Project Information
Here are a few other recent boards. Each of these are a composed of a combination of Hard Maple, Black Walnut and Padauk.
One thing I should note; I never plan my patterns before hand. I think it is much more entertaining to do my initial glue up, then crosscut and see what comes out. I follow a few simple rules I've figured out through experience and that's about it. The final reveal is much more fun if I have no clue what it will look like before hand. I say this not to brag, but to encourage others to be brave and let the pieces fall where they may.
The real challenge, of course, sometimes comes when I've placed thin material in the center, such as the third board pictured. It can be a real nightmare, as I'm sure most of you know, to line that up properly.
Also, if I can give some humble advice to anyone looking to make a cutting board, please, do not feel the need to crank down your clamps to oblivion. We're making cutting boards here, not diamonds. You'll thank yourself when your sanding. Also, do your best to mop up glue before it drys. (End of stating the obvious).
One thing I should note; I never plan my patterns before hand. I think it is much more entertaining to do my initial glue up, then crosscut and see what comes out. I follow a few simple rules I've figured out through experience and that's about it. The final reveal is much more fun if I have no clue what it will look like before hand. I say this not to brag, but to encourage others to be brave and let the pieces fall where they may.
The real challenge, of course, sometimes comes when I've placed thin material in the center, such as the third board pictured. It can be a real nightmare, as I'm sure most of you know, to line that up properly.
Also, if I can give some humble advice to anyone looking to make a cutting board, please, do not feel the need to crank down your clamps to oblivion. We're making cutting boards here, not diamonds. You'll thank yourself when your sanding. Also, do your best to mop up glue before it drys. (End of stating the obvious).