DIY Network

Butcher-Block Cutting Board From "DIY Crafts" episode DIC-109

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Figure A Figure B Figure C Figure D Figure E

Using strips of hardwood, woodcrafter Randy Rader shows how to make a decorative laminated cutting board costing only about $6.

Materials:

Table saw
Three large bar wood clamps
Assorted strips of hardwood such as walnut, cherry, or Baltic birch, or finished plywood made from hardwood
Wood glue
Sponge
Belt sander
Optional: router
Penetrating oil such as mineral, walnut or vegetable oil
Steel wool

1. Cut strips of hardwood the desired width of the cutting board, alternating light and dark woods for a pleasing striped effect (figure A).
   

2. Arrange wood strips on top of two bar wood clamps positioned on either side of the cutting board.

3. Apply a generous amount of wood glue to the flat sides of each wood strip (figure B). Turn the strips on edge so that the glue-covered sides are adjacent to each other. Tighten the clamps, pulling the pieces together. Much of the glue will be squeezed out of the joints (figure C). But don't tighten the clamps so much that all of the glue is squeezed out and the joints become "glue starved." Wipe away excess glue from the top and bottom of the cutting board with a damp sponge. Place a third wood clamp along the center of the board to prevent the board from becoming bowed.

4. Let the board dry. You can take it out of the clamps in about an hour. The wood glue won't be completely dry, but you'll be able to work with the board. To be safe, though, let the board dry overnight.

5. Sand the top and underside with a belt sander. Other sanding techniques are not recommended. Disc sanders leave swirling marks in the wood.

6. Using a table saw, trim the sides square for even edges all the way around (figure D). You could use a jigsaw to round the corners, if you like. (Optional: Use a router to curve the edges slightly all the way around. Cut a hole for hanging in one end of the board.)
   

7. Apply two coats of penetrating oil to the wood to preserve it. Vegetable or mineral oil works well and is safe. Smooth out the surface by rubbing with steel wool (figure E).