There are times when I get offered things that honest folk think I can save. It’s flattering, but it’s also hard to say no when I just don’t have it in me. Then, there are times when my heart skips a beat because I’m instantly inspired on first sight. That’s what happened when I saw this sad look round glass serving tray. It’s definitely in need of a Prodigal Pieces makeover, wouldn’t you say?
At first glance, I don’t see any marking to tell of the maker. However, the brass handles, the joinery, and even the beveled glass tell me this was once a classy piece. Sad that it looks as it does now, but that makes it all the more fun for me to have my way with it.
DIY TIME
It appear that either someone tried to remove the original paint or someone painted it and then later decided to take it off. Either way, the rest of that paint needs to come off. First, I remove the hardware and take apart the tray from the back side removing the screws. Then, I take off the paint from both sides of the glass using rubbing alcohol and a glass scraper.
Meanwhile, I also glue up any loose joints in the frame and let cure. During that time, I start to plan what I want to do to refresh the tray. I knew I wanted to do a mirrored look as I did in this tutorial and video below.
I’m definitely smitten with vintage botanical prints, so I head to my friend, Karen’s site, The Graphics Fairy to have a peek at what she has to offer. Being that peonies are my favorite spring flower, it is a no-brain to use this bloom. To add interest, I add some text and flip the graphic for my purposes.
NEXT STEPS
Next, I use the reverse image taped to the front as my template on which to paint. I simply work backwards in my paint layering sing acrylics. First, I paint the outline of the flower.
Then, I use my colors of greens and pinks to fill in the next layers making sure to let each cure.
In addition to dressing up the glass, I also polish the handles with Bar Keepers Friend. I love that stuff. It’s a must in my cleaning regime and you can see how I’ve used it my past projects HERE.
Last, but not least, I paint the tray frame and then apply the mirror effects spray to the backside of my peony painting. It takes many light layers to get the effect. Plus, you can even give it an aged look using water as I demonstrated in the video above.
THE REVEAL
After my small stint of DIY fun, my vintage round glass serving tray is ready for many more years of beauty.
It still has wear both original and added by moi. In addition to the glass already having some minor etching, I created an aged mirror and time-worn distressing on the frame.
And, this is the last bit of what’s left of my peonies. sniff… Why is it they are so short-lived? We need a petition to protest for their longevity. Am I right?
What is more, if you’d like to include this tray into your home, you can find it available in my online store.
In addition to telling me what you’d have done with this tray, do pin and share. Inspiring others is where it’s at!
To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!
Also, more DIY tray makeovers like this round glass serving tray:
SOOO pretty! I am so inspired and awestruck at how you see the beauty hiding in things and bring it out in such a wonderful way. You are a gift to us, and to all the pieces that pass through your hands. Have a blessed day!
Judy, I could hug ya! 😀 Thank you for bringing much needed smiles.
Beautiful!! Peonies are my favorite flower as well. My plants are still very young, but I had one gorgeous vase full this year!! Add my name to the longevity petition!! And I’m buying a can of that mirror paint… today! ?
You are definitely a kindred spirit, Rebecca. Such fun to share with those who adore similar.
Mirror paint? I’m in!
Might have just the sad old tray that merits your makeover.
Where does your infinite source of energy and creativity come from?
You are amazing!
?
Right? A must-have for me in my stash. Thanks for the love!
That really turned out pretty! Hope you are feeling better with all that has happened ?
Thank you, Bonnie. Leaning on God’s everlasting arms. 🙂
Wow, Larissa, this is such a pretty trashure upcycle my friend. Love the gorgeous handpainted peony motif. The tray is perfect to hang for summer wall decor or to use as a coffee table tray. Pinned 🙂
I know you would have had fun with it too. Thanks so much for always being a supportive friend, Marie.
So many ideas re in your head and they all seem to lead to beautiful restorations. This is no exception. So pretty.
Thank you for the kind words, Marietta. It’s fun for me to do and to share.