From Timber to Table: The Art of Crafting DIY Wood Cutting Boards

Making wood cutting boards has long been an introduction to fine woodworking. It was an opportunity to try out all those hobby woodworking tools like tabletop planers, rip and crosscut saws, glue clamps, and, of course, a quality selection of hardwood lumber. Now, even the most novice woodworker can craft a beautiful  DIY cutting board with a minimal investment in tools and lumber.

Why Custom Cutting Boards Make Exceptional Gifts

Wood cutting boards make for beautiful gifts. They can last for decades, even generations. How many gifts last that long? Certainly, they can be used for their  primary purpose as cutting boards. But they could also serve other practical reasons, such as serving trays for cheese and bread, vegetables, or even a charcuterie platter.

Choosing the Right Wood for Your Custom Cutting Board

Different woods allow for variety in color and grain pattern. Hardwood species native to Pennsylvania are among the best for crafting these fine gift items. The hardness of woods such as maple, walnut, and white oak perfectly matches the suggested hardness for wood cutting boards. Too hard a wood can dull knife blades quicker. Sapele is another wood we recommend for custom cutting boards. While it’s not a domestic species, it adds a vibrant color to the popular variety today.

Designing Your DIY Cutting Board for Durability

The thickness of the boards varies, but the most resilient are those measuring 1-1/2” thick. The thicker the board, the less likely it is to warp over time. Medium to large boards are typically 12” wide and 16” long (some are larger, and some smaller). The most effective and long-lasting wood cutting boards are face glued, showcasing the edge grain. This grain is the toughest, preventing deeper cuts into the wood.

Crafting Your Own Custom Cutting Board

Here’s a gift you can craft yourself and excel at. With a modest investment in equipment (table saw—or even a skill saw, several smaller bar clamps, an orbital sander, wood glue, and some mineral oil), you can create your own DIY cutting board. Check out our kits to get started!