silver tray chalkboard DIY

Remember those cute chalkboard flag trays we featured on our patriotic tablescape last week? Today we are sharing the details on how you can make your own and all the different ways you can use them.

You can find the silver trays at the Dollar Tree and modify them simply using chalkboard paint. I have a few vintage trays converted to chalkboards but these little Dollar Tree trays lend themselves for tabletop fun since you can buy multiples, 6, 8, 12 without breaking the bank.

This is a super easy DIY. Three coats of chalkboard paint were applied allowing plenty of drying time in between. We allowed a couple of hours between coats and let them sit overnight after the final coat.

Before using the trays, condition them by simply applying a layer of chalk all over the surface. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to clean off all the chalk from the tray and you have yourself a blank canvas ready for use.

We used them with American flags for our 4th of July tablescape. You can see all the details on the original post by linking below.

You can also use the trays as place cards with everyone’s name. You can really have fun with this by also adding a message.

Remember the wooden slabs we created? The same concept applies and we used them during different seasons with appropriate sentiments.

You can be as creative as you want. We have also used the trays to announce the menu. You can put one on the center of the table or on a side board for all to read or individual ones at everyone’s place setting. I sold many of them in my booth during my consigning days.

These trays are super fun and versatile. You could also use them on a buffet table with the specific dishes written on them or even for a wine tasting event.

You can get very creative and personalize them to your own style. It’s a great little project, since it does not cost much and it is not super difficult to do either, but will provide many uses and opportinities for a unique twist on your tables and events.

“Creativity is contagious – pass it on.”

Albert Einstein

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