How to Make Fallen Tree Cutting Boards

Turn fallen tree trunks into elegant cutting boards with this how-to from "The Martha Stewart Show" crafter Hosanna Houser.

Resources: Howard Butcher Block Conditioner and all tools available at The Home Depot.

What You'll Need

Materials

  • Recovered fallen tree trunk
  • Chainsaw
  • Safety glasses
  • Palm sander
  • 50-grit and 120-grit sandpaper
  • Tack cloth
  • Food-safe butcher block conditioner
  • Clean, soft cloths

Instructions

  1. Cut tree into slabs ranging from 1 inch to 2 inches thick. Let wood dry out for approximately one month. Tip: Cut more slabs than needed in case some pieces split while drying.

  2. Wear safety glasses while working with the slabs. Using a palm sander, sand with coarse (50-grit) paper. Finish sanding with a finer (120-grit) paper. Wipe off dust with a tack cloth.

  3. Use a clean, soft cloth to rub food-safe butcher block conditioner into wood. Let conditioner soak in for at least 20 minutes; wipe off excess and buff the wood to a nice sheen. Repeat as necessary, applying three to four coats of conditioner to season the surface.

Originally appeared: THE MARTHA STEWART SHOW, JANUARY 2011

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