All About Wood

Each hardwood listed below includes a brief description of its key characteristics, ideal uses, and images of the wood grain.

Wood Types

1. Walnut - $$

- Color: Rich, dark brown with purplish tones.

- Grain: Straight with occasional waves; fine, even texture.

- Durability: Strong and durable, excellent for cutting boards.

- Ideal For: Those looking for an elegant, dark-colored cutting board.

2. Maple - $

- Color: Light cream to pale brown.

- Grain: Generally straight, with a fine, even texture.

- Durability: Very hard and resistant to wear, making it great for heavy use.

- Ideal For: Customers who prefer a light-colored, classic-looking cutting board.

3. Cherry - $

- Color: Reddish-brown that darkens over time.

- Grain: Fine and smooth, with a straight grain pattern.

- Durability: Durable but slightly softer than maple or walnut.

- Ideal For: A warm, reddish tone with a smooth finish.

4. Purpleheart - $

- Color: Vibrant purple that deepens to a rich, dark hue.

- Grain: Usually straight, with a medium to fine texture.

- Durability: Extremely dense and durable, ideal for a unique look.

- Ideal For: Customers seeking a bold, colorful statement piece.

5. Zebrawood - $$$

- Color: Golden-yellow with dark brown streaks, resembling zebra stripes.

- Grain: Wavy or interlocked grain with a coarse texture.

- Durability: Hard and dense, great for striking patterns.

- Ideal For: Those who want a cutting board with a dramatic, exotic appearance.

6. Padauk - $

- Color: Bright orange-red that darkens to a rich, deep red-brown over time.

- Grain: Generally straight with a coarse texture and open grain.

- Durability: Extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear.

- Ideal For: Customers looking for a vibrant, eye-catching cutting board with a unique color.

7. Wenge - $$$

- Color: Dark brown with nearly black streaks, creating a dramatic appearance.

- Grain: Straight, with a very coarse texture.

- Durability: Very dense and hard, making it highly durable and resistant to wear.

- Ideal For: Those who want a cutting board with a bold, dark, and luxurious look.

How to Choose the Right Wood

When selecting a wood type for your cutting board, consider the following:

- Color Preferences: Do you prefer a dark, medium, or light tone?

- Grain Patterns: Straight and simple, or wavy and unique?

- Durability Needs: How often will you use your cutting board?

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$$$ = $15 per board foot and above

$$ = $10 to $14 per board foot

$ = less than $10 per board foot

Caring for Your Cutting Board

Thank you for purchasing a cutting board from McCracken Woodworks! With proper care, your cutting board will last for many years. Please follow the guidelines below to maintain the beauty and functionality of your board.

Daily Care
- **Cleaning**: After each use, clean your cutting board with warm water and mild dish soap. Avoid submerging the board in water or placing it in a dishwasher, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack.
- **Drying**: After washing, dry the board immediately with a clean towel. Stand it on its edge or place it in a well-ventilated area to ensure it dries completely before storing.

Regular Maintenance

Oiling: To keep the wood hydrated and prevent it from drying out, reapply food-grade mineral oil or cutting board conditioner once a month, or more often if the board looks dry or dull. Apply the oil evenly over the entire surface, let it absorb for a few hours or overnight, and then wipe off any excess.
Sanding: If your board develops knife marks or rough areas over time, you can lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit). After sanding, wipe away any dust and reapply oil to the board.

Avoiding Damage

Heat: Do not expose your cutting board to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack.
Stains & Odors: To remove stains or odors, sprinkle coarse salt or baking soda on the board and rub it with a lemon half, then rinse with warm water and dry immediately.
Cross-Contamination: To avoid cross-contamination, consider using separate cutting boards for different types of food (e.g., one for raw meat and another for vegetables).

Storage
Proper Storage: Store your cutting board in a cool, dry place. It’s best to store it upright or on a flat surface where air can circulate around it.

By following these care instructions, your McCracken Woodworks cutting board will remain a beautiful and durable kitchen tool for years to come. If you have any questions or need additional assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for choosing McCracken Woodworks!

Order Your Custom Cutting Board

Ready to order? Select your preferred hardwood and customize your cutting board today. Each board is handmade to your specifications, ensuring a one-of-a-kind piece that will last for years.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need assistance choosing the right wood, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you create the perfect cutting board.

Email: johnmccracken123@gmail.com

Phone: (214) 212-8099

Location: McKinney, TX