How to make a wooden bath tray that doubles as an illustration

Skill level: Intermediate
Estimated time: Midday
Estimated cost: $50

Gary Payne

Tools and materials

nail gun with nails
compressor
miter saw
1" x 16" x 28-1/2" plywood (or whatever will fit your tub)
(1) 1x3x8'
(20) 3/8x3x3'
wood glue
tape measure

straight edge
drawer handle with screws
(2) D-rings
drill with 1/4" countersink bit
stain
paint
Paint brush

Step 1:Cut plywood to size

Gary payne

Measure the span across the tub to determine the size of your tray, and then cut the plywood to that size. We used ready-made craft boards and cut them to 16" x 28-1/2". Measure and mark a center line that runs vertically down the board.

Step 2:Add Frame

Gary Payne

Frame the plywood with 1x3s. Cut the 1x3s, two at 29" and two at 16-1/4". Use a nail gun to attach the frame pieces to the plywood.

Step 3:Create Layout

Gary payne

Create your tray layout using the 3/8x3s. Cut the first piece at a 45° angle to line it up with the center line of the plywood. When the board is positioned on center line with the top of the frame, use a speed box to mark the outside edge of the board. Cut the board along the outer edge. Place the first board inside the frame and repeat the process on each side of the center line working down the board.

Step 4:Make the tops of the mountains

When all the boards have been cut and are in place within the frame, use a straight edge to mark the "mountain tops." The marks should be about 1-1/2” apart on three boards on the left side and one on the right side. For a "snowier" mountain, make the cuts longer, longer than 1-1/2". For a less "snowy" mountain, cut the pieces shorter than 1-1/2".

Step 5:Paint and/or stain

Gary payne

Once the mountaintop pieces have been cut, determine what color each board will be stained or painted. Mark each piece on the back with its position on the board as you remove it from the frame:left/right and board number. This will help when reassembling stained parts. Stain or paint each board, as well as the frame around the plywood.

Step 6:Glue it all together

Gary payne

Glue each board in place. Be sure to refer to the markings on the back of each board to ensure you place them in the correct place.

Step 7:Add Handles

Gary payne

We use large knobs as handles for our tray, and when the tray is hung on the wall, the handles can double as a towel rack. Pre-drill holes through the tray frame to add the drawer pulls and then use a countersink bit to embed the screw heads. This will prevent the screws from scratching the tub.

Step 8:Add Hanging Hardware

Gary Payne

Attach D-rings to back of board for hanging. Make sure the hooks are on the edge of the tub.

Gary Payne