using the instructions on the can. I did two coats, with about 45 minutes in between each coat.

Once tray has fully dried, place stencil in desired location and secure with tape for a clean line. Then carefully brush on the acrylic paint. I did two coats, letting dry 15 minutes in between. Once fully dry, remove stencil. If your lines are not smooth because the paint leaked, do not worry. It happens. When it happens to me I will take a very small paint brush, dab it in some of the spray paint, and try to make it a little neater around the edges.

In about in an hour/hour and a half (once the stencil is completely dry), spray with a coat or two of the acrylic spray and there you have it!

The great thing is that you can customize it to whatever color/style you want. For a different look you can also use craft paper on the tray (just use a good adhesive – I like mod podge). Here is an example of one I made. If you decide to make your own tray be sure to share the pictures!