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Home » DIY

How to Create a Rustic Wooden Tray in 5 Simple Steps

By Debbiedoo's Team Published: Jun 19, 2023

A rustic wooden tray is a great way to add a folksy touch to your home using a functional piece of decor. This article guides you through the simple process of decorating a rustic wooden tray using a stencil and twine.

rustic serving tray

1. Gather your supplies

  • Rustic wood pallet sign
  • Twine (heavier jute)
  • Staple gun
  • Stencil
  • Scissors
  • Painter’s tape
  • Stencil sponge
  • Acrylic craft paint

2. Set up your workspace

Prepare your working area to ensure it’s clean and free of obstacles. Your supplies should be within easy reach. Safety is paramount when using a staple gun, so always handle it with care and keep it out of reach of children.

3. Cut the twine

Measure and cut two pieces of twine, each approximately 9-10 inches (23-25 cm) in size. These pieces will serve as the handles for your tray. If you’re having trouble cutting the twine, sharpen your scissors to avoid fraying the ends.

4. Staple the handles

Flip the wooden pallet sign to the back. Staple one end of each twine piece to the tray, then staple the other ends, ensuring the handles are firm and sturdy.

5. Apply the stencil

Place your stencil on the front of the tray and use painter’s tape to secure its position. Dip the stencil sponge into paint and dab it over the design to apply the stencil design. Don’t overdo it, or you risk paint bleed-through. Once you’re done, remove the stencil and painter’s tape, and allow the paint to dry completely before moving on.

Your new rustic wooden tray is ready! To maintain its folksy charm, clean it gently with a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. You can even apply a wood preservative once in a while to prolong its life.

If you loved this project, find out how to make a bathroom vanity tray.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Heather

    April 20, 2017 at 8:21 am

    Oooh I love it Debbie! So cute!

    Reply
  2. laura {not a trophy wife}

    April 20, 2017 at 8:34 am

    Looks great Debbie! laura

    Reply
  3. Linda of Ho.Cal.

    April 20, 2017 at 9:05 am

    HI. GREAT idea !! Happy Spring !! –Linda of No.Cal.

    Reply
  4. Christy m

    April 20, 2017 at 10:29 am

    Looks great. Fun idea.

    Reply
  5. carol

    April 20, 2017 at 7:59 pm

    Cool tray; good idea Debbie. Quick, easy, and something you will use over & over.

    Reply
  6. Jeanie

    April 21, 2017 at 9:56 am

    This is adorable Debbie!!

    Reply
  7. Linda from Charlotte

    April 21, 2017 at 1:31 pm

    You could hang it from a cute hook when not in use as decoration. It wold be pretty with a large flower stencil or fruit.

    Reply
  8. Doris Raab

    April 21, 2017 at 4:11 pm

    Cute idea! And I love the stencil on it.

    Reply
  9. Marcy Ray

    April 22, 2017 at 12:44 am

    Easy & clever! Love it and plan to make one with horseshoe designs….perfect for my western theme patio area. The gather here is definitely keeper. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  10. Carol

    May 01, 2017 at 9:02 am

    That is so cute, Debbie! You just never know what you might find in Walmart!

    Hugs, Carol

    Reply
  11. Amy

    May 03, 2017 at 10:34 pm

    Really cute, Debbie! Great gift idea!

    Reply
  12. Debbie Marlin

    January 20, 2019 at 2:03 pm

    Hello ? Somehow I stumbled onto your site and watched your video on stenciling a small rug. I’ve been wanting to do that for some time now. Yayy! Now I know how! I think I’ll stick around and see what else I can learn! I like your site..thank you!

    Reply

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