Tray tables

I’ve seen many new tray tables on the market recently. They inspired me to make my own. Top row: Julian Chichester, Ralph Lauren Home, William-Wayne & Co. Middle row: Oly, Malin Westberg, CB2. Bottom row: Svenskt Tenn, Iron Accents, Target.

DIY tray table - after

Plant stand

My neighbor gave me this rusty old plant stand, and I knew it could make a perfect base for my round metal tray. All it took was a little elbow grease, paint, and fasteners.

How to turn a plant stand into a tray table

Supplies & tools

  • serving tray
  • old plant stand
  • steel wool (I used #0 grade)
  • vacuum
  • rag or paper towel
  • spray paint
  • newspaper
  • Scotch Reclosable Fasteners

1. After cleaning and drying the plant stand, rub all the edges with steel wool to remove rust and flaking paint. (This is the most laborious part of the project.)

2. Vacuum and wipe it down with a damp rag to remove all the steel wool lint.

3. Take the plant stand outdoors to spray paint. Lay down newspaper underneath it, covering the surrounding area to protect from overspray. Follow the instructions on the can of paint. Flip the plant stand over and paint the underside as well.

4. Cut inch-long pieces of the hook-and-loop fasteners. Peel off the backing. Stick hook side to top of plant stand.

5. Flip the plant stand over, and stick the loop side to the bottom of the tray.