FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions ✦ Boards, Suz’ns & More
Have a question about my handmade cutting boards, Suz’ns™, custom engraving, care instructions, or order times? You’re probably not the only one! Here are answers to some of the questions I receive most often.
Are Handy Dandy Brandy cutting boards safe to use?
Yes! My cutting and charcuterie boards are fully functional and made to be used for chopping, serving, and building a really cute snack spread.
I use quality hardwoods, non-toxic wood glue, and natural food-safe finishes. Each board is carefully sanded and finished before it heads your way.
Can I actually cut on the decorative side?
Yes, you can actually cut on it! The wood colors, shapes, and decorative details do not stop the board from being functional.
Cutting will naturally leave marks over time, so I personally like to keep one side prettier for serving and display while using the other side for everyday chopping. For example, some boards have he laser engraving on one side, I'd reccomend cutting on the side without it, so it doesn't wear away over time. I'd also recommend not cutting on the mustard/ epoxy side of the hod dog. Scratches can be much deeper in plastics.
Can I use both sides of my cutting board?
Most Handy Dandy Brandy cutting boards are double-sided with the design and can be used on either side for cutting, serving, or charcuterie.
If a board has decorative laser engraving that establishes a front, my logo will be engraved on the back. If the board does not have decorative engraving, the Handy Dandy Brandy logo may be engraved on one side.
Check the individual product description for details about a specific design.
What is a Suz’n™?
A Suz’n™ is my version of a wooden Lazy Susan, but with a lot more personality. Each one is an original Handy Dandy Brandy design attached to a rotating base so it can spin a full 360 degrees.
I call them Suz’ns™ because “Lazy Susan” is outdated and kinda problematic. Cue that Larry David episode.
What can I use a Suz’n™ for?
A Suz’n™ can be used as a rotating serving board, charcuterie centerpiece, table organizer, or functional piece of home decor.
Use one for:
✦ Condiments on the dining table
✦ Oils and spices on the kitchen counter
✦ Snacks, appetizers, and dips
✦ Charcuterie spreads
✦ Bottles and bar supplies
✦ Plants, candles, and decorative objects
✦ Anything that would be improved by spinning
I have a Lazy Susan on nearly every table and counter in my house. They add height and dimension while making everything easier to reach.
Can I cut directly on a Suz’n™?
Suz’ns™ are primarily designed as rotating serving boards and decorative table pieces, not as cutting boards.
They may technically have a food-safe wooden surface, but cutting directly on one can leave knife marks and may put unnecessary pressure on the rotating hardware. I recommend using it for serving and display and choosing one of my cutting boards for chopping.
Where are your products made?
Handy Dandy Brandy products are designed and handmade by me, Brandy Wayne, in Long Beach, California.
I create each original design myself and work from my Long Beach woodshop. Because wood is a natural material and each piece is made individually, no two will ever look exactly alike.
Are all of your products handmade?
My products are designed and made by me in my Long Beach workshop using a combination of traditional woodworking tools, power tools, CNC technology, laser engraving, sanding, shaping, assembling, and hand finishing.
I use technology where it helps me bring my original designs to life, but every finished piece still passes through my hands many, many times before it reaches yours.
What types of wood do you use?
I use a variety of solid domestic and exotic hardwoods depending on the design. Common choices include maple, walnut, cherry, birch, purpleheart, yellowheart, and padauk.
I love using the natural colors, grain, and movement of different wood species as part of the artwork. Many of the colors you see in my boards come directly from the wood itself, without paint or stain.
The exact materials used for each piece are listed in its product description.
Will my piece look exactly like the photos?
Your piece will have the same overall design, shape, and materials shown in the listing, but the wood grain and natural coloring will be uniquely yours.
Wood is a natural material, so variations in grain, knots, streaks, color, and contrast are completely normal. These differences are part of what makes each piece one of a kind.
Can I personalize a cutting board?
Many of my cutting boards and Suz’ns™ can be personalized with custom laser engraving.
Depending on the design, you can add:
✦ A name or special date
✦ An inside joke
✦ Signatures
✦ A meaningful message
✦ A company logo
✦ Your own custom idea
Engraving placement depends on the product. Cutting boards are typically engraved on one side, while custom engraving on a Suz’n™ is usually placed on the base unless otherwise noted.
If you have a very specific idea or are unsure whether it will work, reach out before ordering!
Do you make completely custom cutting boards?
I offer personalization on many existing Handy Dandy Brandy designs, but availability for completely custom shapes and original designs I do not offer.
Custom design work requires additional planning, drawing, programming, testing, materials, and production time. Check out my list of makers ready for your custom requests! You can find it under Links & Recources
How long will my order take?
Most Handy Dandy Brandy products are made to order and require approximately 2 to 3 weeks for me to create before shipping.
If an item is already in stock, I’ll ship it sooner. Shipping time is separate from the production time and may vary depending on your location.
If you need something by a particular date, please contact me before ordering. I can let you know whether your deadline is possible, but rush availability is not guaranteed.
How do I clean a wooden cutting board?
Hand wash your cutting board with mild soap and lukewarm water, then allow it to dry completely.
Do not put it in the dishwasher, submerge it in water, or leave it soaking in the sink. Water and wood do not mesh! Store the board on its side or in a position that allows air to circulate around it while drying.
How often should I oil my cutting board?
Re-oil your cutting board whenever the wood starts to look dry, dull, or lighter than usual.
My favorite little test is to place a few drops of water on the surface. If the water beads up, the finish is still doing its job. If it immediately soaks into the wood, your board is probably ready for more oil.
I recommend Walrus Oil Cutting Board Oil followed by Walrus Oil Wood Wax for additional moisture resistance and shine. Both are available in my shop or directly from Walrus Oil.
How do I care for a Suz’n™?
Clean your Suz’n™ with mild soap and a damp cloth when needed, then dry it promptly. Avoid soaking it, putting it in the dishwasher, or allowing water to reach the rotating hardware.
Do not leave wet glasses, damp items, or standing water on the surface for extended periods, as moisture can cause water rings or affect the wood.
To refresh the finish and add shine, I recommend Walrus Oil Furniture Polish. It is available in my shop or directly from Walrus Oil.
Can I put my board or Suz’n™ in the dishwasher?
No. Please do not put any wooden cutting board or Suz’n™ in the dishwasher.
The prolonged heat, steam, and water exposure can cause wood to warp, crack, split, or separate. A quick hand wash is always the safest choice.
Do you offer wholesale or bulk orders?
I am currently accepting bulk orders or 8 or more boards. Check out my link in my home age for more info on that!
Wholesale is a bit trickier for me. It's really hard for me to produce and also offer wholesale pricing to make it worthwhile for both of us. So it really depends on the circumstances!
Do you ship internationally?
International shipping availability and cost depend on the product, package size, destination, and current shipping restrictions.
International customers may also be responsible for customs fees, duties, taxes, or import charges collected by their country. Contact me with your location and the product you’re interested in if you need help determining whether it can be shipped to you.
Still have a question?
Reach out through my contact page and I’ll be happy to help! If your question is about a particular item, include the product name or link so I know exactly which delightfully unserious piece of wood we’re talking about. 🪵✨