Caring for cutting boards: Why linseed oil varnish is indispensable

A solid wooden board is more than just a kitchen utensil—it's a piece of nature and craftsmanship. To ensure it remains hygienic, beautiful, and functional for many years, it requires regular care. Linseed oil varnish is the most important ingredient. But why do we oil it at all, how often is it necessary, and how do we go about it properly?

Why should you oil a wooden board?

  • Protection against moisture: Oil penetrates deep into the pores and prevents water or sap from penetrating the wood.
  • Preventing cracks: Dry wood can crack. Oil keeps the fibers elastic and stable.
  • Hygiene: Oiled surfaces are less susceptible to bacteria and odors because liquids do not penetrate.
  • Appearance: Oil makes the grain shine and gives the board a noble, warm surface.

Why linseed oil varnish?

Linseed oil varnish is a purely vegetable, food-safe oil that undergoes a special curing process (“polymerization”) to achieve exceptional durability. It differs from regular linseed oil in that it hardens and doesn't remain sticky. This creates a durable, protective layer that reliably seals the wood.

How often should you oil a wooden board?

  • After purchase: New boards should be oiled 2-3 times in the first few weeks until the wood is saturated.
  • For everyday use: Depending on usage, oil every 4–6 weeks. Frequent washing or heavy wear will shorten the intervals.
  • The test: If the wood appears dull after cleaning or water no longer beads up, it's time to oil it.

Step-by-step instructions for oiling

  1. Cleaning: Rinse the board thoroughly with warm water and allow it to dry completely.
  2. Application: Apply a thin layer of linseed oil varnish evenly using a lint-free cloth or brush.
  3. Allow to absorb: Allow the oil to absorb for 15–30 minutes until the surface no longer shines.
  4. Wipe off excess: Remove residue with a dry cloth to prevent the board from becoming sticky.
  5. Allow to dry: Let the board rest upright for 24 hours before using it again.

Frequently asked questions about care

  • Can I use other oils? Only food-safe oils are suitable. Linseed oil varnish is ideal because it hardens. Olive oil or sunflower oil become rancid and are unsuitable.
  • How do I know if my board has enough oil? If water beads up on the surface, it's well saturated. If it absorbs immediately, the board needs additional care.
  • Can you apply too much oil? Thick layers dry slowly. It's better to apply thin, regular layers.

Conclusion: An oiled board lasts longer

Proper care with linseed oil varnish makes all the difference: Your solid wooden board stays hygienic, resistant to moisture, and looks as beautiful year after year as it did on the first day. Regularly oiling your board not only improves its appearance but also its longevity—and ensures years of enjoyment from cutting, serving, and grilling.

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For all those who don’t just want to buy – but want to understand.

Everything you want to know about wood, knives & quality.

Holzschneidebrett mit einem Messer.

Which Damascus knives are right for me?

A good knife is more than just a tool—it's a matter of precision, ergonomics, and the right application. Choosing the right knife type makes work easier, improves cutting results, and protects the material and your hand in the long run. Our hand-forged Cuttworxs Damascus knives are tailored to different tasks and needs. Below you'll find an overview of the most important blade shapes and their applications.

Chef's knife – For large cuts and precise power

The classic chef's knife is the most versatile tool in any kitchen. The long, slightly curved blade is ideal for cutting meat, fish, vegetables, or herbs. Thanks to its balanced and high stability, it masters both powerful and controlled cuts.

To the Damascus Chef's Knife Evolution - FlameWood

Santoku knife – the compact all-rounder

The Santoku knife originates from Japan and is known for its handy blade shape. It's particularly suitable for vegetables, fish, and smaller portions of meat. Its light weight and flat cutting surface make it ideal for fine, precise cuts.

To the Damascus Santoku knife Evolution - Flamewood

Nakiri knife – specialist for vegetables

The Nakiri was specially developed for vegetable cooking. With its straight, rectangular blade, it's ideal for finely dicing, chopping, and slicing vegetables and herbs. It cuts cleanly all the way to the board – without any rocking motion.

To the Damascus Nakiri knife Evolution - OriginWood / Rosewood

Bread knife – For crust, fruit and more

The serrated bread knife glides effortlessly through hard crusts and soft interiors. It's suitable not only for bread, but also for large fruits like pineapple, melon, or pumpkin. It's also a reliable helper for tomatoes or hard-shelled baked goods.

To the Damascus Bread Knife Evolution - OriginWood / Rosewood

Knife block or individual set?

Anyone who performs multiple cutting tasks will benefit from a well-stocked set. Our knife blocks offer secure and stylish storage for a variety of blade shapes. Those seeking even more flexibility can create their own set: Choose your chef's board made of solid oak in your desired size and combine it with the matching Cuttworxs Damascus knife.

To the chef's board & damask knife set

All Cuttworxs Damascus knives are made of genuine Damascus steel with an elaborate grind – for long-lasting sharpness, perfect balance, and a distinctive blade pattern that makes each knife unique. The handles are made of fine woods, ergonomically shaped, and fit securely in the hand even during extended use.

What makes a good cutting board?

A high-quality cutting board is characterized by three things: the right material, well-thought-out functionality, and a durable construction. We use solid oak and walnut wood – natural, robust, antibacterial, and gentle on knives. Our cutting boards are 4 cm thick, making them noticeably more stable than many commercially available models. No warping, no slipping – just a reliable work surface that will last for decades.

Our boards also make a difference in terms of functionality: a precisely milled juice groove, usability on both sides and, depending on the model, practical recessed handles or stainless steel elements ensure that the board becomes a real tool - in the kitchen, at the grill or on the buffet.

We have developed four well-thought-out board lines for different requirements:

Chef board – The robust kitchen board

Compact, functional, and versatile: Our 30 × 30 cm and 40 × 30 cm chef's boards are ideal for everyday use in the kitchen—for cutting vegetables, meat, or herbs. Solid wood combines clean lines and high-quality craftsmanship.

For the robust chef's board for the kitchen (also suitable as a burger & steak board)

Chef Board XL – For grill, BBQ & large cuts

The 50 × 40 cm and 60 × 40 cm versions offer generous space for large pieces of meat, roasts, or pulled pork. Perfect for grilling, preparing, and serving food—sturdy, cut-resistant, and with plenty of presence.

To the BBQ & Grill chef board for carving and serving

The Chefstation – More than just a board

Our Chefstation is a modular system for professional demands: 4 cm thick oak, combined with removable GN containers, a stainless steel console, and an optional hygienic countertop. The perfect solution for structured preparation, clean work, and efficient processes – whether in the kitchen, at a BBQ, or catering.

To the boss station - where work becomes a pleasure

Steak & Burger Boards – For a stylish appearance

More compact than the Chef's Board, but no less impressive: The steak and burger boards combine aesthetics with functionality – with a milled juice groove, recessed handles, and a refined wood texture. Ideal for serving meat, burgers, or small meals – straight from the grill to the table.

To the Steak & Burger Board - present and enjoy becomes the motto

Our cutting boards are handcrafted with passion for materials, form, and function. They are made for people who want to experience quality, who shop consciously, and who value durable tools. Not mass-produced items—just honest products that last.

Discover all cutting boards at a glance

Are the products also suitable as gifts?

Absolutely! A solid cutting board or a fine Damascus knife is more than just a tool—it's a gift with value and character. Whether for a wedding, a birthday, Father's Day, or as a sophisticated corporate gift, handcrafted products made of wood and steel are always well received. Packaged in elegant outer packaging, engraved upon request, or as a set—a gift for people who prefer to burn fires rather than just cook.

What makes wood & more special?

With us, you won't get anonymous mass-produced goods, but lovingly crafted unique pieces – made from solid wood, refined with experience and quality. We are passionate BBQ fans, kitchen people, and hosts ourselves. Our products are created from this passion, with genuine handcraft – fair, honest, and uncompromising quality. And that's exactly what you'll feel with every cut.

How do the boards from wood & more differ?

Each of our boards is unique – yet they follow a clear standard: solid wood, perfect craftsmanship, and a sophisticated design. Our chef stations are workstations with GN containers and a stainless steel console, ideal for professionals and prep workers. Our chef boards, on the other hand, offer solid support, flexible use, and an optional juice groove – perfect for everyday use at the grill or in the kitchen. Our burger and steak boards, on the other hand, focus on presentation: with or without handles, striking in both form and function. What they all have in common? Real wood, real work, real tools.

Where do the materials come from and how are they produced?

We use only high-quality, sustainable wood – oak, walnut, elm, ash, or maple. All boards are handcrafted in our factory, one by one. We focus on short distances, fair conditions, and 100% quality assurance. Our Damascus knives are the product of traditional blacksmithing and are processed in small batches – each piece is inspected, sharpened, and ready for use. No industrialization, no compromises – only genuine products with a provenance.