Creating Unique, Custom Charcuterie Boards

Since my first board was crafted for a local restaurant (it still sits on display behind their bar), custom charcuterie boards have always been one of my favorite creations in the shop. Learn more about the art behind how I, Artisan Meaghan Jackson, make them here at Yankee WoodWorks.  

Hand-made charcuterie boards stand out as great custom gifts due to their unique design. Each board is a work of art, reflecting the Artisan's keen eye for detail and my ability to transform a simple piece of wood into a beautiful, functional item. 

If you have a design vision, I can gladly make it happen! When you choose my local shop, these boards are not mass-produced, but individually crafted, ensuring that each piece has its own character and charm.  

My Design Inspiration 

Yes, I create whatever my clients envision, but ultimately creating these custom wood gifts has always been inspired by my love for food and art. As an Artisan, I love creating charcuterie boards as they truly combine these two passions in a unique and functional way. The idea of creating something that could be both a piece of art and a centerpiece for social gatherings was incredibly appealing.  

Thanks to my Jamaican heritage, I am always inspired by good food, and our local food scene near Charleston, South Carolina is second-to-none. This area emphasizes locally sourced, artisanal foods. The idea of handcrafting charcuterie boards (sourced from local woods) that could showcase these local delicacies seemed like a natural extension. 

Of course, as a woodworker, I always draw inspiration from the materials I work with. The natural beauty of the wood I use in these custom-made boards, each piece with its unique grain and character, consistently sparks my creativity.  I love that Yankee WoodWorks has the potential to transform these raw materials into something beautiful and practical, and this vision continues to drive each work of art made in the shop today. 

My Charcuterie Board Creation Process  

Here's a peek into the process for creating these unique charcuterie boards. It begins with selecting the right piece of wood. I prefer to use locally sourced, sustainable materials, often choosing hardwoods such as walnut, cherry, or maple for their durability and aesthetic appeal. 

Once the wood is selected, I move on to designing the shape of the board. This is where we blend my creativity with your vision, creating a board that truly shines. I may draw inspiration from the natural world around us. But taking your design notes into full consideration, I sketch out the design on the wood, then use a bandsaw to cut the wood into the desired shape. 

After the board is cut, I sand it down to create a smooth surface. When doing so, I pay attention to the edges, rounding them off for a more polished look. This process can be time-consuming, but it's essential to achieving the high-quality finish that my boards are known for! 

Then I add one of my signature touches: a custom engraving. Using a wood-burning tool, I’ll carefully etch the recipient's name, design, or a special message onto the board. This personalized detail is what sets my charcuterie boards apart and makes them such a popular gift item. 

Next, I apply a food-safe finish to the charcuterie board. This enhances the wood grain's natural beauty and protects the board from moisture, making it easier to clean. I typically use a mixture of mineral oil and beeswax, applying several coats and allowing each one to dry before adding the next. 

Throughout the entire process, I always maintain a commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability. As an Artisan, I truly take pride in creating products that are not only beautiful and functional, but also environmentally friendly. This dedication to quality and care is evident in every charcuterie board that leaves the shop (and every smile on the people who get them as a present). 

A Great Gift: Custom Charcuterie Boards 

I'm always happy to create meaningful, personalized gifts at the shop. Even when I gifted my first board to the local restaurant, I saw the joy it brought.  A custom charcuterie board could be one of the most thoughtful and unique presents, one that could be used and appreciated for years to come! 

My custom charcuterie boards are a unique work of art that delivers what you envision. One aspect that makes Yankee WoodWork's charcuterie boards a fantastic gift option is the high-quality materials used. I personally source all the wood locally. I love supporting sustainable practices and ensuring that each board is not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting. The quality of the wood, combined with my artisan craftsmanship, results in a piece that can stand the test of many wine nights & dinner parties in your future!  

If you're looking for a cool custom gift, your friend will appreciate the versatility of these boards (it only adds to their appeal as gifts). I love hearing all the ways people think these will be used once they leave the shop! They can be used for a variety of purposes, from serving cheese and charcuterie to being used as a cutting board or a decorative kitchen item. This versatility makes every custom charcuterie board a suitable gift for a wide range of people, regardless of their specific tastes or needs. 

Finally, the fact that these boards are crafted by a local artisan near Charleston, SC, adds a personal touch that many people appreciate. When you give a charcuterie board made by me, Meaghan Jackson, as a gift, you're not just giving a useful kitchen item; you're also supporting local craftsmanship and giving a piece of Charleston's vibrant art scene. 

Let's create something uniquely beautiful! I offer FREE consultations to chat about the charcuterie board or any other project you may need for your own space. From dining room tables and buffets to custom bookcases for displaying all your favorite pieces (maybe a custom charcuterie board of your own), choose Yankee WoodWorks to craft it all.