Many IKEA "butcher blocks" are actually a thick wood veneer over a particleboard core. While they look great and handle light sanding, they aren't solid wood all the way through, meaning they have a shorter lifespan than solid slabs. 2. The DIY Standard: Home Depot & Lowe’s

Shipping can be pricey if the specific wood you want isn't in stock at your local warehouse. 5. The Custom Route: Etsy and Local Woodshops

They offer solid wood slabs (typically birch, acacia, or walnut) that are "unfinished," allowing you to stain and seal them exactly how you like.