“Treasure on a Tray: 10 Creative Ways to Reuse Goodwill Trays”

👋 Introduction:
Next time you stroll through Goodwill, don’t pass by those dusty trays tucked behind the glassware and mismatched mugs. These humble household staples might look like yesterday’s castoffs, but with a bit of creativity, they can become today’s treasures. From stylish storage to artistic flair, thrifted trays are the perfect blank canvas for DIY projects that add charm and function to your home.

Below, you’ll find a fun “recipe” for reimagining those trays—because crafting, like cooking, is better with a little inspiration.

🍽 Ingredients:

• 1 tray from Goodwill (metal, wood, plastic, or acrylic — any will do!)

• Your creativity and a touch of DIY spirit
  Optional “seasonings” depending on your project:

• Acrylic paints

• Chalk paint

• Wallpaper or decorative paper

• Mod Podge or craft glue

• Fabric scraps

• Handles, knobs, or hooks

• Magnets, cork, or blackboard sheets

• Drill, glue gun, and sandpaper

🛠 Preparation (10 Nifty Ideas to Reuse Trays):

1. Vintage Vanity Tray
   Paint and distress a tray to hold perfumes, candles, or jewelry on your dresser.

2. Chic Coffee Table Organizer
   Add handles or rope accents and use it to corral remotes, candles, or coasters.

3. Magnetic Message Board
   Glue a magnetic sheet inside a metal tray and hang it near the entryway for notes, lists, or photos.

4. DIY Chalkboard Menu
   Paint the surface with chalkboard paint and use it to display daily menus or inspiring quotes.

5. Tiered Serving Tray
   Stack trays of different sizes using candlesticks or vases as risers for a custom cupcake stand or jewelry holder.

6. Lap Desk or Breakfast Tray
   Add cushions underneath (use old pillows or upholstery foam) to create a comfy lap desk or breakfast-in-bed tray.

7. Wall Art Collage Base
   Use decorative paper or fabric and Mod Podge to turn trays into unique framed art for gallery walls.

8. Indoor Herb Garden Base
   Use metal or plastic trays to corral small pots and catch water spills in your kitchen windowsill garden.

9. Entryway Drop Zone
   Add hooks to the bottom or side and mount it by your front door to hold keys, mail, and sunnies.

10. Kid’s Craft Station
    Organize crayons, glue, and paint brushes on a tray for easy cleanup and portable play.

🍽 Serving & Storage Tips:

• Store flat trays vertically like books in a cabinet to save space.

• Label the bottom with a date and description if used for seasonal decor or rotating projects.

• For outdoor or kitchen use, seal with a waterproof or food-safe coating.

🔄 Variations: