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DIY Serving Trays

Whether you are having family over for the holidays or holding a dinner party, you can take your hosting to the next level with these tips for making your own serving trays out of wood or marble.

Skill Level: Beginner
Time:
  1. Step 1 Prep Materials

    Person sanding wood board

    Gather all the materials you need for this project at your local Home Depot. An employee will be happy to assist you if you need help.

    Depending on the surface you’ve chosen for your DIY tray project (wood or marble), the preparation will differ. 

    1. Wood: Cut down to the size you’d like, we suggest 12”x18”. (Don’t forget: you can get your wood cut at The Home Depot. Just ask an associate for help.) Then sand down the surface. 
    2. Marble: Clean the surface completely.
  2. Step 2 Decorate the Surface of the Wooden Tray (skip this step if working with marble)

    Person staining a piece of wood
    Person spray painting wood board

    Stained Wood: Use a wood conditioner to help the wood stain look more natural, apply a food-safe wood stain, and use a rag to spread the stain evenly.

    Chalkboard spray paint the entire wood board with chalkboard paint. Once dry, “prime” the chalkboard by rubbing it all over with a piece of chalk.

  3. Step 3 Attach the Handles

    Person putting glue on handle
    Person attaching handle to marble board

    First, measure out where you would like to place the handles, then:

    1. Wood: Use a drill to drill through the wood, and screw the handles in once they are lined up.
    2. Marble: Use E6000 (heavy duty craft adhesive) to glue the handle to the board. Allow to dry for up to 48 hours.
  4. Step 4 Add Felt Pads

    Felt pads

    Attach felt pads to the bottom of your tray(s) to protect your tables and surfaces from scratches.