These plans for a DIY serving tray with handle are the third in our new series of free serving tray plans. These plans build on the simple two board serving tray, adding integrated handles into the sides while also having mitered corners for a more finished look. To create these handles I prefer to use a routing template for speed and precision. Though they can also be cut out using a drill and a jig saw.

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′

Tools Needed

• Miter saw or circular saw
• Jig saw or band saw (optional)
• Drill and 3/4″ bit (optional)
• Router and straight bit (optional)
• Handle routing template (optional) and double-sided tape
• 18 gauge brad nailer and 1 1/2″ brad nails
• Wood glue
• 12″ Bar Clamps (build your own strap clamp jig)
• Sander & sandpaper

Step 1: Cut and join the bottom boards

We’ll start these plans the same way we started the originals, 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 ends

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 length plus 1 1/2″ to account for the 45° miters on each end. This means the board should be about 12″, but there may be a slight variation based upon the lumber you used. Now you will need to cut out the handles using either a drill and a jig saw, or your router and a router template. I prefer the router template for speed and efficiency, and also because it is easier to create a variety of handle shapes in a repeatable fashion.

It doesn’t matter if your handle cutouts are the same dimensions as the image below. As long as they are large enough to allow four fingers to pass through you can make them any size and shape you wish.

Once you have the handles cut, add wood glue on the outer edges of the base and two 1 1/2″ brad nails per 1×4 board to nail the 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 end boards, you don’t need the clamps any more.

Step 3: Attach the sides

The last step in these plans for a DIY serving tray with handles 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 with 45° miters on the ends. 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.

Step 5: Sand, paint or stain

Time for the finishing touches on your new serving tray with handles. 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 plans for a DIY serving tray with handles, leave us a note in the comments section below.

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