The Kitchen Centrepiece
There are some things in a kitchen that you hide away in a drawer, and there are others that deserve to stay out on display.
For me, a proper chopping board falls into the second category. It is the anchor of the kitchen island—the place where the Sunday roast is carved, where the Friday night cheese selection is plated, and where the daily rhythm of cooking begins.
I recently introduced my Live Edge English Oak Chopping Board to the collection, and I wanted to share a little about why this piece is so special to make.
The Wood: A Single Slab of English Oak
Everything starts with the material. These aren’t glued-up strips of timber; each board is crafted from a single, solid slab of sustainably sourced English Oak.
I look for boards that have "movement" in the grain—swirls, knots, and unique patterns that tell the tree's history. I keep the "live edge" on the sides, which follows the natural contour of the tree rather than a straight saw line. It adds an organic elegance that softens the look of modern kitchens.
They are substantial, too. At 40-45mm thick, this is a board with weight and presence. It sits on four non-slip rubber feet to keep it rock-steady while you work, and it’s finished with a food-safe oil that brings out those warm, rich honey tones.
Make It Personal: The Laser Engraving Service
While the wood itself is beautiful, what truly transforms this board into a treasured heirloom is the story you add to it.
I now offer a precision laser engraving service (+£20.00) to customise your board. Using a high-end laser, I can etch deep into the oak, creating a dark, lasting mark that contrasts beautifully against the lighter grain.
This has become incredibly popular for gifting, particularly for:
-
5th Wedding Anniversaries: The traditional gift for five years is Wood. Adding the couple's names and their wedding date turns a practical item into a romantic reminder of their milestone.
-
Housewarmings: Branding the board with "The Smith Family Kitchen" or a "Est. 2024" date makes a new house feel like a home.
-
The Home Chef: Simply adding "The Chef's Board" or a favourite quote can make a keen cook feel like a professional.
You can choose between a classic Serif font or an elegant Script style, and I personally scale the text to ensure it sits perfectly on the board’s unique dimensions (usually around 200mm wide).
Made to Order, Just for You
Because I am a one-person studio, I don’t pull these off a warehouse shelf. Every board is made to order.
When you commission one, I select the timber, cut it to size (approx. 500mm x 300mm), sand it to a silky finish, and apply the engraving myself. It takes about 10–14 days to craft and cure before I despatch it to you.
It requires a little patience, but the result is a genuine one-off. No two boards will ever have the exact same grain or character. It is exclusively yours.
Ready to Create Your Own?
Whether you are looking for a robust surface for heavy-duty meal prep or a stylish serving platter for charcuterie, this board handles it all.
You can view the Live Edge English Oak Chopping Board here. If you have a specific idea for an engraving or need a bespoke size, please do get in touch—I’d love to help you create something meaningful.