How to create a wooden bathtub tray with book and wine slots

How to Create a Wooden Bathtub Tray with Book and Wine Slots

A wooden bathtub tray is a perfect DIY project for those who enjoy relaxing baths with a book and a glass of wine. This simple yet elegant accessory enhances your bathing experience by providing a stable surface for your essentials. In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a customized wooden bathtub tray with dedicated slots for a book and wine glass.

Materials and Tools Needed

Materials:

• A wooden board (such as cedar, teak, or bamboo)
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (120-grit and 220-grit)
• Wood stain or waterproof sealant
• Measuring tape
• Pencil

Tools:

• Jigsaw or circular saw
• Router (optional, for smooth edges)
• Drill with hole saw attachment (for wine glass slot)
• Clamps
• Paintbrush or cloth (for stain/sealant)

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wood

1. Measure your bathtub’s width – Place the measuring tape across the tub where you want the tray to sit. Add an extra 2–4 inches to ensure stability.
2. Select the right wood – Choose a moisture-resistant wood like teak or cedar to prevent warping. A board about 30 inches long and 10 inches wide is a good standard size.
3. Cut the board – Use a jigsaw or circular saw to cut the board to the required length.

Step 2: Create the Wine Glass Slot

1. Mark the slot – Using a pencil, mark a circular hole about 2 inches in diameter towards one end of the tray. This will hold the wine glass base.
2. Cut the hole – Use a hole saw drill bit to cut out the marked area.
3. Create the slot – Cut a small groove extending from the hole’s edge toward the outer edge of the board (about ½ inch wide). This allows the wine glass stem to slide in securely.

Step 3: Make the Book Holder

1. Decide on the placement – Mark a spot near the middle of the tray where the book will rest.
2. Cut a shallow groove – Using a router or chisel, carve a groove approximately ½ inch deep and 1 inch wide to hold the book in place.
3. Add a backrest – Attach a small wooden lip (about 1 inch high) using wood glue and clamps. This will prevent the book from sliding off.

Step 4: Sand and Finish the Tray

1. Smooth the surface – Sand the entire tray with 120-grit sandpaper, followed by 220-grit for a polished finish.
2. Apply stain or sealant – Use a waterproof wood stain or sealant to protect against moisture damage.
3. Allow drying time – Let the stain or sealant dry completely before using the tray.

Step 5: Test and Enjoy

Place the tray over your bathtub, ensuring it fits securely. Slide in a wine glass, prop up a book, and enjoy a spa-like experience from the comfort of your home.

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