Question 1

I'm curious-- does anyone have smooth textured splotches all over their board? I have used the board once and am displeased about the discoloration.

Accepted Answer

I've made a few end grain cutting boards and from yours and the other comments it sounds like the problem comes from the gluing stage. Anyone employing a high level of craftsmanship will typically wait until the glue is partially dry before removing the excess to avoid clogging the grain with glue. And when it is completely dry both sides should get a thorough sanding prior to the first coat of finish.  At this price point, you're on the very cheap end for end grain, which is why they used Acacia (aka Australian Blackwood). To cut costs they also likely wipe the excess glue when it is still wet enough to partially absorb into the grain, then didn't bother to sand it well afterwards.  An effictive way to cut productions costs, but the result is a surface that may not accept sealing/finish uniformly.  As with most things you get what you pay for, and this is what it is.  Cheaper wood and lower quality workmanship than a higher quality end grain board, but still a cut above (pardon the pun) a typical face/edge grain board.

Question 2

I do not want to purchase a lot of unnecessary cleaning solutions for this board, What is the best cleaning method you have found.

Accepted Answer

I have a mesquite board, but I assume this acacia would hold up to how I clean my board.   First is has to fit in the sink someway so you can run water over it (without submerging it).  For a refresh clean i use cold water and my hands..   I usually use a metal cookie scraper to clean and swipe the excess water away.   I oil/wax my board every few months (when the scraper stops scraping up wax)..  For a medium clean (most of the time) I use warm water and my hands..  then scrape away the warm water with the scraper..  there will be a little wax on the scraper; which I like to think is cleaning the board (then I rinse with cold water; a personal choice because hot water is not potable).   Rarely I will add dish soap.   I’ve found watermelon each thru the wax quicker than any cleaning I do..  Since the main board is large, I’ve taken to using smaller boards (on top of the main board) for things like tomatoes, garlic etc (i use the small boards for things like tomatoes that make a mess, or garlic/onion that will leave a smell on the main board).  Note: [probably because they are stamped during production] cookie scrapers will have one side that scrapes gracefully (don’t use the side that gouges the board).

Question 3

Are both sides usable? I see from the reviews that it has rubber feet on one side. If I wanted to, could I remove those so that I can use both sides?

Accepted Answer

The feet aren't entirely rubber.  They are flat.  They keep the board from moving.  They would be hard to remove so I would say that you wouldn't be able to use that side.

Question 4

Made in China?

Accepted Answer

They're manufactured in Thailand

Product Dimensions	50.8 x 35.56 x 3.18 cm; 3.27 kg
Item volume	5.43 Litres
Care instructions	Sand the dents with fine-grained sandpaper, apply butcher block oil and let stand before use.
Is assembly required	No
Number of pieces	1
Batteries required	No
Included components	Cutting board
Item weight	3.27 kg

Ironwood Gourmet 28217 Large Charleston End Grain Prep Station, Acacia Wood

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