How to Repair a Crack in a Bamboo Cutting Board

Bamboo is a popular material for cutting boards.

Bamboo utensils, cutting boards and dishes are popular because of the bamboo plant's ability to quickly regenerate after cutting, and the low impact production of bamboo items has on the environment. The increased demand for bamboo cutting boards, however, has resulted in less than perfect craftsmanship, according to Fort Collins-based woodworker, Loren Jones. According to Jones, Bamboo cutting boards are likely to crack along the glue lines. To repair cracks, fill them with epoxy and sand the fill lines smooth.

Things You'll Need

• 5-minute polyurethane epoxy
• Scrap wood or cardboard
• 220-grit sandpaper

Instructions

1. Mix some 5-minute epoxy. Look for a polyurethane-based epoxy, which is waterproof, otherwise your crack will reappear after repeated washings. 5-minute epoxy comes with two separate ingredients that must be mixed together. Find a piece of scrap wood or cardboard and use it as a mixing palette.

2. Dribble the epoxy into the crack using any thin piece of wood or other tool you have on hand that you don't mind covering with epoxy.

3. Allow the epoxy to dry. Use the palette as your guide. Once epoxy on the palette is dry, the epoxy in the cutting board is also dry.

4. Sand the epoxy line flush with 220-grit sandpaper.

Tips & Warnings

• It's best to wash cutting boards immediately after use with soap and hot water. Dry cutting boards with a dish towel immediately after washing.

References

• Interview with Loren Jones on November 26, 2010