Absolutely—old thrift-store trays can be surprisingly useful. They’re inexpensive, sturdy, and make great bases for simple DIY projects. Paperblog+1
10 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Goodwill Trays
- 🌿 Mini herb garden — Add drainage holes, soil, and herbs such as basil or mint. Use only trays that are suitable for outdoor use and won’t leach harmful coatings.
- 🖼️ Wall art — Paint, stencil, or decoupage the tray, then hang it as a decorative piece. Design Improvised
- ☕ Coffee station — Keep your coffee maker, mugs, sugar, and coffee supplies together on one attractive tray. DIY Everywhere
- 💍 Jewelry organizer — Add small hooks, dividers, or a felt lining to turn a tray into a dresser organizer.
- 🪴 Plant drip tray — A deep tray can catch excess water beneath houseplants and protect furniture or floors.
- 🎨 Children’s craft station — Use one to contain paints, brushes, beads, glue, and other supplies so everything can be carried away at once.
- 🧺 Bathroom organizer — Arrange toiletries, rolled towels, jars, or cosmetics on a decorative tray.
- 🐾 Pet feeding station — A sturdy tray can keep food and water bowls together and help contain spills.
- 📸 Photo or memory display — Use the recessed surface as a frame for photographs, postcards, artwork, or memorabilia. DIY Everywhere
- 🪑 Small side table or shelf — With suitable brackets or legs, a sturdy tray can become a wall shelf or small accent table. Make sure it is securely mounted and rated for the intended weight.
Before you reuse one
Clean it thoroughly and inspect it for cracks, rust, sharp edges, peeling finishes, or damaged coatings. If you intend to use a tray for food, make sure its surface and finish are appropriate for food contact rather than assuming any old painted or decorative tray is food-safe. Simply Recipes
The best thrift-store trays are often the sturdy, simple ones with a flat surface and raised edges—they give you the most possibilities for upcycling.
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