DIY: How to Make a Cutting Board

A well-made cutting board is not only practical but also a beautiful addition to any kitchen. If you can make it yourself it adds a whole new quality. Homemade cutting boards make wonderful gifts, especially if you can get some wood with sentimental value. Whatever your reason, making your own cutting board is a great project for both beginner and advanced woodworkers.

To learn how to complete this project, you can view our video guide or full written explanation below:

For this project you’ll need:

• Hardwood
• Table Saw
• Wood Glue
• Clamps
• Scraper or Utility Knife
• Orbital Sander (optional)
• Safety Gear
• Cutting board oil
• Lint free cloth

Steps:

1. Cut lighter shade of wood into equally sized pieces. The size of pieces and how many you end up with is up to you, and will depend on what wood you have available.

2. Adjust your table saw and cut your darker wood into thinner strips. It is up to you how wide or narrow these strips will be. Once this step is done, you can put the pieces together to get a little preview of your new cutting board.

3. Stack each piece of wood on its side and apply glue to each one. You can use a piece of scrap wood to smooth the glue evenly.

4. Once glue is applied, you can carefully stick the pieces together one by one. Grab your clamps and secure them tightly to the far sides of your newly glued cutting board.

5. Wait 24 hours for glue to dry.

6. Once dried, remove clamps and scrape away any excess glue.

7. Use your table saw to square off the cutting board.

8. Use the orbital sander to smooth out the wood. Use an 80 grit, moving up to 300, evenly across the board for a smooth finish.

9. Finally, add the food-safe cutting board oil to seal up the board. Use a lint-free cloth to rub it in.

Once the oil is dry, your cutting board is all ready to go!

Enjoy using this beautiful new addition to your kitchen with the knowledge that you built it yourself. Does your kitchen need some appliance repairs as well? Check out PartSelect.com for all your repair needs.