How to Order a Custom Cutting Board

Describe where and how it will be used

Give the maker the counter, sink, and storage measurements. State whether the board will remain on the counter, move after every use, serve food, or collect carving liquids. Mention any hard limit on weight or height.

Write the finished specification

• Finished width, depth, and thickness.
• End-grain or edge-grain construction.
• Wood species or an approved range.
• Pattern reference and orientation.
• Corner radius and top and bottom edge treatment.
• Juice groove dimensions and position, if required.
• Feet, handholds, engraving, and usable faces.
• Finish and care instructions.

Mark which dimensions are critical. If a board must fit a shelf, give the opening and the required clearance rather than only the desired board size.

Separate pattern from exact colour

A digital design can define geometry and species, but it cannot guarantee the colour of a particular tree. Ask whether the maker can show the selected stock or finished samples. Agree on how much natural variation is acceptable.

Provide one approved pattern view rather than a folder of conflicting references. For asymmetric patterns, mark the front edge and intended orientation.

Read the quote by scope

Check whether the price includes design work, material, fabrication, finish, feet or engraving, packaging, tax, and delivery. Ask what happens if selected stock is unavailable or the brief changes after material has been cut.

Confirm the expected completion window and whether it begins at deposit, design approval, or material arrival. Custom work may have different cancellation and return terms from stock products.

Approve before production

1. Dimensioned top view.
2. Pattern and species list.
3. Approximate finished weight.
4. Edge, corner, groove, feet, and engraving details.
5. Price, payment stages, schedule, and delivery.
6. Care, repair, and warranty terms.