This painted thrift store tray for a fall centerpiece is an easy way to give the tray a pretty makeover. Thrift store trays are great for creating fun, inexpensive decor items. Adding a pop of color makes this a festive centerpiece for our fall breakfast nook table.
I find so many interesting looking trays at my local Goodwill. Most of them are priced below $3, so it’s hard to pass them up. Finding ways to use them and get them out of my supply closet is always something I enjoy. I made a fun, fall tic tac toe game board recently from a thrift store tray. When I was sorting through trays looking for one for that project, I spotted this rectangular one. It’s the right size to use on our breakfast nook table.
How to make a fall centerpiece using a thrift store tray
- Clean the tray using TSP
- Use paint + primer and give the tray one coat of spray paint
- Paint the tray with a coat of colorful spray paint
- Spray the tray with protective finish
- Add seasonal items, pumpkins, acorns, and pine cones to tray
- Use a pitcher as a vase for the center of the tray
I cleaned the tray using TSP and wiped it off until it was dry. Then I gave it a coat of Krylon Spray Gloss White primer + paint.
Once that coat was dry, I spray painted the tray with Krylon Sea Glass paint in Aqua. The final step was to spray it with a coat of MinWax Protective Spray Finish.
I’ve enjoyed using some non traditional fall colors on the breakfast nook table in recent years. This year it’s going to be bold and colorful. I love the orange pumpkin on the turquoise tray.
I added a few colorful leaves and some small craft pine cones and acorns to the tray.
In the center, I’m using a cream colored ceramic pitcher as a vase. It has silk flowers in it now, but I’ll use fresh flowers as it gets closer to fall.
Don't pass up those thrift store trays! Turn them into pretty decor items with paint and use one as a fall centerpiece. #thriftstorefinds #falldecor #fallcenterpiece Click To Tweet
I’ve got several ideas in mind for how to use more of the thrift store trays that I have. I’m looking forward to putting them to use over the holiday season.
I’m looking for a couple of finishing touches for the table, but the painted thrift store tray for a fall centerpiece is the focal point. I’ll share the completed tablescape soon.
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Painted Thrift Store Tray for a Fall Centerpiece
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Alexandra says
Wow! I love this! And it looks soooo good with all those beautiful fall colors all about. Such a good buy, and decor piece. I haven’t been to my local Goodwill in a while (because I have been trying to be good), but now I must go and look for some trays.
Beverly says
Thank you, Alexandra! I’m enjoying having it out on the coffee table. I find so many great trays at Goodwill. Probably too many!
Chloe Crabtree says
I am always impressed with creative people like you who see the possibilities in thrift store items! The turquoise and orange look so good together!
Beverly says
Thanks so much, Chloe! I’m enjoying this color combination.
indah nuria says
such a lovely ceter piece indeed! I love the color..
Beverly says
Thanks so much! I’m loving this color for this spot in our house this season.