Wall Hanging DIY

From Tray to Treasure: Upcycle a TV Tray into Stunning Wall Art

Looking for a creative way to upcycle a vintage TV tray or serving platter? Transform it into a stunning wall hanging with this easy DIY project! It's a perfect way to add a touch of personality to your home decor using items you already have.

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Grandma's Tray Gets a New Life

When we had my grandmother's auction, my sister won a "lot" that included this Coca-Cola serving tray. She told me, "I don't want it, do you want to take it off my hands?" Who am I to say no, especially to a free upcycling project?

Not this gal, that is for sure.

At Christmastime, this serving tray got a make over with green chalk paint, and then sat in my crafting station area leaning up against the wall. I had plans of using a Christmas rub-on-transfer, but nothing seemed right for this tray.

I am so glad I waited to finish working on it since I like to think it's makeover is a stunner.

Marrying Items Together: The Upcycled Wall Hanging is Born

When I went to the basement the other day, I was on a mission to declutter. My goal was to get at least two things out of the basement, and combining items together was on the agenda. More would be ideal, but I was settled on two at the very least.

I picked up the neglected tray, and said today is your day for a makeover my friend!

You see, I had already found this lovely border from Longaberger a few weeks ago stored in a box. We'll just say at this point, we can call it vintage wallpaper scraps, it's that old! I guess I saved things long before I was a blogger.

I thought hmm... how can I use this border with this serving tray for a wall decor piece? I settled on using white and antique wax from Waverly, and then cut out two scenes from my Longaberger wallpaper border.

Initially, I cut out the pictures, but then decided I wanted a vintage vibe for my tray, and used a straight edge, or in my case a stamp (grab what is close - teehee) and used it to tear along the sides to create a weathered edge look.

Let's Get Upcycling!

If you would also like to upcycle a TV tray into a beautiful wall hanging, then let's get started.

Materials:

• Paint:
  • Waverly Chalk Paint in Moss
  • Apple Barrel Nutmeg Brown Paint
• Other:
  • TV tray or serving tray
  • Sponge brush
  • Sandpaper
  • Waverly White Wax
  • Waverly Antique Wax
  • Wallpaper or wallpaper border scraps
  • Leftover rope
  • Ribbon of your choice
  • Hot glue gun
  • Duct tape (optional)

Instructions:

1. Paint your TV tray or serving tray using chalk paint. I had no issue with the paint sticking to the metal.
2. Let the paint dry completely.
3. Apply a second coat of paint and let it dry again.
4. Sand the edges of the tray to your liking. I wanted mine to appear well worn.
5. Add your wallpaper scraps or border to the tray.
6. Apply white wax to the entire tray to protect the chalk paint. You can then buff off some of the wax for a weathered look.
7. Add antique wax for an aged appearance.
8. To create a rusted effect, use Apple Barrel Nutmeg Brown Paint in light strokes.
9. Cut your rope to the desired length for hanging and hot glue it to the back of the tray in a secure pattern. You can use duct tape for extra reinforcement (optional).
10. Add a ribbon for a decorative touch (optional).

More Than Just Paint: The Magic of Wax

Now, I don't know about you, but my DIY projects tend to evolve the longer I work on them. There are two reasons for this: One, I like to experiment, and Two, I just keep thinking of ways to add more! This simple tray really got a wax work out.

I have found adding wax to my pieces really elevates the look of my DIY crafts. Have you ever tried wax?

Upcycle and Share Your Creation!

I hope this inspires you to upcycle your own TV tray or serving platter! Share your creations with me on social media using #UpcycledWallHanging for a chance to be featured.

Maybe you can help me, I couldn't decide, bow or not? Comment below to let me know your opinion.  

Ciao,

Cara