Decorate a Wood Tray Using Vinyl As a Stencil

Easily customize a wood tray using vinyl as a stencil! Use a Cricut die-cutting machine to create the stencil.

Supplies

Wood Tray (mine is from the Target dollar spot)
Cricut Removable Vinyl
Cricut Transfer Tape
Cricut Die Cutting Machine
Cricut Standard Mat
Cricut Tools
Mod Podge
Paint
Paint Brushes
X-acto knife (optional)
Ruler (optional)

Create Your Design

I found some free floral vector images I liked, arranged them to fit the tray and added a flower quote. There are many free images right in Design Space, or you can just do a search online for free vectors/svg files. Size your image accordingly to your tray.

Cut the Design

Cut your design using the fine point blade on removable vinyl.

Weed Your Design

Carefully weed your design if it is as intricate as mine. Some small pieces may come up unexpectedly or move.

Trim the Stencil

Trim the vinyl around your design, if necessary, so it will fit in the tray. I used an X-acto knife & ruler for a more precise cut.

Transfer Design to the Tray

Use Cricut transfer tape to place your design in your tray. Again, be careful with small, intricate pieces. Use your scraper tool to help adhere the vinyl to the transfer tape, and then again when transferring to the wood. Slowly remove the transfer tape.

Apply Mod Podge Over Your Design

Using Mod Podge before painting helps keep the paint from bleeding under the vinyl. Let it dry completely.

Paint Over the Stencil

Paint over your stencil with as many coats as you would like. I only used one so you could still see the wood grain through the paint. If you would like a more opaque look, do 2-3 coats. Let it dry again completely before removing the vinyl and touch up any spots you need to.

Tray Is Done

You are now finished!