Sofa Table
This handy armrest tray is a great first project for woodworking beginners.
1: Use a tape measure to measure chair arm for the tray dimensions (our top and sides are 260mm x 260mm). Mark timber using a combination square, and cut to size using a circular saw with a straight-edge clamped to the workbench; sand cut edges. Apply a bead of adhesive to top edge of side pieces and position against the tray top; clamp to set.
2: Predrill into the top of the tray, 10mm in from each corner, using a countersinking bit. Secure with a 40mm countersunk screw into each of the four holes. Apply timber filler to the screw holes with a scraper, leave to dry, then sand tray all over, wiping away sanding dust with a cloth.
3: Practise your design on scrap paper. Use an artist’s brush and leftover paint (we used Porter’s Paints ‘Eggshell Finish’ in Explorer Blue) to apply two coats of paint onto the tray, leaving to dry after each coat. Spray the tray with two coats of clear gloss sealer, leaving to dry after each coat. Slot the finished tray over the arm of your sofa.
