In the thrift store yesterday, we spotted a cabinet that would work perfectly for a little extra counter/storage space in a kitchen or bathroom. It needed a lot of work, and we didn't have the space for it, but it got us thinking that a butcher block cabinet would be a pretty simple DIY project...
We did some searching for how-to instructions and found this modern butcher block bathroom cabinet on IKEA Hacker and this cottage cabinet on HGTV's site. For a project like this, make sure to use a thin butcher block that doesn't require an extra-strong base.
We also found this great FAQ on butcher blocks. According to the Butcher Block Co. you should never use glue to install a countertop. If you do affix it to a surface, it should be screwed into a cabinet top from underneath and holes should be cut into the cabinet top to allow for ventilation and prevent moisture from becoming trapped.
To make this project we'd buy the thinnest (but still good quality) butcher block we could find, have it cut to fit the top of the cabinet, sand the edges, and simply rest it on top of the cabinet without affixing it to the base. That way the butcher block can be easily removed and cleaned.
Has anyone out there made a butcher block cabinet for their kitchen or bathroom?
Image Top: Stenstorp Kitchen Island, $379 from IKEA
Image Bottom: Splatgirl's Stylish Bathroom Hack via IKEA Hacker
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Hello!
I've made a few and it's easy. You've summed it up in your directions. You should attach the base or have a base with lip in it to stop the BB from sliding around especially if you're using it for cutting. I have even scored some nice pieces of BB from the thrift store and once they were mounted to some other thrift/alley find took a sander to the top and they came out looking not too shabby.
Good luck and have a great day!
view Patrickinchicago's profile
Thanks for the tips, Patrick!
view sarah c's profile