This beautiful serving tray with collapsible legs was created by David from Make Something. It’s perfect for serving breakfast in bed or for a picnic, and it’s beginner-friendly!
Materials and Tools
- English Walnut or Cherry wood
- 1/8-inch plywood
- Wood glue
- Connecting bolts
- Sawdust for filling gaps
- Finishing oil (food safe)
- Table saw
- Router
- Band saw
- Drill
- Clamps or tape
- Sandpaper
Step 1: Cut the Frame
Start by cutting the strips for the frame of the serving tray. Set your table saw blade to 45 degrees and cut the two long sides and two short sides. This will create the mitered corners for a clean look.
Step 2: Create the Groove
Next, cut a groove down the center of each piece to hold the plywood bottom. Set the blade height to 3/8 inches and run each piece through the table saw.
Step 3: Fit the Plywood Bottom
Cut a piece of 1/8-inch plywood to size, making it slightly oversized. Test fit it in the groove and trim as needed until it fits snugly.
Step 4: Cut the Handles
To create the handles, measure and mark a half-inch in on the small ends of the side pieces. Use a coin to draw a rounded edge and then cut this out.
Step 5: Sand and Round Edges
Smooth out all the edges, especially around the handles, using a router for a comfortable grip.
Step 6: Glue the Frame Together
Apply glue in the miter joints and fit everything together. Use tape to hold it in place while it dries. It’s not necessary to clamp it tightly since you’ll reinforce it later.
Step 7: Reinforce with Splines
Once the glue has dried, cut splines to reinforce the joints. Use a spline jig to make this process easier.
Step 8: Prepare the Legs
Cut four legs for the tray. Drill a half-inch hole in each leg to hold a support dowel that will allow the legs to swing out.
Step 9: Install the Connecting Bolts
Install connecting bolts into the legs, ensuring they are the right length for a snug fit. This will allow the legs to pivot and fold up when not in use.
Step 10: Finish the Tray
Finally, apply a food-safe finish to the tray. This will protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty.
And there you have it! A beautiful serving tray with collapsible legs, perfect for any occasion.