Upcycling Progress: Magnetic Wooden Knife Block

For my upcycling project, I have decided to create a magnetic wooden knife block. My goal is to design a piece that seamlessly blends contemporary aesthetics with a rustic charm while ensuring that the magnets remain completely hidden from view. I want the final product to be both functional and visually appealing, making it a stylish yet practical addition to any kitchen.

Since I am still in the early stages, I will outline the key steps required to bring this project to life:

  1. Sourcing the Required Materials: A crucial element in ensuring the success of this project is selecting the right magnets. I chose neodymium magnets, known for their exceptional strength, as they need to hold knives securely while being embedded roughly 0.3” behind the wood surface. The magnets must be strong enough to work through the wood, preventing any risk of knives slipping or falling.To maintain the upcycling aspect of the project, I am currently reaching out to local wood shops to see what live edge scraps they have available. My goal is to find an off-cut piece that is too small for conventional use but still has enough character and durability to make a unique and functional knife block.
  2. CAD Model: Before I can begin working in the Idea Forge wood shop, I need to provide detailed drawings of my design. To meet this requirement, I created a SolidWorks model to visualize the final product and ensure all dimensions and features are properly planned.
    Figure 1: CAD Model Front Side

    In my design, each knife will be held in place by two neodymium magnets, strategically positioned to provide a strong and even hold. The magnets will be embedded within the wood and covered with epoxy to keep them securely in place, preventing any shifting over time. This approach ensures both functionality and durability while maintaining the clean, seamless aesthetic I want for the finished knife block.

    Figure 2: CAD Model Back Side
  3. Manufacturing Process: Once I have selected the wood, I will begin by dimensioning it to size using a table saw. If necessary, I will use a planer to ensure both faces are flat and free of warping, which will enhance both the aesthetic quality and structural stability of the knife block. Ensuring a flat, even surface will also make the subsequent machining steps more precise and reliable.Next, I will reference my CAD drawings to lay out the exact locations for the magnet recesses. Using a drill press equipped with a depth stop, I will bore the recesses to a precise depth, ensuring a consistent 0.3” clearance between the magnets and the front face of the wood. This precision is crucial to maintaining a strong yet concealed magnetic hold while preserving the integrity of the wood. I will then place one magnet into each hole and use an epoxy resin to fill the holes to prevent them from moving.
    Figure 3: Placing Magnets, Inspirational project from Eigen Designs
    Figure 4: Adding Epoxy to Secure the Magnets
  4. Finishing Touches: To achieve a smooth and refined surface, I will sand the entire knife block up to 300 grit, ensuring all edges are rounded and the surface is free of imperfections. This step not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also makes the block more comfortable to handle.Once the sanding is complete, I will apply a food-safe oil, such as mineral oil or beeswax-based wood conditioner, to protect the wood and enhance its natural grain. This finish will help preserve the material while giving it a rich, polished look that complements the rustic yet contemporary style I envisioned.

I’m excited to see this project come to life and to watch how a simple scrap of wood can be transformed into a functional and aesthetically crafted piece.

Image Sources:

  1. https://alasaw.com/products/magnetic-wooden-knife-holder
  2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h12l9VFF5Cw

1 Comment. Leave new

  • Taylor Wittwer
    February 5, 2025 2:11 pm

    This is such a neat project! I like how you showed your CAD model, and then the processes you have taken in the Idea Forge so far. Are you planning on hanging this? If so, have you figured out how you will do this?

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