DIY Friday: Lacquer Tray

I love these lacquered trays from West Elm–perfect for corralling magazines, remotes, etc. on so many surfaces and available in a slew of great colors.

West Elm Lacquer Trays

I’ve been using a large rectangular one in white atop my leather ottoman in the family room and it’s gotten a little beat up to say the least–lots of paint nicks from kids banging toys.

West Elm Tray Before

Even though it was looking a little sloppy, I didn’t want to get rid of it because it’s the perfect size. A quick trip to my local Paper Source (but any craft store will do) for paper, mod podge and a little polyurethane and here’s what I ended up with!

West Elm Tray After

Super easy project–took me about an hour in total:

1) Pick out a paper you love–I like it to be a little thicker, but simple wrapping paper can work, or even one of your children’s drawings or a real city map.

2) Cut the paper to fit the bottom of the tray exactly.

3) Using a sponge paint brush, spread a think layer mod podge along the bottom of the tray.

4) Carefully lay your paper over the mod podged tray and use something like a ruler or even a spatula to lay the paper flat and take out any wrinkles.

5) Once the mod podge dries (I waited 24 hrs to be sure) take your project outside and spray the whole thing with polyurethane according to the spray can’s directions. This is far better than using the mod podge as a top sealant if you’ll be using the tray for drinks, vases, etc.

Customized West Elm Lacquered Tray

And now I get to enjoy my “new” tray all for under $10!

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