How to Make a Tea Tray for Under $5

Easy Tea Tray for Under $5

Trays aren't just for TV dinners; they are also a great way to keep clutter at bay. You can make your own trays quickly and inexpensively to match your living room, bedroom or kitchen decor by following these easy steps.

Things You'll Need

• 1 unfinished wooden tray
• 1 bottle of gold acrylic craft paint
• 1 12-inche square black felt
• 1 small bag decorative floral rocks
• Tacky glue or glue gun

Instructions

1. Wipe down the tea tray to remove any dust.

2. Squirt some paint onto a slightly damp sponge or rag and wipe down the tray with the paint. This gives a sheer coverage and lets the wood show through. Let it dry for a few minutes and repeat if necessary.

3. When dry, hot-glue the black felt to the bottom of tray (you can also use tacky glue).

4. Glue the pebble pieces to the side of tray. Aim for a random effect.

5. Use the tray to hold a coffee cup, TV remote, glasses, cell phone, jewelry or keys. You can also use it as a serving piece for entertaining.