Groot Cutting Board

In a sun-drenched garage turned workshop, a man named Craig Bleck spent his afternoons doing what he loved most—turning scraps of forgotten wood into little works of art. Craig had always said, “Every piece of wood’s got a story. I just help it remember.”

One day, while sorting through his offcuts bin, he found a long, narrow strip of walnut that had the strangest little knot near the top. It looked... oddly like a face. He squinted. Two eyes. A crooked smile. Wait a second.

“Groot?” he whispered, chuckling to himself.

Inspired, Craig grabbed a few more strips—some ash, a little cherry—and carefully laminated them together into a beautiful, whimsical cutting board. The walnut knot became the head, with etched lines resembling bark running down the board like vines. He hand-burned tiny details into the surface—leafy accents and wide, gentle eyes—and added the phrase “I am Groot” in playful script near the bottom.

But here’s the best part: the board wasn’t just for show. It was strong, durable, and perfect for slicing apples, arranging charcuterie, or presenting a heroic stack of pancakes.

Craig posted a photo of it online with a grin: “Groot strip. May not save the galaxy, but it’ll carry your cheese.”

To his surprise, the internet loved it. Soon people were messaging him, asking if he’d make more. Craig politely declined most of the requests.

“I only make a Groot when the wood tells me to,” he’d say with a wink. After all, each board was a one-of-a-kind guardian—with a big heart and a whole lot of character.

(Made by Craig Bleck for In The Kitchen Contest)