Choose hardwood boards such as maple, walnut, cherry, or oak
Avoid softwoods and toxic woods
Gather tools: table saw or circular saw, planer, jointer, clamps, wood glue, sander, measuring tools
Decide the board size and grain orientation
Mill the lumber flat, square, and to equal thickness
Cut the boards into strips
Arrange the strips in the desired pattern
Rotate strips as needed for edge grain or end grain construction
Dry fit the pieces before gluing
Apply food-safe wood glue to the mating surfaces
Clamp the board tightly and evenly
Let the glue cure fully
Scrape or plane off dried glue squeeze-out
Trim the board to final dimensions
Sand all surfaces and edges through progressively finer grits
Round over the edges and corners
Clean off all dust
Apply a food-safe finish such as mineral oil, beeswax, or cutting board oil
Let the finish soak in and wipe off excess
Repeat oiling until the wood is fully conditioned
Allow the board to dry before use
Reapply oil regularly after washing and drying
Wash by hand with mild soap and water
Do not soak or put in the dishwasher