TV tables, or folding trays, are a fun tool to use when you’re hosting a big family dinner and need extra places to feed everyone. You can also use them to hold your breakfast while you curl up on the couch to read the paper (on those rare mornings you have time!).
Unfortunately, a set of these little tables can set you back $50 to $200. So, we’ve scoured the internet and found a few cute ways to transform a cheap set of these tables (think thrift-store finds) into charming home decor you’ll love to use and display.
1. Stripe It Up
Give those drab folding tables a fun, modern update with some spray paint and a stencil. This is a fun option because you can use any color of paint to match your current decor. Be sure to seal the project with wax to make it waterproof. Check out the full project from Home Made Lovely.
2. Coastal Makeover
If you want to completely transform the table into a cool nightstand, you’ll love what they did to this table. A coat of dark blue paint, a few hooks, and some rope turned this bland table into an eye-catching piece perfect for a guest room. Check out the full tutorial here.
3. DIY Distressed Farmhouse Trays
This project turned a boring set of brown tables into modern, country pieces that are truly unique. Sand down the surface of the tables before repainting and decorating. Don’t be afraid to personalize these with your favorite quotes. Get the full tutorial here.
4. Create a Kid-Friendly Entertainment Desk
Save your walls and create a table your kids can actually draw on! Paint a drawing surface on the top using chalkboard paint. If you want to add a little decorative touch, create a border with upholstery tacks. How cute is the idea below from Beneath My Heart?
5. Create a Makeshift Ironing Board
If you’re living in a small space, you can turn a TV table into a cute ironing board that stores away easily. You’ll need some batting, a staple gun, and cute fabric. These would also make really fun housewarming gifts (or going-to-college gifts). Check out the full tutorial here.
6. Add a Monogram
If you’re looking for something sleek and upscale, try painting an old TV tray a dark stain and adding a monogram to match your surname. This classy overhaul makes even cheap tables look super fancy. Get the full tutorial from Down to Earth Style.
7. Make a Portable Lego Table
Parents with aching feet rejoice! Keep those Legos off the floor and on a table with this cute upcycle idea. Use a TV tray table, paint, and a Lego mat to create a cool building space for the Lego lovers in your family. Check out the full list of instructions from Craft Your Happiness.
8. Create a Butler’s Table
see continuation on next page
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