Uncommon James Cutting Board Review – Style Meets Function

Last Updated on July 27, 2025 by Susanna Zuyeva

The Complete Guide to Uncommon James Cutting Boards

Looking for a cutting board that works well and looks great? Uncommon James offers wooden cutting boards that double as perfect decor pieces for your counter, designed by Kristin Cavallari as part of her home collection. These boards blend style with function in ways most kitchen tools don’t.

Founded by Kristin Cavallari in 2017, Uncommon James started with a simple mission to create affordable products that elevate personal style. This same vision extends to their home collection, including their popular cutting boards.

What Makes Uncommon James Cutting Boards Special?

Premium Materials and Craftsmanship

The mango wood cutting board from Uncommon James becomes your most-used kitchen piece while doubling as the perfect decor element for your counter. The brand also offers acacia wood options, known for their durability and beautiful grain patterns.

The wood selection matters. Mango wood is:

  • Naturally antibacterial
  • Dense and durable
  • Beautiful golden tones
  • Eco-friendly choice

Acacia wood brings:

  • Harder surface than many woods
  • Water-resistant properties
  • Rich, varied grain patterns
  • Long-lasting performance

Design Philosophy

The Uncommon James Home collection mixes raw and rustic materials like rose gold and copper with mango wood to create beautiful handcrafted pieces in the brand’s signature colors. This design approach makes each cutting board a statement piece.

The boards work as functional art. When not in use, you can sit them up against your counter and place your favorite cookbooks in front for a textured look.

Product Specifications and Features

Mango Wood Cutting Board

The flagship mango wood board offers:

  • Premium mango wood construction
  • Natural grain patterns
  • Smooth, finished surface
  • Multiple size options
  • Decorative and functional design

Acacia Wood Charcuterie Board

The 15″ x 9″ acacia wood board features tabletop design, easy cleaning, and built-in handles. This board excels for:

  • Cheese and charcuterie presentations
  • Food prep tasks
  • Entertaining guests
  • Counter display

Key features include:

  • 15-inch length for ample space
  • 9-inch width fits most counters
  • Built-in handles for easy transport
  • Easy-clean surface
  • Modern rectangular shape

Performance Analysis

Cutting Performance

These boards perform well for daily kitchen tasks. The wood density provides:

  • Stable cutting surface
  • Knife-friendly material
  • Good grip during use
  • Minimal sliding or movement

Durability Assessment

Quality construction means these boards last. Users can expect:

  • Years of regular use
  • Resistance to warping
  • Minimal wear with proper care
  • Maintained appearance over time

Maintenance Requirements

Caring for your Uncommon James cutting board is straightforward:

Daily Care:

  • Wash with warm, soapy water
  • Dry immediately after washing
  • Never soak in water
  • Avoid dishwasher use

Monthly Maintenance:

  • Apply food-safe mineral oil
  • Sand lightly if needed
  • Deep clean with salt scrub
  • Check for any damage

Pricing and Value

Uncommon James cutting boards fall in the premium category. The brand’s product collection ranges from $38-78, positioning these boards as investment pieces rather than budget options.

Value factors include:

  • Dual-purpose design (functional and decorative)
  • Premium materials
  • Brand reputation
  • Long-term durability

Where to Buy

You can purchase Uncommon James cutting boards from:

  • Official Uncommon James website
  • Nashville, Chicago, Dallas and Charleston stores
  • Nordstrom (select items)
  • Secondary markets like eBay

Pros and Cons

Advantages

  • Beautiful aesthetic appeal
  • High-quality wood construction
  • Dual-purpose functionality
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Celebrity designer brand
  • Instagram-worthy appearance

Drawbacks

  • Higher price point
  • Limited size options
  • May require regular oiling
  • Wood can show knife marks over time
  • Not dishwasher safe

Customer Experience

Real users appreciate several aspects:

Positive Feedback:

  • Gorgeous appearance
  • Solid construction quality
  • Perfect for entertaining
  • Easy to maintain
  • Versatile use

Common Concerns:

  • Price compared to basic boards
  • Size limitations for large families
  • Need for regular maintenance

Who Should Buy This Cutting Board?

Perfect for:

  • Home entertainers who value style
  • Cooking enthusiasts seeking quality
  • Fans of Kristin Cavallari’s brand
  • Those wanting decorative kitchen pieces
  • Gift-givers seeking premium items

Consider alternatives if:

  • Budget is primary concern
  • You need very large cutting surfaces
  • Minimal maintenance is essential
  • You prefer synthetic materials

Care Tips for Maximum Longevity

Daily Habits

Keep your board in top shape with these practices:

  • Clean immediately after use
  • Dry thoroughly before storing
  • Store in upright position when possible
  • Rotate use if you have multiple boards

Long-term Maintenance

  • Oil monthly with food-safe mineral oil
  • Sand lightly with fine grit if rough spots develop
  • Store in dry environment
  • Avoid extreme temperature changes

Comparison with Competitors

Vs. Basic Wooden Boards

  • Higher quality materials
  • Better design aesthetic
  • Premium brand reputation
  • Higher price point

Vs. Other Premium Brands

  • Competitive quality
  • Strong design focus
  • Celebrity brand appeal
  • Similar price range

Alternatives to Consider

If Uncommon James isn’t right for you, consider:

  • John Boos cutting boards for pure functionality
  • Ironwood Gourmet for similar aesthetics
  • Epicurean for eco-friendly options
  • Local artisan boards for unique pieces

Final Verdict

Uncommon James cutting boards deliver on both style and function. These kitchen essentials designed by Kristin Cavallari help make your house a home. While the price point is higher than basic options, you get premium materials, thoughtful design, and a piece that works as kitchen art.

The investment makes sense for those who value aesthetics alongside functionality. These boards excel in homes where the kitchen serves as both workspace and gathering place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What wood types does Uncommon James use for cutting boards?

Uncommon James uses premium mango wood and acacia wood for their cutting boards. Both materials offer durability, natural antibacterial properties, and beautiful grain patterns.

How do I clean my Uncommon James cutting board?

Clean with warm, soapy water and dry immediately. Never soak the board or put it in the dishwasher. For deep cleaning, use a salt scrub with lemon juice.

Can I use the cutting board as a serving tray?

Yes! The boards are designed for dual purposes. They work perfectly as charcuterie boards, serving trays, or decorative counter pieces when not being used for food prep.

How often should I oil my wooden cutting board?

Oil your board monthly with food-safe mineral oil. If the wood looks dry or water doesn’t bead on the surface, it’s time for oiling.

What sizes are available for Uncommon James cutting boards?

The acacia wood charcuterie board measures 15″ x 9″. The mango wood boards come in multiple sizes, though specific dimensions vary by product line.

Where can I buy Uncommon James cutting boards?

Purchase directly from the Uncommon James website, their physical stores in Nashville, Chicago, Dallas, and Charleston, select Nordstrom locations, or authorized retailers.

Are Uncommon James cutting boards worth the price?

If you value design aesthetics, premium materials, and dual-purpose functionality, yes. They cost more than basic boards but offer superior materials, craftsmanship, and style appeal.

How long do these cutting boards typically last?

With proper care, these boards can last many years. The high-quality wood construction and proper maintenance ensure longevity comparable to other premium wooden cutting boards.

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