How to Make a Scottish Spurtle

So, what is a spurtle, you ask. Let me tell you. A spurtle is a wooden Scottish kitchen utensil used to stir porridge. It dates from the fifteenth century—before the days of instant oatmeal—when porridge needed to be cooked for long periods. The tradition rod-shaped spurtle helped to eliminate lumps. And, to insure the magic the porridge was stirred in a clockwise motion with the right hand.

While the tradition rod-shaped spurtle is still going strong, in America the shape of the spurtle morphed into a flat wooden tool that is a cross between a spoon and a spatula. Spurtles are wonderful to cook with, and they are easy to make.

Supplies and Equipment for Making a Spurtle

• hardwood blank approximately 12"x1½"x1/8"
• Proxxon MICRO Bandsaw MBS/E
• Proxxon Disc Sander TSG 250/E
• Proxxon Delta Sander OZI/E

Instructions for Making a Spurtle

1. Cut the basic shape of the spurtle handle on the bandsaw. The handle area is approximately 4" long.
   
2. Adjust the angle of the disc sander to 45°.
   
   
3. Sand both long edges below the handle area and the end of the spurtle on each side to bevel the edges.
   
4. Round the corners of the end of the spurtle.
5. Sand flat surfaces with the Delta sander.
   
6. Treat with a food grade finishing oil. Oil used to treat butcher blocks is perfect.
7. Haur ye gae! Enjoy using your spurtle!! 
   

Carole