Materials Needed:

• precisely cut 3/4" dense hardwood with a closed grain (for ends: 2 pieces 16-1/8" x 3" and for center: 2 pieces 16" x 4-3/4", 1 piece 16" x 6-3/4")
• parchment paper
• scrap wood
• wood glue (waterproof and mildew-, solvent- and heat-resistant)
• rag
• 2 3-foot pipe clamps

• 4 12-inch bar clamps
• 1" chisel
• orbital sander
• 80-, 120- and 220-grit sanding pads
• food-safe finish like mineral oil, walnut oil or beeswax

Assemble Wood

First, make sure wood isn't warped, is cut precisely and is smooth and square on all sides. Set two pieces of scrap wood (both the same size) on work surface. Place pieces of parchment paper over scrap wood to prevent cutting board pieces from sticking to scraps when glued. Place 16" x 6-3/4" piece in center with two 16" x 4-3/4" pieces on either side. Make sure to alternate the end grain to minimize warping; for example, the arc of the grain on the center piece should face up and the grain on the two end pieces should point down. Tip: Purchase wood boards from a mill or cabinet shop (rather than a hardware store) to ensure wood has been cut precisely.

Glue Board Center Together

Apply a bead of glue along one side of center piece of wood (Image 1). Quickly spread glue with a fingertip then lay it flat and butt against right-side piece (Image 2). Apply glue to right side of left piece, spread with fingertip and butt against left side of center piece (Image 3). Make sure edges are lined up.

Clamp Boards

Clamp boards in place using two pipe clamps to press them together and four bar clamps to make sure joints are straight (Image 1). Use small pieces of parchment paper when using clamps on a seam to prevent clamps from sticking to glue (Image 2). Using a damp rag, wipe away any glue that squeezes out. Allow the board to remain clamped for several hours or overnight.