What You Need for This Project
Cut List
Part |
Material | Length | Quantity |
Side Pieces | 1x4 | 20 1/2 in. | 2 |
Rip cut the pieces to 2 in. wide.
Part | Material | Length | Quantity |
End Pieces | 1x4 | 14 1/2 in. | 2 |
Rip cut the pieces to 2 in. wide.
Part | Material | Length | Quantity |
Bottom (floating panel) | 1/4 in. face plywood | See note | 1 |
It is best to cut the bottom to size after the side pieces have been dry-fitted to the end pieces.
Make a Serving Tray
Rout Dadoes on the Sides & Ends
Rout or cut a 1/2 in. deep by 1/4 in. wide dado on one face of each side and end piece. The bottom of the dado should be 1/2 in. from the nearest edge of the piece. The dadoed faces will be the inside of the tray.

Mitre the Side & End Pieces
Mitre the end pieces so they are 14 in. long on their outside faces, then mitre the side pieces so they are 20 in. long on their outside faces.
Centre a handle 1/2 in. down from the top edge of one of the end pieces and mark the end piece for the handle screws. Bore holes through the end piece to receive the screws. Use the first end piece as a template to bore holes in the second one.

Dry-Fit the Assembly
Square and dry fit the pieces together. Measure for and cut the bottom panel.

Finish Assembling the Tray
With the panel set in the dadoes, glue and nail the side and end pieces together. Use a square to square the assembly. Use clamps to hold the tray square while the glue dries.
After the glue has cured, attach the handles. Fill all holes and imperfections with wood filler. Sand the entire tray and wipe off the dust.

Seal the Wood
Paint or stain the tray to suit your taste. For a more decorative touch, stencil the tray to match your décor or to make several trays with seasonal or holiday themes. Just be sure to protect your artwork with a suitable clear topcoat.

How To Terms
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