Q: Can I purchase one of these boards?
A: The boards you see on these pages are all one-of-a-kind custom pieces. I do not mass produce boards and I work with only a limited inventory of finished boards. I can create a board very similar to one of these, with the understanding that all woods have variances in color and grain patterns. You are not limited to the sizes shown on these pages; I can make a board in any size you would like.
Q: There are no prices shown. How much do your boards cost?
A: The prices vary based on the type of board (end grain, edge grain, charcuterie, etc), the size of the board and the cost of the wood used. Exotic woods will often cost 3-4 times more than common domestic woods. Some of the boards on these pages have a little exotic wood (padauk, wenge) for interest and highlights, but most are made with domestic woods (maple, cherry, walnut, hickory, ash, mahogany). Edge grain boards start at $100, charcuterie boards at $150 and end grain boards at $300.
Q: I'm interested in buying a board. What's the first step?
A: Just send me an email - no obligation, of course! Give me some idea of what you're interested in and the size you have in mind. If you don't understand the difference between end grain and edge grain and why there's a big cost difference, check out the "End Grain v. Edge Grain" link above. Both types can be beautiful to use or display, but there are significant differences.
Q: How would I pay for a board?
A: Because these are custom pieces, I require a 50% deposit in advance. I accept cash, checks and Venmo. If you are not 100% satisfied I will return your deposit in full. To date, I have never had a customer return a board. I do no advertising; my business has grown from the referrals of satisfied customers.
Q: Are there taxes and fees?
A: Yes, I collect VA sales tax on all purchases. If you live in or near the Fredericksburg VA area, you can arrange to pick up your board in person. Otherwise, I will use UPS, FedEx or US Mail to ship your board. Depending on size and weight, the typical cost to ship is about $20-30. Your board will be well packaged and shipped in a box.
Q: How long does it take to make a board?
A: You should allow 30 days. If the design is especially complex, it may take longer. Once you have decided on a specific design, I can provide a better estimate of the time required.
Q: Are your boards available in any stores?
A: Yes. You can find my boards for sale at Fraser Wood Elements, 1023 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA (www.fraserwoodelements.com). Dave Fraser is an amazing craftsman and I encourage you to visit his website and his store. You cannot buy my boards on-line from his website because they are not "stock items." However, I try to maintain a small inventory of 8-10 boards on display and available for purchase at the store.