This autumn-leaf decorated tray from an earlier craft column seems most appropriate for fall.
It has been said that we learn best from our mistakes.
It has also been said, along with a few words not suitable for publication following a grueling two-hour first date with a drill, “Thank goodness for wood putty and scratch remover.”
A serving tray made from a picture frame looked like an excellent choice for a quick craft when it appeared in the “Make It in Minutes” section of a recent Better Homes &Gardens.
What a great way to display autumn leaves or other seasonal trappings.
Looks can be deceiving.
But good planning and a few practice sessions with a drill, if you’re a novice, should eliminate most of the problems.
The most important thing to remember when selecting a frame is that you will be attaching handles, so ornate or slanted frames can mean trouble.
A wide, flat frame works best, and allows for more options when picking out handles.
When selecting a background fabric, choose a color and texture that complements the wood and hardware.
Rough-textured and loose-weave fabrics, such as burlap or heavy linen, in neutral colors tend to enhance the natural materials displayed and give the piece a rustic flavor.
Leaves in a variety of shapes and colors will make an interesting display – but one large, perfect leaf, centered and alone, can be striking.
Begin assembling the tray by deciding whether to attach the handles to the frame first, before adding the glass and leaf collection, or the other way around.
Both approaches have their appeal: Attaching handles first reduces the risk of broken glass or disruption of the leaves; but the frame is harder to work with once the handles are on.
To make the display, use the cardboard backing that comes with the frame as a cutting guide and cut a piece of fabric to size. Iron out any wrinkles or creases in the fabric and place it on top of the cardboard.
Arrange the leaves as desired on top of the fabric, cover with the glass and apply a bit of gentle pressure to flatten the leaves into place.
Put the outer frame on top of the glass and very carefully flip the stack over. Secure in place with the metal fasteners attached to the frame.
And now, a few words about using a drill to attach the handles. (This is where learning from your mistakes comes in.)
Without getting to know your drill with a few practice sessions, all kinds of things can go wrong.
For instance, you may think that the drill doesn’t work, when in fact it’s something simple, such as – ahem – having the switch in reverse rather than drill.
It’s also possible that once you start drilling, the bit may take off in a different direction than you intended.
When confident in your drilling skills, mark holes for the handle screws.
Make careful measurements so that the handles will end up in the right place on the frame, but even more importantly, so that the screws will line up with the handle sockets.
If redrilling a hole is required (sigh), remember that the damage probably isn’t irreparable, and that wood putty and scratch remover are as close as your local hardware store.
A final note: Since whatever is served on the tray will be supported by the metal fasteners that come with the frame, it’s a good idea to keep it light: a plate of cookies, a cheese ball or a small bowl of dip. Several mugs full of hot chocolate might put a damper on the party.
E-mail Jonetta Coffin at jrocoffin@aol.com.
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