Making a wooden breakfast tray with folding legs is a great woodworking project that combines practicality with a bit of craftsmanship. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create one:
Materials Needed:
- 1 x 2″ or 1 x 3″ lumber for the tray frame
- 1/4″ plywood or solid wood for the tray bottom
- Hinges (small, strong ones)
- Folding leg brackets (or hinges for the legs)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper or an electric sander
- Wood finish or paint (optional)
- Measuring tape
- Saw (table saw or hand saw)
- Drill and bits
- Clamps
Step 1: Cut the Wood Pieces
- Tray Frame: Cut four pieces of 1 x 2 or 1 x 3 lumber. Two pieces should be the length of the tray, and two should be the width.
- Tray Bottom: Cut a piece of plywood or solid wood to fit the inside dimensions of the frame.
- Legs: Cut four legs from a sturdy piece of wood (you can make them rectangular or square in cross-section). They should be around 12-15 inches long (depending on how high you want the tray to be when open).
- Leg Hinges: If using wood for the legs, you’ll need to cut two more pieces of wood to act as braces for folding. These should match the length of your legs when folded.
Step 2: Assemble the Tray Frame
- Arrange the four pieces of your frame to form a rectangle (the long pieces should be on the sides and the short pieces on the ends).
- Use wood glue to hold them in place, and reinforce with screws for added stability.
- Allow the glue to dry before proceeding.
Step 3: Attach the Tray Bottom
- Lay the tray bottom (plywood or solid wood) inside the frame.
- Secure it using wood glue and small screws around the perimeter. Make sure it’s flush with the top of the frame.
Step 4: Install Hinges for the Legs
- Attach the hinges to the inside of the frame at the corners where the legs will fold out from.
- The legs should be able to fold into the sides of the tray. Make sure the hinges allow for smooth folding and unfolding.
Step 5: Attach the Legs
- Secure each leg to the hinges so they can fold out easily. The folding mechanism should allow the legs to lock in place when extended.
- If you use folding brackets, install them where the legs meet the tray.
Step 6: Sand the Tray
- Sand all edges and surfaces until smooth, removing any rough spots or splinters.
- If you want a sleek finish, consider sanding with finer grits of sandpaper.
Step 7: Apply Finish (Optional)
- You can apply a wood finish, paint, or stain to enhance the look and protect the tray from water damage.
- Allow the finish to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 8: Test the Functionality
- Fold and unfold the legs a few times to make sure the tray functions properly.
- Ensure the legs lock into place when extended and fold neatly when closed.
Final Thoughts:
- This tray can be a great addition to any home, and its foldable legs make it perfect for storing away when not in use.
- Customize it with decorative elements, such as handles, inlays, or carvings, for a more personal touch.
Optional Tip: For extra stability, you can add cross supports between the legs, or even consider adding non-slip feet to the base of the legs.
If you’re looking to take your woodworking skills further, Teds Woodworking Course is a great way to learn advanced techniques and create even more impressive projects! Check out Teds Woodworking Course here.