About this Product
Call it what you want - dough scraper, bench knife, bowl scraper, bench chopper... whatever it goes by, it will be your #1 pastry, sourdough and breadmaking tool. Finished with pure tung oil and citrus, followed by a coat of beeswax and mineral oil.
I make two sizes:
6" wide x 4" tall (original)
5" wide by 3.5" tall (for small hands and bowls)
Flotsam
Meet the Maker
Flotsam was born from a desire to create something from furniture found on the streets of Boston, destined for the landfill. The wood I use in all my projects is "sourced" from the sidewalk, construction/demolition leftovers, woodworking shop scraps, and friendly neighbors. Handling scrap wood brings a host of new problems to solve, which adds a fun, creative energy to the artistic process of woodworking. In the shop, I use a mix of traditional and modern woodworking methods, taking pride in hand-cut dovetails while still appreciating the utility of modern tools. Most of what I know about woodworkig comes from my father in Virginia, who continues to teach me the value of hand tools, precision and and a well-sharpened blade. I work out of a shared shop in Boston, MA.
How it’s Made
SOURCING & PRODUCTION PROCESS
I take pride in producing beautiful, well crafted items from salvaged wood. Much of my wood comes from other woodworking shops - scraps from large projects that would otherwise be discarded. I also use construction and demolition scraps, broken furniture and anything else made of good, solid hardwood that needs a second chance at life. After I source the wood, I must deconstruct it and/or bring each piece down to a manageable size, then I cut and shape each piece individually. The production process is a dance between the planer, table saw, bandsaw and an array of different sanding tools.
THE FINISHING PROCESS
My final step on all utensils is a multi-day process of sanding, raising the grain, and applying food-safe oils and waxes for a smooth and long-lasting finish. I start with tung oil and citrus, which creates a durable, all-natural and food-safe coating, then I let it dry for at least a week. Before delivery, I finely sand the hardened finish and add a coat of beeswax and mineral oil for an extra layer of protection and a lovely smooth sheen.
Notes on Tung oil: Although Tung oil is pressed from the seed of the Tung tree, it is not known to be associated with common nut allergies. Unlike most other natural oils, it becomes a hard film and will not go rancid over time. However, it takes weeks to completely harden, depending on the temperature and humidity. Because of this, you may notice a lingering musty smell when you first take it out of the package. Don't worry, after a gentle wash and a few uses the smell should totally go away. If you prefer to skip the Tung Oil and opt for a simple beeswax and mineral oil finish, please message me and ask (this is a less durable option, but more commonly used because it is less expensive and generally simpler).
Shop Policies
I accept returns and exchanges within 30 days of purchase. Please let me know if you have any issues with my products!
