This cheese and cracker platter is a fun project
and rather fast to turn! It has special value as a gift since
it's something that's used frequently at social gatherings.
And by being multiple parts, there is additional perceived value.
Step 1 - Gather all the Parts
1) A plank of wood 6/4 will be needed. You could also
use 8/4 if you have that. You can use a variety of types of wood.
I like maple, cherry, walnut, oak, ash and mahogany. So, it goes
to show that you could basically use any type of wood. I like
to use a width of 12" to 16". If I don't have a plank that wide,
I glue them up after jointing them. I like to use Titebond II
glue as it provides a measure of water resistance. With that
in mind, the new Titebond III (waterproof glue) might even be
better.
2) You will also need a round marble or granite tile
insert. I have found that they are available in 3", 6" or
8" sizes. I have also seen them marble
or granite in both a white/grey coloring or in a green coloring.
I've been telling myself that I would also like to cut
some out of Corian since the color range there is huge! They
could be double-side taped to a flat faceplate adapter and then cut
to size. It would be a fast and easy process to make these yourself!
I have gotten my marble round tiles from Woodcraft. You can get one
here:
Marble Tiles
3) The cheese knife is separate and optional but I find
that people get very excited about the knife. They seem shocked
that I made the knife. It's funny since the platter is much more
work than the knife. I get my knife blanks from Craft Supplies,
Utah who have a great collection of kitchen ware. They have 2
levels of quality for their knifes. I like the deluxe quality
but you decide. There is a cost difference between the 2 types.
You can get it here:
Knife Blanks
