Live edge wood slabs are a unique and stunning option for furniture and décor. The natural edge of the wood adds character and warmth to any space, and the individual grain patterns make each piece one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your living room or a functional countertop for your kitchen, live edge wood slabs are a versatile choice.
What is a Live Edge Wood Slab?
A live edge wood slab is a piece of wood that has been cut from a tree with the natural edge of the tree intact. This means that one or both edges of the slab will have the bark and shape of the tree, giving it a rustic and natural appearance. Live edge wood slabs can come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and types of wood, depending on the tree they were cut from.
Uses for Live Edge Wood Slabs
Live edge wood slabs can be used in a variety of ways, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some common uses for live edge wood slabs:
Table Tops
Live edge wood slabs make beautiful and unique tabletops for dining tables, coffee tables, and side tables. The sycamore table top to the right is a great example of using two bookmatched slabs to create a full width table top fit for a dining room!
Countertops
Live edge wood slabs can be used as countertops in kitchens, bathrooms, bars and other areas where a durable and natural surface is desired. The photo to the left showcases a hickory counter top.
Shelving
Live edge wood slabs can be used as floating shelves in kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms. The shelves to the right are built out of thick-cut walnut and were inlayed with LED’s to showcase the bottles that sit behind the homeowner’s bar.
Wall Art
A live edge wood slab can be used as a piece of wall art, either on its own or as a backdrop for other artwork. Check out the photo on the left that showcases a mini herb garden mounted to a walnut slab!
Headboards
A live edge wood slab can be used as a headboard for a bed, adding a natural and rustic touch to the bedroom. Check out the slab on the right that frames this bed beautifully and adds a ton of warmth to the space!
Types of Wood
Live edge wood slabs can come from a variety of trees, each with its own unique grain patterns and colors. Here are some common types of wood used for live edge wood slabs:
- Walnut: Walnut is a popular choice for live edge wood slabs because of its rich, dark color and beautiful grain patterns.
- Maple: Maple is a lighter-colored wood with a subtle grain pattern, making it a versatile choice for a variety of decor styles.
- Ash: Ash is a light-colored hardwood with a distinctive grain pattern that makes it a popular choice for furniture.
- Oak: Oak is a strong and durable wood with a prominent grain pattern, making it a popular choice for flooring and furniture.
- Red Cedar: Cedar is a lighter-colored wood with a distinctive aroma and natural resistance to insects and decay. Many red cedar slabs also have bright red heartwood that offers beautiful contrast!
Care & Maintenance
To keep your live edge wood slab looking beautiful, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, avoid placing the slab in direct sunlight, as this can cause fading and warping. Second, be careful not to expose the slab to extreme temperatures or moisture, as this can cause cracking and warping. Finally, be sure to clean and condition the wood regularly with a wood-specific cleaner and conditioner.
To Wrap it All Up...
Live edge wood slabs are a unique and beautiful choice for furniture and decor. Their natural edge and individual grain patterns add warmth and character to any space, making them a versatile choice for a variety of uses. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your living room or a functional countertop for your kitchen, a live edge wood slab is sure to impress.