This thick live-edge cross-section oak side or accent table has a beautiful ring structure and spelting pattern. The table was finished with tung oil and then with a satin polyurethane coat to provide a protective layer.
The Story of this project
On a trip to San Antonio I found the Green Wood Milling company. Like a kid in a candy store, I spent an enjoyable hour with one of the owners and bought a few cross sectional oak pieces. This one caught my eye because it was a perfect candidate for making an Epoxy Lake and turning it into a wonderful side or accent table.
Where to Use
This accent table truly stands out because of the internal sunken Epoxy Lake. The cross section itself provides an interesting dimension to any room. Used more as a decor piece rather than just a side table, it can become a focal point of a room. At 31inches in diameter and 2 inches in thicknesss the table provides ample surface area around the sunken epoxy lake for glasses or cups. drinks. The deep natural color of the oak goes well with almost any color of walls, chairs, sofas, rugs and wall decor.
The Process
The project started by removing all loose bark from the outer edge of the wood and then from the inner void of the cross section. I then carefully smoothed the live edge surface with sandpaper. I then sanded the top and bottom surfaces. I created a seal on the bottom of the slab and poured the turquoise epoxy. I did not fill the entire cavity and left around 1/4 inch to create the sunken lake effect. Afterwards I resanded the top and sides before applying the final finish.
I chose to use a tung oil coat and let the oil soak into the wood and enhance its natural color. I choose to use two protective coats of satin polyurethane so that it could be used with coffee mugs, flower pots and other items that might spill. Finally, I applied a coat of wax and buffed it to a nice sheen.
