This large live-edge table has a unique shape with stunning wood grain. It was enhanced with black epoxy to fill in the gaps and cracks that form during the wood drying process. The table was finished with tung oil and then with satin polyurethane to provide a protective layer.
The Story of this project
During the first year of the pandemic, feeling the need to get out of the office (re: my home), I ventured out from Austin in the direction of Fredericksburg, TX. This drive takes you into the heart of the Texas wine country
Along the way, I came across a wood/mill store along the highway. Driving into the gravel parking lot, I spotted this large cross sectional piece somewhat discarded on the side, obviously not being shown the love it deserved.
I don’t have X-ray eyesight, but somehow, I could see that beneath the rough exterior lay a beautiful piece of wood with a personality just crying to be exposed.
It was a no-brainer for me.
Where to Use
This table cries out for a home where it can be a focal point of a room. At almost 3 1/2 feet diameter, it provides a large surface that makes a statement. The color of the wood lends itself to being used with almost any color of walls, chairs, sofas, rugs and wall decor.
A room with lots of natural light will make the piece stand out even more.
The Process
The project started by removing all loose bark from the outer edge of the large cross section wood bisquit. I then smoothed and evened both sides of the wood to reveal the rings, grain and wood color marking. At this point I choose which side would be the primary/top side.
At this point, I sealed the bottom and sides of the wood with sealing tape in preparation for pouring the epoxy. I choose to tint the epoxy black as I felt it would bring out the color of the wood and highlight the curves.
Once the epoxy was poured and cured, I resanded both the top and bottom surfaces and perpared them for finishing.
I choose to use a tung oil coat which I repeated in order to give the wood a nice penetrating coat. Once this was fully absorbed into the wood, I gave the wood two protective coats of satin polyurethane. Finally, I applied a coat of wax and buffed it to a nice sheen.
