To make a wooden cutting board with handles, you’ll need the right tools, materials, and a step-by-step plan. Here’s a detailed guide to crafting a beautiful and functional cutting board:
Materials Needed:
- Hardwood (maple, walnut, or cherry are great options)
- Wood glue (preferably Titebond III)
- Sandpaper (various grits, from coarse to fine)
- Mineral oil or food-safe finish
- Wood clamps
- Saw (table saw or circular saw)
- Drill with hole saw bit (for the handles)
- Jigsaw (optional, for cutting out the handles)
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Wood finish or beeswax (for sealing the cutting board)
Step 1: Select Your Wood
Choose hardwood for durability and a smooth finish. Maple is the most commonly used for cutting boards due to its strength and attractive appearance. Make sure to pick up a board that’s at least 1 inch thick, and if you prefer a larger cutting board, adjust the dimensions accordingly.
Step 2: Plan the Design
Decide on the size and shape of your cutting board. A typical size might be 12-18 inches wide by 18-24 inches long, but it can be smaller or larger depending on your needs. You can choose either a rectangular or square shape, and make sure to leave space for the handles.
Step 3: Cut the Wood to Size
Using a table saw or circular saw, cut the wood into the desired dimensions for the cutting board. If you are using multiple pieces of wood to create a butcher block style board, cut the pieces to a uniform width. If your cutting board is to be a single piece, cut it to your preferred dimensions.
Step 4: Glue the Pieces Together
If you’re making a multi-piece cutting board (like a butcher block), apply a thin layer of wood glue on the edges of the pieces you want to join. Clamp the boards together firmly using wood clamps. Make sure the edges are aligned and the glue creates a strong bond. Let the glue dry for several hours or as recommended by the glue manufacturer.
Step 5: Sand the Board
Once the glue has fully cured, remove any clamps and use a sander to smooth out the surface. Start with a medium-grit sandpaper (about 80-grit) to smooth out any rough patches and then gradually move to finer grits (150 to 220-grit) for a silky smooth finish.
Make sure to sand the edges as well, rounding them slightly for a more comfortable grip.
Step 6: Cut Out the Handles
There are several ways to make handles, but two popular methods are:
Using a Hole Saw: For simple, circular handles, mark the center of where you want the handles to be. Drill out the handle holes using a hole saw bit. Ensure that the hole is centered and positioned at a comfortable size (typically 3-4 inches in diameter).
Using a Jigsaw: Alternatively, you can use a jigsaw to cut out the handles. To do this, draw a handle shape on both ends of the cutting board, then carefully cut out the shape with the jigsaw. Sand the cut edges smooth to remove any roughness.
Step 7: Sand the Handle Area
After cutting out the handles, give the handle areas a final sanding to remove any rough edges or splinters. Make sure the areas are smooth and comfortable to hold.
Step 8: Apply a Finish
Apply a food-safe finish like mineral oil or beeswax to protect the wood and give it a beautiful sheen. Mineral oil is a great choice as it is safe for food contact and helps to prevent drying out and cracking. Apply the finish liberally using a clean cloth, allowing it to soak in, and then wipe off any excess.
Step 9: Final Touches
Allow the cutting board to dry fully. After drying, you can do a final buffing with a soft cloth for an extra smooth surface. If you want to protect the cutting board even more, you can apply additional coats of oil or wax over time.
Conclusion
Making a wooden cutting board with handles is a satisfying woodworking project that results in a functional and beautiful kitchen item. Whether you choose a simple hole saw method or a more elaborate jigsaw design, the cutting board will be both practical and stylish. Be sure to maintain it with regular oiling to keep the wood in great shape for years to come.
For more woodworking plans and techniques, check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course