Shopping for a cutting board can feel like learning a new language—face grain, edge grain, end grain… huh? Let’s break it down.
Face grain is the “pretty face” of the wood. These boards are made from the wide surface of the plank, so they often look gorgeous, like a single piece of wood with bold grain patterns. The downside? They’re the least durable. Because the fibers run flat, knife cuts leave visible marks, and over time, the board is much more likely to warp or crack.
Edge grain boards are made by gluing together the long edges of wood strips. The result is a cleaner, more uniform look, almost like one solid piece of wood, but sturdier than face grain. They resist warping much better, and they’re generally more affordable than end grain boards.
The tradeoff? Knife marks will show over time. But if you love the sleek look and don’t mind a little “character” from your chopping, edge grain boards are a solid choice.
End grain is the heavyweight champion. These boards are made by turning the wood so you’re cutting into the ends of the fibers. That means your knife slips between the fibers instead of slicing across them, making the board self-healing, knife marks almost disappear, and your knives stay sharper longer.
End grain boards are thicker, sturdier, and heavier. Yes, they’re usually the most expensive too, but people say they “last a lifetime” and they’re not wrong. They do have a checkered, blocky look, which not everyone loves, but personally, we think that’s part of their charm.
In our workshop, we focus on edge grain and end grain boards. They’re the best balance of beauty, durability, and function. We carefully select hardwoods (like walnut, maple, and cherry), glue and press them with precision, and finish each board by hand with food-safe oil and butter. Every board gets the kind of attention that ensures it’s not just a kitchen tool, but a piece you’ll love to use and display.
So, Which One Is Right for You?
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Want something beautiful for serving? Face grain.
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Need a sturdy everyday workhorse? Edge grain.
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Dreaming of a board you’ll pass down to your grandkids? End grain.