In this detailed guide, Hess Woodwork shares a comprehensive tutorial on crafting a beautiful wooden cutting board. This project is ideal for woodworking enthusiasts, whether you’re a beginner or have some experience.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Wood Types: Walnut, Cherry, Maple (avoid Oak and Pine)
- Glue: Titebond III (waterproof)
- Tools: Table saw, router, clamps, chisel, orbital sander, circular saw, measuring tape, square, painter’s tape, and sanding blocks
Step 1: Select and Cut Your Wood
First, Hess emphasizes the importance of selecting the right type of wood. Closed-grain woods like walnut, cherry, and maple are preferred for cutting boards, while open-grain woods like oak and softer woods like pine should be avoided. The pieces should be cut slightly longer than the desired final size; for an 18-inch cutting board, cut the pieces at 19 inches. Additionally, cut the strips 3/16 inches thicker than the final desired thickness, which in this case is 1.5 inches.
Step 2: Prepare for Glue Up
Before gluing, Hess lays down a piece of cardboard or paper to protect the workbench from glue spills. He uses Titebond III for its waterproof properties and longer open time. To spread the glue, he prefers a glue roller but mentions that a wooden shim or even fingers can work too. Four straight pieces of wood are needed to ensure the cutting board remains straight during the glue-up process.
Step 3: Arrange and Glue the Strips
Hess arranges the wood strips in the desired pattern, alternating between walnut, maple, and cherry for visual appeal. He applies glue to each strip, ensuring that there is enough for some squeeze-out but not so much that it goes to waste. After applying glue, the strips are pushed together, and a square is used to check alignment. Once all pieces are glued, he adds clamps to secure them, tightening them gradually to avoid uneven pressure.
Step 4: Remove Clamps and Clean Up Excess Glue
Once the glue has cured (usually after several hours or overnight), Hess removes the clamps and uses a chisel to clean up any excess glue that may have squeezed out during the clamping process.
Step 5: Flatten the Cutting Board
For flattening, Hess recommends using a planer if available. If not, a flattening bit can be used with a router. He explains how to make a jig with a sled that slides back and forth to flatten the cutting board evenly. The jig should be constructed with rails that are slightly larger than the cutting board itself for stability.
Step 6: Trim and Square the Edges
After flattening, Hess discusses trimming the edges of the cutting board to ensure they are straight and square. He uses a circular saw with a straight edge for this process, making sure to mark accurately before cutting.
Step 7: Create the Juice Groove
Hess explains how to create a juice groove using a router and a specially sized bit. He measures and marks the desired depth and width of the groove, ensuring to make multiple passes for accuracy and to avoid burn marks. The groove is created in a clockwise direction to maintain control.
Step 8: Sanding for Smoothness
Next, Hess moves on to sanding the cutting board. He starts with 80 grit sandpaper to remove any router marks, followed by 120 grit, and finishes with 220 grit for a smooth surface. He demonstrates how to raise the wood grain by spraying water on the board before the final sanding.
Step 9: Finishing the Cutting Board
Finally, Hess applies a food-safe cutting board oil to protect the wood. He uses rubber gloves for easy cleanup and lets the oil soak in for 12 to 24 hours. Optionally, a layer of cutting board wax can be applied for additional protection and sheen.
Conclusion
Following these steps, anyone can create a beautiful and functional cutting board that not only serves a purpose in the kitchen but also showcases the beauty of wood. Hess Woodwork has provided an excellent guide, and with patience and practice, this project can be a rewarding woodworking experience.