Plant stand = DIY tray table

Tray table next to n armless chair, photo

I’ve seen many tray tables on the market recently. You know, the side tables with removable trays. They inspired me to make my own. My neighbor gave me this rusty old plant stand, and I knew it could make a perfect base for my round metal tray. All it took was a little elbow grease, paint, and fasteners. (This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, I may earn a small commission. You can read my full disclosure here.)

Here are some of the tray tables that inspired me. Top row: Julian Chichester, Ralph Lauren Home, William-Wayne & Co. Middle row: Oly, Malin Westberg, CB2. Bottom row: Svenskt Tenn, Iron Accents, Target.

How to turn a plant stand into a tray table

SUPPLIES & TOOLS

serving tray
plant stand
steel wool (I used #0 grade)
vacuum
rag or paper towels
spray paint
newspaper
Scotch Reclosable Fasteners

INSTRUCTIONS

Use steel wool to smooth out the rust, photo

1. After cleaning and drying the plant stand, rub all the edges with steel wool to remove rust and flaking paint. (This is the most laborious part of the project.)

2. Vacuum and wipe it down with a damp rag to remove all the steel wool lint.

3. Take the plant stand outdoors to spray paint. Lay down newspaper underneath it, covering the surrounding area to protect from overspray. Follow the instructions on the can of paint. Flip the plant stand over and paint the underside as well.

4. Cut inch-long pieces of the hook-and-loop fasteners. I bought it by the roll, but it also comes in smaller pre-cut pieces. Peel off the backing. Stick hook side to top of plant stand.