How to make a cutting board from scrap wood and an old leather thrifted belt.
Some people go to stores like HomeGoods and Target to look at pillows, lamps and pictures. You know...home decor goodies.
Me?
I love to check out wood cutting boards, the chunkier the better. I don't usually buy but it's always fun to see what they have.
So...what could possibly be better than buying a beautiful chunky cutting board from the store? How about making your own.
I got to do just that with some leftover walnut butcher block from our cargo trailer conversion kitchen countertop install. Actually it's the kitchen sink cutout and it was going to go in the scrap pile.
No scrap pile for this piece...I was able to rescue it and turn it into the perfect cutting board/serving board for just a few bucks.
Creating a butcher block cutting board
So...I had a beautiful (and free) piece of wood but I wanted to kick it up a notch and add some kind of handle.
I saw a picture online of a really cool looking cutting board that had leather handles so I used that as my inspiration.
How to find leather handles though when I was trying to stay on a budget?
I went to the home improvement store and the fabric store but couldn't find what I wanted. Feeling defeated I made one more stop at the thrift store.
I was looking for something...anything...and stumbled on an old leather kid's belt for just $1. Score!!!
With a leather belt all ready to be reused and my free wood, I set out to make my new thrifty butcher block with leather handles.
Since the wood was already cut out all I had to do was give it a good sanding. First I worked on the top, bottom and sides of the board with a medium grit sand paper, and then moved on to a fine grit.
When I was done the wood was smooth and soft.
The above picture is me sanding the board with the handles already attached. Ideally you want to sand and condition before the handles are attached. It just makes the job easier.
After the board was sanded, I used a clean cotton cloth to remove all of the fine dust.
Then I used a food-safe butcher block wood conditioner to treat the wood.
This is where the magic happens because it brought out the beautiful grain in the walnut.
A quick note...just be sure to follow the directions on any wood conditioner you use and make sure it is food-safe (if you will be using it to serve or cut food).
After the wood conditioner soaks in and dries, you can add the handles.
Or you can stop right there. You have a beautiful free cutting board that's all ready to go.
I still had that inspiration cutting board on my mind, with the leather handles, so I cut the belt up to make two handles for my board. After I shaped the handles I used some good old-fashioned soap and water to clean the belt (careful not to soak the leather and ruin it).
Then I predrilled holes in each side of the wood.
To attach the leather, I screwed 4 small brass wood screws into the predrilled holes.
Look at that beautiful leather. Who would guess that it came from a $1 thrift store belt?
Once the handles are attached, our new chunky cutting board/serving board is done.
Not only is it done but it only cost us about $3.50 to make.
Not a bad price for a beautiful chunky cutting board. Actually, I think it's better than anything I've ever seen in the store, and I didn't have to pay big bucks for it.
Check out my other great idea for repurposing a kitchen sink cutout.
How to Build a Bathroom Vanity
How to Make a Cutting Board from Scrap Wood
How to make a beautiful DIY butcher block cutting board from a piece of scrap wood and a $1 thrifted leather belt.
Materials
- old leather belt
- piece of butcher block countertop
- brass wood screws
- wood conditioner
- clean cotton cloth
- soap and water
Tools
- drill
- scissors
- medium and fine grit sand paper
Instructions
- Take sink cutout from butcher block countertop, or any leftover piece of butcher block or regular wood
- Sand top bottom and sides of butcher block first with medium grit sandpaper, then with fine grit
- Wipe wood down well with clean cloth
- Take new clean cloth and wood conditioner and apply to top, bottom and sides of wood cutting board (follow directions on bottle)
- Let wood conditioner dry
- Take old leather belt and cut in 2 pieces for cutting board handles
- Use warm soap and water to clean leather (careful not to soak leather)
- Center leather handle in the middle of the side of the cutting board
- Drill pilot holes through leather and into wood
- Take brass screws and screw into pilot holes in leather and wood (I used 2 screws or each side of handle
- Repeat on opposite side of cutting board
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Tracy says
I joined the MPC this year. I feel stressed and unhealthy. I am going to take care of MYself this year. I LOVE that cutting board.
Robin Atkinson says
i resolve to get healthy.
Janey Cook says
I resolve to organize my recipes ad my fabric, just not in the same room.
Rosanne says
Signed up for your newsletter
Rosanne says
My New Years resolution was to get n the Elliptical once a week. I've been on it one time so far.
Sand says
I don't really do resolutions but I do focus on positivity and being a better person in the new year!
Leah Shumack says
2020 is the year of organization for us! Starting with the living room because I've been wanting to repaint for awhile now!
Lisa Babs says
My resolution this year is to take a good look at my finance and set up a retirement plan
PS - just signed up for your newsletter
Leigh Nichols says
My resolution is to drastically pay down debt
Barb G says
To get in better health shape.
susan smoaks says
My new years resolution for 2020 is to lose weight. I need to drop 20 pounds in 2020.
Joan says
I have started an exercise program with a friend. I also would like to start & complete a craft a week. Surprisingly the exercise is going better than the other resolution!!! Lol
Laurie Emerson says
My New Year's resolution which I have already begun is to finally go to the basement, attic and garage and do a thorough cleaning. I am getting rid of things that I have been holding onto that I know I will never use. I am going to donate them to the Airmen's Attic on base.
Kristie Heath White says
My New Year's resolution is to declutter one room at a time! I started in the kitchen. I am currently decluttering our bathrooms.
Stephanie Liske says
I don't make New Year's resolutions. I never can keep them. 🙂
Jennifer R says
I made a resolution to be more Earth friendly and recycle more effectively this year.
Robin says
My resolution this year is to eat healthier.
Shea Balentine says
My resolution is to start letting go of the past, enjoy the present and not worry so much about the future =)
Donna Gonzalez says
Love cutting boards!
One of my resolutions is to finish a project from existing stash before bringing home a new treasure!
Kaycee says
Happy New Year Kristi! You did a great job making this gorgeous wood cutting board. The leather belt handle really adds a beautiful and functional touch.
I honestly did not make any New Years resolutions, but I certainly have many things to work on!
Rochelle says
Letting my reactions to others be more gentle.
Beverly Wilson says
My daughter lost her job last year so her and my granddaughter are living with me. Then in September, my sister came to visit and hasn’t left yet. My resolution for 2020 is to, hopefully, have my house back to just myself and my dogs. .
Jayne Haumschild says
Resolution is to complete a project before moving on to another. Also to strengthen my spirituality.
What a beautiful cutting board. Thank you for sharing.
Lisa A. says
The cutting board is lovely! I plan to complete my "want to read" book list in 2020....
Kirstin Troyer says
Love that. I don't do resolutions, but choose a word for the year. This year my word is "delight". Each month I'll choose an area of focus. Like "Delight in nature, in relationships" , etc.
Cindy Wilson says
My husband passed away unexpectedly 5 months ago and I was so shocked and so so lost. My new years resolution is to learn how to be a stronger person and learn how to start living again
Kristi says
I'm so very sorry for your loss, Cindy! Best wishes to you!
Carrie says
I am not a big New Year's resolution person, but I do make a vision board with some goals and ideas for the new year. This year one of my goals is to carve out more time for me to do things I enjoy. I also subscribe to your newsletter
Lynzee says
I’m working on eating vegetarian more often this year and nurturing my friendships 😊
Deborah says
This turned out amazing. I love it.
Kristi says
Thanks Deborah!
Kathy Beemer says
No resolutions for me......they tend to fall apart ...... 🙁
Sandy Klocinski says
I don't make New Year's resolutions. After all, one does not mess with perfection! 🙂 If it ain't broke, don't fix it, right?
Lynnet Hardwick says
I don't make resolutions, but always have goals I work on accomplishing as the year passes - finishing a few baby quilts, de-junking, read the books on my nightstand, file paperwork on time, ect.
Anne Horning says
The cutting board is amazing! I enjoy all your posts and in 2020 my resolution is to enjoy every day and spend as much time as possible with my husband who was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. We want to make the best of every moment we have. Coincidentally our 42nd anniversary is January 18th. That cutting board would be a great anniversary gift!
Jana says
My New Years resolution is to organize, declutter, and use those things I have already instead of stuffing them away in closets and drawers and donating things that don't bring me enjoyment.
SONJA HANSEN says
After I finish painting our kitchen cupboards I intend to do some very serious debunking. Need to make room for more fun projects. Here’s to a great 2020 for all of us.
Julie says
Thank you for providing us the opportunity to win your beautiful cutting board. I had a rough year with my psoriatic arthritis and had to put my crafting on hold. Crafting and decorating make happy so I am determined to do some furniture painting projects this year since finer motor skills are difficult for me.
Margaret Smith says
My resolution is to eat healthier.
Jill says
I plan to clear out all the excess ‘stuff’ I’ve been accumulating over the years - i am a mini hoarder!
Debbie says
my resolution is to spend less by reusing what I already have.
Holly says
My resolution is to get more sleep! During the work week I only get about 5.5 hours and I'm always tired!
Michelle H. says
I usually don't make New Year's resolutions because I feel that I should not wait until the new year to access goals. But, I do want to make good memories with my family and connect more with some of my friends.
Natalie says
My 2020 New Year's resolution is to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night!!!
Vera says
Beautiful job on the cutting board. My new years resolution is to eat healthier and maintain my cholesterol through diet.
tom griffith jr says
My goal for 2020 is to walk or exercise more outdoors. Fresh air & sunshine makes you feel better. I want to make time for family. This is the most important thing in my life!
Heather E. says
That board is so beautiful! My main goal for 2020 is to save $10K for a down payment on a house.
Linda L says
Really enjoy your blog. And looking forward to the rv blog, as we are campers, and have had many different ones. I love your cutting board. Like the darker color. My resolution is to make more time for me this year. I am the caregiver for my 92 year old dad, who is a sweetie, and always helping out with the grandkids, but seem to forget about enjoying some time for myself. Hope I can change that this year.
Cassandra A says
Love this build! I’ve been looking for ideas for a chopping block for our rv life right now and this is such a perfect one! Our resolution this year is to say no when we feel pressured into saying yes, we are putting the focus on what we really want this year!
Sheila W says
My 2020 resolution is to complete one project per month from my list of DIY’s I want to do and actually get them done.
Ellen Casper says
Take time to read every day.
Jennifer says
I resolved to not make any resolutions!
Deb says
Love the cutting board! The wood is just gorgeous! Staying healthy for the new year!!
Melissa Storms says
Your cutting board turned out absolutely lovely. My resolution is pretty much the same each year, I resolve to get better organized in my home and just in general. I am approaching it a little differently this year. I sat down with pen and paper and set out a 12 month plan for myself/ I think I kept my monthly goals reasonable and therefor achievable for the new year.
Jen Miller says
My NY resolution is to spend more time with family and friends.
Lisa says
My New Years resolution is to have less “stuff” and to stand more. ❤️
Laura Harrie says
The cutting board is fabulous! My new word for the year is thankful. I want to be thankful for the good and the bad that happens.
Gail Holcomb says
Beautiful job on the cutting board. My resolution this year is to try to declutter my home as much as possible. My granddaughter is helping and we made a good start!
Patti Boatwright says
My resolution is to connect more significantly with others. I plan to take one person to lunch once a month and get to know others better.
Patricia Brosseau says
My New Year's resolution this year is to be the best I can be!
Susan says
I was sick for a year and a half so this year is to enjoy my life and thank God for everyday that I wake up. The cutting board is a great idea.
Meegan says
Wow! What an amazing giveaway! I am still pondering my word of the year. I am slow think this year...
Julia Grayson says
My New Years resolution is to be more intentional about my relationships. Whether it’s family, close friend or the neighbor across the street.
Happy New Year!
Patricia says
My New Years resolution is to stop hating me...
Norma says
My New Year's resolution is to get healthy this year, and I mean really healthy.
Mother Deer says
My resolution for 2020 is to clean up clutter and downsize my stash. Wish me luck with that 🙂
Mary Gail Broome says
Thanks for the idea and instructions. My goal in 2020 is to enjoy life and family including being a fabulous MamaG to my adorable 1 year granddaughter.... being a positive and happy role model.
Angela Green says
I don't, per say, make resolutions. I prefer to set goals and my main goal for 2020 is to continue my weight loss through the Keto lifestyle. This cutting board is absolutely beautiful and you did a fabulous job with it. Thank you for the tutorial and the chance to win this. Happy New Year
Tina Hansen says
I know everyone always says this for a New Year's Resolution but I'm going to work out more, I basically want to be healthier, body and mind.
Lynne says
What a beautiful, and unique, cutting board. My husband does leather working, so he appreciates any item that incorporates leather into the design.
My resolution for 2020 is to get at least 7 items up on ebay each week......we have so much to list, and it is time to start making a dent in it instead of just looking at it and being overwhelmed. Happy New Year!
kesha says
One of my New Years resolutions is to be more organized and to spend more time taking care of myself.
Debborah Halcomb says
Wow Kristi, this is a beautiful board. I would not have the patience to do all that sanding. LOL I do not make resolutions anymore but I do pick a word. 2020 is "fellowship". I have become somewhat reclusive in 2019. I also am revamping my etsy shop and reviving my blog to focus on journals and hand painted cards.
Debbie
PS: If my name comes up as a winner for this beautiful cutting board just move to the next name. I have 2 that I seldom use.
Michelle Goolsby says
I am chronically ill so my resolution is to enjoy my journey.
LESLIE A VANSANT says
Hey Kristi!
This cutting board was a great idea! I don't really make resolutions, but if I had to, I would say I want to redo my home office this year. I'm really good at procrastinating though, so...who knows, lol!
Lisa Shepherd says
Beautiful cutting board. My resolution is to declutter my home.
Cathy Maupin says
My resolution is to pay more attention to eating healthier, be more organized and downsize. I love the cutting board, it is one of my favorite things also.
Julie says
Awesome job on the cutting board! My 2020 goal is to be kind to myself.
Elizabeth says
My so called resolution is one key word each year. This year, 2020 is “I can”, ok two words. Best of luck to everyone !!
Nola says
I didn’t make a resolution but I plan to spend more time crafting and doing things for “ME”. I am always working and doing for others. More me time is what I need.
LaTanya Thornhill says
We are working to declutter our home as much as possible, especially clothes.
ColleenB.-Tx. says
What a Beautiful cutting board. I love cutting boards of all shapes & sizes. Fun to give them new life again.
I don't make New Year’s resolutions but I am a subscriber to your email newsletter.
Thank you for this wonderful giveaway opportunity
Have a great week end.
Lauren says
Reduce, reuse, recycle
Rose says
My resolution is to clean out my house of unwanted clutter. I love the board. How beautiful the camper must be.
Ashleigh Hall says
What a gorgeous cutting board. You did a great job! My New Year’s resolution is to spend less time worrying and more time finding gratitude and joy in my family and friends.
Lisa Kissner Cooper says
Beautiful cutting board!! I have resolved to look for JOY wherever I am.
Wendy Oyler says
Oh this is lovely! What a nice give-a-way!
Natalie Zamora says
Such a pretty board! This year, i am going to try to make a little time for myself..... Which is a big deal. I dont usually do that.
Annetta Francis says
What a beautiful butcher block cutting board. My new year resolution is being faithful to reading the whole bible in a year and applying it to my life..
Terry Teston says
One of my goals last year was each month, I would tackle a room. My goal is that was to clean and downsize. I didn't make it to each room. In August, we started a home reno with new floors, painting and master bath. My goal for 2020, is to continue downsizing each room and getting better organized or keep things clean and looking fresh!
Suzanne says
My resolution is to finally finish some of the plans I've been making for ages - stop complaining about the ugly uncomfortable sofa and buy a new one, paint, new blinds and curtain, new rugs, finally do it all.
Melanie says
What a beautiful board!! My resolution is to walk regularly, journal daily, and find balance in my life.
Suzanne says
My New Years resolution is to become vegan
Jeanine says
My new year “hope” is that I will take better care of me and journal
My prayers everyday, take better care of the relationships with my family and friends that matter.
Robin Leslie Coxon says
It really isn't a resolution but more of a life plan. I aim to continue to loose weight in 2020 so I will be able to relieve the stress on my joints and bones. Also it is the ain of our family to declutter our house a little as we go. Robin C., Ashtabula, OH
Ginger says
What a beautiful butcher block . And what fine craftmanship. I would love to win this please. And my News Years resolution is to be less judgemental of others in 2020.
Starr says
I really didn’t make any resolutions this year. My goal is to just try and be kind to each person I come across every day.
Laura Hilton says
My resolution is to ease back into a routine in my everyday life. Because of a lengthy illness and two deaths in our family our lives have been in upheaval. It's time to get back to our "normal" lives. On a happier note, I love the cutting board you made. It's beautiful! Thank you for the opportunity to win. Good Luck to everyone!!!
Karen F says
I don't make resolutions each year. I just start out the year trying to get involved in creative activities, such as sewing a quilt top, cleaning out clutter and do more reading as the weather is colder with more snow here in northern Michigan. After the Holidays, though they are wonderful times with family, I like a quieter, slower pace in January.
Jan Mayheu says
Clean out and use what I keep!
Vickie says
To once again read through the Bible again this year! Love your cutting boards - beautiful!
Pamela says
One of my resolutions is to open my home to others, practicing Biblical hospitality. This beautiful cutting board would be great for entertaining!
Maryellen Farmer says
I'm not good with resolutions, but this year I'm turning 60 and looking very closely at retirement in about 7 years so my resolution is to do a no spend challenge for as long as possible, hopefully the entire year, and pay down debt.
Teresa Carrano says
My Resolution is to put myself in someone else's shoes, be kind and pay it forward. I love the board...very thrifty, are you sure you want to give it away? : )).
Dawn says
That butcher block cutting board is Gorgeous!! My 2020 goals include keeping our kitchen island cleared off and looking nice (and functional). This board would help that too!
Patricia Solla says
For the new year I resolve to lose some weight and be more active.
Lois says
Resolved to follow a daily practice of devotions and 30 minutes of housecleaning!
Love Love Love the wood board. Wood speaks to me. The leather handles set it off beautifully.
amelia flint says
my resolution is about taking small steps to a better life; consciously being nice to my significant other each day and being more mindful of my daily devotions. (There!... i said it out loud so someone else knows!) Thank you for this offer, i love wooden things and all the natural personality each piece has.
Kristi Webster says
What a beautiful cutting board and such a great idea for re purposing the dugout! This year, I've decided not to make a particular resolution, but I just pray God's will for my life and that He will use me however he needs me this year.
Kristi Webster says
*cutout not dugout
Priscilla says
My resolution is to be more consistent in life, school, exercise, etc.
Kelly says
To look at each day as a blessing.
Dolly says
I don't make resolutions anymore, instead I think of each new day as a beginning! Probably because life has a way of taking us in different directions from the really huge resolutions. Now I'm happier, accomplish more and am enjoying each and everyday's accomplishments!
Beautiful cutting board and so creative to add the belt handles!
Thanks!
Shiela Allen says
What a great tip using a belt for handles! Now why didn't I think of that!! To be honest, I didn't make a new years resolution in the typical way. I just made a mental note to myself to be kinder, to be polite, to do small things that hopefully makes someone's day better....like the other day, I walked past a display of food in the center isle of Walmart, it was boxes of something, can't even remember, but I noticed walking towards it that a portion on the top was sticking out, just right to catch an elbow or arm and knock off several boxes, it took literally nothing to push it back into place as I walked by....an employee saw me I guess when I got to the front and thanked me for it and continued to say how many times the person working in that area had to pick those up on a daily basis because people run into them with baskets, limbs, etc., and that small gesture prevented another topple of products hitting the floor. Who knew? It costs zero $$ to be nice, considerate and polite and it goes a long ways in making another persons day and I believe it what goes around, comes around.
susan p hicks says
II would like to be more conscious of others that I come in contact with and be more considerate. The family in front of me in line at Wal Mart. Are they ok? The bank teller. Need an encouraging word. A customer sales person on the phone, maybe be more patient (hard one for me!!!!)
Thank you for this opportunity to enjoy one of your beautiful pieces.
Sherry Harwood says
Resolve to stay faithful to Jesus Christ. He is the one Truth, Way and Life. There's no reason to look elsewhere.....
Lynda says
My New Years resolution is to get off blood pressure meds.
Mary Helser says
My husband just had a pacemaker put in so our New Year resolution is to eat much healthier. Love your cutting board. I just started to use one so I only have one but would love more. Have a beautiful day.
Sandra Smith says
My new years resolution is to do more crafts with my grandchildren. I want to get to know them better by being creative and having fun together!
Thank you for this opportunity!
Amanda R. says
My resolution is to spend more time in my Bible and less time on Facebook 🙂
Debra Schramm says
I don't make New Year Resolutions but my goal is to walk in the Love of God more and more everyday. To see everyone including myself through the eyes of God!
Mindi Reed says
Gotta try to lose weight! I've really packed on the pounds! Love this though! It would be handy while I'm chopping veggies for my diet!
Diane Lord says
I don't usually do resolutions but I would like to try and be more organized this year and also to slow down and enjoy life and my family more. Love, love, love your cutting board!
Lisa Q says
I want to be more grateful for the many blessings I have.
Sally Smith says
Hmmm....which resolution?? SMILE .....I guess just being more organized with my time and home. Whew!!! Sounds like a big job ...but one day at a time.
Margaret Kenty says
I am working on a lesson a day to learn to speak Spanish.
Renee says
Taking time to do more thrifting and crafting rather than buying new is one of my goals for 2020. Not only do these pieces have more character, their origins and creation provide a story, along with the satisfaction of expressing yourself through the creative process!
christie kennedy Barnett says
My New Years resolution is to pay it forward
Giving something out or back at least once a month
Unexpected to someone.
This would be a perfect give away to my sister as they
Are just buying their first house as a house warming.
(Although, I did just make a blanket from one of
Your patterns and take it to the local nursing home
For a patient whom had been a former patient of mine
At the pharmacy I worked at as a surprise)
Helen Ward says
I resolve to sell my house this year. By that, I mean to clean, repair, and repaint so that I can actually sell it.
Amy Templeton says
First of all, beautiful cutting board! It would look great on my bar. My new years resolution is a little different this year. I decided to vow to take some time for myself each day and to not feel guilty. So far, it hasn't been fore than 15 or 20 minutes a day, but I've been doing it!
Paula Peters says
My new year's resolution is to stop complaining and to be more thankful for everything in my life.
Fletcher Rudlaff says
My New Year's resolution is to allow God to bring order into the chaos of my everyday life.
Ginger Ramirez says
My New Years resolution for 2020 is to be less judgemental. I have come to the realization that in the past I was guilty of pushing my own opinions into others ,rather than really listening to theirs.
Joan says
Happy New Year! For 2020, I will not be so quick to judge, remembering that one doesn’t truly know what’s going on in another’s life unless one walks in the other’s shoes.
Laurel says
One of my NY's commitments is learning a new homesteading skill a month, like this month (January) is learning how to crotchet. February is learning to use my cast iron skillets.
Kim Gaede says
I have a resolution to get back into my craft room and make seasonal decorations. I thought that I would be selling them after I retired, but life seems to get in the way so I need to get back to my happy place.