Although cedar is soft, it can be used as a counter top surface if it is constructed properly and well maintained.
Things You Will Need
How to Build Counter Tops Out of Cedar Wood
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Align all of the cedar strips on a work surface. Apply wood glue to the 1 1/2-inch sides except the two outside faces. Clamp the entire assembly together using bar clamps. Wipe off any excess glue with a damp rag. Allow the glue to dry. Remove the clamps.
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Sand the entire surface of the counter top assembly with an orbital sander using fine-grit sandpaper. Ensure that the surface is completely smooth. Dust off the counter top assembly with a clean rag.
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Use a table saw to cut approximately 1 inch off one end of the counter top assembly to ensure that the end is straight. Measure 72 inches from the end that you cut. Mark the measurement with a pencil. Cut off the other end at this mark using a table saw. Sand the ends with an orbital sander and fine-grit sandpaper.
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Route around the entire perimeter of the top and bottom edges of the cedar counter top. Use a trim router with a counter top bit. This will create a slightly rounded edge around the top and bottom edges of the counter top.
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Sand the rounded edge with a piece of fine-grit sandpaper. Dust it off with a clean rag.
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Apply a food-safe lacquer finish to the counter top using a brush. Follow the instructions specific to the finish you purchased for drying times and number of coats. Once dry, the counter top is ready for installation.
The Drip Cap
- Wood counter tops add a simple beauty to a kitchen.
- Look for wood that's hard and has a tight grain.
- Align all of the cedar strips on a work surface.
- Dust off the counter top assembly with a clean rag.
- Use a table saw to cut approximately 1 inch off one end of the counter top assembly to ensure that the end is straight.
- Sand the ends with an orbital sander and fine-grit sandpaper.