Large “Tiles” on Walnut Cutting Board
Hey ya’ll,
I’m working up a project for my new house. Kitchen needs an island and I have a concept for a 2″x2’x4′ end grain butchers block countertop.
I have a line on some grade A 4″x4″x4′ black walnut posts. Given the large scale of my “cutting” board, and a desire to do the least work possible, I’m hoping to use the largest size element that I can for the end grain pieces. Since I can b get ~4″x4″ blocks (after planing and cutting) that would be my preference, however I always see end grain with much smaller blocks (like around 1″ square).
Thanks
My question is: If I use larger elements, is it going to cause internal stress, cracking or something? Or are the smaller typical element sizes just based on the typical board thickness availability?
Replies
Nobody?
Typical end grain glue ups hold to quarter or near quartersawn stock to minimize "random" wood movement. Most 4x4 posts are the very center of a tree and incorporate the pith (center) of a log, leading to radial expansion and contraction with moisture changes. If your "gradeA" 4x4s are straight grain on the ends it might be possible. If there are pronounced crescents in the end grain it will probably blow itself apart. Running the grain all in the same direction will give you the best odds of success. Hope this helps.
You want to take your 4x4” and turn it into a 2” thickness. That might leave enough to cut your board on a diagonal to leave it quartersawn, much like might be done to leave straight-grained legs on a table.
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