A chopping board is one of the most used tools in any kitchen, yet often the most overlooked when it comes to functionality and fit. At Wyndham Woodworks, every hardwood board is thoughtfully designed to suit a variety of kitchen layouts, cooking styles, and presentation needs.
This guide will help you determine the ideal size and shape of chopping board for your kitchen, ensuring it not only complements your space but also enhances your daily cooking experience.
Why Size and Shape Matter
The wrong board can disrupt workflow, take up unnecessary space, or wear out too quickly. Conversely, the right board adds rhythm to your meal prep, provides safe cutting space, and doubles as a showpiece for presentation.
Factors to consider:
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Kitchen size and bench space
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Storage and cleaning convenience
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Food prep volume
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Serving and presentation versatility
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Sink compatibility for rinsing and washing
Chopping Board Sizes Explained
Small Boards (25–30 cm)
Ideal for:
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Quick jobs like slicing fruit or herbs
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Apartments or compact kitchens
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Individual servings or bar boards
Advantages:
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Easy to rinse and store
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Lightweight and portable
Best kept as a second or travel board, or for low-prep days.
Medium Boards (35–45 cm)
Ideal for:
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Daily home cooking and meal prep
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Families or couples
Advantages:
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Balance between cutting area and bench space
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Versatile for most chopping, dicing, and slicing
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Comfortable fit for most standard sinks
This is the go-to size for most households.
Large Boards (50 cm and above)
Ideal for:
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Serious home chefs and entertainers
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High-volume prep and meat carving
Advantages:
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Ample space for separating ingredients
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Perfect for serving large charcuterie or bread spreads
Consider weight and sink size—larger boards require more care in handling.
Board Shapes and Their Benefits
Rectangular Boards
Classic and functional, rectangular boards offer the most efficient use of surface area.
Best for:
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Full meal prep
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Chopping lines of vegetables or bread
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Carving meats
This shape fits well along kitchen benches and against backsplash areas.
Round Boards
Elegant and symmetrical, round boards serve beautifully.
Best for:
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Serving cheese, fruit, or hors d’oeuvres
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Minimalist or styled kitchens
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Doubling as centrepieces
Less surface efficiency for prep, but unbeatable for presentation.
Paddle or Handle Boards
Combining form and function, these boards feature a handle for easy grip and hanging.
Best for:
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Grazing platters or antipasti
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Wall or open-shelf storage
Available in small to large formats, they bring rustic charm to any space.
Matching the Board to Your Cooking Style
Ask yourself:
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Do I cook meals from scratch daily?
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Do I entertain often or serve guests with presentation in mind?
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Do I need multiple boards to separate meat, produce, and bread?
If you answered yes to several of these, a mix of sizes and shapes may be ideal. A medium rectangular board for prep, and a small round or paddle board for serving offers the perfect pairing.
Practical Storage Tips
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Wall-mounted hooks or rails for paddle boards
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Vertical racks to store multiple boards without warping
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Dry completely before storage to avoid moisture damage
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Rotate use if you own more than one, to extend lifespan
Final Thoughts
Your chopping board should be more than a surface—it should be a seamless part of your kitchen routine. By choosing the right size and shape, you’re investing in efficiency, safety, and visual appeal.
At Wyndham Woodworks, we offer handcrafted Australian hardwood boards in a range of proportions to suit every kitchen. Designed for durability, sustainability, and timeless beauty, they elevate both the functional and the refined moments in your cooking journey.
Choose smart. Choose well. Choose handcrafted.