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A cookbook holder is a fantastic, often forgotten cooking aid that can make a world of difference when creating your next feast. By holding your page in place, it reduces the need to keep flipping back and forth, as well as stopping you from putting dirty fingers on clean pages!
With this simple D.I.Y. project, you can build your very own timber cookbook holder. Not only do they serve a practical purpose, but they are also a beautiful addition to any countertop and are a great way to display cookbooks when not in use. If you also use online recipes, this holder can also hold a tablet, making it a multi-faceted tool for any kitchen.
With straightforward cuts and an easy assembly process, this project will come together in no time.
Measure and mark your timber using a tape measure and pencil at the following points:
Secure each piece of timber with a clamp and put on your safety equipment – glasses, ear protection and dust mask. Once you’ve got everything on, cut at these marks using a circular saw.
The 35cm x 35cm piece will form the back of your stand and the small 6cm x 35cm piece will go at the bottom.
Select one offcut and cut one end at a 45-degree angle. This will be used to hold the block in place.
Sand down the pieces of timber using a sanding block, creating smooth edges.
To fix the pieces together, we’re going to use wood glue and a few dowels for some extra support. To prepare for this, take the triangular 6cm piece of timber and drill two shallow dowel holes in the back.
Add the centre points to the holes you’ve drilled, and line up the middle part of your stand. When you’re sure it’s flush on each end, use a mallet to tap the timber, making a centre point mark to accurately drill the dowel hole.
Pre-drill a hole when the centre mark has pinched. You may need to make your hole deeper if your dowels are too long.
Take the two pieces, add wood glue and a dowel to each hole and clamp to hold until dry. Make sure the thick base of the triangle is on the bottom of the board.
You can decorate using paint, oil or varnish. For a finished natural look that protects the material, opt for varnish. Apply varnish to the entire stand using a brush.
Allow the varnish to dry and apply a second coat.
Mark the position of where you want your handle.
Screw the handle in using a drill.
Browse our range of timbers, ready for your cookbook holder!
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
