DIY Magnetic Knife Rack in Walnut

[johnstoc]

I had a nice piece of walnut leftover from another project, and also wanted to have a few nice knives on display in the kitchen. Whipped up these two in the shop and thought I’d share with fellow KKF folks.

Used about $35 worth of neodynium magnets, may have gone overboard because one of my knives is less magnetic and the thought of a hair-popping-sharp blade falling from shoulder height is terrifying (especially with others in the household). Let’s just say they are quite securely held.

Used a router to cut a slot within ~1/16” or 3/32” of the surface. I’m happy with it overall, pretty DIY friendly. Also went this route as I don’t have a lot of room and needed a specific (small) size.

 

[icanhaschzbrgr]

Good job on this one! I do need to do something similar for our tiny kitchen.

 

[Matus]

Looks very nice - that walnut has lovely figure!

 

[Bill13]

What was the strength of the magnets, or even better which did you use?

 

[drawman623]

Nice job. Gorgeous walnut. thank you for this post. I've been considering a similar project. I have access to exotic wood and to veneer stock cut from exotic wood to face cheaper material. I had even considered proposing a group buy of earth magnets. I share Bill13's question. Please discuss the magnets, size and rating if you have it. Also, did you make a single channel with your router (for 1 row of magnets) or did you stagger them in two rows? Thanks

 

[johnstoc]

I used a router to (freehand/ugly as it will never be seen) cut 3 single slots for magnets. I then used neodymium magnets in each slot, ½” X ¼” cylinders which are stacked 2 high and 4 long. Stacking neodymium magnets doubles their strength. Two rows of magnets would work great and would eliminate the need to stack magnets. One could also do a continuous slot so that magnets are spaced evenly over the whole rack, but I knew I wanted space for 3 knives on this smaller rack. I think I could have used about half as many magnets and it would have worked for most knives.

I used these magnets, ½” X ¼” N48 neodynium, $0.70 each. Rated for 6.1lbs pull force.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001KUURP2/?tag=skimlinks_replacement-20

 

[Burl Source]

Nice Rack!
I have been waiting for a chance to be able to say that and not get slapped.

 

[salmonkiller]

Nice job on your project.How well do the magnets hold the knives?

 

[johnstoc]

Knives are very securely held. A few less magnets would have worked.

 

[salmonkiller]

Knives are very securely held. A few less magnets would have worked.

Nice and thanks for sharing.I will make one someday when I have the time.

 

[MrOli]

Great job, I find myself going to plans and DYI more these days...there is a definite sense of satisfaction when the finished article looks as good as your magnetic rack.