Many of us prop laptops on blankets or pillows to avoid the heat, but these inevitably obstruct air circulation and cause overheating. This DIY stand made from a bistro tray and a bit of wood helps keep your computer—and legs—cool.

This step-by-step guide from DIY web site Instructables is far from difficult—all it requires is a few household tools, along with some thin pieces of wood and, of course, a stylish bistro tray. Plus, not only can you use the extra space to store flash drives, power cords, or other miscellaneous computer items below the laptop, but you can also still use the tray to carry drinks and such when it’s not holding your laptop—and where once the tray was stylish but prone to spillage, it is now a spill-free multitasker.

We had a tough time finding the exact tray used in the post, but it looks to be this one from CB2. IKEA has similar trays that could work, though, if you’re looking for something a bit different. If you find one that you like, feel free to share in the comments.

If you’ve ever priced laptop mounts for your car, you’ll have undoubtedly realized that they’re expensive. Luckily, you can build your own for about $30 using some PVC pipe, plywood, and velcro. It certainly doesn’t look safe to use while the car’s in motion but if you need to use your laptop in your car while parked, this project might fit the bill.

The entire process is outlined in detail over at Mike Davis’ blog, where he outfitted the cup holder in his Toyota Tacoma truck with some PVC piping built to support a plywood base upon which he can place his laptop.

Here’s a quick list of the materials used:

PVC Pipe & Fittings – $14.89
Nuts, Bolts & Washers – $0.90
Spray Paint – $4.80
Velcro – $10.69

Total – $31.28

You may already have some or more of those things around the house. And while Davis points out that he does NOT use his laptop while driving, you might want to check with your local laws to make sure something like this is even legal for your own car.

How I built a Laptop/Notebook Computer Tray for my Toyota Tacoma Pickup [mdpub.com via Make]