With the glue dry I removed the clamps and measured my walnut block. I need to get the block of wood down to the proper dimensions. I used my planer to get a smooth side then ran the block through my table saw with the smooth side down.
After repeated cuts I was able to get the block down to the correct dimensions. The seam between the boards is not in the center and its not straight in the block but my block is almost square. May be it would have been easier if I had a jointer but I'm working with what I have.
I also have worm or some bug hole in one side of the blank so I think I'll make that the top.
The core blank is 1 9/16" x 1 9/16" x 6" and
The sides are 1/4" x 1 9/16 x 6".