Looking to make a stunning cutting board that will impress anyone? This 3D cutting board project was created by Billy from Newton Makes. With a mix of walnut, sapele, cherry, and maple, this cutting board not only serves its purpose but also looks like a piece of art. Here’s a detailed guide to help you create your own.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Walnut, Sapele, Cherry, and Maple wood
- Titebond III Wood Glue
- Blue Tape
- Table Saw
- Table Saw Blade
- Planer
- Jointer
- Drum Sander
- Random Orbit Sander
- Sandpaper (120 and 180 grit)
- Bessey Pipe Clamp
- Butcher Block Oil
- Eye and Hearing Protection
Step 1: Milling the Lumber
Start by milling the walnut, sapele, and maple down to manageable sizes. Ensure they are fairly thin to allow for easy bevel cutting. For the cherry, simply cut it into strips that match the thickness of the other woods used.
Step 2: Cutting Bevels and Shapes
Next, set your table saw blade to 45 degrees. Cut bevels on the edges of the sapele and maple. For the walnut, cut it into triangles. This will allow the pieces to fit together seamlessly when assembled.
Step 3: Gluing the Pieces Together
Once your pieces are cut, it’s time to glue them up. Use Titebond III, as it’s waterproof—essential for a cutting board. To keep the pieces from sliding around while the glue dries, use blue tape as a makeshift clamp.
Step 4: Preparing the Cherry Strips
Prepare the cherry strips by cutting them to the same size as the other strips. Make sure they are uniform in size for a cohesive look in the final product.
Step 5: Final Glue Up
After the initial glue-up has dried, it’s time for the final assembly. Layer the complex blocks with the cherry strips, ensuring all pieces are aligned correctly. This step is crucial because any misalignment will be noticeable in the final product.
Step 6: Flattening the Board
Once the glue has dried, flatten the board using a drum sander. If you don’t have one, you can opt for hand sanding, but it will take a while. Ensure the surface is smooth and even before proceeding.
Step 7: Sanding the Board
After flattening, it’s time for sanding. Start with 120 grit and progress to 180 grit to ensure a smooth finish. This step is essential to prepare the board for finishing.
Step 8: Applying Finish
Finally, apply butcher block oil to bring out the wood’s natural beauty. This will also protect the wood and enhance its longevity. Allow the finish to soak in and wipe off any excess.
Conclusion
This 3D cutting board project is not only a great way to practice your woodworking skills but also results in a functional and beautiful kitchen item. Billy from Newton Makes has shown that with patience and attention to detail, anyone can make a professional-looking cutting board. So gather your materials, follow these steps, and get ready to impress your friends and family with your new creation!