Ever see something in a photo and you CANNOT rest until you find it for yourself? You’re not alone, I can never let a good find go! I saw a copper and wood tray on Poshmark months ago but the seller and I never could come to an agreement ($32 + shipping is WAY too much for used) and it sold to someone else. That made me realize that I could simply spray paint outdated decor instead.
The Old Versus New
Our kitchen is white with gray countertops and black hardware with one consistent pop of color: copper. It’s even on our island light sconces, so it’s pretty embedded into the room’s color palette.
One day I was at T.J. Maxx and caught a glance at this tray and realized this was not only pretty dang close to that original tray on Posh but BIGGER. And the best part? It was $15, BRAND NEW. So I took a page out of my quarantine to do list and made a project of it.
In my classic new project vigor, this is the closest thing to a before photo I have, but you get the idea. The tray had a gold rod, not copper. A quick fix, indeed.
Prepping for Spray Painting
The only thing aside from actual spray paint and finish you should need to buy is painters tape, if you don’t already have it home. No need to buy anything fancy to protect the rest of your piece, an old grocery bag or newspaper will do. I don’t recommend plastic bags though, those aren’t nearly as thick and you risk letting thicker spots of paint through.
Spray Painting Outdated Decor Shopping List
- Spray paint
- Clear finishing spray
- Painters tape (this one is the best)
- Protective materials (i.e. grocery bag, newspaper, canvas, etc.)
Cover Other Surfaces
Cut a hole in your newspaper/cover and slide it over the no-paint areas. You can see below I cut a slit and slid the bag around the rod, then closed off with painter’s tap to ensure there’s no gaps. Wipe the soon-to-be painted surfaces with a dry cloth (microfiber cloths like these work best).
Tips for Spray Painting Your Decor
I always recommend doing these projects outside to avoid fumes from sitting in your home. Even a garage with the door open will do (my go-to when it’s raining). Check for wind and spray with the wind to avoid spraying yourself. π
A spot off to the side is ideal too, so no one is tempted to pick it up and move it if it’s in the way. I’d simple pick it up by the non-painted area and move it into the garage after each coat so it could dry unbothered by the elements.
Drying times vary based on product and weather, so read your spray paint and follow directions. I usually let my items dry at least overnight between coats. This particular tray required a few coats. While the total project time was maybe 1 hour, that was spanned over 3 days as I checked on it, recoated, and let sit overnight. Patience is key!
Once you’re pleased with the color coverage, use the next day to apply a clear finishing coat over the painted surfaces. Let that dry overnight.
The Finished Product
Wa-la! A beautiful renewed two-tier tray for my coffee bar. Matches the rest of my copper accents like a charm.
Plus, look how well it goes with the other copper accents spotted throughout this photo:
Itching to transform your own decor? Pin this post to your DIY Pinterest board (you better have one!) and let me know how it goes in a comment below.
