Using Trays for Corralling Displays

One of my favorite things to use in decorating tabletops and ottomans is the humble tray.   It’s great for corralling all kinds of pretties and collectables.

Pinterest

 

Trays are perfect for the popular upholstered ottoman –  it’s not the end of the world if a glass or vase gets knocked over.  And it’s the perfect base for a lovely vignette or display of books and accessories.

via Pinterest

 

You can find all kinds of trays made of wood, plastic, ceramic.  Don’t forget to check the kitchen section of your neighborhood superstore to find just the right tray for your living room.

 Meg Braff via Pinterest

 

You know what the best thing is about using trays to corral your small items?  Grouping your accessories on a tray keeps things looking neater and less cluttered.  I LOVE how this vintage picture frame was repurposed as a tray on a dressing table – isn’t this FABULOUS?

 via Pinterest

 

Hope you had a wonderful holiday weekend – are you ready to get back at it? 

 

 

 

 

8 Comments

  1. Sheila Zeller

    I’m learning the fine art of using more and more trays. They really are such a great way to coral your things, and it does look a lot better. Handier, too, when you need to pick up and move everything…

    Reply
  2. Paula Van Hoogen

    We just rearranged our little guest “suite” to face a loveseat/ottoman towards (ugh!) a flatscreen. There is absolutely no room for side tables…so the tray will work as a coffee/glass holder!
    Wish YOU lived near me now, Kristie…. my neighbor is having one of those home parties with a beautiful line of clothing (Cabi) @ my house. I wish you could come! The event is causing me to clean up my act!!

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      Paula,
      Planning parties is the best way to get those house projects done! Party pressure is excellent motivation – I’ve got a birthday party coming up weekend after next, so I need to start kicking it into high-gear myself! Have a great event – wish I could come 🙂

      Reply
  3. Annie, bossy color

    Kristie, this is such great advice! I finally broke down and bought 2 lacquer trays from West Elm for our front hall table, which is always an absolute disaster. The minute all that junk went into the trays, it looked FANTASTIC! We fooled everyone 🙂 Thanks for a great post, as always!

    Reply
  4. Linda

    I am such a huge tray fan. I love trays and especially on an ottoman. Love the idea with the picture frame too…humm…you have just given me an idea… Thanks!

    Reply
  5. Liz Larson

    Trays of all shapes, sizes and material are an important part of our staging business, and a favorite item to use at home. Your article is a great way to demonstrate the many uses of our favorite item.

    Reply
  6. Summer

    From where is the tangerine coral wall piece? I just love it.

    Reply

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts

paint color training course

Staging Certification

paint color training course

Color Certification

paint color training course

My Staging Book

paint color training course
Psychological_Styling_Accessorizing_Video_Pic
web-just-the-right-furniture-arrangment-product-image

Small Wall

paint color training course
Loading...