How to Build a Wooden Armrest Tray for Sofas
A wooden armrest tray is a practical and stylish addition to any living room, offering a stable surface for placing drinks, remote controls, or snacks without the need for a side table. This DIY project is simple, requires minimal tools, and can be customized to fit any sofa armrest. Follow this step-by-step guide to build your own wooden armrest tray.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- 1×6 or 1×8 wooden board (hardwood like oak, walnut, or pine)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws (optional)
- Sandpaper (120- and 220-grit)
- Wood stain or paint
- Clear polyurethane sealant
- Measuring tape
- Soft felt or rubber pads (optional)
Tools:
- Saw (circular saw, table saw, or handsaw)
- Clamps
- Drill (optional for screws)
- Brush or cloth for staining
- Ruler or carpenter’s square
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Measure the Sofa Armrest
Before cutting the wood, measure the width and height of your sofa’s armrest. This will help determine the correct size for your tray. Ensure the sides are long enough to provide a snug fit without being too tight.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Using your saw, cut three wooden pieces:
- Top piece: This should be wide enough to cover the top of the sofa armrest.
- Two side pieces: These should be tall enough to wrap around the armrest’s sides.
Example: If your sofa armrest is 6 inches wide and 4 inches tall, cut:
- Top piece: 8 inches long x 6 inches wide
- Side pieces: 8 inches long x 4 inches wide
Step 3: Sand the Wood
Smooth all pieces with 120-grit sandpaper to remove rough edges, then follow up with 220-grit sandpaper for a finer finish. This will help prevent splinters and allow the stain or paint to adhere evenly.
Step 4: Assemble the Tray
- Apply wood glue along the edges of the side pieces and attach them to the top piece, forming a U-shape.
- Clamp the pieces together and let the glue dry for at least an hour.
- For extra durability, drill pilot holes and insert wood screws at the joints (optional).
Step 5: Stain or Paint the Tray
- Choose a stain that matches your furniture or a paint color that complements your décor.
- Apply the stain or paint with a brush or cloth, following the wood grain.
- Let it dry completely before applying a second coat if needed.
Step 6: Seal with Polyurethane
To protect the wood from spills and wear, apply a clear polyurethane sealant. Let it dry thoroughly before using the tray.
Step 7: Attach Felt Pads (Optional)
To prevent scratching the sofa armrest, attach soft felt or rubber pads to the inner sides of the tray.
Final Thoughts
This DIY wooden armrest tray is a simple yet stylish solution for enhancing your living space. With a few basic tools and materials, you can create a functional piece that adds convenience and charm to your home.
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