Abstract: A tree stand including a frame member having a top portion, an aluminum mesh attached to the top portion of the rectangular frame member, wherein the aluminum mesh has die-cut, diamond-shaped openings. The method of manufacturing a platform for this tree stand includes cutting an aluminum sheet into a predetermined shape, die cutting holes into the aluminum sheet, applying pressure on the die-cut aluminum sheet, positioning the die-cut aluminum sheet over a frame member, and welding the die-cut aluminum sheet to the frame member, thereby constructing a platform for a tree stand.