John Grossbohlin wrote:
Last week at my woodworker's club one of the relatively new members asked me
about finishing a cutting board he made out of walnut. My reaction was that
that was a poor choice of wood for a cutting board--adds some "flavor"
perhaps. However, with a finish on it would be OK for a serving board for
things like bread as long as no cutting was done on it...

It seems his daughter wants a cutting board made out of "dark wood." Off
hand I couldn't think any "dark wood" that would be appropriate for a
cutting board. Any suggestions? Did I overreact?

Thanks,

John




I have a cutting board I made from walnut about 4 years ago. There is no
issue with it. It's been in constant use for 4 years and has held up
extremely well. I finished it by heating plain mineral oil in the
microwave and rubbing it in and letting it set for 30 mins. or so. Then
applying another coat until the wood quit soaking it in. I've resanded
and reoiled it once. It could probably use it again but it's purely
cosmetic. The board is fine as is. BTW, the mineral oil is available at
your local pharmacy.

--
Donnie Vazquez
Sunderland, MD