Are you a thrifter? Grab my free tips! Click Here!

Upcycled Cookie Sheet Christmas Sign

November 16, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase something via one of my links, I may make a small commission.

Don't toss that old metal cookie sheet.

Instead, give it a quick makeover and turn it into a festive Christmas sign to decorate your holiday home.

How To Upcycle An Old Cookie Sheet For Christmas

Well hello friends!

It's almost Christmas and that means I'm in the middle of a giant crafting frenzy.

Frank, Andy and Nat King Cole are cued up on Spotify.

My cottage is filled with paint, decoupage and thrifted items that need a good holiday makeover.

And I am ready for all of it.

Now, if you've been following me for a while...and I mean a while...this tray might look familiar to you. You see, I originally shared it in 2018.

Metal Cookie Sheet Tray Makeover

Way back then, it was just an old cookie sheet. One that had been used, and abused, for so many years, that I decided to retire it. 

However, not being one to throw anything away, I upcycled it and turn it into a serving tray

It was a simple spray paint makeover that I dreamt about using at parties, to offer guests some decadent holiday treats while wearing my pearls and a festive apron.

In reality though, that tray has spent the last 5 years hiding underneath my couch. Collecting dust. 

So this year, I decided it deserved better. 

It needed another makeover...which isn't an unusual occurrence around here. I often update my DIYs, transform them into something totally different or simply turn them over and decorate the back.

Double the fun. Wouldn't you say?

Amazing Creators Holiday Hop

Speaking of fun, I'm excited to share that today you'll be getting 17x the amount, because it's the Amazing Creators Blog Hop, where a bunch of my talented friends and I are sharing some of our most fabulous Christmas ideas.

From decorating and crafty DIYs, to gift ideas and recipes, you're bound to be inspired. So stick around after my tray makeover to check out all the holiday ideas. 

But first, let's get back to that poor neglected tray, shall we?

DIY Cookie Sheet or Tray Christmas Sign 


First things first, you don't need a tray to make this project. You can start with an old cookie sheet, paint it and move on from there.

Chipped Cookie Sheet

If you do want a cookie sheet tray you can go back and visit the link above for that tutorial.

Also, this idea will work equally well on any piece of scrap wood or metal you happen to have on hand. 

Supplies:

Christmas Sheep Decoupage Paper

Directions:

Now, this is a simple process, there's really nothing tricky about it, especially since I used rice paper rather than napkins. Rice paper is so much sturdier.

It doesn't wrinkle, bubble or tear as easily as napkins do, plus there's a little bit of wiggle room to move it about if you need to reposition it.

I think it works well on larger projects. For example:

 This Cake Stand Makeover
 My unfinished Footed Crate 
 A yard sale Trinket Box Transformation
 And these Crafty Cottage Style Christmas Trees


For this DIY I started by wiping my tray down to make sure there wasn't any dust or debris that would get caught in the decoupage.

Cutting Unprinted Edges Off Decoupage Paper

Next, I removed the outside edging from my sweet sheep pattern.

Then I added some Dixie Belle Satin Sealer with a foam brush to the tray. I made sure to cover an area at least as large as my paper, since I didn't want the edges to peel up.

Using Decoupage With A Foam Brush

I know I've said it before, but I don't like Mod Podge. It smells bad and gets tacky. Dixie Belle's is a furniture grade sealer, so it's got staying power, and it won't yellow over time.

But you can use whatever decoupage medium you like. There are a tons of brands out there and you can even make your own.

Or you could use the iron on decoupage technique like I did when I made my tile coasters. It's worth a peek if you don't love sticky fingers. 

When my tray was covered, I placed those sheep smack in the center of it. I did it by eye, because I'm a lazy crafter and I don't mind a rustic, imperfect look.

How To Decoupage On Metal

If you're more particular about your crafting, I suggest you use a ruler to map out the placement before you get started.

To smooth out any wrinkles and make sure my rice paper was truly set in place, I slipped my hand into a plastic bag so it would glide over the top of the decoupage, without getting tacky or damaging the design.

Using Plastic Wrap To Smooth Decoupage Wrinkles

As I said, rice paper is pretty sturdy, but it's still delicate when wet and there's no need to take chances.

When it was completely smooth, I added more sealer on top of the paper, again, paying close attention to the edges. I also coated the entire tray, not only the papered areas, since I wanted the finish to be uniform.

How To Decoupage With Rice Paper

Then I set it aside to dry while I made a basic bow. I looped the ribbon around the handle and tied it like I would my shoes. You could use a bow maker for larger, more elaborate bow if you wish. 

I draped the rest of the long, curly ribbon over the corner of the tray and added a teeny spot of hot glue to anchor it in place. 

The remaining length of the ribbon just fell into a puddle at the base of my new metal Christmas sign when I propped it up on the mantel.

Next to my sentimental Frankenpot.

Upcycled Cookie Sheet Tray For Christmas

Where it looks fantastic. A perfectly charming Christmas accessory in my rustic cottage living room.

Of course, when it's not decorating my holiday home, it's ready for actual service.

It's sealed, so while it's not food safe, I could put plates on it or crystal glasses filled with champagne.

Christmas Rice Paper Decoupage DIY

I'd just remove the ribbon.

Or, better yet, I could leave it for a little extra flair. 

You know, to go with those pearls.

And my fancy Christmas apron.

Before I tuck that tray back under the couch again.

Until next Christmas.

And its next makeover.

😉

What are you crafting this Christmas? 

And now, my friends, it's time to hop. So don't disappear.

Put on some holiday tunes of your own, grab a candy cane and start clicking to check out all the Amazing Creators!!

Amazing Creators Holiday Blog Hop Collage

 ðŸŽ„ From Farmhouse To Florida - Snow Place Like Home
 ðŸŽ„ Cloches and Lavender -Star Anise Garland
 ðŸŽ„ Shop At Blu - Dried Orange Slice Ornaments
 ðŸŽ„ Fifth Sparrow No More - Countdown Calendar
 ðŸŽ„ Sweet Valley Acres - Frosty Winter Wreath
 ðŸŽ„ Tea and Forget Me Nots - Hot Cocoa Station
 ðŸŽ„ Now Choose Life - Best Gifts For Couples To Give Each Other
 ðŸŽ„ An Organized Season - Pinecone and Wood Slice Ornaments
 ðŸŽ„ Pure Happy Home - Peppermint Christmas Bowl
 ðŸŽ„ At Home With Kristy  - No Bake Thin Mint Cookies
 ðŸŽ„ Birdz Of A Feather - Free Christmas Tree Crochet Pattern
 ðŸŽ„ Perfecting Places - Kitchen Christmas Decor
 ðŸŽ„ Bushel and A Pickle - Christmas Farmhouse Table
 ðŸŽ„ My Home and Travels - Christmas Tree Brownies
 ðŸŽ„ Blue Sky At Home - DIY Christmas Chargers
 ðŸŽ„ House Of Mar - Holiday Gingerbread House Party
 ðŸŽ„ Exquisitely Unremarkable (You are here!)

Happy Holiday, Friends!
Kim Signature


Post a Comment | 48 Comments

Hey~ before you go, let me know what you think!

I love comments and respond to them all.

*Please refer to our privacy policy if you have questions regarding your profile and note that comments with links will not be published.



  1. This one is a keeper Kim and I suspect it won't collect dust this time lol!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Haha! Thanks Sara! I agree, this one will be on display for a long, long time!

      Delete
  2. This is so cute! I really like the sheep and adding the bow just finishes it off. It looks perfect on your mantle!
    Now I'll go visit some of the others. Thank you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Mari! Once I saw those sheep, I just had to find a place to put them. Have a great afternoon!

      Delete
  3. I love the pretty sheep print you chose for your makeover, Kim, and oh my goodness, it's now an heirloom ready to pass down. Please try to keep it! Isn't it wonderful that there was a touch of red in the bow under the sheep? I bet you would have painted it red if it hadn't been there!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dewena, you are so sweet and you know me so well! ❤️ I have to say, I think this one will be hanging around for a long time, I love it...and that red bow definitely sealed the deal!!

      Delete
  4. The sheep imge is so pretty Kim! I shouldn't have thrown old sheet pans away. Next time I'll save them. Love the red bow!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Cindy! I spotted that paper and it was a must have. I knew it would turn that plain tray into a show stopper! Thanks for the visit today and happy hopping!!

      Delete
  5. I'm not much of a crafter these days but I really like what you did! And bonus...easy to do and use what you have! From the Mini Creators Holiday Hop

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Linda...and yes, super easy to do and cheap! Happy Hopping!!

      Delete
  6. I love any and all farm animals and this tray is adorable! If the cookie sheet has grease build up how would you clean and prep for painting?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much, Kristin! I'm a sucker for a sweet farm animal face, too. As far as painting prep goes, great question by the way, you can scrub it will a Brillo pad or wipe it down with vinegar and water. I didn't worry about scratching it with the scrubby pad, because it was already pitted and chipped. It just added to the aged appeal. Then I used a spray paint for metal with a primer which covered any residue up easily. Hope that helps!

      Delete
  7. This is such a sweet idea! I love the picture of sheep that you chose. So special and meaningful!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much, Sharon! I was smitten the minute I saw those little faces...

      Delete
  8. What a creative idea to use a cookie sheet for your Christmas sign. I love the sheep image!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Kim! I just couldn't let that cookie sheet stay under the couch. Haha!!

      Delete
  9. I love how you reinvented this cookie sheet, Kim. The sheep are just the sweetest and I love how the ribbon cascades down the side. Perfect!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Ann! You know me, I love finding old things and giving them new life...even when they're mine! Haha!!

      Delete
  10. loved the ideal of the cookie sheet very beautiful.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you! I love giving old things new life...especially at Christmas!

      Delete
  11. I love sheep, this image is just lovely, ole time Christmas. And another great idea from you. :-)
    Carla

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It really does have an old fashioned feel to it, doesn't it? I just love those sweet sheep face...thank you, Carla!!

      Delete
  12. I love it---that sheep rice paper is perfect. I looked at the Etsy shop and she has really great rice paper images. I actually visited a couple of the other parties this time! Hope you have a great rest of the week. xo Diana

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Diana! I saw those sheep and melted. I have to confess, it's not the only paper I ordered from the shop. I hope you found some fun holiday ideas when you visited the other blogs...and I hope you have a lovely weekend! xo

      Delete
  13. Kim this is such a gorgeous project! I loved hearing how you dreamed of looking while you served appetizers - I have so many of those dreams and they never come true. This print is gorgeous - I didn't know these existed - I really need to check out this company. Love how you styled it too!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Crystal! Isn't it funny, we romanticize the holidays, parties and outfits...and then it just never happens that way. At least I have the tray ready!! Thanks for the visit and the kind comment.

      Delete
  14. This is so lovely! Both the paper and the colour combination. Now I have to see which baking trays I'm allowed to repurpose...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you!! I say look for a tray and start decoupaging!!

      Delete
  15. Kim this is so adorable! I love a great upcycle and that you are repurposing this for a second time! I have never used rice decoupage paper but I will definitely check it out since this turned out so beautiful! Thanks for sharing your creativity with us! Blessings, Donna

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much, Donna!! I am a serial upcycler. I think this one is just so much better this second time around. Those sweet sheep did the trick!

      Delete
  16. This is so darling! What a great creative idea! I have never used a rice decoupage paper before, I need to check on this. Thank you for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Mary Anne! You should totally try the rice paper. It's easy to use and they have so many really pretty patterns.

      Delete
  17. Kim, I love your writing style. Very fun to read, and the project is fantastic! It's been awhile since I've been excited by an upcycle project. I'm definitely trying this one!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Maria! Wow, thanks for the lovely comment. So happy you like the project and I hope you do give it a try. It really was simple.

      Delete
  18. I love the lamb scene. So pretty and then the bow trailing down icing on the cake! Love this. Hugs Kris

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Kris! I love that ribbon, too...Dollar Tree!

      Delete
  19. Beautiful cookie sheet. I like the bow on it too. The choice of the image for it is perfect. Will keep this in mind to do.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Betsy! I hope you give it a try, it was so easy to do!

      Delete
  20. Hi Kim Sharing you on The Weekend Edit! I was so bummed to miss yesterday's Creators call! xo laura in Colorado

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Laura!! I can't wait to read it!!

      Delete
    2. I love a good upcycle holiday craft project, especially when it’s as beautiful as your tray, Kim! I’ll definitely be saving this for future reference!

      Delete
  21. The prints are so pretty and I have never thought to add handles to a cookie sheet. A new idea for the future.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So glad you found something to inspire you, Rosemary! That's always my goal!

      Delete
  22. Very sweet makeover. Love the sheep. a wonderful way to create a tray.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Such a cute idea, Kim. I love to decoupage. I have a dozen sheet pans. that I use all the time for cooking and baking. I could certainly donate one to the DIY to-use pile. I’m not familiar with rice paper, so I’m looking that up. Thanks for the super craft suggestion.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Carol! Isn't decoupage the best? I have to say I love rice paper, I highly recommend you check it out.

      Delete
  24. Kim,
    OMG!! I apologize for not being by sooner...Time got away from me this Christmas Season...Catching up now....Love what you did with the baking sheet....
    Merry Christmas!!
    Hugs,
    Deb

    ReplyDelete