How to Create Custom TV Tray Tables: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

 

     

🖼️ How to Create Custom TV Tray Tables: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners 🖼️

Are you looking for a unique DIY project that’s perfect for gifts, home decor, or even making extra income? Custom TV tray tables are a trending craft idea that’s easy to create, fun to personalize, and highly marketable. With just a few materials and some creative inspiration, you can transform plain TV trays into stunning, functional works of art. This guide will show you how to design your own, step by step, with tips for achieving professional-quality results.

📋 What Are Custom TV Trays and Why Should You Make Them?

Custom TV trays are a creative way to elevate a practical item into something unique. Whether you’re gifting them during the holidays, sprucing up your own home, or selling them at craft fairs, custom trays stand out.

Here’s why they’re worth your time:

• Easy to Customize: Use colors, themes, or designs that match any occasion or personality.
• Affordable to Make: Many supplies are low-cost and readily available at stores like Walmart or Goodwill.
• Highly Profitable: Depending on the design, custom trays can sell for $50–$100 each.

Materials You Need to Get Started

Before starting your project, gather the following materials:

1. TV Tray

• Standard size: 20" x 15".
• Available at Walmart, Amazon, or thrift stores like Goodwill.

2. Printable Material Options

• Adhesive Prints:
  Order repositionable posters from CVS or Walgreens for easy application.
• Non-Adhesive Prints:
  Use spray adhesive (like LOCTITE) to attach your design.

3. Spray Paint

• Choose a color to complement your design.

4. Sealers

• Tabletop Epoxy: Provides a professional, glossy finish.
• Mod Podge: A beginner-friendly alternative for sealing your design.

5. Optional Tools

• Squeegee: Smooths adhesive prints and removes air bubbles.
• Heat Gun or Hair Dryer: Eliminates air bubbles in epoxy for a flawless finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Custom TV Trays

1️⃣ Prep Your TV Tray

• Lightly sand the surface of the tray to remove the finish. This step ensures that your paint and design adhere properly.

2️⃣ Spray Paint the Tray

• Apply your chosen spray paint color evenly across the surface. Let it dry completely before moving on.

3️⃣ Attach Your Design

• For Adhesive Prints:
  Peel and stick your print onto the tray. Use a squeegee to smooth out any air bubbles.
• For Non-Adhesive Prints:
  Spray adhesive onto the back of your print. Wait 1–2 minutes until tacky, then carefully place it on the tray.

4️⃣ Seal Your Design

• Using Epoxy:
  Mix and pour tabletop epoxy over the design, spreading it evenly. Use a heat gun or hair dryer to remove bubbles. Allow the epoxy to cure for at least 24 hours.
• Using Mod Podge:
  Apply 2–3 thin coats of Mod Podge, letting each coat dry completely. For added durability, you can apply epoxy over the Mod Podge.

Pro Tips for Crafting Custom TV Trays

• Measure Before Printing: Standard tray dimensions are 19" x 14.75", but always double-check to ensure your print fits perfectly.
• Choose High-Quality Prints: CVS or Walgreens offer "Repositionable Posters" in sizes like 16" x 20"—perfect for trimming to fit.
• Bubble-Free Epoxy: Don’t stress over air bubbles! A heat gun or hair dryer works wonders to smooth them out.
• Budget-Friendly Alternatives: If you don’t have access to adhesive prints, inkjet prints paired with spray adhesive work just as well.

FAQs: All About Custom TV Trays

Where Can I Buy TV Trays?

Walmart, Amazon, and Goodwill are great places to find affordable trays. Garage sales are also excellent for thrifty finds!

How Much Can I Sell Custom TV Trays For?

Depending on the design, quality, and finish, these trays typically sell for $50–$100.

Can I Use Mod Podge Instead of Epoxy?

Yes! Mod Podge is a fantastic alternative for sealing prints. If you want a glossy, durable finish, add epoxy on top.

Why Custom TV Trays Are Perfect for the Holidays

Custom TV trays make thoughtful gifts that can be personalized to match any recipient’s style or interests. They’re also a fantastic addition to your holiday product lineup if you’re selling handmade crafts.

Here are a few seasonal ideas:

• Winter Wonderland Theme: Add snowflakes, cozy winter scenes, or holiday quotes.
• Family Photo Collage: Use adhesive prints featuring family memories to create a sentimental gift.
• Sports Fans: Highlight favorite teams, players, or iconic moments for football or basketball fans.

Get Started Today!

Now that you have the tools and know-how, it’s time to start crafting! Whether you’re making trays for yourself, as gifts, or for profit, this project is as rewarding as it is fun.

Looking to start your TV tray table business but don’t have a finished product yet? Don’t worry! With our high-quality mockups, you can display your custom designs and start selling immediately. Save time, reduce costs, and attract customers with professional visuals. 

Don’t forget to share your finished designs and tips in the comments below—we’d love to see your creations!

Happy crafting! 🎨✨