Review on Catskill Craftsmen Utility Paddle Cutting by Amber Westbrooks

So why is this cutting board around $12 when similar sized boards made from the same wood are many times more expensive - right here on Amazon? the paper that wrapped the tablet was oiled, so I can attest that the tablet was oiled, but who knows for how long. When I first took it out of the box I noticed two things (1) the board was whitish - it needed oiling (2) the surface was fairly smooth but rough to the touch - not sanded enough. Don't get me wrong; The surface was flat - no protrusions, no dents - just a bit rough (more so in some spots than others), with tiny bits of wood sticking out when viewed from an angle immediately after the water wash. with a 150 grit and increased to 220, washing and drying between each session to check progress. It took me half of two days off to get the best results but now this board is a pleasure to use. I'm sure a random orbital sander would have produced smoother results, but even with my 1/4" sander and the mouse sander, the results are more than satisfactory. Now she is completely smooth. I personally love the size, shape and weight of this cutting board; I use it for vegetables, it can be used as a sandwich, bread or cheese board and I can take it to a picnic. He hides out of sight in the closet until I need him. The board is well built, strong and healthy looking. It feels strong when you hold it. After use, my knife is still sharp and there are light marks on the wood. I've had it for a month now and it doesn't warp or peel off. Also, the paper that came with my cutting board when I received it in March 2012 said it was made in the USA; which was not in any of the 2011 customer reviews. If you want a smooth cutting board this size right away, or if you don't have a grinder and are uncomfortable using one, then this cutting board is not for you. But if you can borrow from a friend or already have a hand grinder at home, such as Don't mind investing some time and working to level the surface, this inexpensive cutting board is excellent. I'm taking off a star because of the hard work involved.