This project was built and designed by Sam Macy. It’s a durable and eye-catching end grain cutting board made from cherry and maple, featuring a black epoxy inlay for contrast and character.
Combining utility with fine woodworking, this project is ideal for holiday gifts or everyday kitchen use. Sam walks through the entire process—from raw lumber to a polished, food-safe finish—showing how functional art can come straight from the shop.
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Selecting and Preparing the Materials
The project begins with rough-cut cherry and maple, both hardwoods known for their strength and beauty. These species also provide natural contrast, making them perfect for a patterned cutting board.
The boards are milled down for thickness and flattened using a planer to ensure a smooth, even glue-up. Straight edges and clean surfaces are key to strong joinery and precise patterns, especially for end grain work.
Initial Cuts and Strip Layout
Once milled, the wood is cut into uniform strips, approximately one inch wide. Each strip is carefully marked to track grain orientation and maintain consistent glue joints throughout assembly.
Sam chooses to alternate cherry and maple strips, creating a checkered pattern that becomes more defined after the end grain is revealed. These small details make a big difference in the final product.
Creating the First Glue-Up
The strips are arranged in the desired pattern and glued together to form a panel. Clamps are applied evenly to avoid warping while the glue cures.
Packing tape is used on the clamp faces to prevent any glue squeeze-out from sticking. This simple trick keeps the process clean and protects your tools from damage.
Flattening and Preparing for End Grain
After the first glue-up is complete, the panel is run through a drum sander to ensure it’s flat. A flat surface is essential before moving into the next phase: turning the board into end grain.
The panel is then crosscut into new strips, each of which will now expose the end grain when turned upright. These strips are reassembled with the end grain facing up, forming the second glue-up.
Reversing for End Grain Beauty
This flipped orientation reveals the end grain checkerboard pattern that gives the board both its durability and unique appearance. End grain boards are easier on knives and last longer than edge grain varieties.
Sam takes care to align the pieces tightly, ensuring a seamless surface with minimal gaps. This attention to detail pays off when it’s time to add the epoxy inlay.
Pouring the Epoxy Inlay
With the board fully glued and flattened again, Sam moves on to the inlay. A black-pigmented epoxy is prepared according to the product instructions, ensuring the right consistency for small pours.
He pours the epoxy into specific design areas or small natural voids, letting it self-level and settle into place. The contrast between the dark inlay and the lighter wood adds a refined visual element.
Sanding the Surface and Edges
Once the epoxy has fully cured, the entire surface is sanded smooth. Starting with a lower grit and moving up ensures a sleek, polished result while avoiding scratches on the epoxy.
Edges are rounded over to create a softer grip and a more finished look. Sam also lightly bevels the corners for added comfort and style.
Adding a Food-Safe Finish
A food-safe finish is applied to protect the wood and bring out the grain. Sam opts for a mineral oil or specialized board finish that enhances the natural tones and seals the surface against moisture.
The end result is a board that looks stunning and is built to withstand daily use in the kitchen. It’s a project that balances practicality and craftsmanship.
Optional Engraving for Personal Touch
To personalize the board, an engraving can be added in a corner or along the bottom edge. This step is optional but great for gifts, branding, or marking special occasions.
Even a simple monogram or logo adds a custom feel without disrupting the overall design. It’s another way to elevate a woodworking project from functional to memorable.
Final Thoughts
This cutting board project shows what’s possible with a few quality materials, careful planning, and a little creativity. The end grain construction adds strength, while the epoxy inlay offers visual flair that sets the board apart.
Whether you’re looking to improve your woodworking skills or make a premium gift, this project delivers on both form and function. It’s a satisfying build with results that speak for themselves.
Please support Sam by visiting his website here: https://sammacydesigns.com/.