The theme for this month’s Power Tool Challenge is MODIFY. I modified an old, dusty wooden luggage rack into a really cute and useful portable craft table.
When I first heard the theme is MODIFY, I thought I’d modify a cupboard door or a headboard. But I’ve already done those. At least once ; ) I wanted to try something different. (Although I did think up a pretty cool way to upcycle a cupboard door that I haven’t seen before – I’ll save that idea for next time!)
My portable craft table started out as a rickety old wooden luggage rack that I picked up at yard sale for a dollar. Once again I think I got an eye roll from the hubby. He should be used to this kind of thing by now ; )
I also used scrap wood: 1 x 2s for the frame and thin plywood for the base of the tray (table top).
TOOLS & SUPPLIES (includes affiliate links)
- Miter Saw to cut the 1 x 2s to length
- Jig Saw (to cut the semi circles on the end pieces for handles)
- Brad Nailer with 1′ brads (to attach side and end rails to table base)
- Wood glue
- Wood filler
I clamped the two end pieces together before cutting out the semi circle with the jigsaw to be sure both handle pieces were the same.
The process for making the table top is pretty straight forward. Just make a frame with the 1 x 2 to fit the size of the plywood base. Attach with wood glue and brad nails.
Of course it’s easier to assemble the table base upside down ; )
Now for the fun part! Finishing! I first painted the table and suitcase rack (base) with DecoArt Americana Decor Outdoor Living Paint in a color called Frosted Glass. Isn’t that a pretty color!
Then to make it even prettier I used one of DecoArt Americana Decor Stencils and DecoArt Americana Decor Color Stain in white.
Once the paint was dry, I attached strips of self-adhesive hook and loop to the base and also to the underside of the table.
Now I can easily attach and detach the table!
I’m pretty proud of this portable craft table. It is going to get a lot of use. In fact I used it the same day that I made it!
I carried the top part up to the my craft room and loaded it up with some scrapbooking supplies.
Then I got comfy on the sofa, scrapping and watching TV last night! It’s so easy to put together and take apart. I love it!
Now let’s go see why my friends have MODIFIED!
Modified Leaning Ladder Storage By Designed Decor
How To Resize A Wood Picture Frame By Her Tool Belt
Ikea Moppe Hack Apothecary Cabinet by Interior Frugalista
Grown Up Jewelry Box By Kim Six
Modified Dresser By My Repurposed Life
Bed Spindle Candle Holders By H2OBungalow
Ammunition Crate Table by Virginia Sweet Pea
Ikea Wardrobe Update By Domestically Speaking
Wendi @ H2OBungalow says
So sweet with polka dots…loving polka dots lately! Love the idea that you can carry your craft project anywhere. Smart with the hook & loop backing for stability too:) I can think of several uses for this tray and what a neat feature that it folds away too:) Pinned:)
gail says
Great idea Jeanie to make the portable craft table. I craft (work on projects) whenever, wherever I am) I’m curious to see what you have up your sleeve for that cabinet door.
gail
Marie from The Interior Frugalista says
What a clever idea and oh so pretty too, Jeanie! I tell ya, those husband’s of ours should never underestimate the power of a female DIYer. I get those eye rolls too. Pinning 🙂
Maryann @ Domestically Speaking says
Brilliant idea and I love the color!
Christy@Confessions of a Serial Do-it-Yourselfer says
This is such a great idea! I could have used this week!
Paula says
This is perfect for working on crafts and you can use it for entertaining as well. Love the polka dots and pretty color that you used.
Amy says
This is such a great project Jeanie! Definitely worth the eye roll :-). I love that color too, so pretty.
Donna DeGuglielmo says
i love the crafts, ideas and design you do here… i got your blog off the mostlyblogging linky 🙂 blessings your blog is great and hope to see u again there and here. maybe you would like to visit my blog. i hope to get into crafting I have some ergonomic issues and such … but maybe i can do something 🙂 but i love looking, learning it is all great. Blessings!
mary says
What a great re-purpose and I love the color you chose!
DeDe Designed Decor says
It turned out so nice! I love that it is made on a folding luggage rack and can be stored away if you’re not using it! So creative! I can see this being used for breakfast in bed, give that hint to the hubby!
Kati says
This is cool! I need one of these travel craft trays so I can craft wherever.
Leanna says
This is a great transformation, especially with the polka dot top.
Dianne says
I love this portable table. I have one of those old luggage racks just waiting for a makeover. I also love the colors you used. Great job!
xo Dianne
Candy Walsh says
That is such a beautiful color! I wonder if I could use it on my front door since it says it’s for outdoors?
You did a great job! How handy! I took the easy route and bought a Raskog cart from Ikea and use it as my mobile craft room, lol!
Candy
Jeanie says
thanks Candy! Yes, I don’t see why you couldn’t use it on your front door. I have one of those Raskog carts too – isn’t it great to store craft items that you use frequently!
Mark Nomad says
Great crafty ideas! Cutest little tables I have ever seen!