How To DIY A TRAY TABLE

Functional and aesthetically pleasing, drinks, snacks and reading material will always be within easy reach thanks to this nifty addition to your sofa

- ELLE FRANCO

TIP: In some DIY projects the painting or finishing of the project can either be done before or after the project is assembled. Try to determine which method will be easiest when completing the project. For this particular DIY project painting the wood before assembly is the better option.

PROJECT: How to DIY a Sofa Armrest Tray Table

TIME TO COMPLETE:  +-4.5 hours

TOOLS NEEDED:

• Compound mitre saw or circular saw to cut the wood to size

• Orbital sander with 120- and 180-grit sanding paper disc 

• Power drill

• Kreg pocket hole jig and collar step drill bit and pocket hole screws (32 mm length)

• Wood stain/clear sealant and a paintbrush or sponge roller tray set

• Wood glue (optional) 

• Measuring tape, pencil and a speed square

• Medium size spreader clamps

PPE: face mask, gloves, ear plugs, protective eyeglasses and safety shoes

MATERIALS REQUIRED: Pine wood used for this specific sofa armrest measurements:

Cutting list: five pieces of wood A, B, C, D and E

A. 1 + 19 mm + 200 mm + 305 mm (short side of armrest table)

B. 1 + 19 mm + 220 mm + 305 mm (armrest tray tabletop)

C. 1 + 19 mm + 300 mm + 305 mm (long side of armrest tray table)

D. 1 + 19 mm + 45 mm + 305 mm (base of side storage ledge)

E. 1+ 19 mm + 140 mm + 305 mm (side of side storage ledge)

HOW TO:

STEP 1: Take down dimensions and cut the wood

Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of your specific sofa armrest to build a custom size that will fit.