How to Build a Butcher Block Square Bench

Cover your work area with a piece of wax paper. Cut the paper to the same size you want for the finished bench. For example, if you want a square bench 24 inches by 24 inches, cut the wax paper to the same size.

Apply a thin and even coating of wood glue to the wax paper. Arrange maple wood planks on top of the glue. Press the wood together, making sure that you do not leave gaps between the pieces. One layer of planks is suitable for the bench top. Cover the top of the wood with a second layer of wood glue and a piece of wax paper.

Saw off the ends carefully with a jigsaw, making the ends smooth and level, as the ends of the bench top might be slightly uneven, depending on how you laid the wood. Wear goggles to protect your eyes from flying sawdust.

Sand the top of the wood with a drum sander once the glue dries. Remove the clamps before sanding. Use a light touch and just sand off any rough spots or uneven areas on the butcher block. Keep rubbing the sander across the top, until you have a smooth surface and have removed any bits of wax paper clinging to the top.

Attach a leg bracket to one corner of the square butcher block top. The bracket has a C-shape that attaches to the bottom of the bench and the leg. Set the bracket on the butcher block and drill ½ inch into the block, following the holes in the bracket.

Press the bracket against the wood and screw 2-inch wood screws through the metal bracket and into the butcher block. Attach the bracket to a pre-made table leg, following the same method. Repeat steps five and six for the other three legs.