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October 04, 2023 2 min read
Live edge tables have taken the interior design world by storm with their rustic elegance and unique charm. But have you ever wondered about the craftsmanship that goes into creating these one-of-a-kind pieces?
The process is both an art and a science, requiring an understanding of the wood's natural characteristics and the technical skills to bring a design to life. In this blog post, we delve into each step of our table-making process, from the initial flattening of the wood to the various challenges we encounter along the way.
Before even thinking about the design or the size of the table, the process begins with flattening a wood slab. This initial step is crucial because a flat piece of lumber is the foundation upon which the rest of the project will be built. During the flattening process, defects can reveal themselves, which we aim to cut out as much as possible. Removing these defects early on ensures a longer useful life for the finished Live Edge table.
Once the wood slab is flattened, we can start contemplating cut lines and identifying any potential defects. This part of the process is straightforward for single slab tables; you basically cut it to the desired size. However, it becomes complex when dealing with multiple-piece glue-ups.
Determining where to cut is vital, especially when working with multiple slabs. We avoid putting defects in the glue seam and aim to keep knot holes in the center of the board where they won't affect the integrity of the table.
Drying the wood slabs is another hurdle that we need to overcome. While wood might appear dry to the naked eye, it can sometimes react unpredictably during the flattening process.
Even if the wood is thoroughly dried, it can release tension, causing ends to lift off the deck. When we encounter such challenges, we often break the slabs down into smaller pieces for projects like glue laminations, cutting boards, or table legs.
Handling issues can arise when the wood contains too much tension, leading to warping and twisting over time.
To counteract this, we alternate the grain of the boards during glue-ups, which helps to stabilize the final product. In cases where the wood exhibits cracks or unstable areas, we usually shore these up with joinery techniques to ensure long-lasting stability.
Besides the creation of Live Edge tables, cookie slabs can be used in various other applications like cutting boards, table legs, and even smaller furniture items. Thus, nothing goes to waste, and each part of the wood can contribute to multiple functional and aesthetic elements.
To ensure durability, the Live Edge table undergoes a sealing and drying process. This adds a layer of protection, preserving the wood's natural beauty while shielding it from environmental damage.
Creating Live Edge tables is a meticulous and rewarding process that combines technical skill with an artistic touch. From the initial flattening phase to tackling various challenges in drying and handling, every step contributes to the production of a piece that is not only visually stunning but also built to last.