

From Stracciatella to Nocciola: When the oil finish completely changes your design plans.
Hey everyone, just wanted to share my latest end-grain board made of maple and walnut.
When it was dry and ready for oiling, the contrast looked exactly like Italian Stracciatella ice cream. That was the initial name I had in mind. But as you know, wood always has the final word.
After soaking it in mineral oil and organic beeswax, the maple darkened into this rich, warm hue. It completely shifted the vibe. It no longer looked like Stracciatella – now it reminds me of a luxurious Nocciola (hazelnut) or a piece of traditional Gianduja nougat. I love how Italian words sound, so I decided to officially name this design "Nocciola Intrecciata" (Interwoven Hazelnut).
It was a custom request for a client who wanted a specific basketweave pattern, and honestly, seeing the oil bring out these warm tones was the best part of the build.
What do you guys think? Do you prefer the high-contrast dry look, or this warm, honey-like finished look?