How to Stain and Finish Butcher Block

[@polarexpress2316]

I bought the same exact butcher block from Home Depot, and had no idea what the best products, finish, and process was. Not only did you show me all that, but it was also on a slab very similar to mine. Now I know the exact stain and finish I want on the table knowing yours turned out amazing! thank you for this video, it really saved me a ton of work and possible regret with my choice is stain.

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you found it useful! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@asoggyburger479]

As a wood worker, you’d did a pretty good job. Personally, I don’t like mixing oil and water based. Sometimes, depending on your temperature or humidity, the oil based products can take longer to fully dry. Just my preference though. Also, after the very last coat of finish I do on any project, I take a small piece of brown paper from a bag or whatever you have, and rub down the surface. It knocks off all the little tiny nibs and gives you a great feeling finish.

[@iBJanky]

@@asoggyburger479 Hey thanks man. I appreciate the tips and the kind words. God bless! 🙏🏼

[@Liq38]

20+ year painter here...its best to apply a sanding sealer before the poly goes on. I would stain, sanding sealer, sand, wipe down then apply my poly coats. The finish on the poly will end up better and require less coating.

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll keep that in mind for next time 😎👍🏼

[@str8kronic]

What do I sand with and which grit?

[@stevenbrown3249]

I think this is what I’m going through right now. My Havea is very porous in certain areas. After applying a couple coats of poly, it looks like it’s being soaked up by the pores and it’s coming out uneven when you look at it in the light. I’ll probably just keep applying layers on the B side until it comes out even, but Im definitely going to give sanding sealer a try when I do the A side.

[@troyc333]

Great job being thorough in details. Most of the other videos skip on a lot of the details.

[@iBJanky]

@@troyc333 I’m glad you found my video useful. Thanks for watching! 🙏🏼

[@MarianR1111]

This is perfect! Just bought a house with an unfinished butcher block island in the kitchen. This is perfect, with all the steps for staining and finishing. Thank you so much!

[@iBJanky]

You’re welcome! Good luck with your project. Just take your time and it’ll turn out great! Thanks for watching 😎👍🏼

[@SuixdeCity]

at least you get to pick how you want it

[@bradgreen5174]

By far the best tutorial on KZbin!

[@iBJanky]

Thanks so much for the kind words! I really appreciate it! 😎👍🏼

[@Nusbizz]

Video is gold. Was like watching Bob Ross stain a piece of wood.

[@iBJanky]

Haha, I’m glad you liked the video 😅 Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@AnythingWeThinkOf]

I'm going to get 2 butchers block tops today for my new desk. This color is awesome. Thanks for this video!

[@iBJanky]

Good luck with your project, and thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@heathermcclelland8353]

I followed your instructions and products. Turned out perfect. Wow! Thanks so much.

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad my video helped you! I’d love to see how your project turned out. Would you be willing to share some pictures? You can email them to: [e-mail] Thank you and God bless! 🙏🏼

[@williammickelson403]

I followed this to the t and am incredibly impressed. Thank you!!!

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad my video was able to help you out! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@Ladioz]

Great results. You Americans are way too lucky to have all these products available. In Europe we have nothing other than cheap non brand ''garbage''. Practicing wood work is so stressful for us

[@iBJanky]

I agree. I have been to many parts of the world, and things are much more accessible here in the USA. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@mohsinmohammed6476]

Clear and complete video , I followed this to build my standing desk with Lowes counter top

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad it helped you out. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@stevenbrown3249]

Awesome! Thank you for this. I’m doing the same exact thing, except I used Havea wood, I kind of wish I bought a hardwood like acacia or birch because mine does look a little blotchy, even with conditioner..but you live and learn. My company paid for the block and I paid for the legs so whatever🤷🏼‍♂️

[@iBJanky]

I hope you enjoy your new desk for many years to come! Thanks for watching! 🙌🏼

[@rudolphmpierre3071]

Another great video. Props to you iBJanky I utilized this video in staining my butcher block with just a slightly different approach. I decided to go with a oil based stain and finish by Min-wax, the stain Provincial 211 and their Poly Warm Satin. There is a longer wait time when using the oil based product which is well worth the wait in my opinion. I did opt out of the pre-stain and used water instead which is a process called "grain raising or water popping". Since acacia wood is a hard wood this process works great and can save a couple dollars but its all about preference. Bjanky Im convinced the video does no justice on how the butcher block looks in person. Mine came out greeeeat thanks to you laying down a great foundation in this video.... THANKS BROHAM!

[@iBJanky]

That’s great to hear, man! I’m glad my video helped. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼 ps. Do you have any pictures of your finished project?

[@rudolphmpierre3071]

@@iBJanky I can def send some your way. where should I send them?

[@iBJanky]

@@rudolphmpierre3071 You can send them to: [e-mail]

[@wootsy1406]

BEAUTIFUL....thank you for this informative, clear and concise tutorial.

[@iBJanky]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@billanderson9828]

I gotta say…after the first stain coat I thought you ruined your butcher block. But the end result was absolutely beautiful! Very informative and detailed video. Thanks so much.

[@iBJanky]

You’re welcome! I’m glad you liked my video. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@DiamondPickCraft]

Thanks for the video! I feel confident in doing a similar project now!

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for watching, and good luck on your future project! 😎👍🏼

[@jdubbfps]

Just watched your video on setting up the desk and watched this one to learn how to stain it! I love your videos and REALLY appreciate the showing/listing of the materials needed! I love the idea of a butcher block/countertop versus the lower quality ikea desk tops for the standing desk. I think this is a great and informative video and will be doing this myself! You've earned my like and subscription!

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for subscribing! I really appreciate that. Let me know if you have any questions about the process, I’ll be glad to help. 😎

[@jdubbfps]

@@iBJanky One question I have is when you were staining I saw that you had it raised on cardboard, would I need to wait for one side to dry prior to flipping the board over to stain the other side or did you do it all at once?

[@iBJanky]

@@jdubbfps I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. You just repeat this process until you’ve applied however many coats of stain or poly you need. I hope that helps. Anything else, let me know 😎👍🏼

[@jdubbfps]

@@iBJanky Amazing! That's helpful. Thank you!

[@iBJanky]

@@jdubbfps You’re welcome buddy!

[@Akleintank]

Ok I have never done anything like this at all. We are putting in kitchen cabinets and butcher block countertops. I have a couple questions. 1. Do I need to use like a food grade poly? 2. Is 3 coats enough for a kitchen counter? 3. How do I know which way the wood grain is? 4. How do I know what side should be the top or bottom?? 5. Will following these steps make it rather smooth?? I don’t want a bumpy counter. We are trying to save as much as possible and your video was awesome. I have three sections to do so fingers crossed I do a good job. lol. Thank you so much for showing this!

[@iBJanky]

1. According to FDA regulations, the typical clear wood finishes that dry to a hard film, including polyurethane, are considered food safe. Wait to use the surface until the finish is completely dried, and clean it before allowing food contact. Polyurethane is a fine choice to use on a counter, as long as you don't use the counter as a cutting board. If you do cut directly on the polyurethane surface it will be damaged. Mineral oil would be a good finish for a wood counter that is to be used as a cutting board, but you have to renew the mineral oil fairly often. 2. Yes, 3 coats is enough for a kitchen counter. Just make sure the existing coat is dry before applying another coat. 3. You can use your fingernail against the wood to determine the direction of the grain, if your nail catches, you know that you are moving against the grain. 4. It doesn't matter which side you pick. Wood is wood on either side. You get to decide which side you would like to be the top or bottom. 5. The butcher blocks sold at Home Depot or Lowes are pretty smooth already, they aren't bumpy at all. A light sanding makes it even smoother. I hope that helps. Thank you for watching, and good luck with your project! 😎👍

[@noroomforgloom]

Thank you kind sir. Have this same top bought on clearance from my local Lowes. Going to give her the old college try.

[@iBJanky]

Good luck with your project! Let us know how it turns out.

[@NeonGamer63]

Very Thorough. Loved the finished product.

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you liked the video! Thanks for the continued support! 😎👍🏼

[@eduardop2966]

Brother this was such a useful video! Currently conditioned my block and waiting to stain. Thank you so much.

[@iBJanky]

Awesome man! I hope it turns out great! 😎👍🏼

[@micahwilliams6554]

Did an 8ft counter today. Followed ur recipe to the T! Looks great! Thank u😂

[@iBJanky]

That’s great to hear! Congrats on a job well done! 😎👍🏼

[@RealJoshBinder]

Great video, very helpful

[@iBJanky]

@@RealJoshBinder I’m glad you found it useful. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@priteshtamakuwala5036]

This is great video with detailed instructions. I pretty much followed all steps and result is amazing.

[@iBJanky]

That’s great! I’m glad my video was able to help you out with your project. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@ThunderBuillet]

I’m new to this and no one explains it better than this

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you found my video helpful. Thanks for watching! 🙏🏼

[@GothamCenobites]

Awesome video step by step, I’m about to tackle an 8 foot block. I appreciate this!

[@iBJanky]

I appreciate the kind words. Good luck with your project, let us know how it turns out. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@noroomforgloom]

Me too. Id like to see it. Good luck

[@GothamCenobites]

@@noroomforgloom video went up on my channel yesterday. Not quite as detailed as this one but this video was extremely helpful in my process. I’m very happy with results. Thanks again!!

[@iBJanky]

@@GothamCenobites I just saw your video and your project turned out great! I'm glad you like the final results. Good job!

[@GothamCenobites]

@@iBJanky thank you so much!

[@FredrickC-xo4rb]

Beautiful job on this. Thanks for sharing!

[@iBJanky]

I really appreciate the kind words. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@jefferyberg2850]

Very good instructional video really liked the entire process enjoy your new computer desk.

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you liked the video. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@mattb9664]

That looks sooo good! Thank you for the how-to!

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you liked my video. I hope it helps you one day. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@heyhey7092]

Great video! Nice easy, simple instructions!

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you found it useful! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@jdmctr0016]

That was a fantastic instructional video. I Reeeaallllyyy like the way you explained how to apply and when to apply all the items. It also helps a lot when you show what each item is. Your videos are very clear and well put together. This project is going to look great once completed. Btw I love those green teas from Costco. Your neighborhood looks so nice and clean. Great job and keep up the fantastic work. Looking forward to the next one.

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for being a supporter. I’m glad that you like my videos. Stay tuned for more! 👌🏽

[@flightbun3311]

I used the exact same polyurethane for my 8ft office desk. I had to re sand it today. I had white spots everywhere from cup condensation. Use a coaster don’t make the same mistake I did.

[@iBJanky]

There’s actually a way to remove those white marks, using a warm iron and a damp rag. There should be some KZbin videos on it.

[@DatDudeDullah]

Awesome video! I just ordered my materials and I can pick up my countertop this weekend!

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you found my video useful. Good luck with your project! Let us know how it comes out. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

You are a very good teacher 🫡

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@__greg__]

Super helpful, thanks for sharing!

[@iBJanky]

I'm glad you found my video useful. Thanks for watching! 🙏

[@93ksj]

Amazing results 🔥

[@iBJanky]

I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@IMOO1896]

Lovely, I have a similar slab in order and this has helped me decide on a finish.

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad my video helped! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@JackPerrill]

Amazing video! Had the same idea with a butchers block standing desk and was going to leave the block unfinished until I came across your video. Hope you don’t mind, I copied the stain step by step😂 looks AMAZING!!

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you found my video useful! Do you mind sharing pictures of your finished project? I’d love to see your results.

[@micahwilliams6554]

Looks good I’m gonna do one this week same way as this!

[@iBJanky]

Thank you! Good luck with your project. Let us know how it goes. 😎👍🏼

[@s.miller8250]

Excellent instructional video! Great job!

[@iBJanky]

I'm glad you found my video useful. Thanks for watching! 😎👍

[@s.miller8250]

@@iBJanky Is there a certain type of screw you would use to attach legs?

[@iBJanky]

@@s.miller8250 What kind of legs were you thinking of putting? I used this and they came with the necessary screws to mount it onto the butcher block: a.co/d/bL74KCu

[@danielmondou3250]

hi there! This is awesome - thank you so much for putting this together. Do you bother sealing / staining / treating the underside, or can you just leave it raw?

[@iBJanky]

It’s personal preference, but I like to treat both sides. Some people choose to leave it raw/untreated since they figure they won’t be looking at the underside anyway. The choice is up to you. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@vicshi7831]

This is REALLY helpful. Thank you!

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you liked the video! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@kehtray1975]

Great job!!! Thanks for sharing.

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@rockyhikes3080]

I wonder how this would look with birch wood. Yours turned out great!😊

[@iBJanky]

I’m sure it would look great as well! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@JaredB94]

Awesome job ! You answered so many questions

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you found my video useful. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@ExtraGmail-ib4oc]

I just purchased an unfinished butcher block for a new desk. This video seems like it will be a great tool. However, I’m wondering whether you stained the bottom and flipped it over immediately or if you waited and repeated the process on the other side?

[@iBJanky]

⁠I didn’t have to wait at all. Let me explain… I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. I just repeated this process until I applied the proper number of coats I needed. I hope that helps. Anything else, let me know 😎👍🏼

[@MrRay645]

Great video and your desk looks awesome, just an FYI but I think luck, brand, quality come into play regarding sanding/finishing of butcher block. I went over mine with 220 for a couple hours making it so smooth it would not catch the micro fiber cloth at all (like glass) but after staining I got odd swirls, dots, and stripes were the stain did not take. assuming its oil and/or adhesives from the manufacturing process. Will need to attack it with a belt sander hopefully getting that stuff off then sand perfectly smooth again and hope the oils/contaminates are not soaked in more than the sander can remove. The brand I bought is

[@iBJanky]

Good luck with your project, and thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@twinstars8812]

This is very helpful! Thank you!

[@iBJanky]

You’re welcome, and thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@Hottubcrimetime]

Looks great! Thank you for teaching everyone this. I’m going to do this to my butcher block counters.

[@iBJanky]

You’re welcome! I’m glad I’m able to help others out there with their projects. Let us know how yours turn out. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@Hottubcrimetime]

@@iBJanky Will do! It’s my weekend project. No video, but I’m going to take pictures as I go. I’m happy to share them if you’re interested when I’m done. Again, thank you. Husband and I just got an 1890s farmhouse. It’s wonderful that folks like you share your knowledge. We’ve learned so much, and have a lot more to go.

[@iBJanky]

@@Hottubcrimetime My pleasure to help! Have you started on your project yet?

[@Hottubcrimetime]

@@iBJanky Hi! I can’t post pictures here, but I got them done and they look fantastic! I’m happy to share pics if you let me know where to send them. Thanks again! This was my first time refinishing something.

[@iBJanky]

@@Hottubcrimetime I’d love to see pics! You can send them to: [e-mail]

[@joshuakennedy2150]

Love the video! Thank you! Question: did you wait 2 hours and fillip and do the other side and wait another 2 hours? Thanks!

[@iBJanky]

​​⁠I didn’t have to wait at all. Let me explain… I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. I just repeated this process until I applied the proper number of coats I needed. I hope that helps. Anything else, let me know 😎👍🏼

[@ronishjariwala8714]

Great video. I purchased the espresso color butcher block from Lowes and I want to maintain the color. Should I skip the staining part and proceed with the process as it is shown on the video?

[@iBJanky]

If you’re already happy with the color, then no need to stain it. You can just apply the poly for added protection. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@brooketadimalla7105]

EXCELLENT video sir!!

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you liked it! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@Dancorcoran68]

the type/species of wood will make a difference in how the stain/finish takes

[@SQKro]

Great video! How long after finishing the butcher block did you attach the standing desk frame? I’m planning on doing this myself and am unsure how long I should let the block cure. Thank you!

[@iBJanky]

@@SQKro Thanks for the kind words! I believe I waited at least 24-48 hours to allow the finally coat of poly dry before I mounted the desk frame. Hope that helps! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@jpvelab]

It looks great Mike!

[@iBJanky]

Thank you, brother! 😎👍🏼

[@IWario1]

Just the video I was looking for 🙏.

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for tuning in! 😎👍🏼

[@IWario1]

@@iBJanky I just ordered mine today. I got the Acacia Ebony Stained 60-in x 30-in x 1.5-in. $159.00. It’s almost $200 cheaper than Home Depot. It’s already pre-stain but I need to seal it 🙏. Lowe’s should give you commission 😂

[@iBJanky]

@@IWario1 Haha, that’s awesome man! 😅 Let me know how your project turns out! 😎👍🏼

[@TheSonorabob]

looks killer. great job!

[@iBJanky]

Thank you for the kind words and thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@14luey]

Awesome video. What did you use to prop the desk board up on your work table whilst you were prepping and staining?

[@iBJanky]

I used these things called ‘painter’s pyramids’ They allowed me to work on both sides of the desk without waiting for one side to dry first.

[@jime9515]

Awesome video!! Love how you explained everything..going to follow it exactly how you did it. Actually starting it today...thank you very much ..happy new year sir!

[@iBJanky]

Enjoy the process and I’m sure it’ll turn out great! Thanks for watching and happy new year to you as well! 😎👍🏼

[@derisonpuntier2860]

Awesome video.

[@iBJanky]

I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙏

[@lancekanzigg2132]

GREAT video, thanks!

[@iBJanky]

I hope that it proves useful to you! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@edelamora87]

Wow awesome job.

[@iBJanky]

Thank you! 🙏🏼

[@brandond4934]

Awesome video! Gonna use a lot of what you did on my own butcher block. Question tho, how did you do the bottom side of the wood? Did you just flip the wood while it was still drying or do you go through the whole process on one side and then the next day do the other side?

[@iBJanky]

I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. I hope that helps. Good luck with your project, and thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@jasonvictor1798]

So glad you asked this because I was wondering the same thing too!

[@iBJanky]

@@jasonvictor1798 I hope I was able to help! 😇

[@robertvargas6236]

Did you stained both sides at the same time or did you wait till one side dried first?

[@iBJanky]

⁠I didn’t have to wait at all. Let me explain… I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. I just repeated this process until I applied the proper number of coats I needed. I hope that helps. Anything else, let me know 😎👍🏼

[@nicole.7694]

Awesome video! Huge help!

[@iBJanky]

Glad you found my video useful! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@brandonnixon7105]

Looks great.

[@iBJanky]

Thanks! I’m very happy with the results too! 😎👍🏼

[@jessicatoro1304]

Nice work!

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@inderinder420]

Beautiful. Thank you so much brother

[@iBJanky]

You're welcome! I'm glad you liked my video. Thanks for watching! 😇

[@jacquelynnacopoulos1278]

Hello, Congratulations. You did a Good Job. It is amazing.awesome. Excellent. 👍🙌

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@user-xu8bf5nu1k]

Good job

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@patrickwang8867]

very detailed and informative, thanks!

[@iBJanky]

I hope it helps! Thank for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@patrickwang8867]

@@iBJanky quick question, say for the first coating of stain, do you stain top and bot surface at the same time and let it dry? or you stain top first let it dry, then do the same for bottom? i saw you put something in between the block and the table.

[@iBJanky]

@@patrickwang8867 I stain the bottom side first, then I flip it over and use these things called painter's pyramids which goes in between the block and the table. Those handy little things allow you to stain both sides without having to wait for one side to dry first. It will cut your waiting time in half. The reason I do the bottom side first is because the pyramids might cause little dimples on the surface, just because of the block's weight. But since they're on the bottom side, the dimples wont be visible.

[@patrickwang8867]

@@iBJanky Thank you so much, I got them pyramids and made my desk :)

[@iBJanky]

@@patrickwang8867 Great! I’m glad to hear it worked out! 😎👍🏼

[@IronThRASHer]

When do you turn over the butcher block do stain the other side? Do you flip after each coat? Or after you finish all 3 coats then flip?

[@iBJanky]

I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. I hope that helps. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@MiniUzis]

I can’t find any food safe polyurethane, but I want to make my butcher block counter tops shiny like that, do you know if it’s food safe once fully cured?

[@iBJanky]

According to FDA regulations, the typical clear wood finishes that dry to a hard film, including polyurethane, are considered food safe. Wait to use the surface until the finish is completely dried, and clean it before allowing food contact. Polyurethane is a fine choice to use on a counter, as long as you don't use the counter as a cutting board. If you do cut directly on the polyurethane surface it will be damaged. Mineral oil would be a good finish for a wood counter that is to be used as a cutting board, but you have to renew the mineral oil fairly often. I hope that helps. Thank you for watching! 😎👍

[@jessehuang4955]

thanks for sharing it

[@iBJanky]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@thebodyshop5714]

Great video

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you found it useful. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@kellztheebarber1650]

What did you put in between the table and the butcher block during the drying phase

[@iBJanky]

I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. I hope that helps. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@sunfade]

when you applied the poly, did you do all the coats on the top and edges, then flip it and do the same amount of coats on the underside? or did you do a coat on the top and edges, wait for it to dry, then flip it and do a coat on the underside? if that makes any sense

[@iBJanky]

I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. I hope that helps. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@sunfade]

@@iBJanky i appreciate the detailed response. i ordered a block from lowe’s similar to yours, and if it’s not damaged like the last one i should be able to start working on it tonight. when you attached the legs into the top, did you drill pilot holes or did you just drill them directly in. thanks again!

[@iBJanky]

@@sunfade It’s completely optional, but I drilled small pilot holes before installing the legs. I found that it made it easier screwing them in. Hope that helps, and good luck with your project! 😎👍🏼

[@denciofajardo9533]

very informative! thanks for sharing and keep on vlogging! new friend here

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for watching! I’m glad you liked the video! 😎👍🏼

[@deklanf6242]

Am I able to stain both sides in one coat or do I need to do one side then flip then stain

[@iBJanky]

I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. You just repeat this process until you’ve applied however many coats of stain or poly you need. I hope that helps. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@AlexOzer]

Amazing result and great tutorial, definitely deserves more views, easily the best video I've found on this. I may just try to copy your table exactly it turned out so nice looking. Main concerns for me are whether I can keep my apartment ventilated enough to be safe and prevent other tenants from smelling the oil-based stain, and how to stain both sides without marks. Painter's Pyramids are enough to not leave marks?

[@iBJanky]

Thank you for the kind words! To answer some of your concerns, as long as you can keep the windows open, I don’t think you would have any ventilation issues. I didn’t particularly find the oil-based stain to have any strong odors. The painters pyramids might leave some tiny dot like marks on the surface, just because how heavy the butcher block is. I thought about that in advance though, and whenever I would start applying a coat of stain or poly, I would apply it to the underside of the butcher block first, with the topside laid flat on the work table without any pyramids. Then I would flip the butcher block, put the underside onto the pyramids, and finish applying the coat to the topside. Painters pyramids are completely optional. You can do this project without them, it would just take longer if you wanted both sides to be finished. Some people only stain and finish the topside and the side edges, since most people don’t really care what the underside of a desk looks like. If you only stain and finish the topside and the edges, then you won’t be needing to flip the butcher block at all.

[@AlexOzer]

@@iBJanky That's a good strategy, some tiny dots on the finished underside of the table are pretty acceptable. Might just get the pyramids since it'd be good to finish this in a weekend. And good to hear about the fumes, perhaps I'll give this a go this weekend or next!

[@iBJanky]

@@AlexOzer Good luck with your project! Let us know how it turns out 😎👍🏼

[@jeffhiley9372]

Thanks for the video

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for watching!

[@HSwest1]

Very nice! What kind of butcher block did you use?

[@iBJanky]

Thanks for watching! I got the Sparrow Peak Acacia 72”x30” Here’s the link to the one I got: www.lowes.com/pd/Sparrow-Peak-Acacia-6-ft-x-30-in/5001790771

[@MindfulMusic]

Janky, how's the desk holding up today?

[@iBJanky]

It’s been absolutely great! I use it daily. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@user-jt8qn6bn9i]

Very informative video. I just have a few questions, if you can help me: 1.) Can we substitute the conditioner for some other oil? Is so, what kind do you recommend? I'm wanting to use my countertop for a desk, not for the kitchen. 2.) The countertop instructions stated to seal within 48 hours, but the shrink-wrap was already open a bit prior to me purchasing it, and that was almost a month ago...Luckily it's not humid in my home (because it's winter), so can I still seal it to its full potential without worrying about warping, bowing etc.)? 3.) Can I do all this in my garage rather than outside? 4.) Do we have to do all of these steps in one go, or can we apply the oil on one day, and stain it a month later if I don't have the time? 5). What does it mean, "Don't go against the grain"? 6.) Do I need to use the Polyurethane frequently to keep the board maintained, or use the conditioner or oil for that?

[@iBJanky]

1. Just use the same Varathane pre-stain wood conditioner I used. You can get it at Home Depot for cheap. I used my butcher block for a desk as well. 2. Yes, you can just seal it normally. It will be fine. 3. I did all the work in my garage as well. Just make sure to open a door or a window for ventilation. 4. You can do it at your own pace. You don't have to finish everything at once. 5. Find the grain direction simply by running your gloved hand or a shop rag along the board surface. If you feel snags and splinters, then you're moving against the grain. 6. Use a mild detergent and water: Just like with oil-based polyurethane, you’ll want to start by mixing a small amount of mild detergent with warm water in a bucket. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and gently scrub the surface. Be sure to wring out the cloth or sponge before wiping the surface to avoid excess water. Avoid abrasive cleaners: Abrasive cleaners can scratch the surface of the polyurethane and dull its shine. Instead, opt for a mild detergent or a specialized cleaner made specifically for water-based polyurethane. Wipe dry: Once you have finished scrubbing the surface, be sure to wipe it dry with a clean, dry cloth. This will help prevent water spots and streaks from forming. Use a furniture polish: To give your water-based polyurethane a nice shine, consider using a furniture polish. Simply apply a small amount of polish to a soft cloth and wipe it over the surface in a circular motion. This will help restore the shine and protect the surface from dirt and grime. Avoid using wax: While wax may be effective at protecting and shining other types of surfaces, it is not recommended for use on water-based polyurethane. The wax can create a barrier that prevents the polyurethane from adhering properly, causing it to peel or flake over time. I hope this helps!

[@user-jt8qn6bn9i]

@@iBJanky Copy that. Could I purchase 3 foaming brushes - one for applying the conditioner, one for the stain, and the other for the polyurethane in substitution for the foaming pad?

[@iBJanky]

@@user-jt8qn6bn9i It’s better to use a staining pad for the conditioner and the stain. It will save you a lot of time. You will definitely need a brush for the poly, since a staining pad will not work (the surface will not be smooth).

[@user-jt8qn6bn9i]

@@iBJanky Thanks for your response, I will message you if I have anymore questions. You've been very helpful :)

[@iBJanky]

@@user-jt8qn6bn9i You’re welcome and good luck with your project! 😎👍🏼

[@str8kronic]

Just bought the same exact butcher block. Thanks so much for the video. Do you also stain and seal both sides as well? Im using this as a counter top for my laundry room and nobody will see the botton

[@str8kronic]

So sorry, I literally just hears you say that you do both sides after I clicked submit comment lol. I should probably watch the entire video before commenting next time

[@iBJanky]

@@str8kronic It's a personal choice whether or not you want to stain and seal both sides. I personally did both sides, but for your particular situation, I don't think it's necessary. Thanks for watching and good luck with your project! 👍

[@str8kronic]

@@iBJanky thanks for the reply

[@iBJanky]

@@str8kronic You’re welcome! Let me know how it turns out 😎👍🏼

[@stharan1313]

Thank you, greate.

[@iBJanky]

You’re welcome! 😎👍🏼

[@gilbertrivera2835]

i did learn thank you

[@iBJanky]

I’m glad you found it useful! Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@Papo-of3vm]

I’m currently DIY my kitchen tops with an acacia piece . See how it comes out

[@iBJanky]

Good luck with your project! 😎👍🏼

[@janellecook488]

We bought a used butcher block table top. We sanded it down to remove existing materials because we wanted to stain it darker. When we apply the stain, there are blotches that will not take the color. It works beautifully elsewhere though. We have tried applying more stain to those areas that refuse to take the color and we have tried sanding it all down again. We have not used a wood conditioner though. Is that the key to getting the stain to apply everywhere? This has been such a frustrating project for us.

[@iBJanky]

@@janellecook488 Sorry to hear that. Since it’s a used butcher block, nobody knows what the previous owner did. You can try sanding it down and applying wood conditioner, but even that isn’t guaranteed to work. Good luck.

[@akshaymathavan1015]

I followed this video and the desk came out great! I had a question: if we seal this with the polyurethane finish, do we need to apply any oil/conditioner periodically to care for the desk? If so, how often? Otherwise, any needed care tips or just basic cleanliness? Thank you!

[@iBJanky]

You can just use some basic furniture polish like Pledge to keep it looking good. You can use it as often as you’d like, it won’t really hurt the finish. That’s basically it, and it should last you for many, many years. I’d love to see you’re finished project. Would you be willing to send me some pictures? You can email them to: [e-mail] Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@AO-xt5jz]

Did you end up staining both sides or you just finished both sides but stained one side only? I tried reading through all the comments so I apologize if this has been asked before

[@iBJanky]

No worries. I stained and finished both sides of the butcher block.

[@AO-xt5jz]

@@iBJanky Thanks so much for the reply! I'm a few years late but wow your final set up looks amazing!

[@iBJanky]

@@AO-xt5jz No problem. I appreciate the kind words, and thanks for watching! 🙌

[@TalisLazdins]

I got a butch block counter top from Floor and Decor. Got everything sanded ready for conditioning. Looking at the stain conditioner I bought, exact same as in the video, it states on the can. "NOTE: Varathane Oil-based Wood Conditioner is not recoomended for use with water-based stains." Does this matter?

[@iBJanky]

You can use water-based stain over oil-based conditioner with no problems. Always wipe the conditioner down so none lays on the surface, and make sure the surface has completely dried (about 2 hrs in 65° should do it). Also, a light sanding helps break the pores open some. Hope this helps! 😎👍🏼

[@UsedWolf]

Thanks for the help so far! One last question before I finish up my desk! Do you sand the final coat of poly?

[@iBJanky]

No need to sand the final coat of poly. That’s going to be your finished surface. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@RandyL86]

Great video, I plan to follow exactly what you did. I saw from other comments that you flipped the block to do sides. Did you wait for one side to completely dry before flipping it? If not, wouldn't your hands mess up the stain you just applied when flipping the block over? I know you put the block on those little pyramids, but I'm thinking more of your hands smearing/smudging the stain that was just applied.

[@iBJanky]

I don’t stain the edges until I’ve flipped over the block. That way I have something to grab onto as I flip it over. Once I flip it over, I stain the other side and the edges. I hope this helps! 😎👍🏼

[@ktmcintyre]

Looks awesome! I am getting ready to finish mine and install it. Can you let us know which species you went with? Looks like it might be the rubberwood one but I am not sure. Thanks!!

[@iBJanky]

I believe the butcher block was acacia wood. Hope this helps! 😎👍🏼

[@amos7458]

From what I’ve read online the poly should take about a full month before it’s fully cured. A lot of people say using it lightly before then is fine, but to not leave anything heavy on it for extended periods or else the finish might be damaged. Was this your experience? Did you wait a full month before using it as a desk?

[@iBJanky]

I started using it lightly after 24-28 hours. Then it will be fully cured after another 2 or 3 weeks. I hope this helps! 🙂

[@sudhan419]

Hi , it looks great and the details you put on was very useful . Thank you . I have a question - if I had to change the stain color in the middle of the process like after 2 coats of stain color. Can I change it with re-sanding and repeating the process . Will it work .

[@iBJanky]

The color will not change very much unless you started out with a light colored stain and put a dark colored stain on top of it. You can go darker, but you can’t go lighter without starting over.

[@kaseybballvideo]

I am actually ready to start my project and went looking for a video just like this; it's really well done! For each step shown, did you then flip it over and do the same process? I presume that you did, but am interested to know if you protected the finished surface while you were working on the other side. Also, how did you control excess stain or poly from pooling on the underside around the edges? sometimes you don't see that kind of problem until you flip it and its all dried.

[@iBJanky]

Yes, I started with the bottom side first. I would lay the butcher block top side down on the table, and I used some cardboard to protect its surface. After working on the bottom side, I would flip it over and use these things called painters pyramids. They allowed me to work on the top side while the bottom side would dry. Since the butcher block it pretty heavy, the painters pyramids made these small indentations on the bottom side, which doesn’t really matter anyway since it’s not visible. In order to control excess stain or polish, I wouldn’t apply them on the edges until the butcher block was on the painters pyramids, because the pyramids lift the butcher block above the table surface, and you’ll be able to check the underside of the butcher block and wipe off any excess stain/poly. I hope that helps 🙂

[@kaseybballvideo]

@@iBJanky That is very helpful, I never thought of painters pyramids. Thank you for the details!

[@iBJanky]

@@kaseybballvideo You’re welcome! Good luck with your project and let us know how it goes. Thanks for watching! 😎👍🏼

[@clashmasterx3253]

Hey man im thinking of gettign an acacia block myself, how has the top been holding up to writing and stuff like that. Just want to make sure its hard enough

[@iBJanky]

@@clashmasterx3253 I don’t write directly on the surface, as I have one of those desk pads, but it’s been holding up great 🙂