What tools/knowledge do you need with the woodworking plans?

The free plans requires the ability to cut timber with a table saw, use a router, sander, square and perform glue-ups with clamps. A cross-cut sled is nice, but not necessary

The priced plans require the the above as well as a digital angle measuring tool, drum sander for the accuracy required

The plans assume you know how to use the above tools safely

Is the timber treated with chemicals?

No, only Australian timber is used that has been kiln dried. Imported timbers may be treated/fumigated on entry to Australia so are never used.

What types of wood are used?

Australian Chestnut, Australian Wormy Chestnut, Jarrah, Tasmanian Blackwood, Queensland Maple, Sydney Blue Gum, Silvertop Ash and Blackbut.

What glue is used?

Food grade quality Titebond 3 glue.

What finish is used on the boards?

Food grade mineral oil and bees wax is used to finish the boards.

Are the boards mass-produced?

No, the boards are made by me in my little workshop.

My board has lots of knife marks in it from use - what can I do?

You can sand the board with an orbital sander and then finish the boards with my mineral oil/bees wax finish available in the shop section of this website.

End grain versus edge grain

End-grain boards are preferred among cooks because they are easier on knife blade edges and If properly maintained they are also more sanitary. The theory behind this functionality is simple: the fibres of end grain absorb the impact of the knife better than the face grain. The effect of this over time is that the knife edge stays sharper and thus requires less frequent sharpening. Additionally, the end-grain board will be subject to less damage by the knife.