Discover the Versatility of a Homemade Wooden Breadboard
It’s surprising how essential a well-crafted breadboard can become once you realize how many practical applications it offers. Not only do they serve as perfect tools for slicing and presenting bread, but they also make charming serving platters and even unique gift ideas. I personally found that having my own breadboard elevates my baking experience, especially after diving into sourdough baking during 2020. My homemade sourdough tastes even better when sliced on a custom wooden breadboard.
The best part? Building your own breadboard is an enjoyable and straightforward DIY project that requires only simple tools and scrap wood. It’s a rewarding craft that results in a highly functional and attractive piece for your kitchen or dining area.
Creative Ways to Use a Wooden Breadboard
Traditionally, breadboards are long, flat surfaces with a handle, designed for slicing and displaying baked goods in bakeries and patisseries. Now, I keep mine right next to my DIY bread box for quick slicing. But the versatility of a breadboard extends far beyond bread-cutting. Consider using yours for:
- As an elegant small charcuterie platter for cheeses, meats, and accompaniments
- For serving freshly baked buns, bread slices, or pastries at gatherings
- As a sturdy cutting surface for fruits, vegetables, and cheeses (avoiding raw meats for hygiene reasons)
- As a charming gift for friends and family who appreciate handcrafted kitchenware
Additional DIY Serving Ideas
Creating your own serving accessories adds a personal touch to your table setting. Here are some inspiring projects to elevate your presentation:
- Custom DIY Cheese Slicer from scrap wood
- Elegant Scrap Wood Cake Plate with Dome
- Stylish DIY Pie Carrier and Display Box
- Simple and Modern Beginner-Friendly Cutting Board
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Own Breadboard
Tools & Materials
Recommended Tools:
- Jigsaw
- Drill
- Measuring tape
- Clamps
- Sander
- Optional: Drum sander attachment for drills
- Optional: Trim router for rounded edges
Supplies:
- Wood: One piece of hardwood (maple, walnut, cherry are excellent choices), approximately 5/8 inch thick
- Sandpaper of various grits
- Food-safe sealer (e.g., Waterlox 100% pure tung oil)
Overall Dimensions and Design Tips
There’s no strict standard size for a breadboard; it can be long and narrow or compact and wide, depending on your space and style preferences. Start by selecting a beautiful piece of hardwood and design your handle accordingly. For a professional look, opt for hardwoods with a closed grain, which are ideal for cutting surfaces.
Step 1: Cutting Your Wood
My project used a 6-inch wide piece of hard maple, which I cut to 22 inches on one side and 18 inches on the other to create an angled handle. Sketch your handle design with a pencil, embracing creativity—whether round, angular, or custom shapes. Secure the wood with clamps and cut out your handle design using a jigsaw, carefully navigating tight curves by making partial cuts from opposite directions to prevent blade pinching. Drill a hole at the handle’s end for hanging or grip purposes, using a Forstner bit for clean results.
Step 2: Sanding and Shaping
Begin with coarse grit sandpaper (around 40 grit) to smooth rough edges and shape the handle. An orbital sander speeds up this process; hold it perpendicular to keep edges straight. For tight spots and inside the handle hole, use a drum sander attachment or hand sanding. Progressively move to finer grits (80, 100, up to 220) for a silky smooth finish. To add a rounded, professional edge, utilize a trim router or sand by hand. Ensure all surfaces are smoothly sanded for safety and aesthetics.
Step 3: Applying Food-Safe Sealer
Pour a generous amount of food-grade sealer, such as tung oil, onto your breadboard. Use a lint-free cloth to rub and embed the oil into the wood, covering the entire surface—including edges, sides, ends, and inside the handle. Let it soak for 10-20 minutes, then wipe away excess oil with a clean cloth. Allow the sealer to cure fully before using your breadboard, ensuring it is both waterproof and safe for food contact.
Congratulations! Your Custom Breadboard Is Ready
Enjoy your handcrafted wooden breadboard as a durable, stylish, and functional addition to your kitchen. Whether used for slicing, serving, or gifting, it embodies the joy of DIY craftsmanship and personalized design. Happy building!