What is Living Edge Wood? A Guide to this Unique and Beautiful Material
If you’ve ever come across a rustic, natural wood slab with an irregular edge, you may have encountered living edge wood. This stunning material has become a favorite in interior design, furniture making, and custom wood projects. At Colorado Wood & Metal, we specialize in turning living edge wood into beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces, combining our passion for woodworking with our commitment to high-quality craftsmanship.
In this blog, we’ll explain what living edge wood is, why it’s so sought after, and how it can be used in your home or business projects.
What is Living Edge Wood?
Living edge wood, also known as live edge wood, refers to slabs or pieces of wood that retain the natural, organic edge of the tree from which they were cut. Unlike traditional woodwork, where the edges are typically straight and uniform, living edge wood maintains the natural curves, bumps, and contours of the tree’s growth. The edges may have bark or a smooth, polished finish depending on how the wood is processed.
The beauty of living edge wood lies in its irregularity. Each slab is unique, offering a natural, rustic appearance that adds character to any project. It’s like bringing a piece of nature inside, showcasing the tree’s history and individuality.
Why is Living Edge Wood Popular?
Live edge wood has gained popularity for several reasons:
- Natural Aesthetic: The raw, unrefined edges bring a unique and organic touch to any space. The natural lines and textures make each piece one-of-a-kind, making it perfect for people who want furniture or décor with character.
- Versatility: Living edge wood can be used for a wide range of projects, from coffee tables and countertops to shelves, mantels, and even wall panels. Its rustic charm fits well in modern, industrial, and farmhouse-inspired spaces.
- Sustainability: Many living edge wood pieces are made from reclaimed or salvaged wood, giving new life to old trees. This makes it an eco-friendly choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.
- Customization: Because living edge wood is custom-cut, you can find or create pieces that are specifically designed to fit your needs. Whether you’re designing a large conference table or a small home accent piece, living edge wood can be tailored to your vision.
The Process of Creating Living Edge Wood Pieces
At Colorado Wood & Metal, we take pride in turning raw, reclaimed wood into stunning custom pieces. The process begins with selecting the perfect slab of living edge wood, which is carefully dried and stabilized in our kiln. This ensures that the wood is free of moisture, preventing warping or cracking in the future.
Once the wood is properly dried, our skilled craftsmen begin the process of milling and finishing. Depending on the desired look, we may keep the bark on the edges for a more natural appearance, or we may smooth the edges to create a more refined yet still organic feel.
The final touch involves sanding and sealing the wood to bring out its natural beauty, while also ensuring that it remains durable for years to come.
Applications of Live Edge Wood
Living edge wood is extremely versatile and can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your living or working space. Here are some popular applications:
- Furniture: One of the most common uses for living edge wood is furniture. Tables (especially dining and coffee tables) are popular, but chairs, benches, and desks also work beautifully with this material. Each piece of furniture will have a unique design due to the natural variations in the wood.
- Countertops: Kitchen and bar countertops made from living edge wood bring a natural, warm feeling to the heart of the home. The wood’s organic shape makes it stand out from traditional, straight-edged countertops, adding both beauty and functionality.
- Wall Panels and Shelving: For a truly rustic, cabin-like atmosphere, living edge wood can be used for wall panels or shelving. The irregular lines on the edges of each piece create a more visually interesting, dimensional look that can transform a room.
- Mantels: A live edge wood mantel is perfect for creating a statement piece above a fireplace. The natural lines add an earthy quality to the room, making it feel grounded and welcoming.
- Custom Accents: From small décor items like picture frames and mirrors to larger pieces like headboards or room dividers, living edge wood can be used for virtually any type of custom project.
Benefits of Live Edge Wood
- Unique Design: No two slabs of living edge wood are the same. Every piece has a story to tell and carries the natural imperfections of the tree, making it a perfect choice for those who value one-of-a-kind designs.
- Durability: With proper care, living edge wood can last for decades. The natural integrity of the wood, especially if sourced from older trees, makes it a strong material for furniture and other structures that need to stand the test of time.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The natural curves, textures, and patterns in living edge wood bring warmth, depth, and character to any space, making it an excellent choice for those who want their décor to stand out.
Why Choose Colorado Wood & Metal for Your Live Edge Wood Projects?
At Colorado Wood & Metal, we specialize in creating custom wood pieces from both antique barn wood and living edge slabs. Our team of skilled craftsmen works closely with you to bring your vision to life, whether you’re a homeowner looking for a unique piece or a contractor in need of high-quality materials for large-scale projects.
With our kiln and sawmill capabilities, we can process and finish living edge wood to meet your specific requirements. We are committed to providing personalized service, and our focus on quality ensures that every project we work on is crafted with the utmost care and precision.
Final Thoughts
Living edge wood is more than just a material—it’s a way to bring nature’s beauty into your home. Its natural edges and unique character make it a great option for anyone looking to add a personal, rustic touch to their space. Whether you’re building a custom piece of furniture, updating your countertops, or creating a feature wall, living edge wood offers a beautiful and sustainable option for your project.
If you’re ready to bring live edge wood into your next project, Colorado Wood & Metal is here to help. Get in touch with us today to discuss your ideas, and let us assist you in turning them into reality.