Turn fallen tree trunks into elegant cutting boards with this how-to from "The Martha Stewart Show" crafter Hosanna Houser.

Tools and Materials

• Recovered fallen tree trunk
• Chainsaw
• Safety glasses
• Palm sander
• 50-grit and 120-grit sandpaper
• Tack cloth
• Food-safe butcher block conditioner
• Clean, soft cloths

Cutting Board How-To
1. Cut tree into slabs ranging from 1 inch to 2 inches thick. Let wood dry out for approximately one month.
Tip: Cut more slabs than needed in case some pieces split while drying.

2. Wear safety glasses while working with the slabs. Using a palm sander, sand with coarse (50-grit) paper. Finish sanding with a finer (120-grit) paper. Wipe off dust with a tack cloth.

3. Use a clean, soft cloth to rub food-safe butcher block conditioner into wood. Let conditioner soak in for at least 20 minutes; wipe off excess and buff the wood to a nice sheen. Repeat as necessary, applying three to four coats of conditioner to season the surface.

Resources
Howard Butcher Block Conditioner and all tools available at The Home Depot.