Making the Trivet
Step 1. The first order of business is to print out the pattern. (Click here for the pattern PDF.) You can print out as many of these as you wish. NOTE: The circular dotted lines on the four outside oak leaves indicate the locations of self-adhesive felt dots, used as feet. These are optional.

Step 2. The next step is to select your wood. As a matter of fact, this little project can be from any hardwood species that you would like. We chose white oak for our example here. The stock can be anywhere from 3/8" to 1/2" thick, and should be straight grained. Quartersawn lumber would be a perfect selection.

Step 3. Before you start cutting out the various shapes, sand the wood smooth — top and bottom.

Step 4. Secure the pattern to the wood. We recommend spray adhesive, but there are various methods that would work very well. Feel free to use your favorite.

Step 5. In each section of the pattern where stock must be removed, drill a small hole. It must be large enough in diameter to accept the scroll saw blade.

Step 6. Using a scroll saw, carefully cut along the dark outlines on the pattern (Photo 1). Light directional pressure is all that is required — allow the saw to do the work.

Step 7. Move from the outside aspects of the trivet to the inner sections.

Step 8. When all the cutting is done, remove the remaining paper pattern material (Photo 2). Wiping the piece with mineral spirits will help to remove any leftover spray adhesive.

Step 9. Using various sanding methods (Photo 3), remove any visible saw marks.

Step 10. When the sanding is complete, wipe on a coat of polyurethane, thinned to about 50 percent of its regular viscosity. Be sure to work the finish into all the various nooks and crannies in the trivet. Allow the finish to cure and then apply a second coat.

Step 11. After the second coat of poly has cured, attach the self-adhesive felt dots as indicated. Your trivet is now ready to go to work!