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Don’t Overlook These Trays from Goodwill: Here Are 10 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Them
If you’ve ever browsed the aisles of a Goodwill store or any thrift shop, you’ve likely passed by stacks of old trays — metal, plastic, wooden, or even glass. They may look outdated, scratched, or plain, but don’t let appearances fool you. These humble trays can become versatile, stylish, and highly functional items around your home with just a little creativity.
Here are 10 brilliant ways to reuse old trays from Goodwill, each with simple, step-by-step instructions to help you breathe new life into these overlooked gems
1. Create a Chalkboard Message Tray
Perfect for: Kitchens, coffee stations, or home offices.
What You Need:
A wooden or metal tray
Chalkboard paint
Paintbrush
Chalk
Steps:
Clean the tray thoroughly.
Lightly sand the surface for better paint adhesion.
Apply 2–3 coats of chalkboard paint, allowing drying time between coats.
Once dry, condition the surface by rubbing chalk all over it and wiping it off.
Use it to write grocery lists, quotes, or reminders
2. Make a Decorative Vanity Tray
Perfect for: Bathrooms or bedroom dressers.
What You Need:
A tray (preferably mirrored or plastic)
Spray paint (optional, for frame)
Adhesive drawer liner or contact paper
Small handles (optional)
Steps:
Clean the tray.
Spray paint the edges or handles if desired.
Cut decorative contact paper to fit the base.
Stick it on smoothly to avoid air bubbles.
Use to display perfumes, jewelry, or cosmetics
3. Turn It Into a Magnetic Memo Board
Perfect for: Entryways, offices, or classrooms.
What You Need:
A metal tray
Spray paint (optional)
Magnets
Hanging hardware (like command strips or twine)
Steps:
Clean and spray paint the tray if desired.
Attach hanging hardware to the back.
Use it to hold notes, keys, or photos with magnets
4. Repurpose It as a Serving Tray with Handles
Perfect for: Serving drinks, breakfast in bed, or outdoor dining.
What You Need:
Any sturdy tray
Decorative paint or decoupage paper
Mod Podge (if using paper)
Drill and handles (optional)
Steps:
Paint or decoupage the tray with your favorite design.
Seal with Mod Podge or clear varnish.
Attach handles to each side using a drill.
Serve in style!
5. Make a Tiered Tray Stand
Perfect for: Displaying desserts, organizing jewelry, or seasonal decor
What You Need:
2–3 trays in varying sizes
Candle holders or cups (to use as spacers)
Strong adhesive or epoxy glue
Steps:
Choose your trays and spacers.
Glue a candle holder to the center of the largest tray.
Glue the next tray on top of the candle holder.
Repeat for third level (if desired).
Let dry fully before use
6.Create a Plant Drip Tray or Herb Garden Base
Perfect for: Indoors or balconies.
What You Need:
A waterproof or plastic tray
Pebbles or river rocks
Small pots with drainage holes
Steps:
Line the tray with pebbles.
Place potted plants on top.
Water drains into the pebbles — no mess on your table or floor!
7. Make a Kid’s Lap Tray for Activities
Perfect for: Car rides, couch crafting, or homework time.
What You Need:
A lightweight plastic tray
Washi tape or colorful stickers
A pillow or small cushion
Hot glue gun
Steps:
Decorate the tray’s top with stickers or tape.
Glue the cushion securely to the underside.
Let dry, and hand it over to your little one for mobile fun
8 .
Design a Wall Art Collage Tray
Perfect for: Hallways, gallery walls, or themed rooms.
What You Need:
A tray with a frame-like design
Photos, art prints, or fabric
Mod Podge or double-sided tape
Hanging hardware
Steps:
Clean and paint the tray if needed.
Arrange and stick your artwork inside.
Add hanging hardware to the back.
Display your DIY masterpiece on the wall
9. Use as a Drawer Organizer
Perfect for: Desks, kitchen drawers, or dressers.
What You Need:
Small trays of different sizes
Non-slip pads or adhesive dots
Steps:
Arrange the trays inside a drawer to fit your items.
Add non-slip pads underneath if needed.
Store pens, paperclips, utensils, makeup, etc
10.
. Make a Cozy Candle and Decor Display
Perfect for: Living rooms, center tables, or cozy corners.
What You Need:
A wooden or metallic tray
Pillar candles, faux flowers, small books
Seasonal decor (pinecones, pumpkins, shells)
Steps:
Arrange candles and decor items creatively inside the tray.
Layer items for height and texture.
Change out decor seasonally for a fresh look year-round.
Final Thoughts
Thrifted trays from Goodwill are inexpensive, eco-friendly, and full of potential. Whether you’re crafting, organizing, decorating, or gifting, these repurposed tray projects add charm and function to any home. The next time you see an old tray in a secondhand store, don’t walk past it — grab it and turn it into something beautiful!
Would you like a printable DIY checklist for these ideas or a visual guide to the projects?