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Updated: Oct 4, 2023

Butcher block table tops are a popular choice for kitchen tables because they are durable, easy to clean, and can add a touch of elegance to any home. However, butcher block tops can also be used for other purposes, such as desks, workbenches, and even countertops.

In this blog post, we will discuss the materials and tools you need to make your own butcher block table top, as well as step-by-step instructions on how to do it. We will also offer some tips for making your project a success. In the pictures are some high top tables that I completed for a local coffee shop.


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Materials:

The materials you need to make your own butcher block table top will vary depending on the size and shape of the table top you want to make. However, you will typically need the following:

  • Wood: The best woods for butcher block table tops are any domestic hardwood that you have available and your client loves the color of. Any of them will work, for this project we used Ash. These woods are durable and have a beautiful grain pattern.

  • Glue: A good quality wood glue is essential for a strong and durable table top. You will need a lot, depending on the size of the project.

Finish: A food-safe finish is necessary to protect the wood from moisture and spills. This will really depend on the client but the one that I have found that gives the longest lasting results in a kitchen environment is Rubio Monocoat.


Tools: You will need a table saw, jointer, planer, sander, and drill for this project. I've added a link for a track saw, which can be seen in the above picture. The track saw was used to trim the ends and achieve the waterfall sides.







Other uses for butcher block tops:

  • Desks: Butcher block tops can be used to make beautiful and durable desks. They are a great choice for home offices orworkspaces because they are easy to clean and resistant to scratches.

  • Workbenches: Butcher block tops are also a good choice for workbenches. They are strong and durable, and they can withstand the wear and tear of heavy use.

  • Countertops: Butcher block tops can also be used for countertops. They are a great choice for kitchen countertops because they are easy to clean and resistant to moisture.

Instructions:

Here are the basic steps on how to make your own butcher block table top:

  1. Choose the wood. When choosing wood for your butcher block table top, it is important to consider the following factors:

    • Durability: The wood should be strong and durable enough to withstand the intended use.

    • Grain pattern: The wood should have a beautiful grain pattern that you will enjoy looking at.

    • Color: The wood should be a color that you like and that will complement the other furniture in your home.


  1. Cut the wood to size. The width and length of the table top will depend on your desired size. The thickness should be at least 2 inches or what is dictated by the project.

  2. Joint and plane the wood. This will ensure that the surface of the wood is smooth and flat.

  3. Glue the wood together in sections. Sections that can fit back on your jointer or planer are the best size.

  4. Clamp the blocks together and let the glue dry completely.

  5. Sand the table top smooth. Use a progressively finer grit of sandpaper until the surface is smooth to the touch.

  6. Apply a finish to the table top. This will protect the wood from moisture and spills.

Tips:

  • Use a high-quality wood glue for the best results.

  • Be careful not to over-sand the table top, as this can weaken the wood.

  • Apply the finish in thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.

  • Take your time and be patient. Making a butcher block table top is a project that requires some skill and patience, but it is a rewarding one.

Conclusion:

Making your own butcher block table top is a great way to add a unique and functional piece of furniture to your home. With a little planning and effort, you can create a table top that will last for many years to come.

I hope this is helpful! Let me know if you have any questions.


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