Here are three great Kitchen Helpers…each of which can literally be built in minutes.

The Ceramic Tile Trivet

1. Start by finding some decorative ceramic tiles that you like. They’re typically available in 4″, 6″, 8″ and 12″ squares.

2. Next, locate some moldings that you like to “frame” your tile. If you can’t find a molding shape that meets your fancy, create your own using your Shopsmith Molding Package, Shaping Package or Pro Fence System Router Table with appropriate cutters or bits. Miter the corners.

3. Cut the plywood base to hold your tile. Be sure to make your base large enough to accommodate the tile and the edge molding you have decided to use. The edge moldings can either be cut to a height that matches the thickness of your tile – or you can add a wooden spacer under the tile to bring it up to a matching height. Another alternative is to leave the molding higher than the tile edges to form a lip that will prevent objects from sliding off the trivet.

4. Apply a sealing finish to the plywood base and molding pieces. NOTE: Do not apply a finish to the mitered molding edges of the frame prior to assembly.

5. Glue and/or nail three sides of your molding frame to the plywood base.

6. Apply a thin bead of silicone adhesive around the edges of your tile…and several spots of tile adhesive or panel adhesive to its back side and place the tile into position in your frame. Slide the fourth frame member into position and glue and/or nail it.

7. Attach four rubber feet to the bottom of the plywood base.