This project was built and designed by Caleb from YouCanMakeThisToo. It’s a one-of-a-kind peppermill made from reclaimed walnut firewood, turning discarded material into a high-end, functional kitchen piece.
With some creative drying techniques, careful lathe work, and smart joinery solutions, this project shows how even humble scrap can become a conversation-worthy item. It’s a great option for woodworkers looking to practice turning, learn about friction polish finishes, or prepare items for craft show sales.
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Why Reclaimed Wood Works for This Build
Reclaimed walnut has a rich, unpredictable grain and natural charm that’s hard to replicate with store-bought lumber. In this build, Caleb selects a piece of walnut firewood—material most would overlook—and turns it into a polished kitchen tool.
Using reclaimed wood supports sustainability by reducing waste and avoiding the need to purchase new lumber. It also often results in pieces that feel more organic and handmade, especially when knots, color shifts, or unique growth patterns are preserved.
Drying Firewood the Smart Way
Before turning the peppermill, the wood must be thoroughly dried to prevent cracking and warping. Caleb uses a microwave to speed up this process—a controlled technique that involves heating the wood in short bursts, then letting it rest between sessions.
He monitors the temperature and allows the piece to cool in place to stabilize moisture levels. This drying method is particularly useful for smaller projects and reclaimed materials that might not have been kiln-dried or air-dried properly.
Turning and Shaping on the Lathe
Once dried, the walnut blank is mounted on the lathe and turned to a clean, cylindrical form. Caleb emphasizes keeping the wall thickness consistent throughout the shaping process. Doing so improves structural integrity and helps avoid future movement or stress on the piece.
This step sets the stage for a clean, professional final result. The classic peppermill profile is shaped with smooth curves and proportions, giving the piece a timeless feel.
Drilling the Mechanism Cavity
With the outer shape complete, Caleb shifts focus to the inner cavity where the peppermill mechanism will be installed. A small detail becomes a challenge here: because of the lip on the bottom of the piece, drilling directly down is tricky.
To adapt, he uses an ice pick to mark out screw holes and drills them at a slight angle. This minor adjustment makes the installation cleaner and avoids unnecessary tear-out—especially important when working with hardwood like walnut.
Threading and Assembly
Before inserting the mechanism’s screws, Caleb applies wax to each one. This small trick makes the screws easier to drive and prevents damage to the surrounding wood fibers. Cutting clean threads into the hardwood reduces the chance of splitting or cracking later on.
The peppermill hardware fits snugly, and the careful planning ensures all moving parts are well aligned. No glue is used in the threaded areas, allowing for future maintenance or replacement if needed.
Friction Polish for a Smooth Finish
For finishing, Caleb uses a friction polish—applied while the lathe is running—to bring out the walnut’s rich tones. The finish enhances the natural beauty of the grain and provides a protective coating that resists everyday wear.
This method is ideal for smaller turned pieces and gives the peppermill a smooth, glossy look without the need for multiple coats or complex drying times. It’s fast, effective, and easy to maintain over time.
Selling Projects Like This One
Functional pieces like peppermills often do well at local craft fairs or artisan markets. Caleb shares that projects like this not only draw attention for their visual appeal but also sell well due to their utility and giftable nature.
Engaging with potential customers in person gives woodworkers a chance to showcase the story behind reclaimed materials and explain the process involved. These face-to-face conversations often lead to repeat business or custom orders.
If you’re thinking of selling your work, peppermills are an approachable product to batch out. They allow you to use offcuts or firewood, and once you’ve practiced the process, you can turn several in a short time.
A Simple Tool with a Personal Touch
Turning a peppermill from reclaimed firewood is more than just a way to reuse scrap—it’s a chance to combine creativity, precision, and sustainability. The result is a small but meaningful object that’s both functional and visually striking.
Caleb’s process breaks it down clearly, and with a little patience, the same approach can be adapted to a range of turned kitchen tools like salt grinders or rolling pins.
Please support Caleb by visiting his website: https://www.ycmt2.com/.