Building a wooden tray table for serving breakfast in bed is a great DIY project! Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Materials & Tools
Materials:
- Plywood or solid wood board (for the tray surface)
- Wooden strips (for tray edges)
- Wooden dowels or small legs (for folding legs)
- Hinges (for foldable legs)
- Wood glue
- Screws
- Sandpaper
- Wood stain or paint
- Polyurethane (for finishing)
Tools:
- Saw (hand saw, jigsaw, or circular saw)
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Clamps
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cut the Tray Surface
- Cut a rectangular or oval piece of wood (about 18” x 12” is a good size).
- Sand the edges and surface smooth.
Step 2: Create Tray Sides
- Cut four wooden strips to form the border (about 1.5” to 2” high).
- Attach them using wood glue and screws/nails.
- Sand the edges for a smooth finish.
Step 3: Attach the Handles (Optional)
- Drill handle holes on the shorter sides or attach pre-made handles.
Step 4: Build the Folding Legs
- Cut four wooden dowels or strips for legs (about 8-12 inches high).
- Connect two legs with a wooden crossbar for stability.
- Attach hinges where the legs meet the tray, allowing them to fold in.
Step 5: Assemble & Secure
- Test the folding mechanism to ensure the legs tuck in properly.
- Sand everything down again for smooth edges.
Step 6: Stain or Paint
- Apply a wood stain or paint for a stylish look.
- Let it dry, then apply polyurethane for durability.
Final Touches
Once dry, test your tray with some breakfast items to ensure it’s sturdy. You now have a beautiful, custom-made wooden tray table for breakfast in bed!
Would you like design variations or alternative materials? 😊