Help Kids Make a Custom Valet Tray for Dad

Every father needs a place to corral the contents of his pockets at the end of a long day. Help kids create this practical tray to display their artwork and provide the perfect spot for Dad's wallet, loose change, keys and cell phone.

By Marian Parsons, Mustard Seed Interiors
Filed under: How To, Handmade

Materials Needed:

wooden tray
wood stain
spray polyurethane
clean cloth
latex gloves
waterproof crack sealant

pourable high-gloss finish
white mat board cut to size of tray surface
acrylic craft paint
artist's brush
plastic cup and spoon

Stain Tray

Wearing latex gloves, apply wood stain in desired color to raw wood tray with clean cloth (Image 1). Cover entire tray surface with stain. Wipe away excess and allow to fully dry (Image 2).

Seal Tray

Apply spray polyurethane to entire surface of tray to seal wood and allow to dry. Tip: For a smooth, drip-free finish, spray using long, even strokes keeping can equidistant from tray.