Turn a Plain TV Tray Into a Coffee Time Must-have!

This TV tray had a very blonde finish on it with some kind of varnish protecting it.

So I painted the legs black, and sanded down the top with an orbital sander to prep it for the next step.

I desired to first give the TV tray a pattern, so I choose this Large Buffalo Check stencil to get the look instantly and easily!

Visit all the different Buffalo Check stencils from HERE

How to stencil with Buffalo Check

Buffalo Check an intricate pattern that seems impossible to accomplish... unless you have a stencil of course!

Since this stencil is so detailed, here's some tips on getting a flawless finish:

1. Prep and paint the project surface first. In the above sample, I had painted a small metal round table in white.
2. Position the stencil with masking tape.
3. Load a stencil brush with black paint, then remove most onto a rag until the brush feels dry.
4. Stencil the larger squares first by tapping or swirling the brush. This helps to dry the brush for the next step.
5. Stencil the detailed squares next by swiping the brush in the direction of the thin lines. This movement reduces paint bleed.

How to continue the pattern

To continue the pattern, ensure the back of the stencil is dry, then reposition the stencil by overlapping like-minded pattern.

Tape into position and continue to stencil until your project is complete.

The freshly Buffalo Checked TV tray turned out as cute as can be! And can be left as is if desired.

However here's how to layer stencils, and in my case, create a coffee-theme to enjoy with my favorite beverage!

The TV tray was stained with Fusion's Stain and Finishing Oil to deepen the wood tone and for more wood protection from beverage cups.

How to stain:

1. Wipe stain over the entire surface using a cheap chip brush.
2. Allow to sit for a couple of minutes.
3. Wipe away the excess with a rag.
4. Allow to dry.

Tip: I personally mixed Fusion's Cappuccino and Golden Pine to create my own custom stain color! Simply pour together in a bowl, and stir.

To theme the tray coffee-style, this Fresh Coffee stencil HERE was used on top of the pattern!

How to stencil with Fresh Coffee

1. Wait for stain to dry.
2. Position stencil into center of TV tray.
3. Load stencil brush with white paint, then remove most paint with a cloth until the brush feels dry.
4. Tap or swirl paint through stencil for desired effect.

Isn't it fabulous?! Love how the coffee letters pop! And NOW it's officially coffee time!

See this and many other unique TV tray makeovers HERE

Have a plain TV tray on hand that you'd like to redo after seeing how easy it is? What would you like to do with yours?