Assuming the dimensions work out and the IKEA butcher-blocks are not stained, you should be able to use them - quite cost effective. Can sand of the sides and edges, and even stain if you wish, before applying a clear-coat.

/venkat

IKEA is a great idea. Also check out Lumber Liquidators and you might have luck on craigslist where you can buy a table, remove the top, round the edges, and sand/stain to the color desired. If you're somewhat handy, it should be a fun project!

Bamboo parquet butcher block from Teragren is designed for use as countertops and tabletops. It

Here is a link that might be useful: Bamboo butcher block - countertops and tabletops

I would bet the cost of buying an Ikea table, cutting it down (presumably on both ends or all sides for symmetry, or even moving the legs) and sanding and refinishing the sides, unless you are reasonably handy, is going to be more time and expense than going to a local butcher block furniture store that will make a table in any size you want.

Also, some of those "unfinished furniture" places will actually make custom or semi-custom furniture at reasonable prices.

We have an Ikea butcherblock that we cut down with not problem. Cut it-we only needed it a couple of inches shorter and sanded it with a hand held sander. You really need to sand the whole block with fine sand paper before you oil finish it anyway. The $89 for Ikea sure beat the other estimates that we got ($450-$900 for 48x25). We also looked at lumber liquidators which was cheap but we had to buy 8ft. Just a suggestion that I thought would be super cool but it didn't work out for me...How about old bowling alley floor?

Thank you for all your input. The bamboo is a great choice (eco-friendly and all), but like jra2127, I hope to buy a much smaller piece than 8 ft. I think I may try some local places so that I don't have to deal with shipping. I'll start with cabinet makers. Do you know what other kinds of businesses might be a butcher block furniture store?