November 08, 2023 2 min read
A live edge coffee table isn't just a regular piece of furniture. Made from live edge lumber, these tables incorporate the outer organic shape of the tree, just as it naturally grew. This characteristic is not only a testament to the beauty of nature but also turns it into a focal point of the table's design. For many artisans, it's one of the most sought-after designs to create, resulting in lengthwise cut slabs, face grain boards, and cookie designs.
A significant aspect of creating a live edge coffee table revolves around customer preferences. When a client orders a dining room table, they sometimes have off cuts remaining. Rather than disposing of these pieces, skilled artisans find a way to repurpose them. Turning these remnants into coffee tables ensures that nothing goes to waste and provides the customer with a unique piece that holds sentimental value.
Artisans understand the value of customization and the importance of a piece fitting into a customer's home decor. While most designs maintain the natural "live edge," there are rare occasions when this feature is removed based on the client's specifications. Yet, given a free hand, craftsmen almost always preserve this beautiful edge, celebrating its organic charm.
The process of creating a live edge coffee table might seem daunting, but in comparison to larger furniture pieces, they're relatively easier to produce. The reason? Their size. Handling smaller wood pieces in the shop is more manageable, often requiring just a single artisan. Everything, from flattening the slabs to gluing the pieces, becomes a streamlined process, making these tables not just beautiful, but also efficient to produce.
Every piece of wood comes with its unique set of challenges. Artisans recall making tables out of a single Walnut piece, leading to quadrupled mitered designs. Some of these tables, despite their challenges, end up as exquisite masterpieces with price tags that reflect their intricate designs and craftsmanship.
The beauty and uniqueness of a live edge coffee table are often wood-dependent. Some slabs might seem mundane, while others showcase a myriad of movements and textures. The design possibilities for legs differ between coffee tables and dining tables. With coffee tables, there's more freedom, allowing artisans to transform even the table's end into a leg, amplifying its distinctiveness.
The live edge coffee table isn't just a piece of furniture. It's a testament to nature's beauty, a craftsman's skill, and a homeowner's unique taste. With endless design possibilities, these tables stand as the epitome of artistry and functionality. Whether you're looking for a table that captures the wild essence of a tree or seeking a customized piece that fits seamlessly into your decor, the live edge design promises a table like no other.