This is my first attempt at a cutting board. I used hard maple and purple heart. Board is 10” x 8”, planned to have it 8” x 12” but had to cut a bit off to square the corners. Used General’s Salad Bowl finish so that it will be safe to use. Don’t know if I will use this finish again since it came out a bit blotchy and still seems oily. Had a heck of a time sanding down the end grain which I understand will always happen with these board. The only concern I have is that on a few joints I can see light thru them so I know it didn’t completely glue it places. I have told the person that I gave it to that if it comes apart due to that I will replace it.
4 comments so far
JimNEB
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219 posts in 1239 days
#1 posted 890 days ago
I’ve had a couple little cracks, and used epoxy to fill them. Seems to work, we’ll see how it holds up in the long run. I used ample glue on the joints. Makes for a messy squeeze out, but I wanted to be sure there was a good bond.
-- Jim, Nebraska
WoodArtbyJR
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409 posts in 1136 days
#2 posted 890 days ago
You’ll do nothing but get better with time. For glue application I use an ink roller, puts out an even coat and helps to minimize the “messy squeeze” as JimNEB mentions. I thnk most of the board makers us titebondlll. I use super glue when I find an area that looks like it is missing glue. If you do many of these end grain boards you really need to have a drum sander or carpul tunnel is in your future. From the picture it appears that you have REAL GOOD joint alignment. The problem with these LVDTs, they’re addicting (like this web site). As far as the sealing goes, use just plain mineral oil (much cheaper then the purchased salad bowl oil) it’s the same stuff. Heat it and mix a little bees wax and you get a real nice finish. you board will feel like it has an oily feel to it for a day or two but that is normal. Remember, if the board starts looking dry, give it a wipe down with another coat of oil to help keep the board sealed and protect it. Here is a link to a very good pod cast to help. Just don’t use vegetable or olive oil as they will go rancid over time. Good luck and keep’em coming.
-- Jim Roberts, Port Orchard Washington
yellowtruck75
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329 posts in 1238 days
#3 posted 890 days ago
Thanks for the advice
Think you forgot the link :)
WoodArtbyJR
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409 posts in 1136 days
#4 posted 890 days ago
Yep, you’re right. The door bell rang and I got distracted. Here it is.
http://thewoodwhisperer.com/butcher-block-cutting-board/
-- Jim Roberts, Port Orchard Washington
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