This project was built and designed by Caleb from Caleb’s Fine Woodworking. It’s a visually striking cutting board that uses angled joinery to create a 3D chevron pattern, turning basic hardwoods into a kitchen centerpiece.
The combination of walnut and maple provides rich contrast and visual depth, while the construction process balances precision with creativity. Caleb’s clear step-by-step approach makes this build approachable, even for intermediate woodworkers looking to level up their glue-up and joinery skills.
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Choosing and Preparing the Materials
Caleb begins by selecting walnut and maple—two popular hardwoods that are ideal for cutting boards thanks to their durability and contrasting colors. Walnut brings warmth and richness, while maple adds brightness and sharp definition.
Each board is cut down to rough size and jointed to create a straight, flat edge. These clean edges are essential for the glue-up, ensuring a tight bond between strips and a smooth overall surface. This prep work lays the foundation for a cutting board that is both functional and beautiful.
Cutting Strips for the Chevron Layout
After squaring the boards, Caleb rips them into uniform strips using a table saw. Consistency in width is key to creating a seamless chevron pattern, so careful measurement and clean cuts are critical.
Instead of lining up the strips evenly for the first glue-up, Caleb staggers them slightly. This small adjustment reduces waste during the angled cuts later on and helps keep the overall board shape more manageable throughout the process.
First Glue-Up and Surface Prep
With the strips arranged, the first glue-up begins. Clamping is done evenly to ensure firm, gap-free joints, and any excess glue is cleaned up promptly. Caleb uses a chisel to remove squeeze-out that could interfere with sanding or gumming up saw blades later.
Once the glue has dried, the board is run through a drum sander to level the surface. If a drum sander isn’t available, a belt sander can be used, though extra care is needed to avoid gouging the surface or introducing dips.
Making the Angled Chevron Cuts
Now comes the key step that gives the cutting board its signature look. Caleb sets his table saw to 35 degrees and carefully slices the board into angled strips.
Each strip is then flipped in alternating directions, aligning the grain and contrast to create the zig-zag effect of the chevron pattern. This part of the project takes patience and attention to layout, but it’s where the design really starts to come alive.
Final Assembly and Alignment
After the angled strips are positioned, the second glue-up locks everything in place. Once cured, the board is flattened again using a drum sander, then trimmed to final dimensions using a miter saw and table saw to square the edges.
Caleb rounds over the corners using a router and gives all surfaces a thorough sanding. This includes light hand sanding after the machine work to remove any remaining tool marks and ensure a perfectly smooth finish.
Applying Finish and Protecting the Board
To finish the board, Caleb applies food-safe mineral oil. As the oil is absorbed into the wood, the contrast between walnut and maple deepens, revealing the full depth and detail of the chevron pattern.
After soaking in the oil, the board is sealed with a few coats of cutting board conditioner. This finish enhances the wood’s natural luster while protecting it from moisture and daily use.
A Functional Work of Art
This 3D chevron cutting board isn’t just a kitchen tool—it’s a statement piece. The crisp angles and contrasting tones make it stand out on any countertop, while the durable construction ensures it can handle years of daily use.
For woodworkers looking to expand their skills, this project offers a rewarding challenge. It’s an opportunity to practice angled cuts, master glue-up techniques, and create something both practical and visually impressive.
Please support Caleb by visiting his website: https://www.calebscustomwoodworks.com/.