Frequently asked questions

1. What makes Rimuko cutting boards different?

Rimuko boards combine traditional end-grain construction with precision CNC-made wood inlays and carefully considered proportions. The designs are not printed, painted, engraved or filled with resin—they are made from contrasting pieces of real wood fitted directly into the board. Each piece is built for serious everyday use while remaining refined enough to keep on display.

2. Are the designs engraved or made with real wood inlays?

Every design is made with a genuine wood inlay. A precisely shaped recess is cut into the board and filled with a matching piece of contrasting wood, creating a permanent design that becomes part of the board itself. Nothing is painted, printed or laser-marked onto the cutting surface.

3. What is end-grain construction?

End-grain boards are made with the ends of the wood fibres facing upward. When a knife meets the surface, the fibres tend to separate slightly and close again rather than being cut directly across. This creates a durable working surface that is generally gentler on knife edges and gives each board its characteristic patterned appearance.

4. Are the inlays flush with the cutting surface?

Yes. Each inlay is carefully fitted, levelled and finished together with the surrounding wood to create a smooth, continuous surface. You should not feel a raised edge or recessed outline around the design.

5. Will my board look exactly like the photographs?

No two pieces of natural wood are identical. Grain pattern, colour, contrast and small tonal variations will differ from board to board, making every piece unique. Product photographs represent the overall design, proportions and wood combination, but your board will have its own natural character.

6. Which size should I choose?

For general everyday cooking, choose a size that gives you enough working space while still fitting comfortably on your countertop and near your sink.

A medium board is usually the most versatile choice for everyday preparation. A larger board is better for serious cooking, carving, BBQ preparation or serving at gatherings, while a smaller board is easier to handle and store. Product pages include exact measurements and weight to help you compare.

7. Can I customize a board or upload my own design?

Yes. You can select the board size, wood combination and available features, and you may submit your own logo, artwork, initials or other design for review. Because wood inlay has different requirements from printing or engraving, some artwork may need to be simplified or adjusted before it can be manufactured successfully.

8. Will I receive a proof before a custom board is made?

Yes. We will review your submitted artwork and provide a visual proof before production begins. Manufacturing will only proceed after you approve the design, placement and main proportions.

Minor differences may still occur during production because every design is made from natural wood rather than printed from a digital image.

9. How long does production take?

Production time depends on the product, current workload and level of customization. In-stock pieces may be dispatched sooner, while made-to-order and customized boards require additional time for design preparation, material selection, machining, assembly, finishing and curing.

The estimated production time is shown on the relevant product or customization page. Delivery time begins after the order has been completed and dispatched.

10. How should I clean and maintain the board?

Wash the board by hand using warm water, a soft sponge and a small amount of mild dish soap. Clean both sides when possible, wipe away excess water and allow the board to dry fully with air circulating around it.

Reapply a suitable food-safe board oil whenever the wood begins to look dry, pale or less resistant to moisture. Full care instructions are included with the product and are also available on our Board Care page.

11. Can the board go in a dishwasher?

No. Never place a wooden board in a dishwasher or leave it soaking in water. Prolonged heat and moisture can cause swelling, warping, joint failure or cracking.

The board should always be washed by hand and dried promptly.

12. How often should I oil it?

There is no fixed schedule because frequency depends on use, washing and local humidity. Oil the board whenever the surface begins to look dry, feel rough or absorb water more quickly than usual.

A frequently used board may need treatment every few weeks, while an occasional serving board may require it much less often. Always use an oil specifically suitable for food-contact wooden surfaces.

13. Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship to many international destinations. Available shipping methods, prices and estimated delivery times are calculated during checkout according to the destination and parcel size.

Orders delivered outside the European Union may be subject to local import duties, taxes or customs-processing charges. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, these charges are the responsibility of the recipient.

14. Can customized products be returned?

Because customized products are made specifically for you, they generally cannot be returned or exchanged simply because you change your mind. This includes products featuring personalized text, submitted artwork, logos, non-standard dimensions or specially selected options.

This does not affect your rights if the product arrives damaged, is defective or differs materially from the approved design.

15. What should I do if my order arrives damaged?

Please contact us as soon as possible after delivery. Include your order number, photographs of the product, the outer packaging, the internal packaging and the shipping label.

Keep all packaging materials until the issue has been reviewed, as the carrier may require them during the claim process. We will assess the damage and arrange an appropriate solution, such as repair, replacement or refund, depending on the circumstances.