Make a Butcher Block Cutting Board

	Tools & Materials
	Selecting the Right Lumber
	Making the Cutting Board
	Caring for Your Cutting Board

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Tools Table saw Belt sander or palm sander Tape measure Clamps Router with round over bit (optional) Goggles Dust mask Hearing protection

Materials Suitable lumber Water proof wood glue Mineral oil

Contrasting wood species highlight the butcher block effect.

Selecting the right lumber for a butcher block cutting board is essential. The lumber should be dense enough to withstand the constant pounding that a cutting board must endure. The material should not transfer any flavor to the foods that are processed on it. Choose fruit or nut bearing hardwoods such as oak, maple, cherry or walnut to make your butcher block. You may even want to use two species with contrasting colors to accentuate the butcher-block effect in the cutting board. Since most cutting boards are made of narrow, deep strips laminated or glued together, nominal 1x (actual thickness 3/4") is usually the best choice.

Size the cutting board according to your needs and specifications. The length and width may be whatever you choose. The thickness should be at least 1" to give the board some substance and heft.

Prepare and assemble the stock using the following steps:

1. Clamp the boards securely.

   Cut the stock 1/2" longer than the desired length of the cutting board.
   
   
2. Set the fence on the table saw and rip cut the stock 1/16" wider than the cutting board depth. Depending on the thickness of the cutting board, you may be able to get more than one piece from each board. For example, if the cutting board is 1 1/2 " thick and you are using 1x4s (actual dimensions 3/4"x3 1/2") you can cut two pieces from a single board.
   
   
3. Lay the pieces out on a flat surface, glue and clamp them as shown. Use the glue sparingly and remove any excess as soon as it squeezes out.
   
   
4. Allow the glue to set and cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.
   
   
5. Remove the clamps. Use the table saw to cut the cutting board to the proper length.
   
   
6. Use a belt or palm sander to smooth and level the cutting board.
   
   
7. Use a router or the sander to round over the edges of the board.
   
   
8. Apply a generous coat of mineral oil to the entire cutting board to keep the board from drying out and cracking. Let sit overnight
   
   
9. Wipe away any remaining oil and your new cutting board is ready to use.

Thoroughly clean the cutting board after each use with hot, soapy water and a mixture of two tablespoons bleach to one gallon of water to kill any bacteria on the board. Always dry the board thoroughly before you store it. To extend the life of your cutting board reapply mineral oil monthly.