This project was built and designed by Steve from JKM Woodworking. It’s a two-part woodworking gift set featuring a floating wine bottle holder and a matching cheese board—both functional, stylish, and perfect for entertaining or gifting.
The build combines precision, food-safe finishes, and smart design choices that result in pieces that are both attractive and useful. Whether you’re creating a holiday gift or just want to elevate your hosting setup, this is a satisfying and approachable woodworking project.
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Understanding the Design
The wine bottle holder works on a balancing principle, requiring precise angles and dimensions to function properly. The base is cut at a 45-degree angle, while the neck opening is drilled at a specific location and depth to support the bottle’s weight.
While the overall size can vary slightly, maintaining consistency in length and hole placement is key. Steve’s process allows for flexibility in design while still achieving that signature floating effect.
Creating a Drilling Jig
The first step in the project is making a jig to drill the wine bottle hole at the correct angle. Using scrap wood, Steve constructs a simple fixture that holds the workpiece securely while guiding the drill bit at the ideal entry point.
Testing the jig with scrap pieces ensures accuracy before moving on to the final stock. This step helps avoid costly errors and ensures repeatable results if you plan to make more than one holder.
Making the Floating Wine Bottle Holders
Once the jig is ready, Steve cuts several pieces of hardwood to length. While width can vary depending on style preferences, keeping the lengths consistent ensures visual balance across multiple holders.
The angled hole is drilled using the jig, and the inside edges are sanded smooth. A rotary sanding attachment helps speed up the process and gives a clean interior surface for the bottle neck.
To finish the edges, Steve rounds over all sides using a router. This softens the look and prevents sharp corners while also improving the durability of the piece.
Finishing the Holders
Each holder is sanded thoroughly, progressing to a fine grit to raise and smooth the grain. Steve applies a food-safe finish made from mineral oil and cutting board wax to protect the wood and enhance its natural grain.
This finish is especially important since these holders may come into contact with beverages or be used around food. The oil-soaked look brings out rich color and adds depth to the grain patterns.
Creating the Cheese Board
The cheese board complements the wine holder and is made from hardwoods like maple, walnut, and padauk. These contrasting woods create a striking visual effect and give the board strength and longevity.
Each strip is cut to length, jointed for clean edges, and glued together with a food-safe adhesive. After the glue dries, Steve scrapes off any excess and planes the board flat for a consistent thickness across the surface.
Shaping and Edge Work
With a flat surface established, Steve squares the ends on a table saw and adds gentle curves to the corners using a band saw. A bench sander is used to smooth and round the profile further.
This shaping process enhances the board’s appearance and makes it easier to handle. The rounded corners also help reduce the risk of chipping and create a more polished finish.
Adding a Cracker Groove
A standout feature of the cheese board is the built-in cracker groove, routed along the surface to hold snacks or small accompaniments. Steve carefully measures its position and depth before making several shallow passes with the router.
The groove adds functionality and an extra touch of craftsmanship. Once cut, the groove is hand-sanded to remove tool marks and make it safe for food contact.
Final Sanding and Finish
The entire board is sanded with fine grit to prepare for finishing. As with the wine bottle holders, a blend of mineral oil and cutting board wax is applied, giving the wood a rich, food-safe sheen.
This combination not only highlights the wood’s natural tones but also seals the surface against moisture and wear. The result is a professional-quality board that’s ready for entertaining or everyday use.
A Thoughtful and Useful Gift Set
These two items work perfectly as a coordinated set, ideal for anyone who enjoys wine, charcuterie, or simply appreciates handmade gifts. Steve’s process is detailed but easy to follow, making it great for beginners or anyone looking to make meaningful, sellable items.
The floating wine bottle holder adds visual interest and conversation value, while the cheese board delivers everyday utility in a beautiful package. Together, they make a standout pair for holidays, birthdays, or housewarming gifts.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Steve’s channel: