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March 19, 2024 3 min read
When it comes to crafting stunning furniture pieces, bookmatched live edge slab tables are truly exceptional. But what exactly is a bookmatched live edge table? In simple terms, it involves two pieces of wood sequentially cut from the same log, creating a unique mirrored effect. In this article, we will explore the process, appeal, and cost difference of these remarkable tables.
The journey of creating bookmatched live edge slab tables begins with selecting the ideal section of the log. The key is to find a portion that will yield the widest material. This carefully chosen section becomes the source of our bookmatched pieces, while the remaining wood becomes standalone slabs.
When crafting bookmatch tables, it's crucial to use two pieces that are sequentially cut from the log. When opened like a book, they form a mirror image of one another. This clever arrangement, when glued together, gives the illusion of a single, continuous piece of wood rather than multiple boards joined together.
One might wonder, why opt for bookmatched tables instead of single slabs? The answer lies in both aesthetics and affordability. Many customers desire the look of a one-piece table but without the hefty price tag.
Single slabs of wood come at a premium due to the additional time, effort, and resources required for their production. They take longer to dry, are harder to mill, and require more substantial dimensions, resulting in higher costs. In contrast, bookmatches offer the same seamless appearance at a more budget-friendly price point.
But does cutting book matches require more resources or effort? Not necessarily. While the process involves selecting the right section of the log and arranging the bookmatched pieces, it doesn't significantly add to the overall complexity of production.
To maximize efficiency, bookmatched slabs are stacked differently compared to other wood products. When cutting, various thicknesses are achieved to cater to different needs. The top layer may be thinner, while the subsequent ones are thicker. Bookmatched slabs are typically cut at 10 quarters or 2.5 inches thick, setting them apart from other lumber.
These separate stacks of wood are dried at distinct intervals, ensuring each piece reaches its optimal moisture content. This meticulous approach contributes to the quality of bookmatched live edge slab tables.
While bookmatches typically feature the same wood species for a harmonious look, some may wonder about the possibility of using multiple species in a glue-up. However, this practice is relatively rare for tables. It's more commonly seen in projects like cutting boards or butcher blocks, where the contrasting species can be visually appealing.
One of the most remarkable aspects of bookmatched live edge slab tables is the illusion they create. Many visitors to our shop have mistaken these tables for single, uninterrupted pieces of wood. The mirrored effect achieved through bookmatching is so convincing that it's often hard to believe it's made from two separate cuts of the same log.
For those looking to achieve a similar effect without bookmatching, the slip match technique offers an alternative. In this approach, one of the sequential cuts is flipped over before assembly. This results in a seamless look while accommodating variations in the width of the slabs. The outcome is a table that appears uniform despite the inherent differences in the wood's shape.
Bookmatched live edge slab tables offer a captivating blend of aesthetics and affordability. They provide the appearance of a single piece of wood while allowing customers to enjoy this premium look without the associated high costs.
If you're interested in exploring the world of bookmatched live edge tables further, please feel free to contact KC Custom Hardwoods today for more information.