Walnut Serving Tray
A shallow tray with mitered walnut sides, a plywood bottom and brass handles. Sized for breakfast in bed or drinks on the deck.
Difficulty Beginner Category Decor Time 80 min Cost $22 Primary wood Walnut
01Materials
- 1×3 walnut, 8 ft
- 1/4 in walnut plywood bottom
- 2 brass handles
- Wood glue
- Finish oil
02Cut List
| # | Part | Dimension | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 2 × 1×3 | 20 in | long sides |
| 02 | 2 × 1×3 | 14 in | short sides |
| 03 | 1 × 1/4 ply | 18.5 × 12.5 in | bottom |
03Tools
- Miter saw
- Router (dado for bottom)
- Drill/driver
- Strap clamp
- Sander
04Build Steps
- Cut and groove the sides. Miter the four sides and cut a 1/4 in dado near the bottom edge of each to accept the plywood bottom.
- Assemble the frame. Glue the miters around the bottom panel and clamp with a strap clamp until set.
- Attach the handles. Mark and pre-drill for the brass handles, then screw them to the short sides.
- Sand and finish. Sand through the grits and apply food-safe oil so the tray can carry food.
Safety First
- Clamp the tray flat; miters can slip while the glue is wet.
- Use food-safe finish if the tray will hold food.
05Pro Tips
- Dry-fit the bottom in the dado before gluing the miters.
- A light chamfer on the top edge feels better in the hand.
