This is an inexpensive and easy DIY project that creates a timeless and delicate look from a Dollar store item.
What an easy and inexpensive way to recreate a dollar store plastic tray and turn it into a delicate looking decorative and timeless item. I love the look of this sweet little project and I am looking forward to creating another tray for the holidays that I can use for Peppermint Treats, Hot Cocoa, and all the sweets that scream “Happy Holidays”..!!
There I was on another Dollar Tree run and came across this plastic tray. Before checking out I decided to pick one up and figure out a way to recreate it to fit my style. I really didn’t imagine something so sweet & charming would come out of this flimsy plastic tray. Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised and I absolutely love the look of the finished product!
For this Project you will need:
- One plastic tray (Dollar Tree)
- Buffalo Plaid Ribbon
- Contact Paper (Dollar Tree)
- Blade/Box cutter or scissors
- Glue Gun
- White Chalk Paint
- Black Acrylic Paint
- Small Sponge brush
- Pen/Pencil
Using the Rust oleum white Linen chalk paint and a small sponge brush paint the bottom, the sides and the handles of the tray. Apply two coats for additional coverage, if necessary and allowed about 10-15 minutes to dry.
Spread the contact paper over the top of the tray and fit in the center. Using a pen or pencil mark out the exact measurement of the center of tray that will be covered with the contact paper. Using your cutting tool follow the outline and cut off excess paper to fit into the center of the tray. (do not remove adhesive off of the contact paper while measuring)
Lay the piece of contact paper down that was cut to size in the center of the tray. Starting at one side, begin removing adhesive and using the spatula tool to smooth out by 1/4 inch pieces. Continue this process from one side of the tray and continue until reaching the other end.
Using the black acrylic paint and a small sponge brush, dab black colored acrylic paint to all of the edges of the tray and around the inside edges of the tray handles, this will give your tray an aged and timeless look.
To complete the look of this pretty tray add the ribbon by securing it with hot glue. Using different patterns such as plaid and floral designs will give the tray dimension while still keeping its simplicity.
The little details that were added made all the difference. The floral print of the contact paper added a delicate touch,the plaid buffalo print of the ribbon added a touch of farmhouse, while the enameled look gave the tray the character and charm of a vintage piece.
This quick, easy and inexpensive craft project was another one to add to my favorites. I love when an inexpensive item can be recreated to look like a high end piece. I will be making another run soon… Is August too soon to start Christmas Décor Projects? 🙂
$3 DIY Decorative Serving Tray
Creating a beautiful & Inexpensive decorative tray
Materials
- Plastic Tray-Dollar Tree
- Contact Paper -Dollar tree
- White and Black Buffalo plaid Ribbon
- White Chalk Paint
- Black Acrylic Paint
Tools
- Box Cutter/utility knife or Scissors
- Small Sponge Brush
- Small Paint Brush
- Glue Gun
- Spatula Tool
Instructions
- Using white chalk paint and a small paint brush; paint the bottom, all four sides, edges and handles of the tray
- Let dry for about 10-15 mins
- Measure the inside of the tray by spreading the contact paper across the top of tray (do not remove the adhesive yet)
- With a pencil, mark the areas of the contact paper that will be cut out ;prior to applying
- Line up the contact paper that has been cut out to size inside of the tray
- Starting at one end of the tray begin removing adhesive paper slowly while pressing down firmly using the spatula tool
- Using the spatula tool while removing adhesive paper will smooth out any bubbles
- Use the black acrylic paint and a small sponge brush to dab around the edges of the tray and around the edges of the handles this will give your tray an enamel & aged look
- Using the Buffalo plaid ribbon, make a bow to desired look and size
- Using a glue gun place the decorative bow in one of the upper sides of the tray
