How to Make a Tree Charcuterie Board

For this project, you'll need:

• One 1 x 18-inch x 4-foot pine panel
• One 1 x 2-inch x 8-foot common pine board

How to cut:

• Using your miter saw, cut the 18-inch x 4-foot board into two pieces, each piece 24 inches long.
• Then, use a carpenter square to measure and draw out the tree shape onto the pine board using the dimensions in the pattern above.

Tip: Always wear safety goggles when operating power tools.

Using your framing ruler, draw the tree shape onto the pine board to match the pattern above.

• Using your jigsaw, cut out the tree shape.
• Sand off any rough edges.

Tip: Consider using clamps to hold boards in place while cutting.

• Now, grab your stencil to create the design on your board.
• Place the stencil onto the board and trace the outline using a pencil.

Using the carving bit on your rotary tool, carve away the stenciled area using the pencil lines as your guide.

• Sand away any loose wood bits and excess pencil marks.
• Use a paintbrush or small broom to remove the sawdust.

• Be sure to attach all trim using wood glue and 11/4-inch brad nails.
• Along the bottom of the tree, cut two pieces of
  1 x 2 at 6 1/4-inches long with a 22 1/2-degree bevel
  on one end. Attach to tree using wood glue and 1 1/4-inch brad nails.
• For the bottom of the trunk, cut one piece of 1 x 3 at
  5 1/2-inches long.
• For short sides of the trunk, cut two pieces of 1 x 2 at 6-inches long.

• For longer sides of the tree, begin with 22 1/2-degree bevel at the bottom. Place board in position.
• Now, using a piece of scrap wood, mark the angle.
• Use a miter saw to cut a 43-degree bevel. Attach using wood glue and 1 1/4-inch brad nails.

• Using a foam brush, apply the clean satin polyurethane.
• Let it dry completely.

• Use your paint pens to apply color to the carved area of the board.
• Let dry.

• Remove any excess paint on the board surface using sandpaper.
• Use a paintbrush or small broom to remove the sawdust.

• Finally, seal the paint and board using clear satin polyurethane and a foam brush.
• Let dry and cure completely.

Now, you're ready to enjoy snacks on your DIY board. From fruit and cheese to cookies and treats, your board is sure to make the holidays merry.