Question 1

What timber do you use for your boards?

Accepted Answer

We mainly us Camphor Laurel timber

Question 2

What is the best timber to use?

Accepted Answer

We prefer Camphor Laurel because it is high in natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.

Question 3

Is Camphor Laurel a hardwood?

Accepted Answer

Yes it is classed as a hardwood, it is a medium density timber so it is kind on your knives. Chefs and Butchers love it.

Question 4

Is Camphor Laurel an Australian species?

Accepted Answer

Camphor was introduced into Australia in the early 1800's as a Landscape specimen for street scaping and Botanical Gardens.

Question 5

Why does Camphor Laurel timber vary so much in grain and colour?

Accepted Answer

It is such a unique timber and can look quite different, no two pieces are alike.
The grain colour depends a lot on what part of the tree the timber comes from and also from where it is grown.  We noticed the timber from rich volcanic soil is a lot darker.

Question 6

Why does my board look different to the photo shown?

Accepted Answer

Your board will be handcrafted especially for you, as the timber varies so much in grain and colour, it is completely unique.  We try our best to provide as close as possible to what is shown and we find most customers are pleasantly surprised and love their unique custom board.

Question 7

Do you mill your own timber?

Accepted Answer

No, we support a family owned timber mill, by purchasing camphor laurel slabs which have been solar kiln dried.  Other species we source from up and down the Queensland coast.  A lot comes from the Atherton tablelands.

Question 8

How long will my timber board last?

Accepted Answer

If you care for it correctly it should last a lifetime.

Question 9

How do I care for my timber board?

Accepted Answer

Wipe it over after use, don't wet it unnecessarily.  Allow it to dry quickly and thoroughly, not stored while it is damp. Oil or condition your board as needed. We recommend Board Butter or any good quality edible oil. Grapeseed is a good oil for your board.  Never put it in the dishwasher – you don't need to. We include a care card with each board purchased.

Question 10

What is Board Butter?

Accepted Answer

Board Butter is our own blend of Pure Beeswax (sourced from local bee keepers) and grapeseed oil.

Question 11

How do I apply Board Butter?

Accepted Answer

Use a clean soft cloth, apply liberally to every surface of the board.  Allow the timber to absorb what it needs.  Leave overnight if you can and buff off any excess.  You can also use your hand to apply as it's also good for dry skin.

Question 12

How do I know when my board needs oiling/conditioning?

Accepted Answer

This would be our most asked question.  If it feels dry, it needs oiling.  If it looks dry, it needs oiling. If you think it needs oiling, it needs oiling. If you haven't oiled it in the last few months, it needs oiling.

Question 13

Which is the best chopping board to use – timber or plastic?

Accepted Answer

Timber it's simple. See our Get On Board Story, where we show results of university tests comparing Camphor, Cedar, Glass and Plastic boards.  Camphor wins hands down.

Question 14

My board has cut marks , what can I do about it?

Accepted Answer

Yes your board will get cut marks particularly if used for chopping. That is the purpose of the board, it shows it has been used and loved.  It also adds character and a rustic look. If however you would like to remove them, use a fine sandpaper, sanding up and down with the grain before applying  Board Butter.

Question 15

Are your boards for chopping or serving?

Accepted Answer

Most of our boards can be used for both, chop on one side and serve on the other. Two boards in one.

Question 16

Do you make custom orders?

Accepted Answer

We certainly do.If you can't find what you are looking for on the website, contact us. We can also arrange for custom laser engraving

BOARDS, BEARDS & BEES

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS