A few months back, I had made a leaf-shaped tray using the technique of coiling with newspaper tubes. I decided to revisit the tray, this time using wood-stained tubes, the same ones I had used for this box with lid. This tray is bigger than my previous attempt, measuring about 15 inches at the longest length.

I had sprayed the tubes with water mixed with a little fabric softener, about half an hour before I started weaving. This resulted in very flexible tubes that did not break or crack while weaving. I will try out other methods of coating the tubes as I make other objects using the same technique.

Very happy with how even the weaving turned out. The closeup of the tray brings that out very well.

Finally tried out a new finish. I came across this style of finishing the edges, during my usual perusals on Pinterest and was quite fascinated by this. I feel this style is much better than the usual edging. This gives a very professional look to the product and has a very leathery appearance. I messed up the ending, but I have learnt from that and should do better next time.

Model Details:

Model: Tray

Difficulty Level: Complex

Tutorial (making newspaper tubes): Youtube

Tutorial (coiling or root-weaving technique): Youtube 

Tutorial for the edge: Youtube

How about that? An order for a serving tray and 4 coasters completed! Very happy with the way the project has shaped up 😊 The tray is 12 inches in diameter and the coasters are 5 inches across. I had made the tray with a couple of handles on either side, making it easier to carry it. I ended up using a total of about 250 rolls for the tray and 200 rolls for the coasters - 50 per coaster.

Also, notice the origami stars scattered on the tray? Courtesy of Little Miss, who decided that the tray will look even more beautiful with the stars scattered randomly. Well, can't argue with her, so there you go...

The best part of the project for me? The edging of the tray. Can you make out those long loops that form a thick edge? This was something I have been practising for some time now, but failing more often than not! So when it turned out perfect for this tray, I was over the moon! 😎

Finally, once all the gluing and drying was complete, I varnished the tray and the coasters and allowed them to dry over night and now, all I need to do is pack and send them to their new owners 😊 An exciting end to the day! Yay!