Shou Sugi Ban is a centuries-old Japanese charring technique that transforms the wood's surface through controlled fire. This process creates a natural carbon layer that repels water and bacteria, enhances durability, and brings out dramatic grain textures.

Unlike regular wooden boards that absorb moisture and show every knife mark, our charred boards actively resist moisture penetration and develop character beautifully over time.

Each board features unique textures and patterns that can't be replicated, making yours truly one-of-a-kind.

Absolutely. All ARTSN boards are specifically crafted for food preparation using natural, non-toxic materials. We use premium teak wood, naturally rich in oils and antimicrobial properties, and finish each board with food-safe oil, and our own hardwax.

The charring process itself creates a protective carbon layer that seals the wood against bacteria and food-borne contaminants, making it safer than many untreated wooden boards.

Daily cleaning: Hand wash with warm water and mild soap immediately after use. Wipe dry with a cloth right away, never leave it to air dry or soak in water.

Avoid: Dishwashers, prolonged soaking, or abrasive cleaners that can damage the charred surface.

Maintenance: Apply food-safe mineral oil or board conditioner once a month (or when the wood looks dry) to keep your board hydrated and enhance its natural beauty. The oil helps maintain the water-repelling properties and deepens the rich charred finish.

Learn more here.

Yes! The charred finish actually seals the wood surface, making it more resistant to bacteria and contamination than untreated wood.

However, we always recommend following food safety best practices: clean thoroughly with warm soapy water immediately after use, sanitize as needed (a diluted vinegar solution works well), and consider designating separate boards for raw proteins and produce if you prefer to avoid any cross-contamination concerns.

Some knife marks are natural with regular use and actually add to your board's unique character, telling the story of countless meals prepared.

The good news: ARTSN boards are crafted from high-quality, dense teak wood that's naturally resistant to deep cuts. The pronounced grain texture from the charring process also helps camouflage minor marks.

To minimize visible knife marks, use sharp knives (dull blades require more pressure and cause more damage) and maintain your board regularly with oil.

Teak is one of the finest woods for cutting boards due to its natural properties:

• High in natural oils: Provides inherent water resistance
• Dense and durable: Resists warping, cracking, and deep knife marks
• Naturally antimicrobial: Contains silica that inhibits bacterial growth
• Beautiful grain: Creates stunning patterns when charred
• Long-lasting: Known for exceptional longevity even with daily use

Combined with Shou Sugi Ban, teak becomes even more resilient, creating a board that's built to last generations.

Store your board upright or flat in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid:

• Storing near heat sources (ovens, dishwashers, radiators)
• Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight
• Trapping moisture underneath (use feet or store vertically)
• Stacking heavy items on top

Proper storage allows air circulation around all surfaces, preventing moisture buildup and ensuring your board stays in optimal condition.

With proper care, your ARTSN board should remain flat and crack-free for years. However, if warping or cracking occurs:

• Minor warping: Often caused by uneven moisture exposure (washing one side more than the other, or storing in a way that exposes one side to more humidity). You can continue using a board with minor warping by placing a damp tea towel underneath it while cutting, this creates a non-slip surface and provides support to stabilize the board on your bench.
• Cracks or splits: Usually result from dramatic moisture changes or prolonged neglect. Small surface cracks may stabilize with regular oiling.
• Significant damage: Contact our support team at hello@artsn.com.

Prevention is key: always oil both sides of your board, never soak it, and dry immediately after washing.

No. Our boards are finished with a clean, high-heat char and sealed with food-safe oil and wax. This stabilizes the carbon surface so it won't rub off during normal handling or transfer to your food, hands, or kitchen towels.

What you might notice when it's brand new:

• A light dusting of carbon residue may be present from storage, shipping and handling
• Simply wash your board with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly before first use
• Any initial surface carbon will rinses away easily, revealing the sealed charred finish underneath

Understanding the charred surface:
Like any cutting board, knife marks will create micro-abrasions, but what comes away is tiny amounts of inert carbon (similar to food-grade charcoal used in wellness products). It's completely safe to consume in trace amounts, and far safer than the microplastics shed from plastic cutting boards.

During regular use:

• The carbon layer is integrated into the wood structure itself, not a coating that rubs off
• With proper maintenance (regular oiling), the surface remains sealed and stable
• If you ever notice slight carbon dust, it simply means your board needs oiling—the natural oils keep the charred surface sealed
• Over time, your board will develop natural wear and character from use, just like any quality wooden board

The bottom line: The Shou Sugi Ban process creates a hardened carbon layer that's remarkably stable when properly finished and maintained. Think of it like seasoned cast iron, the carbon becomes part of the surface, creating a functional, food-safe finish.

We ship our boards worldwide, bringing Japanese-inspired craftsmanship to kitchens across the globe. Shipping details and timeframes vary by location.

For specific information about:

• International shipping rates and delivery times
• Return and exchange policies
• Warranty coverage
• Custom orders or bulk purchases

Please contact us directly at hello@artsn.com or visit our Contact page.

Our team is happy to answer any questions about getting an ARTSN board to your kitchen.