When a simple idea racks up over 800,000 views in less than a week, you know it's struck a chord. But this isn't just another fleeting social media trend—it's a brilliantly practical solution that's got Australian households rushing to their local Target stores with shopping lists and glue guns in hand.
Aussie DIY guru and author Geneva Vanderzeil shared a video on social media demonstrating how to make the accessory, which not only ticks the DIY box but comes in handy for relaxing on the couch with a few snacks.
Her genius? Taking a $13 Target tray, gluing a wooden cutting board underneath, and creating a stable sofa-side table that slots perfectly between cushions.
What makes this trick so appealing isn't just its simplicity—it's the story behind it. Geneva, who recently published her new interior design book New Again, tells Yahoo Lifestyle that while the whole project cost her less than $20, she sought inspiration from a much more expensive product. The original version she spotted? A whopping $500 in a high-end store.
In this article
'It's one of those ideas where people say, 'Oh, I could actually do that today''
The DIY queen behind the viral sensation
Geneva Vanderzeil isn't just another social media personality jumping on the latest trend. With 1M followers on Instagram and three published books under her belt, Geneva has built her reputation on making DIY accessible to everyone. She grew up in Australia and after moving to London in 2008 started her first blog A Pair & A Spare, which quickly became one of the most popular websites in the world, with millions of readers and features in major newspapers and magazines.
Her latest book, 'New Again,' launched in 2025 and focuses on transforming something worn, outdated or overlooked into something useful, beautiful and exciting once more. This isn't just a book of projects—it's a book of tools, techniques and creative principles that you can apply to any piece you have. A mindset rooted in possibility — seeing potential in the old, imperfect and unexpected.
This philosophy perfectly explains why her sofa tray trick resonated so strongly with Australians. In a country where the total value of the home renovation market in Australia is now sitting above $48 billion—a 13 per cent increase from 2024, people are increasingly looking for budget-friendly ways to improve their homes without breaking the bank.
Why this trick actually works (and why everyone's copying it)
The beauty of Geneva's sofa tray lies in solving a genuinely annoying problem. We've all been there—trying to balance a cuppa on the arm of the sofa, watching it teeter dangerously close to disaster. 'So smart because my kids would just knock it off if it wasn't slotted, genius,' one person commented, while another said, 'This is GENIUS'.
The clip shows Geneva gluing a wooden cutting board to a small tray that she purchased at Target, inserting the wood between two couch cushions, and placing a teapot, mug, and snacks on top. The wooden cutting board acts as an anchor, sliding between the cushions to create a stable platform that won't slide off when you reach for your biscuits.
How to make your own sofa tray
1x Target tray ($13)
1x wooden cutting board (most people already have one, or available for under $10)
Strong wood glue or construction adhesive
Clean both surfaces and apply glue to the underside centre of the tray
Attach the cutting board so it extends evenly on both sides
Allow 24 hours to cure before use
Total cost: Under $20
Geneva's version features what she calls her 'CARE routine' - craft, a little treat, refreshment, episode—basically the perfect description of a relaxing evening in. For many of us over 60, this captures exactly how we like to spend our downtime: perhaps with some knitting or a crossword, a cup of tea and a good show on the telly.
Spring cleaning meets smart spending
This viral trick comes at the perfect time. With winter officially over for another year, spring cleaning and DIY projects around the home are now on many of our to-do lists. The timing couldn't be better for budget-conscious renovators.
More than 60 per cent of renovators spent 20—30 per cent more than planned, usually due to under-budgeting for labour, permits, or structural repairs. Simple DIY projects like Geneva's tray trick offer a way to refresh your space without the financial stress of major renovations.
Instead, we're focusing on fast, simple ways to get the house ready for spring without spending a fortune or adding more stress to our already busy schedules.
If you're also wanting to refresh your home, whether you're preparing for guests or simply wanting a fresh start after winter, these simple ideas can help make your home feel light, bright, and welcoming without a ton of time or effort.
Budget DIY tips for Australian homes
- Start with problems you face daily (like unstable side tables)
- Use items you likely already own (cutting boards, old trays)
- Focus on function first, style second
- Shop discount retailers like Target, Kmart for basic supplies
- Choose projects you can complete in one afternoon
- Look for ideas that solve multiple problems (storage + style)
Making it work for your lifestyle
What makes Geneva's approach particularly appealing for our demographic is her emphasis on practicality over perfection. 'It instantly makes the tray more stable, so you've got somewhere to pop a cup of tea, your laptop, or a craft project,' she explains. 'It's such an easy, useful little trick, and I love sharing ideas like this because they show how small changes can make everyday living more practical and beautiful.'
The project requires minimal physical effort—no power tools, no heavy lifting, just some simple gluing and patience while it sets. For those with arthritis or mobility concerns, this is exactly the type of DIY project that remains accessible.
Consider adapting the concept for your specific needs. A wider cutting board could accommodate a full dinner tray for eating in front of the television. A longer board might work perfectly for craft supplies or puzzle pieces. The basic principle—using the cutting board as an anchor between cushions—can be applied to various tray sizes and purposes.
Beyond the sofa: Other brilliant budget tricks
Geneva's success with simple, practical solutions reflects a broader trend in Australian homes. Minimalism is back—but with a softer, more inviting twist. Warm minimalism is dominating design feeds, merging clean lines and open layouts with natural textures and earthy tones.
The key is focusing on projects that genuinely improve daily life rather than just following trends. 'There's so much joy in finding the potential in what you already have—it's something I talk about a lot in my work and in my book, New Again,' she says. 'Smaller projects are also less wasteful, more affordable, and a lot more approachable if you're building your DIY confidence.'
Did you know?
Did you know?
Target Australia has seen increased demand for simple furniture pieces since DIY tricks started going viral on social media. Items like basic trays, cutting boards, and storage solutions are becoming popular craft supplies rather than just kitchen essentials.
The bigger picture: Australia's DIY revolution
'The response has been amazing—I think because it's one of those ideas where people say, 'Oh, I could actually do that today',' she remarks. 'My community loves projects that are simple but game-changing. And at home, my family uses it every day. It's become one of those little upgrades that make daily life easier.'
This sentiment captures something important about DIY culture in Australia right now. With the average renovation budget having climbed sharply over the past year, where what used to be a modest refresh now often becomes a six-figure investment, especially when extensions or major structural changes are involved, simple solutions that cost under $20 feel like a breath of fresh air.
The success of Geneva's trick proves that sometimes the best innovations are the simplest ones. In a world of complicated renovations and expensive furniture, a $13 tray and a cutting board can genuinely improve your daily comfort.
What This Means For You
Whether you're settling in for an evening of your favourite television program or hosting family for afternoon tea, Geneva's simple trick proves that the best solutions often come from seeing potential in everyday items. Sometimes all it takes is a $13 tray, a cutting board, and a bit of creative thinking to make life just that little bit more comfortable.
Have you tried Geneva's sofa tray trick, or do you have your own budget DIY solutions that have made your daily routine easier? We'd love to hear about your creative home improvements in the comments below.
Original Article
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Target shopper goes viral with 'genius' DIY hack to solve common problem: 'Perfect'
Cited text: Photos: TikTok/genevavanderzeil · Viewed over 800,000 times in less than a week and attracting over 100 comments, the hack is definitely proving popul...
Excerpt: Viewed over 800,000 times in less than a week and attracting over 100 comments, the hack is definitely proving popular.
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Target shopper goes viral with 'genius' DIY hack to solve common problem: 'Perfect'
Cited text: Aussie DIY guru and author Geneva Vanderzeil shared a video on TikTok demonstrating how to make the accessory, which not only ticks the DIY box but co...
Excerpt: Aussie DIY guru and author Geneva Vanderzeil shared a video on TikTok demonstrating how to make the accessory, which not only ticks the DIY box but comes in handy for relaxing on the couch with a few snacks.
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Target shopper goes viral with 'genius' DIY hack to solve common problem: 'Perfect'
Cited text: Geneva, who recently published her new interior design book ‘New Again’, tells Yahoo Lifestyle that while the whole project cost her less than $20, sh...
Excerpt: Geneva, who recently published her new interior design book 'New Again', tells Yahoo Lifestyle that while the whole project cost her less than $20, she sought inspiration from a much more expensive product.
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Amazon.com: Geneva Vanderzeil: books, biography, latest update
Cited text: Geneva Vanderzeil is an author, stylist, maker and photographer. She grew up in Australia and after moving to London in 2008 started her first blog A ...
Excerpt: Geneva Vanderzeil is an author, stylist, maker and photographer.
https://www.amazon.com/Geneva-Vanderzeil/e/B00DWX3BR6
Geneva Vanderzeil (@genevavanderzeil)
Cited text: 1M Followers, 1,890 Following, 7,059 Posts—Geneva Vanderzeil (@genevavanderzeil) on Instagram: "always making something
pre-order my new...
Excerpt: 1M Followers
https://www.instagram.com/genevavanderzeil/
i wrote a new book!!!!! - Geneva Vanderzeil
Cited text: This isn’t just a book of projects—it’s a book of tools, techniques and creative principles that you can apply to any piece you have.
Excerpt: This isn't just a book of projects—it's a book of tools, techniques and creative principles that you can apply to any piece you have.
https://genevavanderzeil.substack.com/p/i-wrote-a-new-book
i wrote a new book!!!!! - Geneva Vanderzeil
Cited text: The act of transforming something worn, outdated or overlooked into something useful, beautiful and exciting once more. A mindset rooted in possibilit...
Excerpt: transforming something worn, outdated or overlooked into something useful, beautiful and exciting once more.
https://genevavanderzeil.substack.com/p/i-wrote-a-new-book
Home Renovation Statistics 2025 | What Aussies Spend
Cited text: The total value of the home renovation market in Australia is now sitting above $48 billion—a 13 per cent increase from 2024.
Excerpt: the total value of the home renovation market in Australia is now sitting above $48 billion—a 13 per cent increase from 2024
https://magicnewfamilyhomes.com.au/home-renovation-statistics/
Target shopper goes viral with 'genius' DIY hack to solve common problem: 'Perfect'
Cited text: “So smart because my kids would just knock it off if it wasn’t slotted, genius,” one person commented, while another said, “This is GENIUS”.
Excerpt: 'So smart because my kids would just knock it off if it wasn't slotted, genius,' one person commented, while another said, 'This is GENIUS'.
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Target shopper goes viral with 'genius' DIY hack to solve common problem: 'Perfect'
Cited text: The clip shows Geneva gluing a wooden cutting board to a small tray that she purchased at Target, inserting the wood between two couch cushions, and p...
Excerpt: The clip shows Geneva gluing a wooden cutting board to a small tray that she purchased at Target, inserting the wood between two couch cushions, and placing a teapot, mug, and snacks on top.
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Target shopper goes viral with 'genius' DIY hack to solve common problem: 'Perfect'
Cited text: I found this tray at Target for $13 and thought it would be so cute for my evening CARE (craft, a little treat, refreshment, episode) routine.
Excerpt: craft, a little treat, refreshment, episode
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Target shopper goes viral with 'genius' DIY hack to solve common problem: 'Perfect'
Cited text: Photos: TikTok/genevavanderzeil · With winter officially over for another year, spring cleaning and DIY projects around the home are now on many of ou...
Excerpt: With winter officially over for another year, spring cleaning and DIY projects around the home are now on many of our to-do lists.
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Home Renovation Statistics 2025 | What Aussies Spend
Cited text: More than 60 per cent of renovators spent 20—30 per cent more than planned, usually due to under-budgeting for labour, permits, or structural repairs.
Excerpt: More than 60 per cent of renovators spent 20—30 per cent more than planned, usually due to under-budgeting for labour, permits, or structural repairs.
https://magicnewfamilyhomes.com.au/home-renovation-statistics/
50+ Quick and Easy Home Spring Refresh Ideas on a Budget -
Cited text: Instead, we’re focusing on fast, simple ways to get the house ready for spring (and a party) without spending a fortune or adding more stress to our a...
Excerpt: Instead, we're focusing on fast, simple ways to get the house ready for spring (and a party) without spending a fortune or adding more stress to our already busy schedules.
https://eleanorrosehome.com/2025/03/19/home-spring-refresh-ideas/
Target shopper goes viral with 'genius' DIY hack to solve common problem: 'Perfect'
Cited text: “It instantly makes the tray more stable, so you’ve got somewhere to pop a cup of tea, your laptop, or a craft project,” she explains. “It’s such an e...
Excerpt: 'It instantly makes the tray more stable, so you've got somewhere to pop a cup of tea, your laptop, or a craft project,' she explains.
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Top Renovation Trends in Australia for 2025—News—Ray White Woody Point
Cited text: Minimalism is back—but with a softer, more inviting twist. Warm minimalism is dominating design feeds, merging clean lines and open layouts with natur...
Excerpt: Minimalism is back—but with a softer, more inviting twist. Warm minimalism is dominating design feeds, merging clean lines and open layouts with natural textures and earthy tones.
https://raywhitewoodypoint.com.au/news/top-renovation-trends-in-australia-for-2025
How Geneva Vanderzeil Transformed Her Kitchen Without a Reno
Cited text: “There’s so much joy in finding the potential in what you already have—it’s something I talk about a lot in my work and in my book, New Again,” she sa...
Excerpt: 'There's so much joy in finding the potential in what you already have—it's something I talk about a lot in my work and in my book, New Again,' she says.
https://www.domino.com/renovation/geneva-vanderzeil-diy-kitchen-makeover/
Target shopper goes viral with 'genius' DIY hack to solve common problem: 'Perfect'
Cited text: “The response has been amazing—I think because it’s one of those ideas where people say, ‘Oh, I could actually do that today’,” she remarks. “My com...
Excerpt: 'The response has been amazing—I think because it's one of those ideas where people say, 'Oh, I could actually do that today',' she remarks.
https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/targ...o-solve-common-problem-perfect-051047884.html
Home Renovation Statistics 2025 | What Aussies Spend
Cited text: The average renovation budget has climbed sharply over the past year. What used to be a modest refresh now often becomes a six-figure investment, espe...
Excerpt: the average renovation budget has climbed sharply over the past year. What used to be a modest refresh now often becomes a six-figure investment, especially when extensions or major structural changes are involved
https://magicnewfamilyhomes.com.au/home-renovation-statistics/
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