MacKenzie-Childs look for less: turn a thrifted tray into chic kitchenware

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• Essential supplies for a DIY MacKenzie-Childs-inspired tray
• Prepare the tray surface the right way
  • Clean, sand, and prime
  • Measure the layout
• How to paint checks and add metallic detail
• Sealing, curing, and safety considerations
• Ways to use and style your thrifted tray

A faded metal tray from a thrift shop can be the starting point for an eye-catching, high-end look. With basic supplies and a little patience, you can create a playful checked tray that nods to MacKenzie-Childs but costs a fraction. Read on for materials, step-by-step instructions, and tips to keep your finished piece looking great.

Essential supplies for a DIY MacKenzie-Childs-inspired tray

• One clean metal tray — oval or rectangular works best
• Metal primer (Rustoleum or similar)
• Painter’s tape and small painters’ brushes
• Two paint colors for the checks plus a darker shade for accents
• A gold paint pen or metallic craft paint with a fine brush
• Clear topcoat compatible with metal (look for “dishwasher safe” labels if needed)
• Sandpaper for light rust removal and cleaning cloths

Prepare the tray surface the right way

Clean, sand, and prime

Start by washing the tray and removing grease or dust. If there are rust spots, sand them lightly. Proper sanding helps primer and paint stick. After cleaning, apply a thin coat of metal primer and let it dry fully.

Measure the layout

Use painter’s tape to map out a grid. The tape will guide your painted squares on the curved surface. Keep lines straight but don’t stress about perfection.

How to paint checks and add metallic detail

1. Paint a base coat for an even background. Let it dry.
2. Place the tape in a grid pattern. Paint alternating squares with your main color.
3. Remove tape carefully. Fill the remaining squares with a small brush.
4. Add subtle contrast by brushing a darker shade into select squares for depth.
5. Trace the inner rim and outer edge with a gold paint pen or use metallic paint and a fine brush.

The charm of this style comes from its hand-painted imperfections. Slightly uneven edges give the tray character. If the paint pen skips, switch to metallic craft paint for smoother coverage.

Sealing, curing, and safety considerations

• Choose a clear topcoat rated for metal. Apply several light coats.
• Test the finish on a hidden spot before coating the whole piece.
• Follow the manufacturer’s curing instructions exactly.
• Many “dishwasher safe” sealers still require a full cure time before machine washing.
• If the sealer is not certified for food contact, keep unwrapped food in separate dishes.

For example, products labeled as Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge often need weeks to cure, and some are not food-safe. When in doubt, hand-wash and avoid placing bare food directly on the painted surface.

Ways to use and style your thrifted tray

• Serve drinks and snacks at gatherings.
• Create a countertop organizer for oils, soaps, or spices.
• Use as a decorative breakfast tray for relaxed mornings.
• Add it to a bar cart or use as a centerpiece with candles.

Choose color pairings that complement your kitchen. Bold contrasts work well in neutral spaces. Softer hues suit vintage or cottage-style rooms.