This project was built and designed by Billy from Newton Makes. It’s a unique cutting board project that combines oak, cherry, maple, and walnut to form a bold plaid pattern using end grain construction.
Billy walks through each step of the process, from milling the wood to applying the final finish. The end result is a beautiful and durable cutting board that stands out in both design and craftsmanship.
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Choosing the Right Materials
The visual appeal of this cutting board starts with the wood selection. Billy uses a mix of domestic hardwoods—oak, cherry, maple, and walnut—for their natural contrast and complementary grain patterns.
Oak and maple are chosen for the larger square components, offering strength and light color tones. Cherry adds warmth, while the dark richness of walnut is used for striking accent stripes that define the plaid pattern.
Milling and Cutting the Lumber
The first phase of the project involves milling the boards to a consistent thickness. This step is critical to achieving a flat and even final surface, especially since end grain boards require precision at every stage.
Each board is cut into strips that will be later glued together. Billy leaves the strips slightly thicker than the final size to allow for sanding and flattening down the line. This forward-thinking approach helps eliminate inconsistencies caused by glue-up or tool variation.
Building the First Panel
After all the strips are cut, Billy glues them together in a layout that forms the first pattern. Using a jig ensures everything stays aligned, especially when dealing with so many narrow strips.
Clamps are applied with balanced pressure to avoid bowing in the middle of the panel. Once dry, the panel is sliced into cross sections, which will become the tiles for the plaid pattern.
Creating the Plaid Effect
To form the classic plaid design, the tiles are rotated and arranged with alternating grain direction. This gives the board its checkerboard appearance while also enhancing its durability through end grain construction.
Once arranged, the pieces are glued again in a perpendicular layout, and clamped flat. This secondary glue-up locks the pattern in place and creates the signature plaid base of the board.
Adding Walnut Stripes
To take the pattern a step further, Billy slices the glued-up board once more and inserts thin walnut strips between the rows. This third glue-up creates bold, contrasting lines that tie the entire design together.
Walnut not only adds visual interest but also adds structural integrity to the board. With each pass, the project becomes more refined and intricate.
Flattening and Sanding
After all glue-ups are complete, the board needs to be flattened. Billy uses a router sled, a reliable method for working with end grain without the risk of tear-out that planers often cause.
Once flat, the board is sanded through several grits, finishing with a fine grit to smooth out any roughness. This stage takes time but is key to achieving a professional, high-end look.
Beveling and Edge Work
The edges of the cutting board are beveled using a router, helping soften sharp corners and making the board easier to pick up. This small detail adds comfort and also gives the project a finished feel.
Attention to these details is what sets this build apart. Every edge is thoughtfully shaped, and even the bottom corners are given a slight chamfer to prevent chipping or damage with use.
Applying the Finish
Instead of using traditional mineral oil, Billy applies a wood bowl finish thinned to soak into the dense end grain. This choice provides protection while avoiding a film on the surface.
The board is flooded with finish and allowed to absorb it deeply. After a short time, any excess is wiped away, leaving a clean, food-safe surface. Additional coats are added for extra protection, ensuring the cutting board holds up well to repeated use.
A Standout Piece for the Kitchen or Shop
The completed cutting board combines clean lines with natural color variation for a look that’s hard to replicate. Each board will be slightly different depending on the grain patterns and layout, giving it a one-of-a-kind quality.
Whether for your own kitchen or as a gift, this project is as practical as it is artistic. The end grain construction ensures durability, and the plaid design turns a common household item into a statement piece.
Please support Billy by visiting his website here: https://www.newtonmakes.com/shop.