I score intricate designs on my sourdough using a bread lame (I use Wire Monkey UFO Bread Lame) and use unique shapes to turn each loaf into a piece of art," says Hanley.

Buy it: Baker of Seville Bread Lame, $22 on Etsy All products featured on Bonappetit.com are independently selected by our editors.

Whichever pattern you choose for your bread, don’t hesitate or second guess—for each slash use a single, decisive motion to cut at least ½" into the dough (remember, it can smell fear, so ...