It is time for another new series of plans, this series is going to be on serving trays. We’re going to give you free serving tray plans for a range of options from the super simple like these two board serving tray plans, to more refined versions that included routed handles and advanced joinery – plus plenty of options in between. Hopefully this series will give you not just the plans, but also the inspiration to choose the elements from the different plans that you want to incorporate into your own unique serving tray design.

These two board serving tray plans really are simple, actually super simple. They only require one 1×3 and one 1×4, a few 90° cuts, and simple glue and nail joinery. Having a miter saw is preferred, but you can make the cuts for this serving tray using a circular saw or even a handsaw and a miter box. You can also choose to add some carry handles as a finishing touch of your own style, or leave it as shown below.

If you build a serving tray from these plans, or build anything from any of our plans, we would love to see how your project turns out. Please take a few minutes to share your build, so we can appreciate your work and know that our plans are helping a community of DIY enthusiasts.

Materials Needed

• 1 – 1×4 @ 6′
• 1 – 1×3 @ 6′
• handles (optional)

Tools Needed

• Miter saw or circular saw
• 18 gauge brad nailer and 1 1/2″ brad nails
• Wood glue
• 12″ Bar Clamps
• Sander & sandpaper

Step 1: Cut and join the bottom boards

We’ll start these simple two board serving tray plans by cutting the 1×4 into 3 boards, each 16 1/2″ long. You want these to be exactly the same length, so I recommend using a miter saw with a stop block. Once the boards are cut, use wood glue and the bar clamps to join the boards together. Remember that you don’t want to over tighten the clamps and create a warp in the boards.

Step 2: Add the serving tray sides

While the glue is setting up on step one, measure the total width of the three 1x4s glued together and cut two pieces of 1×3 to that same length. It should be 10 1/2″, but there may be a slight variation based upon the lumber you used. Now add wood glue on the outer edges of the base and two 1 1/2″ brad nails per 1×4 board to nail the 1×3 ends in place. You don’t have to wait until the glue is completely dry in step one to complete this step. In fact, once you’ve nailed in the 1×3 end boards, you don’t need the clamps any more.

Step 3: Attach the 1×3 sides

The last step in these simple two board serving tray plans is to add the sides. Similar to adding the ends in Step 2, you’ll want to measure for exact length and then cut the two pieces of 1×3 that make up the sides. They should be close to 18″ long, but you’ll want to ensure you get the precise measurements. Once cut, use wood glue and brad nails to attach them in place and then your assembly is complete. You can opt to add some handles if you wish, but the primary construction is complete.

Step 5: Sand, paint or stain

Time for the finishing touches on your new serving tray. Use at least 120 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the entire piece.

Not certain what type of finish you want to add to your new piece? Check out our series on eco-friendly wood finishes. We detail options for oils, waxes, water-based finishes, shellac, milk paint, and citrus and plant based solvents. We give you all of the details you need to make an informed choice about the right type of finish to choose for your latest project.

If you have any questions or comments about these simple two board serving tray plans, leave us a note in the comments section below.

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