How to Make a Butcher-Block Counter Top
A butcher-block counter top is durable, heat-resistant and a great way to reduce the need for hot plates. A butcher block consists of a number of pieces of hardwood glued together to create a solid base for cutting, hot pans and a host of kitchen tasks. Butcher blocks are created using a basic formula that can be adjusted to suit your kitchen space. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Process
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1
Select the type of wood for your butcher-block counter top. Traditionally, butcher-block surfaces are made from maple, but any hardwood will have the same effect. Maple and oak are the hardest of the hardwoods and may be the right choice for passionate cooks as these woods offer the most durability.
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2
Measure the width and length of existing counter tops and determine the size of the replacement butcher-block top. You may want to extend the length, curve the corners or increase the width, so make sure your measurements reflect this. Mark measurements carefully on a piece of paper, making sure to add at least 5 extra centimeters to each measurement. This will provide a little leeway when it comes to cutting and sanding.
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3
Cut 1-by-2-inch pieces of hardwood to length for the block. Traditionally, the butcher block is arranged pieces of 1-by-2s glued together. They are arranged in strips or in a brick-laying shape (staggered vertical seams). Cut a couple of extra pieces just to be safe.
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4
Arrange the wood pieces together with the 2-inch sides touching in the desire pattern. Inspect each piece of wood against its neighbor to make sure the pieces fit together smoothly. Keep the pieces in this arrangement to make gluing easier.
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5
Begin gluing the pieces together, 2-inch side by 2-inch side, using a quality wood glue or wood adhesive. Ensure the glue is spread evenly and totally over each piece of wood. Drips can be sanded away later so it is better to use a little too much glue than not enough. Continue until all the pieces are glued together.
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6
Clamp the glued block together using wood clamps. Depending on the length of the final block, you should place clamps at the center and both ends and then every 10 inches for longer counter tops. Metal clamps are available at hardware stores and home and garden centers.
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7
Wipe away excess glue using a wet cotton cloth or paper towel before placing the block in a safe place to dry. The glue-setting area should be free of dust and debris and out of the way of drafts. A warm, dry basement counter is ideal. For drying times, review the label information on the glue bottle.
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8
Remove the clamps after the glue has dried and sand off any drips of dry glue. A medium-grit sandpaper works well for hand sanding.
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9
Use a fine sandpaper after the original sanding. Remember to wear a dust mask and goggles. Begin with a 120-grit paper and work up to 300-grit for a smooth finish.
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10
Treat the block with mineral spirits or linseed oil to prepare the surface for use. Rub on the oil with a clean cotton cloth, saturating the surface and removing the excess.
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