If you’ve known me for long, you know I don’t pass up vintage items if they’re made of wood. This beautiful walnut veneer tray with monogram inlay was too good to not take home. However, it needs a refresh that will suit it better. This vintage wooden tray is going down babyyyy!
A friend sent me this photo above asking if I have any interest in it. I initially thought it was a metal TV tray from the good ol’ days. Then, she replied that it was wood, that sold me on it. Later, on closer inspection, I see that the “R” in intricately inlaid into the tray top.
DIY TIME
First, I begin by sanding off the worn finish. The veneer is in pretty good shape with the corners beat up, but I think I can make it work. I spy beautiful grain!
After I finish sanding, I use a tackcloth to remove any dust and debris, then stain with my favorite reactive stains. The work with the tannins in the wood to age it naturally. You can see my past projects with them in these past posts.
Next, I use a dinner plate to encircle the monogram and add my own details. I’m often mentioning how I love to hand-paint. This makes it my own as well as updates it too.
Last, I also add a bit of color to the edges and top with a poly for added protection.
THE REVEAL
Finally, after a few hours of DIY fun and my vintage wooden tray is made new.
Not only does it showcase the monogram, but I also love how the paint gives it a modern vibe. That way, you can dress up your hand-me-downs to make them your own for your own home story.
I’d love to hear what kind of fun gems you’ve been given or found over the years. Do you keep them as-is or dress them up.
Also, if you didn’t notice, my last name doesn’t begin with an “R”. So. you’ll find this tray available in my online shop. Ready to serve, hang on a wall, or lean on a mantel.
In addition, leave me some love below, do pin and share to inspire others too. Give DIY a try…it’s fun!
Up next, it’s Reduce, Reuse, REFASHION time. My beautiful pink cashmere sweater is on the chopping block. eep! See the after HERE.
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Also, more fun makeovers like this vintage wooden tray:
So pretty! The monogram really pops now. Can’t believe how new it looks compared to the way you received it. What a great eye you have!!
Thank you, Rebecca. It was so pretty and too good to pass up. 😀
Oh my goodness! What a beautiful tray. I love monograms, typography, and just love how you updated it!
You and me both, Kim. I’d love to know more about it.
I wish my last name was an R word!
hahaha! That’s what my daughter said. Too funny!
So cute that you were able to save the monogram! that’s something i didn’t think about when i got married and didn’t take my husband’s last name (and he didn’t take mine either!). Monograms just don’t work for us, but i’ve survived!
Too funny! 😀
Wow! So creative Larissa! Beautiful transformation! The original tray when new never looked so good! Design is definitely your sweet spot girl 🙂 Thank you for sharing and inspiring!
woot! I was excited to see that it was an inlay monogram. Amazing craftsmanship! Thank you, Mary.
Love the fresh new paint along with the monogrammed veneer! You cleaned it up beautifully my friend! XOXO
Aww…thank you, Denise. I’m so tickled you stopped by. Yes, that monogram is saweeeet!
It’s so pretty, Larissa! The monogram looks even better with the handpainted detail encircling it. Love the colors and nice save!
I just couldn’t cover it up. I’m amazed at the inlay. Thanks, Marie!
Hi Larissa, I love what you did to freshen up this wood tray. The wood is gorgeous and I think your free hand painting really added to the monogram.
Hi Kaycee! Thank you. I would love to know the history behind it, but couldn’t find anything. Fun!