All About The Wood
Why do we use American walnut?
American Black Walnut is widely considered one of the finest hardwoods for cutting and carving boards —it's hard enough to withstand daily use without deep scarring, but gentle enough that it won't dull your knives over time.
Are Vincent boards durable?
The tight grain structure of American walnut means knife marks compress and close rather than splinter, so the surface holds up beautifully with proper care.
Are wooden serving boards more likely to retain bacteria than plastic boards?
While some woods may be more susceptible to bacteria, American walnut contains juglone, a naturally occurring compound with documented antimicrobial properties— making it more hygienic than plastic alternatives, not less.
Why does the color vary from board to board?
The color of American walnut is determined by the soil in which the tree grows. Clay-based soil produces a deeper, richer, darker tone — closer to chocolate or espresso. Sandier soil yields a lighter brown. We specifically source from clay-based regions to ensure the depth of color Vincent boards are known for. That said, no two trees are identical, and no two boards will look exactly alike.
What is end grain, and why does it matter?
End grain means the board is constructed so the cut ends of the wood fibers face upward, as opposed to edge grain, where the long sides of the fibers face up. End grain is the superior choice for cutting and carving boards. It's gentler on knife edges, more resistant to warping, and more durable over time.
Is the wood sustainably sourced?
American walnut is a commercially grown hardwood, not a rare or endangered wood. Young trees grow quickly, and the species is easily regrown, making it a renewable and responsible material choice.
How It's Made
Where are Vincent boards made?
Every Vincent board is cut, sanded, and oiled in the United States. The boards are made by a small team of craftsmen — the same team, the same shop, every board.
How long does it take to make a board?
On average, from raw wood to finished board, the process takes approximately 10 days.
How is the finish applied?
Each board is hand-dipped twice in organic, food-grade mineral oil, with a full day of drying between coats. This process conditions the wood from within, protecting it without altering it.
Are the boards made to order?
Vincent maintains inventory, so most orders ship without delay. Handles are fitted and attached by hand at the time of fulfillment, based on your finish selection — silver, gold, or solid brass.
Care + Maintenance
How do I care for my Vincent board?
After each use, wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Never soak the board in water or put it in the dishwasher. Store upright or flat in a dry, ventilated area.
How often should I condition the board?
For regular use, we recommend conditioning once a month. If the board is primarily displayed or used occasionally, every other month is fine. Apply the included wood balm or food-grade mineral oil generously to all surfaces — including the edges — and allow it to absorb for at least 30 minutes before buffing clean.
What’s in the wood balm?
The Vincent wood balm is made from a proprietary blend of organic waxes and oils — food-safe throughout. In addition to conditioning and protecting the wood, it helps repair minor surface marks over time, keeping the board looking its best.
Can I use anything other than the included balm?
Yes. Food-grade mineral oil is a perfectly suitable alternative and is widely available. It absorbs quickly and does an excellent job of enhancing the board's natural color. The balm provides additional conditioning and surface repair — especially useful for boards that see heavy regular use.
Will the board develop marks over time?
With regular use, minor knife marks are normal and expected. With consistent conditioning, the wood's natural properties help these marks compress and soften over time. A well-cared-for Vincent board doesn't just hold up — it improves.
Shipping + Returns
How long does shipping take?
- Ground Shipping (Free): 7–10 business days
- Priority Shipping ($49): 2–3 business days from ship date
- Overnight Shipping ($99): 1 business day from ship date’
Orders placed after 12 PM Central will ship the following business day. Saturday and Sunday are not counted as shipping days. All boards ship within 5 business days of your order.
Do you ship internationally?
We're happy to accommodate international orders. Contact us at info@vincentbrands.com with your shipping address and we'll provide a custom quote and delivery timeline.
What is your return policy?
We do not accept returns on used boards. Unused boards may be returned within 14 days of delivery — customers are responsible for return shipping costs. To initiate a return, contact info@vincentbrands.com with your order number and photos if applicable.