Making a wooden bed tray with folding legs is a fun woodworking project that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. Not only will it help you enjoy meals or work in bed, but it can also be a beautiful piece of craftsmanship. Below is a step-by-step guide to making your own wooden bed tray with folding legs.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden planks (hardwood like oak or pine works well)
- Wood glue
- Screws or nails
- Hinges (for folding legs)
- Sandpaper or an electric sander
- Wood stain or paint (optional for finishing)
- Finish (e.g., polyurethane) to protect the wood
- Measuring tape
- Wood saw (miter saw or handsaw)
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Clamps
Tools Required:
- Saw (miter saw or handsaw)
- Drill and drill bits
- Sandpaper (or sander)
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Wood glue
- Hinges
Step 1: Cut the Wood Pieces
Start by measuring and cutting your wood pieces according to the size of your tray. Typically, a bed tray measures around 18 inches by 12 inches for the top. Adjust according to your desired size.
- Tray Top: One rectangle piece that will form the top surface of the tray (typically 18″x12″).
- Tray Sides: Four pieces, two for the long sides and two for the short sides. These will be attached to the edges of the top to create a shallow tray.
- Legs: Four legs, each about 10-14 inches in length, depending on how high you want your tray to sit off the bed.
Make sure to cut the legs at an angle if you want them to fold neatly. A 90-degree angle works, but you could also use a slight bevel to help them fold more easily.
Step 2: Sand the Pieces
Using sandpaper or a sander, smooth all of your cut edges and surfaces. You want to eliminate any rough spots or splinters for a clean, polished look. If you want a rustic finish, a light sanding will work, but if you’re looking for a refined, smooth surface, go over the entire tray with a fine-grit sandpaper.
Step 3: Assemble the Tray Base
Now, it’s time to assemble the base of the tray. Take the four side pieces and attach them to the edges of the tray top using wood glue and screws. Start by applying wood glue along the edges of the tray’s top, then clamp the side pieces in place while you drill small pilot holes for screws. This will ensure the side pieces are securely attached.
- Pro Tip: If you’re using screws, make sure the screws are small enough that they won’t poke through the surface of the tray top. Use a countersink drill bit if necessary to help the screws sit flush with the wood surface.
Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 4: Attach the Folding Legs
The legs of the tray will be attached with hinges so they can fold underneath when not in use.
Drill Holes: Drill small holes into the top of each leg and corresponding spots along the sides of the tray where you want the legs to fold out from.
Install Hinges: Using small hinges, attach the legs to the tray. Position the hinges on the inside of the tray sides so the legs can fold inward when not in use. Ensure that the hinges allow the legs to extend out at a 90-degree angle, or slightly less if you prefer a more compact tray.
Test the Movement: Before securing everything tightly, test the folding mechanism. The legs should move smoothly, with no binding or difficulty folding. If there is too much friction, you may need to adjust the hinge positions.
Step 5: Secure the Legs in Place
Once the hinges are in place, secure them with screws. If you want a more refined look, you can use decorative screws or hidden hinges, but standard brass or steel hinges are typically sufficient for most projects.
Once the legs are attached, fold them in and out a few times to ensure the mechanism works as expected.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Now that the basic structure is in place, it’s time to finish the bed tray.
Staining or Painting: You can stain the wood for a natural, rustic look or paint it to match your bedroom décor. If you’re staining, make sure to apply a wood conditioner first for an even stain finish. Let the stain dry before applying a clear wood finish or polyurethane to protect the surface.
Final Sanding: After applying stain or paint, give the tray another light sanding to smooth any rough areas. Finish off with a final coat of clear polyurethane for durability and protection.
Step 7: Optional Additions
You can add some extra features to make your bed tray even more useful or decorative:
- Handles: Attach a pair of small handles on the sides of the tray for easy carrying.
- Non-slip Pads: Attach felt pads or rubber grips to the underside of the tray to prevent slipping on the bed.
- Personalization: Add engraving or wood carvings to make it unique and personal.
- Custom Legs: For a more artistic design, consider making custom-shaped legs, like tapered or angled legs.
Step 8: Enjoy Your New Bed Tray!
Once everything is dry and securely in place, your wooden bed tray with folding legs is ready to use! It’s perfect for breakfast in bed, working on your laptop, or as a small, convenient table for your bedtime reading.
Conclusion
Building a wooden bed tray with folding legs is a practical and enjoyable woodworking project that doesn’t require advanced skills. Whether you’re using it for a cozy breakfast in bed or as a lap desk, the combination of functionality and aesthetics makes this tray an excellent addition to any home.
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