End Grain vs. Edge Grain in Cutting Boards

Wooden cutting boards are made with one of three types of cutting surfaces: face grain, end grain or edge grain. When you are considering buying a cutting board, it is important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of both.

End Grain

An end grain cutting surface is made from solid timber that has had the grain oriented so that the end grain of the wood is exposed on the top surface of the board.  The easiest way to recognise this kind of surface is to check for growth rings in the boards. These boards are known for being more forgiving on knives.

Benefits: End Grain boards are often more decorative and are easier on knives because of the grain alignment. As the knife cuts on the board, the fibres of the board open up allowing the blade to slot in between them. As the knife is removed, the fibres close up again. Many people refer to End Grain cutting boards as “Self Healing”. As such, End Grain boards don’t show scratches easily.

Drawbacks: End grain boards are more expensive to make.

Edge Grain
An Edge Grain cutting board is usually made of strips of wood that have been cut and oriented so that the edges of the plank of wood are visible on the cutting surface. These can be recognised by looking at the grain of the wood which will run along the length of the board.
Benefits:  Edge grain boards are durable, easy to maintain and more affordable, depending on the timber used to make them.
Drawbacks:Can dull knives faster than end grain boards.

Making your Selection

When selecting a board, give some thought to its intended use. Will it be used for heavy chopping? Will it be used for serving, or as a decorative conversation piece to be used at dinner parties? Whatever you choose, Woodstyles End Grain and Edge Grain cutting boards are a cut above the rest.