How to Make a Wooden Kitchen Knife Storage Block with a Built-in Sharpener
A wooden knife storage block is not only a practical solution for organizing your kitchen knives but also a beautiful addition to any countertop. Adding a built-in sharpener takes this project to the next level, ensuring your knives are always ready for use. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create your own wooden knife block with a built-in sharpener. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a beginner, you’ll find this project approachable and rewarding.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- Wooden block (hardwood like maple, oak, or walnut) – You’ll need a solid piece of wood for the base and sides.
- Sharpening tool (ceramic or diamond sharpener) – This will be embedded into the block to keep your knives sharp.
- Wood glue – For securing parts of the block.
- Screws or dowels – Optional, for additional reinforcement.
- Mineral oil or wood finish – To treat the wood and protect it from moisture.
- Rubber feet (optional) – To keep the block from sliding on your countertop.
Tools:
- Circular saw or table saw – For cutting the wood to size.
- Drill with bit set – To create holes for the knives and the sharpener.
- Jig saw – To cut the openings for the sharpener.
- Measuring tape and pencil – For accurate measurements and markings.
- Clamps – To hold pieces in place while glue dries.
- Sandpaper or a power sander – For smoothing the edges and surface of the wood.
- Ruler or square – For precise alignment.
Step 1: Measure and Plan Your Design
Before cutting anything, measure the available space on your countertop to decide how large or small you want your knife block to be. A typical knife block measures around 8 to 10 inches in width and 10 to 12 inches in height, but feel free to adjust based on the size of your knife collection.
Determine where the built-in sharpener will go. A good spot is typically near the back of the block, where it will be easily accessible but not interfere with the storage of your knives.
Step 2: Cutting the Base and Sides
- Cut the base: Start by cutting your piece of wood to the desired length and width for the base. This will be the bottom part of your knife block, so make sure it’s sturdy enough to support the weight of the knives.
- Cut the sides: The sides of the block should be tall enough to allow for safe and efficient knife storage. Cut the side panels to the height you prefer, keeping in mind that the sharpener will be added later.
If you want to add extra compartments for smaller knives or utensils, now is the time to plan the additional cuts. You can create slots by making multiple cuts along the width or depth of the block.
Step 3: Creating Knife Slots
The knife slots will be the most important feature of your block, so make sure they’re carefully planned and cut. These slots should fit the blades of your knives snugly without being too tight or too loose.
- Measure slot widths: Start by measuring the width of the knife blades you plan to store. Standard slots are around 1 to 1.5 inches wide, but this can vary depending on your knives.
- Drill holes: For each slot, use a drill with a large bit to create a series of holes along the path of the slot. This will make it easier to remove material in the next steps.
- Cut the slot: Use a jig saw or a coping saw to cut out the slots between the drilled holes. Take your time to ensure the cuts are straight and even.
Step 4: Inserting the Built-in Sharpener
Now, it’s time to add the sharpener. This step requires a little bit of finesse to ensure the sharpener is positioned correctly.
- Cut the sharpener slot: Use a jigsaw to cut a slot near the back of the knife block for the sharpener. The sharpener should be positioned at an angle, similar to how you would use it manually.
The depth of the cut should be slightly deeper than the sharpener itself, so that it sits flush with the top of the block when inserted. Make sure the slot is wide enough to accommodate the sharpener without any gaps, but not so wide that it will rattle.
- Test fit: Place the sharpener into the slot to make sure it fits snugly. If necessary, adjust the slot slightly with a chisel or sandpaper for a perfect fit.
Step 5: Assembling the Knife Block
Now that your pieces are ready, it’s time to assemble the knife block.
Attach the sides to the base: Apply wood glue along the edges of the side panels, and then position them on the base. Use clamps to hold everything in place while the glue dries. If you want extra stability, you can secure the sides with screws or dowels.
Attach the sharpener: Once the glue has dried on the base and sides, place the sharpener into its slot. If you’re using a ceramic or diamond sharpener, you can glue it into place, ensuring it’s firmly seated. Some sharpeners come with built-in grooves or mounting holes for screws, which will give it added stability.
Step 6: Sanding and Finishing
Before you finish your knife block, give it a good sanding to smooth out all the edges and surfaces. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots, then finish with a finer grit to get a smooth, polished surface.
Once you’re satisfied with the sanding, apply a coat of mineral oil or wood finish to seal the wood. This will protect the wood from moisture and make it easier to clean. Be sure to wipe off any excess oil and let it dry completely before using it.
Step 7: Adding Rubber Feet (Optional)
To prevent your knife block from sliding around on the countertop, you can add rubber feet to the bottom. These can be purchased from most hardware stores, or you can make your own by cutting small pieces of rubber and gluing them to the corners of the block.
Step 8: Final Setup
Once the oil has dried and everything is set, place your knives into the slots, with the sharpener positioned in an accessible spot at the back. You can now enjoy a beautiful, functional knife storage block that also helps keep your knives sharp and ready for use.
Conclusion
Building your own wooden kitchen knife storage block with a built-in sharpener is a fantastic project that combines practicality with craftsmanship. With just a few basic woodworking tools and some careful planning, you can create a storage solution that will not only protect your knives but also enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic. Whether you choose a sleek, modern design or a more rustic look, this knife block will serve you for years to come.
For those interested in expanding their woodworking skills and learning how to craft even more functional pieces like this, Teds Woodworking Course offers step-by-step plans for various woodworking projects. You can find detailed instructions for building everything from simple tools to advanced furniture, all in one place. Check it out here.
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