How to Create a Wooden Ottoman Tray with Rope Handles
A wooden ottoman tray is a stylish and functional addition to any home, providing a stable surface for drinks, books, and decorative pieces. Adding rope handles enhances its rustic appeal while making it easy to carry. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of crafting your own wooden ottoman tray with rope handles.
Materials Needed
- 1×12” wooden board (or plywood) – cut to desired tray size
- 1×2” wooden strips – for tray edges
- Natural sisal or jute rope – for handles
- Wood glue
- 1 ¼” wood screws or nails
- Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
- Wood stain or paint
- Polyurethane or wood sealer
- Drill and drill bits
- Jigsaw (optional for curved designs)
- Measuring tape and pencil
- Clamps
- Screwdriver
Step 1: Plan and Cut the Wood
Decide on the dimensions of your tray. A standard ottoman tray size is around 18” x 12”, but you can adjust based on your needs.
- Cut your 1×12” wooden board to the desired length.
- Cut 1×2” wooden strips to match the edges of the tray. These will act as raised sides to prevent items from sliding off. You will need two pieces for the length and two for the width.
- Sand all wood pieces with 120-grit sandpaper to remove rough edges, then smooth them further with 220-grit sandpaper.
Step 2: Assemble the Tray Frame
- Apply wood glue along the edges of the tray base.
- Position the 1×2” strips along the sides, forming a rectangular frame around the base.
- Secure the strips using wood screws or nails for extra durability. If using screws, drill pilot holes first to prevent wood from splitting.
- Wipe off any excess glue and let it dry for a few hours.
Step 3: Drill Holes for Rope Handles
- On the shorter sides of the tray, measure and mark two spots for the rope handles, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Use a drill and a bit slightly larger than the diameter of your rope to drill holes at the marked spots.
- Lightly sand the holes to remove rough edges.
Step 4: Stain or Paint the Tray
- Choose a wood stain for a natural, rustic look or paint for a bold, modern style.
- Apply stain using a clean cloth, or paint using a brush.
- Let it dry completely, then seal it with polyurethane to protect the surface from spills and scratches.
Step 5: Attach the Rope Handles
- Cut two pieces of sisal or jute rope (about 12” each) for the handles.
- Thread each end of the rope through the drilled holes from the outside in.
- Tie large knots on the inside to secure the rope in place. If needed, apply a drop of glue inside the knot for extra strength.
- Trim any excess rope and fray the ends slightly for a rustic touch.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Double-check that all screws are tight and edges are smooth.
- Wipe the entire tray with a dry cloth to remove dust.
- Your wooden ottoman tray with rope handles is now ready for use!
This project is a simple yet rewarding way to add both function and style to your living space. Whether you use it to hold drinks, snacks, or decorative items, your handmade tray will be a unique conversation piece.
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