DIY Network

Butcher "Block-Buster" Entertainment Center An entertainment center is built from butcher block. From "From Junky to Funky" episode DFJF-311

In this segment, host Samantha Gleisten uses discarded butcher block counter tops to create a one-of-a-kind entertainment center.

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Materials:

4 butcher block tables
3/4" oak boards
1"x2" oak
3 4"x4" posts
metal union plates
metal "L" brackets
wood stain
polyurethane
wood screws
finishing nails
wood glue
large "T" square
table saw
chop saw
circular saw
nail gun
drill
1/2" drill bit
jigsaw
orbital sander

Figure A

1. Draw out your cut marks on the butcher blocks to estimate the correct sizes and get the most out of your available supplies.

2. The width of all butcher block shelves should be about 14 inches to accommodate a variety of electronic equipment. The lengths depend on the size and shape of the butcher blocks being used. Use a table saw to cut through the thick butcher block wood (figure A).

3. Cut a right triangle out of the remaining butcher block. This will fit in the corner where a TV will be placed. The longest side of the triangle should be about two inches.

4. Cut three posts out of 4 x 4 lumber to use as upright supports. Use a chop saw to make two posts around five feet, and one post about seven feet.

5. Set the table saw at six inches on a 45-degree angle, and then cut three boards. One board should have both sides angled, and the other two should only have one angled side.

6. Create a post by gluing and nailing the six inch boards together. The angled sides should fit together perfectly to create clean edges. There is no need for a fourth side because a hollow post will provide room for electrical cords.

7. Cut small squares of wood to act as support pieces down the back of the hollow post. Glue and nail them in place between the side boards.

8. Cut square holes in the butcher block shelves to slide the posts through. Start the hole with a power drill, and then cut it out using a jigsaw.

9. With mitered edges, cut a 1 x 2 to fit around the posts directly under where the shelves will rest. Glue and nail three of the pieces together to form a "U" shape that can easily slide around the post, allowing the fourth piece to be attached later.

10. Pre-drill holes in the two opposing sides of the "U" shaped trim.

	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

11. Cut small squares out of the remaining butcher block to act as bases for the posts. Two squares will be glued together to create a thicker block. Clamp the pieces together while they dry (figure B). Create enough of these base blocks to attach to both ends of the posts.

12. Sand and stain all of the wood to match, and then apply a polyurethane finish.

13. When assembling the unit, slide the posts through the square holes on the butcher block shelves (figure C), and then hold them in place by screwing the "U" shaped trim pieces through the pre-drilled holes.

14. Attach the base blocks by pre-drilling, and then screwing through the ends.

15. Any shelves that join on the same level should be attached together with union plates and screws. Attach the triangle TV support to the corner with union plates as well.

16. Attach "U" shaped trim pieces to the posts directly on top of the shelves (figure D). Attach all of the back side trim pieces to the "U" shapes to complete the wrap around look.

17. Anchor the unit to the studs in the wall using metal "L" brackets and screws.

Project Cost:

Tabletops: $20
Wood: $42
Stain, materials: $20

Total: $82

RESOURCES :

The Brown Elephant
Website: www.howardbrown.org/hb_brownelephant.asp