Creating a wooden breakfast tray with foldable legs combines functionality with a touch of craftsmanship. It’s a great woodworking project that’s not only practical but also a wonderful addition to your home. Follow these steps to build your own wooden breakfast tray with foldable legs.
Materials You’ll Need:
- 1/2-inch plywood (for the tray surface)
- 1×2 lumber (for the legs and frame)
- Hinges (for folding mechanism)
- Wood glue
- Screws
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood finish or paint (optional)
- Saw (circular or hand saw)
- Drill and drill bits
- Measuring tape
- Wood clamps
- Wood filler (optional)
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles)
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Plan and Measure
Start by determining the size of your tray. A standard breakfast tray is usually about 18 to 20 inches in length and 12 to 15 inches in width. The legs, once folded, should make the tray easy to store, so aim for a height of about 10-12 inches when they’re extended.
2. Cut the Tray Base
Using your plywood, measure and mark the dimensions for the tray base. A typical size would be around 18 inches by 12 inches.
- Cut the plywood: Use a saw to cut the tray base to your desired size.
- Sand the edges: Smooth all the edges of the plywood with sandpaper to remove any rough spots.
3. Build the Frame for the Tray
To make the tray stronger and give it a finished look, you’ll want to add a frame around the edges. Use the 1×2 lumber to create the frame:
- Measure and cut four pieces of 1×2 lumber: These should be cut to the length and width of the tray, two pieces for the sides and two for the ends.
- Assemble the frame: Apply wood glue to the edges of the plywood where the frame pieces will attach, and then secure the frame to the tray using screws. Make sure the pieces are square (90-degree angles) before securing them.
4. Prepare the Legs
The legs are what make this tray unique, so make sure they are sturdy and easy to fold.
- Measure and cut four pieces of 1×2 lumber: These will be the legs. Typically, you’ll want each leg to be around 10 to 12 inches long, but adjust according to your needs.
- Cut notches for folding mechanism: Each leg will have a small notch or recess cut into it to accommodate the hinge, allowing them to fold. Use a saw to cut a shallow notch on one end of each leg.
- Sand the legs: Smooth the legs using sandpaper.
5. Attach Hinges to the Legs
The key to making the legs foldable is using hinges. You will attach the hinges to the notched areas on each leg.
- Position the hinges: Lay the legs flat against the underside of the tray. Attach the hinges to the notched ends of the legs and to the underside of the tray. This allows the legs to fold in when not in use.
- Test the folding mechanism: Make sure the legs fold smoothly. If the hinges are too tight, you may need to adjust them.
6. Finishing Touches
- Fill any gaps or screw holes: If you used screws to assemble the tray or legs, fill the holes with wood filler for a smooth finish.
- Sand the tray: After the wood filler dries, sand the tray and legs again to ensure a smooth surface.
- Finish the tray: You can choose to stain or paint your breakfast tray to match your style. Apply your finish of choice (oil, varnish, or paint) and allow it to dry completely.
7. Add Handles (Optional)
To make carrying the tray easier, you can add handles. You can either purchase handles or craft your own from small pieces of wood.
- Measure and mark where you want the handles: Typically, handles are placed on the short sides of the tray.
- Attach the handles: Drill small holes for screws, attach the handles, and tighten them.
Final Touches
Once the finish has fully dried, your wooden breakfast tray with foldable legs is ready for use! This tray will serve as a functional piece in your home, great for serving breakfast in bed or using it as a portable workspace. The foldable legs make it easy to store away when not in use.
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