Design your own serving tray of wood and leather | Part 1 of 2

Learn basic techniques in woodworking and leatherwork

In this guide, you will learn how to design your own serving tray by combining techniques in both woodworking and leatherwork. You will be introduced to basic methods that will allow you to create a unique and functional product where wood and leather work together harmoniously. As part of the design process, you will first decide whether you want to make a round or oval tray.
In the first three steps, we will guide you through the design of your DIY tray, whether you choose a round tray, where we will show you how to make a circle using a nail and string, or how to make an oval base using two nails and a string. You will also learn how to work with leather and how to attach a leather edge to a wooden base.

It is possible to make this tray in the H&D subject, if you omit coloring the leather with leather dye, as it is alcohol-based and therefore not ideal for students to work with.

This DIY guide consists of 2 parts in order to better show you all the details.

Part 1 out of 2

Techniques and skills:

• Students learn to use an electronic scroll saw / hand scroll saw with a focus on safety and precision in their work.
• Students develop skills in cutting, marking, and sewing leather using specialized leather tools.
• Students learn to combine wood and leather in a cohesive project and gain experience with techniques from both woodworking and leatherwork.

Materials you will need:

• 9 mm poplar veneer for the base
• Leather for the edge. Approx. 8cm in height x length
• Optional leather dye
• Leather hardener
• Leather conditioner
• Adhesive - glue
• Upholstery nails - blue 1.6x16 mm

Tools to use:

• Grease pen
• Sharp knife
• Long ruler
• Wool brush
• Optional edge polisher
• Grooving iron
• Marking wheel
• Awl
• Cork block
• Edge beveler
• Two needles
• Waxed linen thread 0.9 mm

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