Edge grain vs End Grain – What is the difference?
When it comes to wooden cutting boards, the difference isn’t always the wood itself, it’s how the grain is oriented. This has a big impact on how the board performs, how long it lasts, and why the price varies.
There are 3 orientations of wood grain. Face, Edge and End.
I only make Edge grain and End grain boards.
Face Grain
Face grain boards show the wide face of the timber. Think cheap Ikea cutting board.
- What it looks like: Natural, flowing grain patterns
- How it performs: Softer under a knife and shows cuts easily
- Best use: Serving boards, charcuterie, light prep work
Because the knife cuts across the surface fibres, it leaves visible marks and can wear quicker over time.
Why they’re cheaper:
Face grain boards are the simplest to make, requiring fewer glue-ups and less labour, so they are usually the most affordable option. I don’t make this type of board as you can buy them cheap from many different retailers and they are mass produced products.
Edge Grain
Edge grain boards are made by turning boards on their side and gluing the edges together.
- What it looks like: Straight, striped grain pattern
- How it performs: Durable and stable, good for everyday use and nicer on knives
- Best use: General kitchen work and daily chopping
With edge grain, the knife cuts across the long fibres, making the board tougher than face grain but still showing wear over time. Knives can cut between the wood fibres as well which keep them sharper longer.
Why they’re mid-priced:
They require more preparation and glue-up work than face grain and they last longer, but are still relatively straightforward to build compared to end grain boards.
End Grain
End grain boards are made by cutting wood into blocks and turning them so the ends of the fibres face up. Think professional chef/butcher block cutting boards.
- What it looks like: Checkerboard or block pattern
- How it performs: Extremely durable and gentle on knives
- Best use: Heavy chopping, professional kitchens
Here, the knife cuts between the fibres instead of across them, allowing the surface to “self-heal” and reducing visible marks. A recondition every now and then will make it look brand new.
Why they’re the most expensive:
- Multiple stages of cutting, rotating, and glue‑ups
- More material and thicker builds
- Longer finishing and flattening process
- Higher failure/scrap rate during construction
This added time and precision is why end grain boards are considered a premium option.
If you want to know more or your having trouble deciding on what you need, get in contact with me via email or phone.
I am more than happy to step you through the process of how I create my cutting boards and what is your best option.
Matt Thompson
matt@altitudewoodworking.com.au
0431 101 465
