DIY Decorative Tray

It feels like it’s been forever since I shared a craft with all of you… a couple of weeks anyway.  So, I’m pretty excited to have something new to share today.  Decorative trays seem to be a very versatile and functional piece in home decor.  Remember my pallet serving tray?  Gosh, I love that tray!  I used it in my Christmas decor this year too!  I’ve seen so many versions of decorative trays, some using frames, marble, and pallet wood (ahem).  I thought it was time to try my hand at another tray — a decorative tray, and this one was going to have leather handles.

Recently, as I was browsing through Consumer Crafts website, I saw a shadow box and thought it might make a great tray!  I liked that it had a little depth.  I also wanted to try making it with leather handles.  I was tickled silly as to how fantastic it turned out.  Let’s take a look at how it came about.

Supplies for DIY Decorative Tray:
8.5 x 11 x 1.75″ Unfinished Wood Shadow Box
Paint (color of choice)
Foam Paint Brushes
Leather (I used a leather bracelet)

Ready?  Here we go!  It’s pretty simple..

Step One:  Paint the Shadow Box

I decided to use a chalk paint  Maison Blanche Furniture Paint in  Creme de Menthe.  I wanted to use more of a mint green, but didn’t have any on hand and didn’t want to run out (lazy, I know).

Step Two:  Sand and Stain

This step is optional. I used a fine sand paper and sanded all of the edges.  Then added a some ‘stain’, my version of stain for a project like this is down brown acrylic paint.  I rub it along the edges with a damp cloth.  I think it adds a little extra character.

Step Three:   Prep and Attach Leather Handles

I cut two 6″ pieces of leather and used a leather hole punch tool to prep the holes in the leather.  The hubs drilled small holes in the box where I wanted the handles to go and we then used the post/stud of some rapid rivets I had on hand to attach the handle to the shadow box.

Add a dab of wood glue for extra strength, (this is optional).  Once everything is ready to go, you’ll tap each post/stud into place.  We’re done!  Here is a closer look at the attached leather handle (see below).  I personally think the stud/post looks pretty awesome!

I think it turned out lovely!  What do you think?  And, as I stated earlier, it’s so versatile and functional.  It could be used in the bedroom, living room, craft room or even the bathroom.    You could paint it in any color and/or attach a different handle that fits your style — oh the possibilities!

I think this tray suits those ranunculus perfectly too, don’t you?
I’m thinking these will make great gifts too.
Well, I hope you’re feeling inspired!   Happy crafting, sweet friends.

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