How to make a wooden cookbook holder with an acrylic splash guard

How to Make a Wooden Cookbook Holder with an Acrylic Splash Guard

A wooden cookbook holder with an acrylic splash guard is a practical and stylish way to keep your recipes organized and your kitchen counters clean while cooking. Whether you’re following a complex recipe or just need to reference a quick dish, a sturdy and well-designed cookbook holder helps to prevent splatters on your book and keeps everything at eye level. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make your own wooden cookbook holder with an acrylic splash guard.

Materials Needed:

• Wood (for the base and back): Choose hardwood like oak, maple, or walnut for durability and aesthetics. You’ll need about 1-2 feet of wood, depending on the size you want.
• Acrylic sheet (for the splash guard): A clear acrylic sheet, around 1/8 inch thick, will protect your cookbook from any spills. A 12″x12″ piece should be sufficient.
• Wood screws or wood glue: For joining pieces of wood together.
• Hinges: Small hinges for the stand to allow it to open and close.
• Rubber feet: To keep the holder stable on the countertop and prevent scratches.
• Wood finish (optional): To protect and enhance the wood.
• Tools:
  • Saw (table saw or miter saw)
  • Drill
  • Sandpaper or a power sander
  • Acrylic cutter or utility knife
  • Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut the Wooden Pieces

Start by measuring and cutting your wood. For a standard cookbook holder, you’ll need:

• Base: 12 inches long by 6 inches wide (this can be adjusted depending on how large you want the holder to be).
• Back support: 10 inches tall by 5 inches wide (this will be slanted for optimal viewing, so you may want to cut at a 15-degree angle at the base).
• Front support: 5 inches long by 2 inches tall (this will help hold the cookbook in place).

Tip: If you don’t have a table saw, a hand saw can work fine, but you may need to take a bit more time to ensure clean cuts.

2. Cut the Acrylic Splash Guard

Using an acrylic cutter or a utility knife, cut the acrylic sheet to your desired size. A good size for the splash guard is about 10 inches tall by 6 inches wide, but you can adjust based on the size of your cookbook holder. Make sure the edges are smooth by lightly sanding them.

Tip: When cutting acrylic, ensure you score the acrylic well before snapping it for a cleaner break.

3. Sand and Smooth the Wood

Once all your pieces are cut, use sandpaper or a power sander to smooth the edges and surfaces. Start with a rougher grit (like 120) and finish with a finer grit (like 220) to get a polished look.

4. Attach the Back to the Base

Lay the back piece on the base of your holder at an angle. This angle will be where your cookbook sits. You can use wood glue or screws to secure the back piece to the base. If you’re using screws, drill small pilot holes first to avoid splitting the wood.

Tip: Make sure the back piece is angled in such a way that the cookbook will sit at a comfortable reading angle (around 15 to 30 degrees). You may want to adjust the angle based on your personal preference.

5. Add the Front Support

The front support piece helps to hold your cookbook open. Position this piece on the front of the base, attaching it with wood glue or screws. The front support should be placed just below the middle of the base to create an appropriate stopping point for the cookbook.

6. Attach the Acrylic Splash Guard

Use small screws or strong adhesive to attach the acrylic splash guard to the top of the back piece. If you are using screws, drill small pilot holes to avoid cracking the acrylic. Make sure the splash guard is positioned at a height that will protect the pages of the cookbook while still allowing you to easily turn the pages.

Tip: You can drill two small holes in the acrylic sheet, and then use decorative screws to attach it for a more polished look.

7. Install Hinges (Optional)

If you want the cookbook holder to fold flat for easy storage, you can install small hinges on the back support. This way, the holder can be folded up when not in use.

8. Finishing Touches

Once the structure is fully assembled, you can finish your wooden holder with a protective wood finish or stain. This will help preserve the wood and give it a polished look. Apply the finish with a brush or cloth, and allow it to dry completely before using.

Tip: For added protection, consider applying a coat of wax or furniture polish to the wood for a smooth, glossy finish.

9. Add Rubber Feet

To protect your countertops, attach small rubber feet to the bottom of the base. These feet will also prevent the holder from sliding around when you turn pages or adjust the book.

10. Test and Enjoy

Now it’s time to test your wooden cookbook holder! Place a cookbook on the holder and adjust the splash guard if needed. The acrylic sheet should protect your book from spills and splatters while providing a clear view of your recipes.

Conclusion

Making a wooden cookbook holder with an acrylic splash guard is a rewarding project that adds both functionality and style to your kitchen. Not only does it keep your recipes safe from kitchen messes, but it also ensures your cookbook is always within arm’s reach. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a beginner, this project is simple to complete and offers plenty of room for customization. So grab your tools and get started on creating the perfect cookbook holder for your kitchen!

For more woodworking projects like this, consider exploring the Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course