The Ultimate DIY Buffet Stand for Gatherings - Holds 3 Aluminum Trays

food serving tray
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DIY Aluminum Serving Tray Stand – Perfect for Parties, Potlucks, and BBQs!

If you're anything like us, you know presentation matters—especially when you're hosting. Whether it's a backyard BBQ, a birthday bash, or a cozy potluck dinner, how you serve your food can make all the difference in not just how it looks, but how easy it is to clean, serve, keep hot or cold, and keep looking great throughout the party.

That’s why we’re excited to share a brand new DIY project you’re going to love: a DIY Aluminum Serving Tray Stand that holds three trays to elevate your food game—literally.

This sleek, modern stand is made from lightweight aluminum angle and is designed to stack three standard-size serving trays vertically. It’s the perfect solution for saving table space while still putting your spread on full display. From sliders and charcuterie to desserts and sides, everything just looks better when it’s beautifully organized and easy to access.

Add ice packs or heat packs underneath to keep to temperature.  Easy to transport and clean up too!

Tag us when you build one—we’d love to see how you use yours! #AnaWhite_BragPost

3 trays
empty
hardware handles
serving tray stand
add ice packs to bottom

Design image is rendering

 

Why I Built this Project

With graduation and a large birthday gathering coming up, I wanted a way to display the food I make. I'll be using this for a taco bar. I love that I can just pop ice packs right underneath the trays to keep the food fresh!

 

Why We Love this Serving Tray Stand

  • Portable & Lightweight – Easy to move around and store.
  • Durable & Sturdy – Built to hold up to heavy plates and long evenings.
  • Modern Aesthetic – Clean lines and a minimalist look that fits any decor.
  • Customizable – Make it your own with paint, finishes, or even wood inserts.
  • Budget-Friendly – Aluminum angle is inexpensive and easy to work with.
  • Re-Use -Show off your serving game at all gatherings.

Perfect For:

  • Backyard BBQs
  • Holiday parties
  • Baby and bridal showers
  • Buffet-style dinners
  • Picnics and tailgates

 

How I Built this Project

I laid out the trays to figure out board cuts. This is easy to modify for 1 or more trays! I just dry fit everything together before assembly.

tray

measure

fit

Once I had all my boards cut I started assembling the pieces using nails and glue.

assemble

assembly

assemble

After the frame was assembled I used 1/8" plywood and glue for the bottom.

bottom

glue bottom

I played around with different styles of "feet". Have fun and customize as you like!

feet

feet

I settled on using 2x2's for the feet. I just screwed from the top in each corner, I used glue here as well.

feet

Then I just had to fill my nail holes, sand and stain. Once dry, I added handles to each end for easy transport.

stain

stain  finish

 

 

beauty

 

 

 

Watch!  Build Video for This Project

Free Plans to Build Your Own Aluminum Serving Tray Stand

Ready to build this yourself?  Here's the free plans, enjoy!

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The Ultimate DIY Buffet Stand for Gatherings

Preparation

Shopping List
  • 1 - 10' long 1x3
  • 2x2 - Scrap totaling 8" (legs)
  • 1/8" Plywood - 30" x 14" (scrap)
  • 2 - Handles
  • Aluminum Trays

 

Common Materials
3/4 inch screws
2 inch finish nails
120 grit sandpaper
Cut List
  • 1x3 - 2 @ 30 1/4"
  • 1x3 - 4 @ 12 5/8"
  • 2x2 - 4 @ 2"
  • 1/8" ply 30" x 14"
Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Drill
Circular Saw
Miter Saw
Brad Nailer
Power Sander

Instructions

Step 1

Layout the 1x3 boards and check to make sure the trays will fit.  Adjust if needed.

Attach with 1-1/4" brad nails and wood glue.  You can alternatively use a self tapping trim screw, with a star head bit.

Step 2

Attach the bottom with brad nails and glue, or alternatively, screws.  Brad nails are preferred as they are less expensive and faster.

Step 3

Add the 2x2 feet to the bottom with preferably screws.  Alternatively, you can use multiple brad nails and wood glue, but will not be the most secure connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!