Custom Wood Counter

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The Journey of Building a Custom Wood Counter Display

A few years back, we got a call from a client who wanted to construct a simple custom wood counter for his Gallery Store. He had some basic requirements like it should be sturdy and last for at least 10 years. The specifications weren’t that hard to meet. The challenge was how to keep it simple and precise. We went through several iterations before we finally nailed the design and made him a simple custom wood store counter which he loved!

Simple things can make all the difference sometimes. How did we end up making a custom wood counter you ask? Read on for some Handyman hints on how to complete a custom project like ours.

1. The Requirements?
2. Getting the Design Ready & Getting the Supplies
3. Adding Details and Completing the Project
Recommendation Highlight – Woodwork101
4. Tool Recommendations
5. We Are Here to Help!

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The Requirements?

A durable counter unit with a sunken area for a cash register
Nothing too intricate. Keep it simple.
Budget materials

3D Sketch of a Custom Wood Counter Design

Preparing for Design and Acquiring Supplies

When it comes to building a custom wood counter or a custom counter display, having a clear and concise plan is essential. This is where sketching comes in – a quick drawing of ideas can help jumpstart the creative process and get the ball rolling. After brainstorming and selecting the best ideas, we take the design to the next level by fleshing it out in a 3D program like 3dsMax, ensuring that every detail is considered and nothing is left to chance.

Once we have a polished design, we present it to the client for approval. In this instance, our suggested design was met with enthusiasm and praise, giving us the green light to proceed to the next step – purchasing materials.

Our custom wood counter design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring a sunken register area, a back compartment for a fridge, and a main window display for showcasing products. To complete the look, we included a narrow side counter, a tall glass display case from IKEA, and a DVD shelving unit positioned on the back wall, as seen in our accompanying photos. With all the necessary supplies on hand, we’re ready to begin building a beautiful and unique custom counter that will leave a lasting impression.

Custom Wood Counter Photo Angle 2 - Back View

Polishing the Design with Finishing Touches

With the supplies at hand and the design finalized, it’s time to get to work on building our custom wood counter. Our first step is constructing the top board, which consists of finished wood and plywood that are secured together to create a thicker and sturdier surface.

To finish off the edges of the counter, we opt for non-glued natural Oak edging. Unlike veneer edging that can’t be stained, this Oak edging can be seamlessly incorporated into the design with adhesive. After securing the edging in place and trimming it down with a razor, we take care to sand the corners down to a smooth and rounded edge. The finishing touches of stain and varnish are then applied to give the counter a solid and polished appearance.

In the end, this project was a joy to build. We took great care in each step of the process, from the initial sketches to the finishing touches, ensuring that every detail was just right. The result is a beautiful and functional custom counter that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who encounter it.

:.:: Recommendation ::.:

Tool Recommendations

Note: When you make a purchase through our links, we may earn commissions from Amazon, ClickBank or other retailers at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are based on our personal and professional experience using products we suggest, and we recommend them because we believe they are genuinely helpful, not because of the small commissions we may receive. Please only purchase a product if you believe they will help you achieve your goals.

Milescraft 7336 Pocket Jig 200XCJ – To build a custom wood counter of your own, then you are going to need a pocket hole jig. It’s great for placing strong and secure screws on the inside of cabinetry, where they can’t easily be seen. This particular set is conveniently small, so it is easy to carry around the job site. Amazon.com | Amazon.ca

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Impact Driver and Hammer Drill (DCK287D2) – This set provides the best of both worlds. You’ll need the driver for large pieces of wood, and then the drill, with its adjustable torque settings, for more delicate work, like securing drywall, assembling IKEA furniture, or building cabinets. The drill can also be set to hammer drill, to quickly drill through cement and brick. Amazon.com | Amazon.ca

DEWALT 20V MAX* Circular Saw, 6-1/2-Inch, Cordless Kit (DCS565P1) – A cordless circular saw, for any build, is a must! A 6.5 inch unit has just enough depth for all your needs, plus, it weighs less than standard 7.5 inch saws. A battery and charger is included in this package. Amazon.com | Amazon.ca

Tool Purchases to Avoid

For a project like creating a custom wood counter or similar, the following are two types of power tools that you should avoid purchasing altogether:

Corded Drills – Don’t. Just don’t. Unless it’s for mixing cement, or drilling a 4-6 inch diameter hole through concrete, you will never need a drill with a cord. Drills are needed on roofs, attics, and basements…. and also in many painful positions and places. It’s best if you did not have to worry about a cord.

Corded Circular Saws – The cord will always get in your way. Avoid plug in circular saws. For a battery powered circular saw like the Dewalt 20V Max shown above, it is best to get a pair of Powerextra 20v 6.0Ah lithium Ion batteries. Amazon.com | Amazon.ca