Make a Cutting Board

A cutting board is the perfect first project. Small, useful, quick.

Choose hardwood. Maple, walnut, or cherry. Softwood like pine will show every cut.

Cut strips about 3 inches wide and 12 inches long.

Arrange the strips with the grain alternating. This reduces warping.

Glue the strips together. Clamp overnight.

Plane or sand the surface flat.

Round the edges with a router or sandpaper. Sharp corners chip.

Apply mineral oil. Food safe. Let it soak in, then wipe off.

You just made a cutting board. That is the gateway project. Many woodworkers started here.