Frequently Asked Questions
Ordering & Products
Why are Hardwood Elevated pieces more expensive than similar products online?
Every piece is handcrafted by me in my workshop in New Market, Alabama. I carefully select the hardwood, build each piece by hand, sand it smooth, apply a food-safe finish, inspect it, and pack it myself before it ships.
Unlike mass-produced products, no shortcuts are taken, and no two pieces are exactly alike. You're investing in real craftsmanship built to be used and enjoyed for years to come.
Why isn't every piece identical?
Because real hardwood isn't identical.
Every board has its own grain pattern, color variation, knots, and natural character. Those differences are part of what makes handmade hardwood products special.
The piece you receive will always match the style and craftsmanship shown, but the natural beauty of the wood ensures your piece is uniquely yours.
Can I choose the wood species?
For many products, yes.
If multiple wood species are available, you'll be able to choose them on the product page. If you have a specific request that isn't listed, feel free to contact me before ordering and I'll let you know what's possible.
Can I request a custom piece?
Absolutely.
I enjoy working with customers to create pieces that fit their home and style. If you're interested in a custom size, wood combination, engraving, or completely custom design, reach out through the contact page and we'll discuss your project.
Cutting Boards & Food Safety
Are your cutting boards food safe?
Yes.
Every cutting board is finished with food-safe products specifically designed for direct food contact. Once fully cured, the finish is safe for preparing and serving food.
Is epoxy food safe?
Yes—when fully cured, the epoxy I use is food safe for serving and incidental food contact.
Many of my boards use epoxy as a decorative accent rather than a cutting surface. While occasional knife contact won't damage a properly cured epoxy in normal use, I generally recommend doing most heavy chopping on the wood portions of the board to help preserve the appearance of your piece over time.
How should I care for my cutting board?
Proper care is simple:
- Wash by hand with warm water and mild soap.
- Never place it in the dishwasher.
- Dry it immediately after washing.
- Reapply cutting board oil or conditioner as needed.
- Store it where air can circulate around both sides.
- With proper care, your board can last for many years.
Will my board warp or crack?
Wood naturally expands and contracts with changes in humidity, but proper care greatly reduces the risk.
Avoid soaking your board in water, placing it in the dishwasher, or exposing it to extreme heat or prolonged moisture. Following the recommended care instructions will help your board stay beautiful for years.
Shipping & Orders
How long does it take to receive my order?
Most items are handcrafted to order.
Current lead times are listed on each product page and are typically 3–4 weeks before shipping. If your order will take longer, I'll let you know as soon as possible.
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes.
Shipping is included anywhere within the continental United States.
How will my order arrive?
Every order is carefully inspected before shipping and packaged to help protect it during transit.
My goal is for your piece to arrive looking exactly as it did when it left my workshop.
What if my order arrives damaged?
Although it's rare, shipping damage can happen.
If your order arrives damaged, contact me as soon as possible with photos of the package and product. I'll work with you to make it right.
Returns & Guarantees
What if I'm not happy with my order?
I want you to love your piece.
If something isn't right, please reach out. Customer satisfaction is important to me, and I'll work with you to find the best solution.
Do you guarantee your work?
Absolutely.
Every piece that leaves my workshop is personally inspected before shipping. If there's an issue related to craftsmanship, I'll work with you to make it right.
Hardwood Elevated
Who makes these products?
Hi, I'm Jason.
Every product you see on Hardwood Elevated is designed, built, sanded, finished, inspected, and packed by me in my workshop in New Market, Alabama.
When you order from Hardwood Elevated, you're ordering directly from the person who made your piece.
Why "Unapologetically Handmade"?
Because I believe handmade should look handmade.
Real wood has character. Every grain pattern is different. Every project teaches something. I don't chase factory perfection—I build pieces with intention that are meant to be used, shared, and enjoyed.
That's what Unapologetically Handmade means to me.
Why should I buy from Hardwood Elevated instead of Amazon or a big-box store?
Mass-produced products are designed to be made as quickly and inexpensively as possible. Hardwood Elevated is different.
Every piece is handcrafted by me from real hardwood, finished with food-safe products, and individually inspected before it leaves my shop. When you purchase from Hardwood Elevated, you're supporting a small American business and receiving a piece built with care—not pulled from a warehouse shelf.
My goal isn't to sell the most products. It's to build pieces you'll be proud to use, share, and keep for years to come.