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How to create a cookbook holder

Wooden cookbook with black matte handle

Overview

A cookbook holder is a fantastic, oft-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.

Steps

  1. 1

    Measure and mark timber

    Measure and mark your timber using a tape measure and pencil at the following points:

    • 35cm x 35cm
    • 6cm x 35cm
    Mark out the timber you'll be using
  2. 2

    Cut the timber

    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.

    Cut timber to size
  3. 3

    Sand

    Sand down the pieces of timber using a sanding block, creating smooth edges.

    Sand the edges of the timber
  4. 4

    Drill holes

    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.

    Pre drill the holes
  5. 5

    Line up your dowels

    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.

    Place your centre marks
  6. 6

    Assemble

    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.

    Apply your wood glue and dowels
  7. 7

    Varnish

    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.

    Apply stain to timber
  8. 8

    Second coat

    Allow the varnish to dry and apply a second coat.

    Leave it to dry
  9. 9

    Mark the position of the handle

    Mark the position of where you want your handle.

    Place markers for the handle
  10. 10

    Screw in the handle

    Screw the handle in using a drill.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: if required, use pliers to cut your screws to size.
    Screw in the handle
  11. 11

    Let’s get started!

    Browse our range of timbers, ready for your cookbook holder!

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Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. 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.