BILTONG KERWER

Few tools in a South African kitchen are as iconic as the wooden biltong kerwer.

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This simple guillotine-style slicer delivers perfectly even biltong slices and has long been a favourite in homes, butcheries and weekend braai spots across the country. The good news is that you don't need a workshop full of specialised equipment to build one. With a single plank of hardwood, a planer blade and a few bolts, you can create a kerwer that will last for years. It also makes a thoughtful, practical gift, and the ways you can personalise it are limited only by your imagination.

This project is perfect for beginners and deeply satisfying for seasoned DIY enthusiasts: beautiful, functional and proudly South African.

Step-by-step guide

Step 1: Prepare the base

Start by sketching out a rough idea of how you want your finished kerwer to look. Cut your hardwood base plank to size, this forms the stable slicing platform. Sand the board smooth, beginning with 120-grit paper and finishing with 220-grit. Lightly round the edges for a comfortable, professional-looking finish.

Tip: Favourite hardwood to be used include Rhodesian Teak, kiaat,

Step 2: Make the handle

Draw the shape of your handle onto a scrap piece of hardwood and use a jigsaw to cut it out. This handle carries the planer blade and acts like a mini guillotine, so ensure it feels good in the hand. Sand it thoroughly and mark the blade's mounting position.

Note: Ensure the blade's chip breaker faces away from the handle (see sketch).

Step 3: Prepare and attach the sides