Wood you like to make your own wooden spoon? Once you learn this simple steps you’ll never buy a wooden spoon again!
I am excited to let you know that you can do it! Back in the day, people didn’t have access to power tools; my grandparents didn’t have electric drills but things were being done before I was born. My point is that you don’t have to be a woodworking expert or have multiple power tools before you can make a wooden spoon.
As someone who values handmade craftsmanship, I would love to share with you my 8 easy step-by-step guides to making your wooden spoon at home. With these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a treasured kitchen essential that will serve you for years to come.
So, if you’re curious about making something useful and meaningful for your home, stick with me! You’ll be an expert in no time at all because I will guide you through every stage.
Kindly roll up your sleeves, mate!
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Wood Selection
The selection of wood is the most important part of making a wooden spoon. This is because you do not only want something that is durable but also safe for use with food and is likely to contain harmful chemicals or allergens.
Some of these non-toxic woods include cherry, birch, marble, and walnut. They are generally known for their durability and stability, withstanding cracking and warping. Furthermore, opt for the type that has fine grain and tight pores. The smoother the wood, the easier it is to shape and the more refined the wooden spoon will be.
Tools
Well, good news! You’re probably already set with the necessary tools at home, and any others you need will be a small, budget-friendly addition.
- Carving knife: To make a wooden spoon, this tool comes first. It is every woodworker’s best friend. It helps in the removal of wood material and shaping of the spoon’s basic form. Simply look for a knife with a comfortable grip and curved blade for optimal control and accuracy.
- Hook knife or Spoon gouge: In making a wooden spoon, a hook knife is a versatile tool perfect for beginners. Its curved blade allows for precise control and easy removal of wood, making it ideal for the task – shaping the spoon bowl and refining the handle. You can also make use of a spoon gouge but it can be difficult to manage for those new to woodworking.
- Bang saw: The band saw helps cut away extra wood and creates the basic shape of the wooden spoon. This makes it easier to use a carving knife to add details and make the spoon look nice.
- Sandpaper: Sandpaper is essential in wooden spoon making for smoothing, refining, and polishing the wood surface. After shaping the spoon, use sandpaper to smooth out rough edges and achieve a polished finish. Start with a coarse grit (like 40) and progress to finer grits (like 220 and 440) for a smooth, refined surface.
- Pencil: This is used to draw the spoon’s shape and design into the wood, like a blueprint. This will help you cut and shape the wooden spoon accurately, so it turns out just right! It’s a simple yet essential tool
- Food-safe oil: When making a wooden spoon, it’s important to use a food-safe oil to finish and protect the wood. Options like mineral oil, coconut oil, walnut oil, and beeswax are popular choices because they are non-toxic and won’t contaminate food. These oils enhance the wood’s appearance, create a durable finish, and ensure the spoon is safe for use in the kitchen.
- Clean rag: A clean rag is another simple but important tool in this process. It’s used to wipe away excess oil or wax, remove dirt and dust, and clean the spoon as you work on it. This helps keep the spoon clean and free of debris
Note that the basic making of a wooden spoon relies on the above-mentioned tools.
Steps in Making a Homemade Wooden Spoon
Step 1: Create the Design of the Wooden Spoon
Take your pencil, and draw out the shape of the spoon on the piece of wood. If you don’t have a design in mind, there are free wooden spoon templates you can find online or you can freely draw a design. Keep enough wood around the edge with this you can have enough materials to work with.
Step 2: Cut out the Wooden Spoon Shape
With your band saw, cut out the shape of the spoon. You have to carefully follow the line that you’ve drawn. Then with your carving knife, begin to cut out the excessive wood around the spoon by following the traced line.
Maintain a steady grip, this will help with even cuts, and also watch out for your fingers.
Step 3: Carve out the spoon bowl
Carving the bowl first sets the stage for the rest of the spoon’s shape and ensures the handle lines up nicely. With the hook knife, start to carve in the center of the spoon to get the bowl.
Remember, a stirring spoon doesn’t have to be too deep. For ease and control, consider clamping the spoon to a table or holding it firmly with one hand while carving with the other. To achieve the right shape, take your time and proceed carefully
Step 4: Carve the Spoon Handle
Now you have to carve the wooden spoon handle to get the shape. Start from the side of the bowl down to the side. Avoid trying to dig too deep. Light, quick strokes are the best way to go
Step 5: Smoothen the Wooden Spoon Inner Bowl
Keep working on smoothing out the inside of your spoon with small, gentle cuts. Try to avoid making deep grooves, as they’ll be a pain to sand down later. Take your time and chip away at it bit by bit – it’ll be worth it for a silky-smooth finish!
Step 6: Sand the Wooden Spoon
Once you’ve shaped your spoon, use your sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or surfaces. Start with 40-grit sandpaper and gradually move to 220 or 440-grit for a smooth finish.
Step 7: Apply Food-Safe Oil to the Wooden Spoon
You have to prepare the spoon for use by applying a food-safe oil with a clean rag. Opt for a safe oil like walnut oil as there are lots of different oils to choose from.
Step 8: Admire Your Hand-Made Wooden Spoon
Kudos! Your beautifully carved wooden spoon is now ready to serve you! Give yourself a moment to admire your handiwork and the satisfaction of creating something with love and care. Then, go ahead and continue exploring the joy of woodworking!
At the End of the Day
Making a wooden spoon is a fun and satisfying project that can be done with just a few simple tools. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create a beautiful and functional spoon that you’ll be proud to use or show off to your friends and family! So why not give it a shot and see what you can make?
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