Looking to build a stunning charcuterie board that showcases your woodworking skills? This project was designed and created by Keaton Beyer from Keaton Beyer Woodworking. With a beautiful crotch wood piece at the center of the design, this article will walk you through the steps to create a functional and eye-catching charcuterie board that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Materials and Tools
- Crotch wood board
- Black super glue
- Accelerator spray
- Mineral oil
- Homemade board conditioner (available on Keaton’s website)
- Router
- Sliding dovetail jig
- Sanding supplies
Step 1: Selecting the Wood
The first step in creating your charcuterie board is selecting a special piece of wood. For this project, crotch wood was chosen for its unique dark feathered effect. Keep in mind that while this wood looks stunning, it is weaker than straight grain wood, making it less suitable for certain structural elements.
Step 2: Preparing for Sliding Dovetails
To prevent the board from cupping, sliding dovetails will be used as feet. This not only elevates the board for easier handling but also adds a decorative touch. Get your sliding dovetail jig ready, as this will help create the perfect fit.
Step 3: Cutting the Dovetails
The trick to cutting sliding dovetails is to take your time and gradually work towards the correct fit. While some may prefer to make test cuts, a more traditional approach is to dive in with the first cut. Ensure that the male and female sides fit snugly together.
Step 4: Filling Voids
If you encounter any voids in the board, a quick solution is to use black super glue combined with accelerator spray. This combo will fill the voids rapidly, allowing you to move on to sanding.
Step 5: Sanding and Fixing Edges
After gluing, you may notice some router tear-out. To fix this, bevel the edges slightly. If the router isn’t cutting correctly, consider filling any gaps with actual wood for a more aesthetically pleasing finish.
Step 6: Preparing the Board for Finishing
Before applying any finish, it’s essential to raise the grain of the wood. Start by spritzing the board with water. Once it dries, sand the surface to knock down the raised fibers.
Step 7: Applying Mineral Oil
When applying mineral oil, be cautious not to overdo it! A light layer is all that’s needed. After about half an hour, you’ll notice dry spots where the oil has soaked in. Wipe off any excess oil to prevent the board from becoming too oily.
Step 8: Finishing with Board Conditioner
The final step is to apply a top coat, such as Keaton Beyer’s homemade board conditioner. Wipe it on, let it sit for about half an hour, and then buff off the excess. This will give your board a beautiful finish and protect it for years to come.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you’ll create a stunning charcuterie board that showcases your skills and creativity. Remember, the goal is to use and enjoy your beautiful wood pieces rather than let them sit idle.