How to Make a Serving Tray Using a Picture Frame

A frame can be used for an elegant serving tray.

Serving trays are not only functional but beautiful as well. Finding a sturdy, elegant option can become very expensive and making one yourself is relatively simple. Using everyday materials such as cardboard, Plexiglas, glue and a screwdriver, you can create a beautiful one-of-a-kind tray that is both decorative and useful.

Things You'll Need

• 10- by-12-inch decorative picture frame
• Pliers
• Puncture-proof craft mat
• Sandpaper
• Drill
• 1/4-inch drill bit
• Clear varnish
• Sponge brush
• 2 decorative handles
• Phillip's head screwdriver
• Plexiglas
• Cardboard
• Utility knife
• Hot glue gun
• Felt

Instructions

1. Purchase a 10-by-12-inch decorative picture frame from a local home decor store. Remove the glass insert with a pair of pliers, insuring that all the staples have been taken out. Sand the inside edge of the frame to make it easier to varnish later.

2. Turn the picture frame right side up on a puncture-free craft mat. Measure the length of the decorative handles. Center one handle on the 10-inch side of the frame, marking the holes with a pencil. Drill holes with a 1/8-inch drill bit through the pencil marks making sure it doesn't go all the way through. Repeat process for the other side of the frame. Set the handles aside for future use.

3. Apply clear varnish to the entire frame in using a sponge brush and light pressure. Insure that it is completely covered and allow it to dry completely. Repeat this step for a second coat.

4. Remove the varnished frame from the puncture-free craft mat and set it aside. Lay the piece of Plexiglas on the craft mat and set the piece of glass on top. Score the Plexiglas with a utility knife using the edges of the glass piece as a guide. Remove the piece of glass from the work surface. Apply pressure to the score lines and finish cutting the Plexiglas.

5. Place the cut piece of Plexiglas over the top of the cardboard piece. Use the utility knife and score the cardboard using the sides of the Plexiglas as a guide. Remove the Plexiglas from the work surface. Apply pressure with the utility knife along the score lines and finish cutting the cardboard piece.

6. Bring the frame, Plexiglas and cardboard back to your work surface. Position the frame so the bottom is facing up. Apply hot glue to all sides of the inside lip of the frame. Place the Plexiglas onto the glue pressing firmly to secure. Repeat this step with the cardboard so that it is layered on top of the Plexiglas. Allow the glue to dry completely before continuing.

7. Cut four 2-inch squares out of the felt and glue it to the back side in the corners, to prevent the tray from scratching surfaces. Finish the frame by screwing the handles into place on the front side of the tray using a Philips head screwdriver.

Tips & Warnings

• If you cannot find decorative handles, you can substitute them for knob-style drawer pulls or wooden dowels.

• Take caution when using the utility knife to avoid injury. Insure that all the staples or nails are taken out of the frame when disassembling it.

References

• Martha Stewart Crafts: Picture Frame Tray