This DIY serving tray is perfect for entertaining and creating charcuterie boards.
I never feel like I have too many cutting and serving boards—especially if you entertain often. Lately I wanted a few round boards to add variety to my collection, so I decided to make my own instead of buying them.
These leather-handle DIY serving trays are fast and simple to make. In about ten minutes you can turn a wood round into a functional, attractive serving board that’s easy to hang and grab for parties or everyday use. The leather handles add a polished look and make the boards convenient for displaying and carrying.
Materials Needed
- 12–14 inch food-safe wood round (at least 3/4″ thick)
- Leather scraps (10–12 inches long should be enough)
- Screws (short, corrosion-resistant)
- Power drill
- Table vise or clamp for safety
Tip: I bought my food-safe wood round from a local woodworking shop, but you can find them at craft stores, online marketplaces, or wood suppliers. If you’re unsure about wood types, look up a short list of food-safe woods before you buy.
How to Make a Leather-Handle Serving Tray
Once you have your round wood piece, cutting and attaching the leather handle is straightforward. Use a drill and screws, and clamp the board in a table vise for safety. Follow the steps below for a polished result.
1. Cut the leather to size
Decide how long and wide you want your handle. For example, I cut a 12 x 1.5 inch strip into two 12 x 0.75 inch straps so I had handles for two boards. Adjust dimensions for a shorter, taller, wider, or slimmer handle depending on your preference.
2. Clamp and mark
Secure the wood round in a vise or clamp so it won’t move while you work. Position the leather strap where you want the handle and mark the screw locations. I placed the drilled hole about 3/4 inch from the end of the leather strap to keep the strap secure.
3. Drill holes
Drill a pilot hole through the leather and into the edge of the wood. A pilot hole prevents splitting and helps the screw thread in smoothly. For safety and better control, hold the leather in place and drill slowly.
4. Fasten the handle
Insert the screw through the leather and into the wood, drilling it in until snug. Drive the screw slowly so the leather doesn’t twist into an unwanted position. Repeat the process on the other side of the leather strap if you’re attaching both ends, or add a second handle opposite the first if you want to carry the board flat.
That’s it—super simple. Two small leather handles make a plain wood round feel finished and more functional. They’re great for hanging the boards on a wall when not in use and make serving easy when guests arrive.
If you’d like to add an extra handle to carry the board flat, attach the second strap directly across from the first to keep the board balanced. Use the same drilling-and-screwing steps.
These trays make beautiful charcuterie displays—place cheeses, cured meats, crackers, fruit, nuts, and small bowls of jam or honey on the wood round and you’re party-ready. The leather handles not only look stylish but keep the boards simple to hang and store when not in use.
Do you like this leather-handle serving board idea? This quick DIY adds style and function to any kitchen and gives you a handmade piece that’s perfect for entertaining, gifting, or everyday use. Try different leather colors, handle widths, or wood finishes to make trays that match your style.