Silver Tray Makeover: How to Update a Silver Plated Tray with Paint, Transfers, and Resin
Have you ever come across a silver tray tucked away in a cabinet or maybe spotted one at a thrift store and wondered what to do with it? Today, I’m sharing a silver tray makeover that shows you exactly how easy and rewarding it is to give these treasures new life. With just a little paint, a decorative transfer, and resin, you can turn a forgotten piece into something elegant and full of charm. So grab your tray and let’s get started.
Materials Used for This Silver Tray Makeover
Here’s everything I used for this silver tray upcycle project. Some of the following source links are my affiliate links from which I may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases; however, there is no extra cost to you.
Silver Tray – Thrifted or repurposed (check your cabinets or local thrift store!)
DIY Paint in Little Black Dress – A rich, clay-based chalk paint that covers beautifully
1-inch Flat Paint Brush – Perfect for edges and smooth coverage
Floral Anthology Transfer – Gorgeous floral design that can be cut and rearranged
Big Top Clear Coat (DIY) – Seals and deepens the paint color
Epoxy Resin – For that durable, glossy, glass-like finish
Heat Gun – Pops bubbles in resin
Disposable Gloves – Helps smooth resin around edges
How To Update A Silver Tray – Step By Step
Step 1: Painting Silver Tray
The first step in this silver tray makeover is to paint the surface with a true chalk type or clay-based paint. I used DIY Paint in Little Black Dress, a clay-based chalk paint that covers most anything with ease.
Using a flat 1-inch brush, I carefully painted around the tray’s curves. A quick spritz of water kept the second coat smooth and prevented tugging. If you’ve ever wondered about painting a silver tray, this chalk type paint is your best friend—it adheres beautifully and requires minimal prep.
Step 2: Adding a Floral Transfer
Next, I applied the Floral Anthology transfer by Iron Orchid Designs. Transfers are a simple way to add a professional design without hand-painting. I laid the large transfer down first, in the center of the tray. I then trimmed, rearranged, and pieced single flowers together until they looked natural on the tray. This step instantly elevated the black background, turning the tray into a bold, decorative piece.
Step 3: Sealing for Depth and Durability
To seal the paint and transfer, I brushed on Big Top clear coat. This not only protects the finish but also deepens the color, making the black paint richer and shiney. Already, the tray looked completely transformed. You could stop here if you wanted.
Step 4: Enhance a Silver Tray Makeover with Resin
For a high-end finish, I added a thin coat of epoxy resin. Resin might sound intimidating, but it’s actually simple: In general, you will mix part A and part B of the resin in equal amounts, stir for three minutes, and pour evenly. You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions because different brands may have different instructions. I first smoothed the resin around the edges with a rubber tool and then spread the rest with my gloved hand. Once the resin was spread evenly, I popped bubbles using a heat gun. Once cured, the tray had a glass-like surface that looked professionally done.
Tip: Make sure your epoxy resin has been sitting at room temperature. It doesn’t like to be cold.
For more tips on how to get a bubble free resin finish, grab this free guide below:
Why This Silver Tray Upcycle Works
- Budget-friendly: Thrift store trays become high-end decor.
- Customizable: Choose paint and transfers to match your style.
- Beginner-friendly: No advanced painting skills needed.
- Durable: Resin creates a lasting finish perfect for display.
Final Thoughts
This silver tray makeover shows how easy it is to breathe new life into old items. If you’ve been wondering how to update a silver tray, start with paint, add a transfer, and finish with resin. The result is a boutique-worthy piece that you’ll be proud to display.
If you liked this project using Decorative Transfers, check out these similar DIY projects:
CHALK PAINT GLASS AND EMBELLISH WITH TRANSFERS
OLD WINDOWS TRANSFORMED INTO WALL ART WITH TRANSFERS
LAMP SHADE MAKEOVER WITH TRANSFERS
Let me know in the comments what you think! If you decide to paint and embellish a silver tray yourself, I’d love to see it!
Until next time,
Happy Creating,
Love,
Joanie
