Making a wooden cheese slicer with a wire cutter is a fun and rewarding woodworking project that combines craftsmanship with functionality. By the end of the process, you’ll have a practical and unique tool for slicing cheese. Below are the detailed steps to guide you through creating your own wooden cheese slicer with a wire cutter.
Materials and Tools Needed:
Materials:
- A piece of hardwood (such as maple, oak, or walnut) – approximately 1” thick and 4-6 inches wide.
- Stainless steel wire for the cutting element (you can purchase cheese slicer wire from hardware stores or online).
- Screws or small bolts (for securing the wire).
- Small rubber feet (optional, for added stability).
- Wood finish or food-safe oil (such as mineral oil or beeswax) to protect the wood.
Tools:
- Saw (a table saw or handsaw works well).
- Drill and drill bits (for the wire holes).
- Sandpaper (for smoothing edges).
- Wire cutter or pliers (for cutting the cheese wire).
- Ruler and pencil (for accurate measurements).
- Screwdriver or wrench (for securing bolts/screws).
- Clamps (for holding pieces together during construction).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wood Base
Start by selecting a sturdy piece of hardwood for your cheese slicer. The size of the base can vary, but a good starting point is around 12” in length and 5” in width. Cut the wood to your desired size using a saw.
Tip: Choose a hardwood like maple, walnut, or oak. These woods are dense and durable, making them perfect for a long-lasting cheese slicer.
2. Cut the Handle (Optional)
If you want your slicer to have a handle, measure and mark the area where you would like it to be. Typically, a handle will extend from one end of the cheese slicer, so mark around 3-4 inches. You can use a jigsaw or coping saw to cut the shape of the handle, or leave the end square for a more minimalistic look.
Tip: If you prefer a modern design, you can skip the handle altogether and just leave the piece as a simple rectangular slicer.
3. Drill the Wire Holes
Next, measure the width of your base and mark two spots where you want to insert the cheese wire. These should be near the top edge of the slicer. The holes should be positioned parallel to each other and deep enough to secure the wire firmly.
Use a drill to create small holes just large enough for the screws or bolts to pass through. The hole size should also allow for a tight fit to prevent the wire from slipping out.
4. Install the Wire Supports
Now, you need to create supports for the wire. You can either install small eye hooks or bolts into the holes you drilled or add wooden dowels to create secure points where the wire can be attached. The wire will need to be pulled tight between these two supports, so ensure that the supports are positioned correctly.
If you’re using screws or bolts, insert them into the holes and tighten them until they are secure. You may want to apply a small dab of wood glue around the base of the screw/bolt to add extra stability.
5. Attach the Cheese Wire
Take your stainless steel wire and cut it to a length that spans the width of your slicer with a little extra for tension. A typical cheese wire for a slicer is about 10-12 inches long.
Insert the ends of the wire into the holes or hooks on both sides of the slicer. Once the wire is positioned, pull it tight to ensure that it is taut enough for slicing but not so tight that it could snap under pressure. Secure the wire with the screws or bolts.
Tip: Be careful not to overtighten the wire. You want enough tension for a clean cut but not so much that it causes strain on the wood or the wire.
6. Smooth the Edges
Use sandpaper to smooth the edges and surface of the cheese slicer. This will remove any rough spots and make the slicer feel more polished and comfortable to hold. Sand the edges of the handle (if included) as well, making sure there are no sharp corners.
Tip: Sanding the wood will also prepare it for finishing and ensure a smoother, more professional look.
7. Finish the Cheese Slicer
To protect the wood and enhance its appearance, apply a food-safe finish. You can use mineral oil or beeswax, both of which are non-toxic and will help preserve the wood while adding a beautiful sheen.
Apply the finish evenly using a clean cloth and allow it to absorb for about 15-20 minutes. Wipe off any excess and allow the wood to dry completely before using.
8. Add Rubber Feet (Optional)
If you want to add extra stability to the slicer, you can affix small rubber feet to the bottom corners. These will prevent the slicer from slipping while you’re cutting cheese and help protect surfaces from scratches.
9. Test the Slicer
Once everything is assembled and dried, it’s time to test the slicer. Place a block of cheese on the slicer and gently pull the wire through the cheese. The wire should slice through the cheese smoothly. If the wire is too loose or too tight, make adjustments by loosening or tightening the screws or bolts accordingly.
Final Thoughts:
Making a wooden cheese slicer with a wire cutter is a simple yet rewarding woodworking project. It’s a great way to showcase your craftsmanship while creating a functional tool for your kitchen. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of using a beautifully handmade slicer every time you cut your favorite cheeses.
If you’re interested in taking your woodworking skills to the next level and learning more techniques, consider checking out Teds Woodworking Course. This course is packed with step-by-step instructions for thousands of woodworking projects, including unique ideas for custom kitchen tools.