How to build a wooden bread slicer with guide slots

Building a wooden bread slicer with guide slots is a fun and rewarding woodworking project that can bring both function and style to your kitchen. The design includes a sturdy base, guide slots for evenly slicing your bread, and a platform to catch the slices. Here is a step-by-step guide to building your own bread slicer.

Materials Needed:

• Hardwood (oak, maple, or walnut) – approximately 1 inch thick
• Wood glue
• Screws or nails
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Wood finish (optional)
• Measuring tape or ruler
• Pencil or chalk for marking
• Saw (table saw or circular saw)
• Drill
• Clamps
• Square tool
• Woodworking jigs (for precise cuts)

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Base

Start by deciding the size of the bread slicer. A typical bread slicer is around 14 inches in length and 8 inches in width. For a simple design, the base should be rectangular.

1. Cut the base to size from your hardwood. A sturdy, thick base will provide stability, so using wood that is about 1 inch thick is ideal.
2. Use a table saw or circular saw to make sure the edges are straight and clean.

Step 2: Cut the Side Walls

The side walls of the bread slicer will help keep the bread from slipping while you slice. You can choose a height that works for your needs, typically about 3 to 4 inches high.

1. Measure and mark the side walls, then cut them using your saw.
2. The side pieces should be cut to the same width as the base, ensuring they fit perfectly on both sides.

Step 3: Create Guide Slots

Guide slots help you slice bread evenly. To create these slots, you need to cut grooves on the top of the base.

1. Mark the positions of the slots. Typically, you would want 6 to 8 slots for even bread slices, with each slot approximately 1 inch apart.
2. Cut grooves in the base using a router, or use a table saw to create the slots. Ensure the slots are deep enough to guide the bread without being too deep, as this can cause instability.
3. Smooth the edges of the slots using sandpaper, as you want the bread to glide smoothly across them.

Step 4: Attach the Side Walls

Now it’s time to assemble the slicer.

1. Apply wood glue to the edges of the side walls and attach them to the base. Use clamps to hold the pieces in place while the glue dries.
2. For extra security, screw or nail the side walls to the base, making sure the screws are countersunk so they don’t protrude.
3. Allow the glue to dry fully before moving on to the next steps.

Step 5: Sand and Smooth the Slicer

After assembly, it’s time to smooth out the entire piece.

1. Sand the edges of the base and side walls, making sure there are no sharp edges that could damage the bread.
2. Use different grits of sandpaper, starting with a coarse grit and moving to a finer grit to get a smooth finish.
3. Sand the guide slots well, ensuring they are free from splinters and rough spots.

Step 6: Add a Slicing Platform

To catch the sliced bread, you need to add a platform underneath the slicer.

1. Cut a piece of wood to fit under the base of the slicer, ensuring it extends outward slightly so the slices fall directly onto it.
2. Attach the platform by gluing and screwing it securely to the bottom of the base. You may want to make the platform removable for easier cleaning, so consider adding a small lip or creating a system where it can slide in and out.

Step 7: Finish and Protect

Once the slicer is assembled and smooth, apply a finish to protect the wood and give it a nice shine.

1. Apply a wood finish of your choice. A food-safe oil finish is ideal, especially if you’re using it for food preparation.
2. Allow the finish to dry completely before using the slicer.

Step 8: Test Your Bread Slicer

Finally, test the bread slicer by cutting a loaf of bread. The guide slots should help you slice evenly, with the bread falling neatly onto the platform. If needed, adjust the guide slots for better performance.

This bread slicer is not only functional but also a beautiful, handmade addition to your kitchen. Whether you’re slicing bread for breakfast or hosting a gathering, this slicer ensures perfect slices every time.

For more woodworking projects and detailed plans, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course here: Ted’s Woodworking Course