How to Build Your Own Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block countertops are a popular choice for multisurface kitchens. Butcher block is a great choice for durability and flexibility. You can place hot pans on the counter without incurring damage. They also can act as a great surface for rolling out dough and pastries, much like a wooden cutting or pastry board. You can use butcher block in place of an existing countertop or as a top to a kitchen island. The downside to building these countertops is that they can require special equipment to efficiently get the job done. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure your existing countertops for length and depth. You are going to be cutting your maple into 1-by-2 inch strips to the desired length, with the 1-inch section facing up for installation. Purchase enough wood to meet your countertop dimensions. You can either rip out your old countertop and place the butcher block on the cabinet frame or place the butcher block over an existing countertop.

2

Rip or cut your wood to the desired length first and then to your 2-inch width. Cut enough pieces to achieve the depth you need for your counters. You will need to add one-quarter inch to the width of each piece to allow for sanding after assembling the butcher block.

3

Cut a support board out of plywood one-quarter inch shorter than your desired finish dimensions in length and depth. Place the board in between your open clamps on a flat surface with the clamps facing up. You will not be attaching your butcher block to this piece; it is just for a flat surface to assemble on.

4

Place a scrap piece of wood the length of your countertops against both clamps. Now place your first piece of maple against the scrap wood, 1-inch side facing up. Continue this until the last piece is in place. Doing a dry fit will ensure everything fits correctly before making it permanent with glue.

5

Apply waterproof glue in between each piece by gluing the 2-inch sides together. Make sure you have your scrap pieces between your first and last piece and the clamps. Tighten the clamps and wipe off any excess glue with a damp cloth. Allow to set for at least 24 hours.

6

Remove clamps from the butcher block. Using a belt sander with 80 grit first followed by 120 and 320 grits, sand the countertop smooth. Use a damp cloth to remove any sawdust.

7

Apply a food-safe cured counter stain with a piece of cloth. Allow 6 hours to dry, then hand sand with 400 grit sandpaper and re-coat. Allow the stain to dry for 24 hours. Using a 4/0 steel wool rub the block and then allow a full 72 hour cure time. Wash with soap and water before first use.

8

Attach butcher block. To attach to a ripped out countertop, apply waterproof construction adhesive to the tops of your cabinets and clamp the butcher block to the cabinet. To attach to an existing counter top, use waterproof construction adhesive and clamp.