Cutting boards are not only useful, but also look really cute around the kitchen, hanging on a wall, or just leaning on the counter as functional decor. This DIY scrap wood cutting board is a fun, simple variation of the average cutting board and makes a great gift. Get creative shaping the handle and you’ll have a unique design for you or someone else to enjoy!
Cutting boards are usually made with hardwood for durability. But hardwoods are pricey and can be hard to find at your average big box store.
So, since I was making several of these beauties for Christmas gift baskets, I opted for pine.
DIY Cutting Board Using Scrap Wood
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Choose the Wood and Cut to Desired Length
I tried to find the straightest board with the least amount of knots; I thought this would be best for a cutting board to have the smoothest surface possible.
Once I had my wood, I determined the size of my cutting board. Mine were short. The length was about 11 inches total and the width was just the width of the board. If you want them wider, you may choose a 1″x 10″ or 1″x 12″. You can also adjust the length to your preference.
Simple, right?
If you want a long handle, for instance, measure how long you want the handle and add the cutting surface length to it.
Draw the Handles & Cut
I came up with some fun designs for the handle. Be creative here! There’s no right or wrong way.
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Once you have your design drawn, you are ready to cut it with your jig saw or scroll saw
Sand and Drill Hole on the Handle
After they’re cut give them a good sanding until all edges are smooth to the touch. If you are considering a new sander, I recommend this one.. It’s battery operated and gets into small spaces.
Drill the hole on the handle before adding the finish. Make sure you drill slowly to keep the wood from splitting around it. Then get a small piece of sandpaper, roll it, and stick it through the hole to sand it good inside there.
Coat with Oil
Once you have a smooth surface, apply the special oil that gives it a nice darker finish. This oil is formulated to be used on wood surfaces. It’s non toxic, which is perfect for cutting boards. The string gives it a nice finished look. Twine or rope works too.
To attach the string, I folded the string in half, then I inserted the looped end through the hole from the back side, and added the two lose ends through the loop. To finish it off, I tied a knot at the end as pictured. Cut a good length of string to have enough to do all that. It is the worst to end up with not enough string.
I love how the grain shows once you add the oil!
Along with a loaf of homemade wheat bread, the baskets include a jar of locally grown honey , a stainless steel bread knife, a box of chocolate mint cookies, miniature candy canes, and of course, the scrap wood cutting board. To finish it off I added a cute bow with an ornament. Who would not want to get one of these for Christmas?
Thank you for stopping by! As always, let me know if you have any other questions about this project.
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