Chic Coffee Tray Decoupage Idea

Transform an old tray into a decorative piece that does double duty when you learn how to decoupage this pretty craft idea.

In the Designer’s Words: "Celebrate the warmer weather with this beautiful tray. Big enough to hold two coffee mugs, this tray is ideal when you want to enjoy the outdoors. Use a napkin with a sunflower as the focus point, and add a twist by adding the spots of your favorite animal. The tray will be an interesting conversation topic, and your friends will be in awe when they realize that the tray was handmade."
Decoupage ideas do not need to be limited to simple frames and paper crafts. Grab an old tray from the thrift store and learn how to decoupage a wooden tray into a stunning and stand-out piece of home décor. The example used in this tutorial used a sunflower napkin, but you could easily change this up with scrapbook paper, fabric, or even old photos. Follow the full mod podge craft instructions below, and you will have a practical and pretty decoupaged masterpiece before you know it.

Estimated Cost$11-$20

Time to CompleteIn an evening

MaterialsMixed Media, Paint, Wood

Primary TechniqueDIY Craft

Easy

Project TypeMake a Project

Materials List

Natural wooden tray sized 6” x 8.6”
Napkin with a sunflower printed on it
Dala bronze antique rub
Bright yellow acrylic paint
Giotto decor pens: black, aquamarine blue, red
Modge Podge
Quick-drying clear gloss spray varnish
10/32” paint brush
Hairdryer
Pair of standard scissors
Pencil
Few sheets of old newspapers to protect the working area
Two old soft cloths

How to Decoupage a TrayUse the hairdryer to dry the sunflower.

Instructions

Use one of the cloths to gently apply Dala bronze antique rub to the wood and allow to dry thoroughly. Do not add the rub to the outer bottom of the tray.
Cut out the sunflower from the napkin and remove the bottom napkin layers from the sunflower.
Position the sunflower on the inner bottom of the tray and paint a substantial amount of Modge Podge over the top of the sunflower, so that it will stick to the tray. As the napkin can stretch or tear easily, it is best to start painting from the middle of the sunflower towards the sides, and working in small triangles. The Modge Podge must only be applied to the top, and must not run underneath the napkin.
Use the hairdryer to dry the sunflower.
Paint a thin layer of Mod Podge over the whole inner bottom of the tray. The Mod Podge will protect the napkin and give the product a smoother finish.
Dry the tray with the hairdryer.
Repeat steps 5-6 ~ you need to apply at least 5 coats of Modge Podge, but remember that with every layer, the direction in which the Mod Podge is applied, must be changed from horizontal to vertical to horizontal, etc. Also, remember that after every layer of Mod Podge, the tray must first be dried thoroughly with the hairdryer.
Add an uneven yellow wash to the sides and top edges of the tray. Allow to dry thoroughly.
Use the pencil to draw leopard spots around the sides of the tray. Color all the spots with the black Giotto pen and allow to dry.
Add a dot of blue on the edge of each black spot. While the ink is still wet, lightly rub over the ink with your finger to add a bluish shadow to the yellowish background. Do the same with the red pen.
Spray the sides, edges and inner bottom of the tray with the varnish and allow to dry thoroughly.

Why You'll Love This Recycled Craft

1. Adds a personalized touch to your home decor: By using a napkin with a unique design or your favorite animal print, you can create a one-of-a-kind tray that reflects your personality and style. It's a great way to add a pop of color and interest to any room in your home.

2. Perfect for outdoor entertaining: This chic coffee tray is not only stylish but also practical. It's big enough to hold two coffee mugs, making it the ideal accessory for enjoying your morning coffee outside on the patio or balcony. Impress your guests with a handmade tray that is not only functional but also a conversation starter.

3. A fun and budget-friendly DIY project: Instead of buying a new tray, repurpose an old one from the thrift store and give it a fresh new look with decoupage. This project is a great way to unleash your creativity and learn a new crafting technique. Plus, it's a budget-friendly way to add a touch of elegance to your home decor without breaking the bank. Gather your supplies, follow the easy step-by-step instructions, and get ready to create a stunning masterpiece that you can proudly display in your home.