Wooden trays are not only used for carrying and serving various food items but also to keep many smaller articles organized at one place. Traditional wooden trays usually have a flat surface with raised edges to stop things from sliding off. In spite of the availability of trays in varied materials like metal, steel, plastic etc., wooden (oak, birch, pine) trays are most sought after perhaps due to their beautiful appearance.

  • Purchase a large unfinished shadow box picture frame. Any frame will work if it’s 8 inches by 10 inches or larger. Buy one set of drawer handles.
  • Remove the glass and cardboard from the frame. Finish the wooden part of the frame by applying stain or paint to match your decor. Allow the paint or stain to dry for 24 hours.
  • Determine the middle of the short sides of the frame with a measuring tape. Mark the middle with a piece of tape so you know where to place the handles. You can put the handles on either the top or the sides of the frame. Center one handle of each of the short sides and screw them into the frame from the back.
  • Glue pictures or trinkets to the inside of the shadow box, if you want to decorate it.
  • Replace the glass and the back of the shadowbox frame. Your tray is ready to use.

Here is the link where you can find how to decorate your wooden tray:

http://handicraftideas.wordpress.com/2010/09/01/decorating-the-tray/