Concrete DIY | Industrial Inspired Serving Tray

This was my first concrete DIY project from 2017. I didn’t love the process, but I loved the final result. It (kindly) reminded me of that old saying, “If at first you don’t succeed—try, try again.”  And, well, three times is a charm (sigh).

If the project looks familiar, I’ve refurbished it — updating the text and image size.  

I remember learning that concrete is finicky. You may find yourself a little frustrated, but give yourself some grace and post the quote above as a reminder that others have not always succeeded on their first attempt. Haha.

Versatility and Functionality

One of the most significant advantages of a concrete serving tray is its versatility. It can be used in various settings and for multiple purposes. In the kitchen, it serves as an elegant platform for presenting appetizers or drinks. In the living room, it can hold candles, vases, or books, adding a touch of sophistication to your coffee table.

The concrete DIY tray is also sturdy for outdoor use, such as serving guests on a patio or balcony.

I have shared a thorough tutorial below of what I did and the lessons I learned.  Regardless of my frustrations, I’m in love with my tray!

Supplies for Concrete DIY Serving Tray:

1″ x 3″ x 8′ Common Board
2′ x 2′ x 23/32″ Plywood, sanded
Rapid Set Cement (10 lb. or a 25 lb. box for trial and error)
(2) 4-7/8 in. Zinc-Plated Light Duty Door Pull, Zinc Plated Finish (I used black)
(2) #8-32 x 1/2 in. Flat-Head Phillips Screws and Screw Nuts
Vinyl Bumpers
Mixing Container
1-1/2″ screws (approximately 10-12)
Trowel with Wood Handle or Heavy Duty Stir Stick
Power Sander
Sanding Block
Ryobi One+ 18-Volt Lithium-Ion Drill and 1/8″ drill bit
18 -1/2″ x 10″ x 1/8″ of plywood (optional, used for base)
Cement Glue (optional, only necessary if you attach optional plywood)

Cut list:

(2) 11-1/2″ cuts from the common board for each end of the mold
(2) 18-1/2″ cuts from the common board for each side of the mold
(1) 20″ x 11-1/2″ from plywood for bottom of mold

Size:  18-1/2″ x 9-1/2″
Cost:  Approximately $30.00 (in 2017)

Step One: Build the Mold

Use a circular or table saw to make all the appropriate cuts from the common board and plywood. Smooth the edges with a sanding block.

Lay (2) 18-1/2 sections vertically on the table.  Then, lay the (2) 11-1/2 sections horizontally at the top and bottom of each of the 18-1/2 sections to form a rectangular mold.

Pre-drill holes using the 1/8″ drill bit and secure the frame with screws.  Place plywood on top of the frame and attach with screws.

TIP:  Another option for assembling the mold is to use screws on the bottom and use a clamp on either side of the mold (pictured above in #3).  We did it both ways since we had a couple of failures.

Step Two: Cement

Mix 80 oz. of cement with 20 oz. of water in a mixing pail and stir well.  The cement should have the consistency of cake batter.

Pour cement into the mold and distribute evenly using a trowel or shaking the mold.  This filled my tray approximately 3/4″ inch.  Adding a little extra water seemed to help the cement settle and level in the mold much nicer.

Allow to set for 2-3 hours.  After an hour, we removed the mold on one tray, but a handle fell off.  I let the tray sit longer after that experience, so I wanted to give you a heads-up.

TIP:  Generously apply cooking spray to the bottom and sides of the mold for easier removal of the mold after the cement has been set.

Step Three:  Prepare Handles

Prepare pull handles for insertion into cement.  Place the screw into the top of each handle and attach a nut to the bottom.

Ten to 15 minutes after the cement is poured, insert it approximately 1″ from the side into the cement, and be sure it’s centered. Push from the top of the handle.

Step Four:  Remove Mold

Once the cement has set, remove screws from the plywood to remove the mold from around the tray.  Start with the side pieces first, then remove the screws from the bottom pieces.  If possible, have someone hold the tray by the handles and tap around the tray until the plywood releases.

Step Five:  Sand the Tray and Attach Bumpers

Use the power sander to smooth this concrete DIY project’s sides, corners, and top.

NOTE: Did you notice the top of the tray has a glossy look? That’s from using the power sander on it. It made it super smooth and shiny. LOVE!

You’re technically done! Woo-hoo. As you can see, I chose to use the 18 -1/2″ x 10″ x 1/8″ piece of plywood that I mentioned was optional (above) as a base. I stained it with Minwax Early American stain. Attach the plywood to the cement with cement adhesive (or use it as an accessory). Either way, I love this addition! It adds a little extra flair.

As you can see, there are plenty of imperfections, but they are beautiful imperfections (in my humble opinion).  I think the black and gray feels very industrial.  What do you think?

Be sure to check out some of my other DIY projects, too.

Additional Projects from the Handcrafted Society:

Pssst. Are you enjoying the content? Buying me a coffee or two occasionally is a fabulous way to support all my hard work and the content I provide. Thank you!

*This post was originally published on June 12, 2017, in collaboration with Home Depot.