This project was built and designed by Alex from Bevelish Creations. It’s a modern, open-sided knife block built entirely from white oak offcuts, turning scrap wood into a sleek, functional centerpiece for the kitchen.
Rather than using solid stock or pre-cut panels, Alex repurposes small pieces that would normally be tossed aside—proving once again that creativity and careful joinery can turn waste into something beautiful and useful.
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Turning Scraps into Panels
The project begins with a pile of white oak offcuts—uneven, mismatched, and mostly destined for the burn pile. Alex starts by trimming each piece to a consistent thickness and width, making them workable for a glue-up.
The pieces are arranged in a staggered pattern to form a small butcher block-style panel. Not only does this provide strength, but it also adds a layered visual texture that’s highlighted in the finished knife block.
Clean Glue-Up and Surface Prep
To glue the pieces together, clamps are used in combination with MDF boards and packing tape to keep everything aligned and clean. This simple trick prevents glue squeeze-out from sticking and damaging surfaces.
Once dry, the entire panel is planed down to ensure a flat, even surface. This step is essential for strong joints and a polished appearance later in the build.
Precision Miters and Angle Setup
The frame of the knife block is built using a series of miter cuts. While some angles are standard 45-degree miters, others require steeper or shallower cuts for the unique shape of the design.
To tackle the trickier angles, Alex uses a custom jig that holds workpieces vertically while cutting with the miter saw. This allows for clean, repeatable results without the need for complex compound setups.
Trial fitting is also key. Instead of aiming for a perfect cut on the first try, Alex tests the fit and fine-tunes each piece until everything aligns tightly. This practical approach avoids wasted material and ensures crisp corners.
Adding Hidden Weight
Although the frame is hollow, it needs to be heavy enough to stay firmly in place on a kitchen counter. To add weight without compromising the design, Alex cuts a recess in the base of the block and installs steel plates.
Using a flush trim bit and a plywood template, he routes out the recess with precision. Even a minor mishap in one corner of the recess doesn’t detract from the clean look—just part of the handmade charm.
Knife Slot Setup
At the top of the knife block, slots are routed to hold a four-piece set of Dalstrong Shadow Black knives. These slots are cut using a router table, a narrow bit, and stop blocks to control spacing and depth.
Alex points out that slot length affects the angle at which knives rest. To avoid excessive tilt, he keeps the slots just slightly longer than the blade’s widest point—giving a balance of function and visual appeal.
Each slot is routed with care to ensure a snug fit. The result is a knife block that secures the knives well while keeping them accessible and visible.
Sanding and Finishing Details
After all assembly is complete, the block is sanded smooth and the corners are lightly eased. Care is taken not to lose the sharp geometry of the design while still making the edges comfortable to touch.
For the finish, Alex uses a water-based satin topcoat. This keeps the white oak’s natural brightness intact and avoids the darkening effect of oil-based products.
Rubber Feet for Durability
To keep the knife block stable and dry, rubber feet are installed on the underside. These help lift the block off the counter slightly and allow for airflow beneath—especially important in a kitchen setting.
The feet are screwed into place for long-term durability. Compared to adhesive pads, this solution is more reliable and holds up better with repeated cleaning and moisture exposure.
Final Thoughts on a Creative Shop Project
The finished knife block weighs over six pounds thanks to the steel plates, giving it a solid feel without requiring full-thickness hardwood throughout. The open-sided design not only reduces weight but also provides a unique, modern look that complements the sleek black knives.
By leaving the sides open, Alex highlights the structure of the knives and keeps the design visually light. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in how the finished product feels and looks on the counter.
What Makes This Build Stand Out
This project showcases how scraps and offcuts can be turned into something high-end and useful. With a mix of careful joinery, creative planning, and a willingness to experiment with design, Alex builds something that’s both practical and beautiful.
For woodworkers looking to reduce waste and stretch materials, this is a great example of making the most out of what’s on hand. It’s a project that proves thoughtful design can elevate even the simplest scraps.
Learn more about this project here: https://www.bevelishcreations.com/projects/knifeblock/.