In this guide, Fisher from Fisher’s Shop shares the step-by-step process to create a beautiful end-grain walnut cutting board featuring a contrasting maple inlay. Follow along to learn about the materials, tools, and methods used to craft this stunning piece.
Materials and Tools
- Walnut wood slab
- Maple wood for inlay
- Waterproof wood glue
- Oil and wax conditioner for finish
- Non-slip rubber feet
- Table saw
- Joiner
- Planer
- CNC machine
- Crosscut sled
- Clamps
- Router
- Sanding block
Step 1: Preparing the Walnut Slab
Fisher starts by cutting a chunk off the walnut slab. The first task is to flatten one side using a joiner. Once that is done, he references that edge on the table saw to cut the slab into strips. Since the piece is over 2 inches thick, he takes several passes while raising the blade between cuts to prevent overheating and burning the wood.
Step 2: Flattening the Strips
After breaking down the slab into strips, the next step is to flatten one of the rough sides of each strip using the joiner. A couple of passes on the joiner ensures a smooth face. With that done, Fisher can rip each strip down into the final dimensions needed for the glue-up.
Step 3: Preparing for Glue-Up
To create variety in the finished board’s pattern, Fisher alternates the end grain direction of the strips before gluing them together. He also prepares smaller strips of maple for the inlay material, gluing those up as well.
Step 4: Cutting and Sizing the Panels
Once both the walnut and maple strips are dry and out of the clamps, Fisher flattens each one using the planer. He then uses a crosscut sled to clean up one edge of each panel before cutting them down into strips to achieve a finished thickness of about 1 1/2 inches for the cutting board.
Step 5: Glue-Up of the End Grain Boards
Fisher rotates the strips so that the end grain is facing up. He flips every other strip to stagger the end grain directions, enhancing the visual appeal. After applying a generous amount of waterproof glue, he spreads it with his wife’s favorite comb. The pieces are then clamped together tightly, ensuring they remain co-planar.
Step 6: Flattening and Carving
After letting the glue dry overnight, Fisher uses his CNC machine to flatten the bottom of the board, ensuring a smooth finish. He then flips the board to carve out the mortise for the maple inlay.
Step 7: Preparing the Inlay
Fisher cuts the maple into pieces that will fit into the carved areas. He resaws the panel to cut the inlay pieces loose and gives each a slight trim for a perfect fit before gluing them into place.
Step 8: Finalizing the Board
Once the inlay pieces are glued in and dried, Fisher flattens the top again using the CNC. After that, he cleans up the edges at the table saw to square the board. He also carves a recess into the bottom for a plate to be inserted, making it easier to transfer food without mess.
Step 9: Sanding and Finishing
Using a speed square, Fisher braces the piece upright to sand all the corners. He starts with 80 grit sandpaper and works his way up to 220 grit, ensuring a smooth finish. To raise the grain, he wets the board and sands it again for a perfectly smooth surface.
Step 10: Applying the Finish
Fisher uses an oil and wax conditioner to finish the board, enhancing its water resistance and helping to repair any knife marks in the wood. Finally, he adds non-slip rubber feet to the bottom, drilling pilot holes and securing them in place.
Conclusion
The end result is a gorgeous cutting board with a striking end grain pattern, perfectly executed inlay, and a personal touch from the engraving on the back. Fisher’s innovative design, including the recess for the plate, adds functionality to this beautiful piece. Whether it’s for personal use or as a gift, this cutting board is sure to impress!
