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Hostess Tray

  • June 16, 2015


This simple, yet versatile serving tray can go from "breakfast in bed" to "drinks on the deck" with ease.
With only 5 pieces to cut, a few nails and some wood glue, this project can be finished in less than a couple of hours.
Once finished with the construction, there are a multitude of finish choices for this tray.
Whether you choose to stain it, stencil it, paint it, or leave it in its natural state, you will be able to use this serving tray for many occasions and years to come.

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  1. Project Steps

    1. Step: 1

      Cut the Base Panel. Measure the base panel and then cut it using your RYOBI Circular Saw. Base Panel Cut: 13-3/8" x 17"

    2. Step: 2

      Cut Sides & End Panels. Cut 2 Sides & End Panels from the 1x3 using your Circular Saw. Side Board Cut: 18-1/2" x 21/2" (2) End Board w/ Handle Cut: 13-3/8" x 2-1/2" (2)

    3. Step: 3

      Mark the Handles. To center the handles and the end panels, mark 6 5/8. The handles need to be 4 inches wide. Mark 4 5/8 and 8 5/8. From the top edge, mark 1/2 inch and 1 1/4 inch. To round out the ends of the handles, use a penny as a template.

    4. Step: 4

      Cut out the Handles. Drill a small pilot hole in order to start cutting with your jig saw. Even up the cut from the back, if needed. Use fine sandpaper to smooth out sharp edges.

    5. Step: 5

      Assemble the Tray. Apply a small bead of wood glue along the edge of the base panel. Join one end board. Using your AirStrike, place 3-5 nails along the edge. Repeat these steps on the other end. Glue the left and right side of the hostess tray, and nail. Wipe off excess glue with a clean towel.

    6. Step: 6

      Fill Holes & Sand Tray Use wood filler to fill the nail holes, and use your sandpaper to lightly smooth out sharp edges. You’re ready for decoration!

Comments (1)


  • Useful this tray. I liked it. L.ZACCARO
    By luiz_zaccaro, on December 21, 2015

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Hostess Tray

by Crates & Pallet
Jun 16, 2015

This simple, yet versatile serving tray can go from "breakfast in bed" to "drinks on the deck" with ease. With only 5 pieces to cut, a few nails and some wood glue, this project can be finished in less than a couple of hours. Once finished with the construction, there are a multitude of finish choices for this tray. Whether you choose to stain it, stencil it, paint it, or leave it in its natural state, you will be able to use this serving tray for many occasions and years to come.

Project Steps

  1. Step: 1

    Cut the Base Panel. Measure the base panel and then cut it using your RYOBI Circular Saw. Base Panel Cut: 13-3/8" x 17"

  2. Step: 2

    Cut Sides & End Panels. Cut 2 Sides & End Panels from the 1x3 using your Circular Saw. Side Board Cut: 18-1/2" x 21/2" (2) End Board w/ Handle Cut: 13-3/8" x 2-1/2" (2)

  3. Step: 3

    Mark the Handles. To center the handles and the end panels, mark 6 5/8. The handles need to be 4 inches wide. Mark 4 5/8 and 8 5/8. From the top edge, mark 1/2 inch and 1 1/4 inch. To round out the ends of the handles, use a penny as a template.

  4. Step: 4

    Cut out the Handles. Drill a small pilot hole in order to start cutting with your jig saw. Even up the cut from the back, if needed. Use fine sandpaper to smooth out sharp edges.

  5. Step: 5

    Assemble the Tray. Apply a small bead of wood glue along the edge of the base panel. Join one end board. Using your AirStrike, place 3-5 nails along the edge. Repeat these steps on the other end. Glue the left and right side of the hostess tray, and nail. Wipe off excess glue with a clean towel.

  6. Step: 6

    Fill Holes & Sand Tray Use wood filler to fill the nail holes, and use your sandpaper to lightly smooth out sharp edges. You’re ready for decoration!