Upcycled Frame Tray & a Giveaway

Yesterday I posted about Edie's fabulous e-book, 31 Days to a Heart of Hospitality.  Well, sweet Edie has offered one of her e-books for a giveaway.  If you would like a chance to win a copy of her book, go on over to her blog and read through some of her posts.  Then come back here and leave a comment telling me your favorite post.  The contest will be open until Tuesday, January 29.  Don't blame me if you can't tear yourself away from her spectacular blog.  It will draw you in and keep you there.

Now onto my latest project.  While moving things from the basement to my new craft studio I found this frame that I purchased at Salvation Army a long time ago.

The price was right and I loved the shape.

I decided it was long overdue for a new life.  I started by peeling off the backing.

It was glued on pretty well but it came off without too much trouble.

Then I proceeded to remove the picture and cardboard backing.  I wanted to save the cardboard for what I was going to do.  I had to removed these staples carefully so as not to rip it to shreds.

It needed a good cleaning.  It sat in the basement for far too long and it was dirty.  I washed it down with TSP.  I removed the glass and gave that a good washing.

Once it was dry I gave it a couple of coats of paint and primer in one.  I used Behr in Swiss Coffee (I think that's the correct color).  I had it on hand from my hutch redo.

I watered the paint down a bit so it wouldn't give a full coverage.  I like the original color showing through in spots.

I had this burlap left over from my mailbox project.  I had purchased two yards originally because I loved it.

I cut a piece of the burlap to fit and wrapped it around the original cardboard insert.

I inserted it in the frame and pulled it tight. Then glued down the edges.

To cover up the messy back I cut a piece of brown craft paper to the size of the frame

and hot glued it all around.

Here it is all finished.  I am using it as a try.  I think I may add some handles to it.  Not sure.  What do you think?  Handles or no handles?

I think I will head to Hobby Lobby because they have so many gorgeous handles, and see if there is anything that catches my eye.

This transformation is perfect and I am loving it.

I added some hydrangeas and a candle to the tray

and it sits on my hope chest. This hope chest came from Portugal and belonged to my grandmother.  

I am thinking of painting it.  I am a bit torn about it but think it would look fabulous with a new color. 

Should I do it?  If so, what color?????

Help me figure this out!!!  I am a bit torn about painting an heirloom but not happy with the current finish.

Don't forget to spread the word about the giveaway above.

I'm linking to these great parties. Come on over and join us.