How To Make A Dice Tray

Materials Needed

To make a dice tray, there are a few materials that you will need. These materials are essential for creating a sturdy and functional dice tray that will enhance your gaming experience. Here is a list of the materials you will need:

Wooden board or plywood
Saw (circular or hand saw)
Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
Wood glue
Clamps
Pencil
Ruler
Decorative paper or fabric (optional)
Mod Podge or adhesive spray (optional)
Felt or foam (to line the bottom of the tray)

These materials can be easily found at your local hardware store or craft supply shop. The wooden board or plywood will serve as the base of the tray, providing a sturdy surface for your dice to roll on. It is important to choose a board or plywood with a thickness of at least 1/4 inch to ensure durability.

The saw and sandpaper will be used to measure and cut the wooden board to the desired size and shape. The wood glue and clamps will help in securing the pieces together during assembly. The pencil and ruler will assist in accurate measurements and marking of the board.

If you want to add a decorative touch to your dice tray, you can use decorative paper or fabric to cover the inside of the tray. Mod Podge or adhesive spray can be used to attach the paper or fabric securely to the wood.

Finally, lining the bottom of the tray with felt or foam will prevent your dice from making too much noise and protect the surface on which you place the tray.

Now that you have gathered all the necessary materials, you are ready to move on to the next steps in creating your very own dice tray.

Step 1: Measure and Cut

The first step in making a dice tray is to measure and cut the wooden board or plywood to the desired size and shape. Follow these steps to ensure accurate measurements and clean cuts:

Start by deciding the dimensions of your dice tray. Consider the size of the dice you will be using and how much space you want for them to roll around. A common size for a dice tray is around 12×12 inches, but you can adjust it based on your preference.
Using a pencil and ruler, mark the measurements on the wooden board or plywood. Make sure to measure and mark the dimensions for both the base and the sides of the tray.
Once you have marked the dimensions, use a saw (either circular or hand saw) to cut along the lines. Take your time and make smooth, even cuts to ensure a professional-looking result.
After cutting the pieces, use sandpaper (medium grit first, then fine grit) to sand the edges of the board and sides. This will smooth out any rough edges and give the tray a polished finish.

Remember to wear protective eyewear and gloves while cutting and sanding the wood to ensure safety.

During this step, you have the flexibility to create custom shapes for your dice tray. For example, you can opt for a square, rectangular, or even a hexagonal shape. Let your creativity guide you in choosing a unique design that suits your style.

Once you have completed step 1, you will have the perfectly measured and cut pieces to assemble your dice tray. Move on to the next step for instructions on how to assemble the tray and bring it to life.

Step 2: Sand the Edges

After measuring and cutting the pieces for your dice tray, the next step is to sand the edges. Sanding the edges will not only create a smooth and polished look, but it will also help prevent any splinters while handling the tray. Follow these steps to sand the edges of your dice tray:

Start by using medium grit sandpaper to sand the edges of the wooden board and sides. Hold the sandpaper firmly and move it back and forth along the edges in smooth, even strokes.
Pay extra attention to any rough or sharp edges, as these can take away from the overall aesthetic and feel of the tray. Sanding will help to soften these edges and create a more comfortable grip.
Once you have gone over the edges with medium grit sandpaper, switch to fine grit sandpaper to achieve a smoother finish. Repeat the same sanding motion, ensuring that all edges are equally sanded.
While sanding, periodically check the edges with your fingers to ensure they are smooth to the touch. If you feel any rough spots, continue sanding until the entire surface feels even.

Take your time during this step to ensure that the edges are properly sanded. A well-sanded tray will not only look professional but also reduce the risk of splinters and provide a comfortable playing experience.

Once you have completed sanding the edges, you are ready to move on to the next step, which is assembling the tray. The sanding process will greatly enhance the overall appearance and feel of the dice tray, making it a visually appealing addition to your gaming collection.

Step 3: Assemble the Tray

Now that you have measured, cut, and sanded the edges of your dice tray, it’s time to assemble the pieces together. This step will guide you through the process of securely joining the wooden board and sides to create a sturdy and functional tray. Follow these steps to assemble your dice tray:

Apply a thin and even layer of wood glue along the edges of the wooden board. Use a brush or your finger to spread the glue evenly.
Position the sides of the tray against the glued edges of the wooden board, ensuring that they are aligned properly. Press the pieces firmly together to create a strong bond.
Use clamps to hold the pieces in place while the glue dries. Apply enough pressure to ensure a tight fit but be careful not to damage the wood.
Leave the tray to dry overnight or follow the recommended drying time mentioned on the wood glue packaging.

During the assembly process, it’s essential to work carefully and precisely to ensure that the tray remains straight and aligned. Double-check the corners and edges to make sure they are flush and have a seamless appearance.

If you want to add extra reinforcement, you can use small nails or screws to secure the sides to the wooden board. However, this step is optional as the wood glue alone is usually sufficient in holding the tray together.

Once the glue has dried and the tray is securely assembled, you are ready to move on to the next steps of decorating and finishing your dice tray. Stay tuned for instructions on how to personalize and enhance the appearance of your tray.

Step 4: Decorate (Optional)

Now that you have assembled your dice tray, the next step is to personalize and enhance its appearance by adding some decorative elements. This step is optional, but it can add a unique touch to your dice tray and make it stand out. Here are some ideas on how to decorate your dice tray:

Decorative Paper or Fabric: Cut pieces of decorative paper or fabric to fit the inside of the tray. This can be a patterned scrapbook paper, a piece of fabric in your favorite color, or even a thematic design related to your tabletop game. Make sure the material is thin enough to lay flat and adhere easily to the wood.
Mod Podge or Adhesive Spray: Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge or use adhesive spray to attach the decorative paper or fabric to the inside of the tray. Smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles for a seamless finish. Let it dry according to the instructions on the adhesive product.
Stencil or Paint: Use stencils to create unique designs on the outside of the tray. Acrylic paints or wood stains can be used to fill in the stenciled designs. Alternatively, you can hand-paint intricate patterns or symbols to add a personal touch.
Wood Burning: If you have experience with wood burning or are willing to learn, you can use a wood burning tool to create intricate designs or patterns on the surface of the tray. This adds a rustic and artistic look to the final product.

Remember, the goal is to personalize your dice tray according to your preferences and gaming style. Get creative and experiment with different materials, colors, and techniques to achieve a design that reflects your personality.

Once you have finished decorating your dice tray, it’s time to move on to the next optional step: applying a finish to protect and enhance the appearance of the wood.

Step 5: Apply Finish (Optional)

After decorating your dice tray, you may choose to apply a finish to protect the wood and enhance its appearance. This optional step adds a layer of durability and gives the tray a polished look. Follow these steps to apply a finish to your dice tray:

Choose a suitable finish for your dice tray. Options include polyurethane, varnish, lacquer, or a natural oil finish. Consider the type of wood you have used and your desired outcome in terms of shine and protection.
Prepare your work area by laying down a protective covering to catch any drips or spills. Make sure the area is well-ventilated for proper air circulation while applying the finish.
Using a brush or a lint-free cloth, apply a thin coat of the chosen finish to the entire surface of the tray, including the sides. Work in even strokes, following the grain of the wood.
Allow the first coat to dry according to the instructions on the finish packaging. This usually takes several hours, but it may vary depending on the type of finish you are using.
Apply additional coats of the finish as desired, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. This will ensure a more robust and long-lasting protective layer.
Once the final coat has dried, inspect the tray for any imperfections or drips. If necessary, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper and wipe away any dust before applying a final, thin coat of finish.

By applying a finish to your dice tray, you not only protect the wood from wear and tear but also add an appealing aesthetic touch. The finish helps to highlight the natural beauty and grain of the wood, giving your dice tray a professional and polished appearance.

After completing this optional step, your dice tray is almost ready to be used. The next step will guide you on how to add a layer of felt or foam to the bottom of the tray, ensuring a soft landing for your dice and minimizing noise during gameplay.

Step 6: Add Felt or Foam

To enhance the functionality of your dice tray and provide a cushioned surface for your dice to roll on, adding a layer of felt or foam is the next step. Follow these simple steps to add this final touch to your dice tray:

Measure and cut a piece of felt or foam to fit the bottom of the dice tray. Make sure to leave a slight margin around the edges to ensure a proper fit.
If using felt, apply a thin layer of craft glue or spray adhesive to the bottom of the tray. Carefully position the piece of felt over the glue, pressing down gently to secure it in place. Smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles.
If using foam, measure and cut the foam to fit the bottom of the tray. No adhesive is needed as foam usually has a self-adhesive backing. Simply peel off the backing and carefully place the foam in the tray, pressing it down firmly to ensure a good bond.
Once the felt or foam is attached, allow it to dry and set according to the instructions on the adhesive product, if applicable.
Check for any excess material sticking out from the edges of the tray. Trim off any overhanging portions to ensure a neat and clean appearance.

Adding felt or foam to the bottom of your dice tray not only provides a soft surface for your dice but also helps to reduce noise and protect the surface on which the tray is placed. It ensures a smooth and pleasant rolling experience during gameplay.

With the addition of the felt or foam, your dice tray is now complete and ready to be tested and enjoyed! Set it up on your tabletop and roll your dice with confidence, knowing that they will remain contained within the tray and not disrupt your gaming area.

Congratulations! You have successfully created your own customized dice tray, tailored to your preferences and specifications.

Step 7: Test and Enjoy!

After putting in the time and effort to create your own dice tray, it’s time to put it to the test and enjoy the benefits of your hard work. Here is what you need to do in the final step:

Gather your dice and any other gaming accessories you need, such as cards or character sheets.
Place your dice in the tray and give them a few rolls. Observe how the dice bounce off the sides and stay contained within the tray.
Pay attention to the noise level. Notice how the added felt or foam lining on the bottom of the tray helps to dampen the sound produced by rolling dice, creating a more pleasant gaming experience.
Appreciate the design and functionality of your customized dice tray. Take a moment to admire the craftsmanship and personal touches you added during the creation process.
Share your new dice tray with fellow gamers and let them experience the benefits it provides during gameplay. You may inspire others to create their own personalized gaming accessories.

As you enjoy using your dice tray, remember that it is a testament to your creativity and DIY skills. It not only adds convenience and organization to your gaming sessions but also showcases your passion for tabletop games.

Take pride in your accomplishment and continue to have fun using your dice tray in various gaming scenarios. Whether it’s rolling critical hits, deciding the fate of your characters, or embarking on thrilling adventures, your dice tray will become an essential tool in your gaming arsenal.

So, gather your friends, set up your game table, and let the games begin! With your customized dice tray, you are ready to embark on countless gaming adventures filled with excitement and camaraderie.