How to make your own cutting boards using scrap wood you already have in your stash to repurpose in your kitchen or give away as homemade gifts.
We love putting leftovers to good use—whether it’s paint, project offcuts, or last night’s dinner. One resource that always seems to accumulate at our house is scrap wood. From dining table tops and window trim to built-in shelving, offcuts build up fast, and it feels wasteful to throw them away.
This time we had a piece of leftover butcher block from a countertop project. It was too nice to discard, so we turned it into several simple DIY cutting boards. Making boards from scraps is an excellent way to repurpose hardwood pieces you already have or find cheaply at a restore or salvage shop.
I’m sharing this project as part of a Back to Basics blog hop. If you’ve felt intimidated by power tools or want beginner-friendly DIY ideas, this series includes many approachable projects that build confidence. Welcome if you’re hopping over from another blog!
If you have a stash of hardwood scraps or come across some butcher block, here’s a straightforward way to transform them into beautiful, functional cutting boards.
DIY Cutting Boards from Scrap Wood
Note: Some of the materials below may be available through affiliate programs; please refer to the project host’s disclosure.
Supplies Used:
- Hardwood scrap (good species include maple, pecan, walnut, teak, or cherry—avoid softwoods)
- Circular saw for straight cuts
- Jigsaw (optional) to cut curves or handles
- Sandpaper sheets in medium, fine, and ultra-fine grits
- Optional palm or mouse sander and sanding pads to speed sanding
- Food-safe mineral oil and clean, dry rags for finishing
- Paper or cardboard template in the shape you want (you can trace an existing board or draw your own)
The Steps:
1. Trace your template onto the wood with a pencil. Mark any handles or rounded corners you want to create.
2. Use a circular saw to cut along the pencil lines. A basic circular saw is an excellent starter tool and is sufficient for straight cuts. Take your time and clamp the wood securely before cutting.
3. If you want a handle, rounded corners, or a custom silhouette, follow your pencil lines with a jigsaw. Move slowly to maintain a smooth edge.
4. Sand thoroughly. Start with medium grit to remove saw marks and shape edges, then progress to fine and ultra-fine grits until the surface and edges are silky smooth. Sanding by hand works fine, but a palm sander speeds the job and keeps an even finish.
5. Clean the dust from the surface using a brush or tack cloth, then apply mineral oil liberally with a clean rag. The oil will deepen the wood color and bring out the grain. Let it absorb, then wipe away excess. Repeat applications for a richer finish; mineral oil is food-safe and recommended for cutting boards. Do not use stain or polyurethane on surfaces that will contact food.
Once finished, your boards are ready to use. They make attractive serving pieces for charcuterie, cheeses, or everyday kitchen prep, and they are thoughtful, handmade gifts.
I especially enjoy assembling charcuterie boards in warm months when friends gather outside. A simple, attractive cutting board adds a lot to presentation and encourages grazing and conversation.
Charcuterie board basics: For a crowd-pleasing tray include at least one item from each category: a sharp cheese, a mild cheese, a cured meat, crackers or chips, fresh fruit (grapes, berries, or sliced apples), nuts, olives, a savory spread like mustard, and a sweet element such as honey. A balanced mix of salty, sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy makes the board addictive and satisfying.
If you’d like more beginner DIY ideas, the Back to Basics hop features many simple projects from fellow bloggers, including furniture makeovers, planters, and more cutting board and charcuterie inspiration.
Flatware Chest Makeover — Rain on a Tin Roof
DIY Charcuterie Board — House by Hoff
DIY Crock or Pottery from Thrift Store Canisters — So Much Better with Age
DIY Wood Planter — The Turquoise Home
Coffee Table to Bench Makeover — The Happy Housie
DIY Cutting Boards from Scrap Wood — Original project host
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