From the scrap pile

Last Monday I posted about a paper mache tray I was working on without having actually finished the project.  I was a little nervous that it would not turn out how I hoped, but all my nerves were calmed when I finished the last coat of lacquer and was left with a beautiful tray for my nightstand. 

To re-cap this is what I started out with

a pile of scrap computer paper cut up in strips, ready to get my paper mache on.

And this is what I had when I finished

the perfect size tray to hold lip balm and other odds and ends next to my bed

I decided to paint the inside gold - to give it a smooth look I gave it a few coats

(which is why this project took awhile, I let each coat of paint dry 24 hours)

The outside of the tray got a coat (or 5) of light turquoise paint.

After letting the whole thing dry for 24 hours,  it got a few coats of my favorite Rustoleum Clear Lacquer spray paint. 

After waiting for it to dry again, it was ready to use!

You really can turn trash into treasure with a little creativity, some glue & paint, and of course time.  

This was such a fun project I'm wondering what else I can make with some strips of scrap paper.

Hope you all had a lovely weekend!