Live-Edge Tables
Perhaps the most popular application of live-edge design is in table making . Live-edge tables typically have at least one side, sometimes both sides of the table untouched. Unlike traditionally finished tables, a live-edge table brings the natural lines of the tree into the living space.
Why are live edge slabs so expensive?
Why Is Live Edge So Expensive? Live edge products are more expensive than regular cuts of wood because they are so unique and labor-intensive . They cannot be made in bulk since each slab is cut at the same length as the log. Every live edge piece is distinctive, blending aesthetic with practicality.
What are live edge slabs?
Live-Edge Tables
Perhaps the most popular application of live-edge design is in table making . Live-edge tables typically have at least one side, sometimes both sides of the table untouched. Unlike traditionally finished tables, a live-edge table brings the natural lines of the tree into the living space.
How much do live edge slabs cost?
Unfinished live edge wood slabs average about $20 per board foot , for example, which is a wholesale price by current market standards.
What are live edge boards?
Live edge or natural edge is a style of furniture where the furniture designer or craftsperson incorporates the natural edge of the wood into the design of the piece . ... There are special challenges involved in working with this type of wood, and several methods for live edge have developed.
Why do they call it live edge?
A live edge slab maintains the natural beauty of the forest by preserving the tree in its circumferential entirety with the outer corners of the visible tree trunk. According to the name, live edge, the Native Spirit of the wood is kept “alive” and the edges of the tree are left untouched .
How long do live edge slabs need to dry?
A common sized unit is designed to dry around 2500 board foot of lumber in a batch of inch thick boards. For this one inch lumber, green-to-dry kiln time is typically 5-6 weeks, or 35-45 days .
How thick are live edge slabs?
The thinner the wood is milled means the greater the likelihood that your live edge table will be prone to warping and twisting. A reputable sawmill should be milling live edge slabs no less than three inches in thickness in order to account for the expected changes that occur in the wood during the drying process.
Are Live Edge tables trendy?
Are Live Edge Tables Trendy? While live edge tables are certainly considered trendy at the moment , they’ve been around for a long time. Rustic cabin furniture made from pine and cedar logs has been popular for quite some time, however, live edge furniture is a more refined art.
How do you finish a live edge slab for outdoor use?
- Remove the bark and sand the wood. ...
- Bridge splits in the wood with butterfly keys. ...
- Fill any holes in the slab. ...
- Finish and seal the slab.
Do live edge slabs warp?
Because slabs are prone to warping , even after they’re properly dried, you must place them in the proper environment after you get them home. Do not leave them on your trailer, truck, or garage floor. Follow our tips to avoid having major warping issues.
Why are wood slabs so expensive?
Supply and demand. Wide slabs are fairly rare , in part due to the factors outlined above. Everybody wants to work with a beautiful large slab of wood like that. High demand, low supply = high prices.
Is live edge modern?
An added benefit to live edge tables is that they’re not specifically modern or contemporary . Yes, obviously, they fit in well into those motifs, and they’re popular selections with interior designers. Nevertheless, live edge adoption isn’t limited to just the segment of society that trends towards modern.
Does live edge have bark?
How To Remove The Bark on Live Edge Slabs. Removing the bark on a live edge slab is a pretty simple process. We typically use a small chisel and hammer and angle the chisel with the way the live edge tapers. After all of the big pieces are removed, you can sand the rest until your edge has a smooth surface.
How do you know if Edge of wood is dry?
A general rule of thumb is that live edge slabs are ready to kiln dry when they reach 20% moisture level . This can be tested using a moisture meter. If you’re wondering how long this takes, the answer is that it will vary. Obviously, a thinner slab will dry much faster than one that’s cut a few inches thick.
