How To Make A DIY Wooden Utensil Holder

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Bring order and style to your kitchen with a DIY wooden utensil holder.

This simple yet functional project transforms a wooden block or repurposed wooden box into a charming storage solution for your kitchen tools, such as spatulas, spoons, and whisks.

Perfect for decluttering your counter, this craft is beginner-friendly, customizable, and adds a handmade touch to your kitchen decor.

Materials Needed

1 wooden block (approximately 6” x 4” x 4” for a drilled holder) or a wooden box (approximately 6” x 6” x 4” for a catch-all style)
Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
Acrylic paint (optional, for color) or food-safe sealant (e.g., mineral oil or beeswax)
Paintbrush or foam brush (if painting)
Drill and drill bits (for block-style holder, sized to fit utensil handles, e.g., 1/2” to 1” bits)
Stencil and stencil brush (optional, for decorative designs)
Measuring tape or ruler
Pencil
Clean cloth
Non-slip pads or felt (optional, for the base)
Wood glue (optional, for reinforcing box joints)
Protective gloves and safety glasses (for drilling and sanding)

DIY Wooden Utensil Holder: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow this step-by-step guide to create a utensil holder that matches your style, whether it’s rustic, modern, or minimalist.

Step 1: Choose and Prepare the Wood

Select a sturdy wooden block or a repurposed wooden box based on your preferred style.

A block works well for a drilled holder where utensil handles slide into holes, while a box is ideal for a catch-all design that holds multiple tools loosely.

If using a box, ensure it’s solid with no loose joints; apply wood glue to reinforce any weak spots and let it dry completely.

Sand the wood with medium-grit sandpaper to smooth rough surfaces and edges, then use fine-grit sandpaper for a polished finish.

Wipe away dust with a clean, damp cloth to prepare the surface for painting or sealing. This step ensures a professional look and prevents splinters.

Step 2: Plan the Design

For a block-style holder, measure and mark where to drill holes for the utensils.

Use a ruler to space the holes evenly (about 1-1.5 inches apart) in a grid or staggered pattern, depending on the block’s size and the number of utensils (6-10 holes is typical).

Mark each spot with a pencil, ensuring the holes will be deep enough (about 2-3 inches) to hold utensils securely.

For a box-style holder, no drilling is needed, but check the box’s interior dimensions to ensure it can hold your largest utensils (e.g., spatulas or ladles).

If desired, plan a decorative element, such as a stenciled design or painted accent, to personalize the holder.

Step 3: Drill Holes (For Block-Style Holder)

If using a wooden block, put on safety glasses and gloves. Secure the block on a stable surface, then use a drill with an appropriately sized bit (1/2” to 1” depending on utensil handles) to drill holes at each marked spot.

Drill to a depth of about 2-3 inches, keeping the drill steady and perpendicular to the surface to ensure straight holes. Test the fit with a utensil handle; the fit should be snug but not too tight.

Sand the inside of each hole lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any rough edges. Wipe away sawdust with a damp cloth. Skip this step if using a box-style holder.

Step 4: Paint or Seal the Wood

Decide whether to paint or seal the holder. For a colorful look, apply 1-2 coats of acrylic paint in a shade that matches your kitchen decor, using a paintbrush or foam brush.

Let each coat dry fully (follow the paint’s instructions, typically 1-2 hours). For a natural or minimalist style, apply a food-safe sealant like mineral oil or beeswax with a clean cloth, rubbing it into the wood to protect it from moisture and wear.

If adding a stenciled design, secure the stencil to the wood with painter’s tape, then use a stencil brush to dab on acrylic paint. Remove the stencil carefully and let the design dry.

Seal the painted surface with a food-safe sealant if the holder will be near food prep areas.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Inspect the holder for any rough spots or uneven paint, and sand or touch up as needed.

For a box-style holder, consider lining the bottom with felt or cork to prevent utensils from scratching the wood; cut the material to size and secure it with glue. For a block-style holder, ensure all holes are smooth and free of debris.

Attach non-slip pads or felt to the base of the holder to prevent it from sliding on your counter.

This is especially useful for a block-style holder, which may be top-heavy when filled with utensils. Wipe the holder with a clean cloth to remove any dust or fingerprints.

Step 6: Test and Place the Holder

Place your utensils in the holder to test its functionality. For a block-style holder, slide the handles into the drilled holes, ensuring they fit securely and are easy to grab.

For a box-style holder, arrange spatulas, spoons, or whisks inside, checking that the box is deep and wide enough to keep them upright.

Position the holder on your kitchen counter where it’s easily accessible, such as near your stove or prep area.

If desired, secure the holder to the counter with adhesive strips for added stability, especially for a box-style holder with heavier tools.

Step 7: Maintain and Customize

To keep your utensil holder looking its best, wipe it regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding soaking the wood.

Reapply food-safe sealant every few months to maintain its finish, especially if unpainted. For painted holders, touch up any chips with matching paint as needed.

Customize the holder further by adding small details, like wrapping twine around the edges, attaching a chalkboard label for a “Utensils” sign, or painting stripes for a modern look.

Adjust the size or shape for future versions to hold more or fewer tools based on your needs.

Discover more creative kitchen projects! Check out our full list of 25 DIY Kitchen Craft Projects to transform your space.

Tips for Success

Choose the Right Wood: Hardwoods like oak or maple are durable for drilled holders, while softer woods like pine work well for boxes. Repurpose old crates or scraps for an eco-friendly option.
Size Appropriately: Ensure the block or box fits your counter space and utensil collection. A smaller holder (4-6 tools) is ideal for compact kitchens, while a larger one suits bigger setups.
Safety First: Use caution when drilling to avoid injury, and ensure the holder is stable to prevent tipping when filled with heavy utensils.
Personalize It: Match the paint or stencil to your kitchen’s color scheme, or add engraved initials for a custom touch. Use washable paint for easy updates.
Budget-Friendly: Source wood from thrift stores, hardware store scraps, or old furniture to keep costs low. Use leftover paint or sealant from other projects.

Why You’ll Love This Project

This DIY wooden utensil holder is a quick, affordable way to organize your kitchen while showcasing your crafting skills. Its versatility allows you to create a holder that perfectly fits your space and aesthetic, whether you prefer a sleek, painted finish or a natural, rustic look.

The project requires minimal tools and materials, making it accessible for beginners, yet it offers endless customization options for seasoned crafters. By keeping your utensils tidy and within reach, this holder enhances both the functionality and charm of your kitchen.

Start crafting today and enjoy a clutter-free counter with this stylish, handmade utensil holder. It’s a practical addition to your kitchen and a great gift idea for anyone who loves to cook!

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