How to Make a Memorable Mother's Day Gift

On Mother's Day, moms across the nation are showered with gifts meant to show love and gratitude. For many individuals, selecting a Mother's Day gift consists of a last-minute trip to the local florist or candy shop. This year, be creative and plan ahead. Instead of joining the horde of customers at the flower shop, honor that special woman in your life with a unique homemade Mother's Day gift. A homemade gift adds a personal element that makes the recipient feel truly cherished.

In this article, you will find instructions for creating a decoupage serving tray. This tray is a memorable, yet inexpensive Mother's Day gift for a mother, grandmother, or other important woman in your life. Every time she enjoys her favorite cup of coffee or tea, she will also be served an extra heap of love from this custom-made serving tray.

To make this homemade Mother's Day gift, you will need the following items. These items may be purchased at any craft store or local super center.

An unfinished wooden tray

Tissue paper

Decoupage glue (I prefer Mod Podge)

Paint brush

Child's artwork (or other selected pictures/words)

Ribbon, lace, or other embellishments you choose

Glue gun (to secure the trimmings)

1. Decoupage the tray with tissue paper. The first step to making this homemade Mother's Day gift is to cover the wooden tray with tissue paper. Begin by coating a small section of the tray with the decoupage glue. Lay the tissue paper on top and then apply another coat of glue over the paper. Smooth out any wrinkles before the decoupage glue dries. Continue this method until the entire tray is covered with tissue paper. This process is straightforward enough that your child should be able to help.

*Helpful Hint - It is not necessary to cover the entire area with one piece of tissue paper. You may rip smaller sections to make the process easier. Once the decoupage glue dries, the lines will blend and hide any imperfections.

2. Collect the artwork to decorate the tray. This next step is the creative part of the craft project. Have your child draw a few pictures and words and cut them out. This is an excellent way to preserve a favorite drawing your child has made. If you don't have young children, a few other types of artwork you may choose to use are photos, magazine clippings, postcards, or sheet music. The most important key to choosing the artwork is to make it relevant to the mother, grandmother, or other intended recipient of this homemade Mother's Day gift.

3. Decoupage the artwork onto the tray. When the first layer has dried, it's time to add the artwork to the serving tray. Before applying glue, decide the placement of your artwork. Glue the pieces to the tray with the same method used with the tissue paper. Allow this coat of decoupage glue to dry and then add one final coat to increase the durability of the serving tray.

4. Add final embellishments to the tray. Once the tray is completely dry, you may add any desired trimmings. I chose to trim the top edges of the tray with ribbon to give the product a more finished look. I also hot-glued a small flower in each corner. To maintain the functionality of the serving tray, avoid adding embellishments on the inside.

When this craft project is finished, you will have a one-of-a-kind homemade Mother's Day gift ideal for a mom, grandmother, or other extraordinary woman. She will surely treasure this sentimental homemade gift and know she's loved and appreciated, which is the true intention of this holiday.