How to Make a House-Shaped Cutting Board

Treat the chef on your list to butcher block done better. A nice thick chunk makes a hard-wearing prep surface, and a few strokes of a jigsaw transform it into a unique conversation piece.

To build a This Old House logo-shaped cutting board 12 inches wide by 14 inches high get one 1½-inch hardwood butcher block cut 14 inches square.

Other downloadable cutting board templates shapes include a Georgian House Template here, and a Row House Template here.

Step 1: Download the Template

Using a restickable glue stick, adhere the template to the butcher block.

Step 2: Make Large Cuts

With a straightedge and a pen or pencil, extend the lines on the template to the edge of your block to create guides for your jigsaw. Using a jigsaw fitted with an aggressive-tooth blade, cut out the form, stopping short at the corners.

Step 3: Trim the Corners

Finish cutting out the corners with a fine-tooth pull saw.

Step 4: Apply Conditioner

Season the board with butcher-block conditioner. Apply three to four coats to finish.

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