How do I Build a Cutting Table for Cutting Slabs of Granite?

Build your own table for cutting slabs of granite.

A cutting table is an invaluable tool when it comes to cutting slabs of granite, regardless of their size. Granite is a heavy stone, and sometimes it is necessary to have a place where you can lay the stone flat in order to make long cuts along the edges or cutouts for sinks and other areas. Your cutting table needs to be strong enough to handle the weight, and sturdy enough to remain rigid against the pressure of cutting the granite. With the right tools and planning, you can make a solid granite cutting table that is perfect for any granite job.

Things You'll Need

• 4-by-8 sheet of ¾ inch plywood
• Drill with attachments
• 1 and ½ inch wood screws
• 2-by-4 lumber
• Circular saw
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Carpenter's square
• Safety glasses
• Ear plugs
• Work gloves

Instructions

1. Use the tape measure, pencil and carpenter's square to mark the 2-by-4 material. Cut two pieces at 8 feet in length with the circular saw, then four pieces at 4 feet in length. Cut four additional pieces down to a length of 3 feet. Measure four more pieces at 3 feet, 8 inches in length and cut them as well.

2. Place the sheet of plywood against a wall or another surface where you can easily handle the board and reach both sides. Take one of your 8-foot long pieces of wood and place it against one edge of the plywood so that the 2-inch width of the board is against the plywood and the 4-inch part is perpendicular. Screw through the plywood to mount the piece of 2-by-4 material to the board. Place the screws at 4-inch intervals. Repeat the process for the other 8-foot long piece on the opposite edge of the board.

3. Mount the 3-foot, 8-inch pieces in a similar fashion onto the plywood board. Slide them into place between the two 8-foot long pieces, and attach them with screws through both the plywood and through the 8-foot material. Understand that these sections should be located at 2-foot intervals; two at either end of the board, and every 2-feet in between for a total of four boards. Realize you should now have a reinforced plywood cutting board, with the framed section as the bottom.

4. Mount your 3-foot long pieces that you are using for legs on the four corners of the frame. Slide them against the inside of the frame until their ends butt up against the plywood, and screw them in place. Understand that you can either mount them against the corner edges of the 8-foot section, or against the 4-foot section.

5. Finish the table by mounting the two remaining 4-foot long pieces of wood to the edges of the legs that will be placed against the ground. Understand that the cross pieces you just added are for additional support to hold the legs in place when you are putting slabs of granite on top. Flip the table over and use it whenever you need.

Tips & Warnings

• All materials and tools can be purchased or rented from your local home improvement store.

• Always wear safety gear when working with power tools.