Tables

Crafting tables of all sizes and purposes is a deeply fulfilling process, offering a canvas for my creativity to shine through the natural beauty of wood.

I approach table-making in two distinct ways. Sometimes, I envision a specific type of table and then seek out the perfect wood to bring that vision to life. However, my preferred method is to let the wood itself guide me. I visit wood mills and suppliers, carefully examining live edge slabs until a particular piece of wood “speaks” to me, inspiring the design.

Wood grain – The inner beauty of wood

The true beauty of wood lies in its grain, especially in larger pieces like tables and desks, where it can really stand out and define the character of the piece. I work with a variety of woods, including pecan, oak, walnut, cypress, maple, and occasionally pine. Each type of wood has its own unique character, and I strive to highlight this in every table I create.

think beyond 90 degree angles and perfect rounds

I’m not one to stick to rigid, 90-degree angles. I love curves and the way they allow the eye to explore a piece from different perspectives. That’s why I’m particularly drawn to live edge pieces with rounded edges and interesting borders.

While rectangular and square tables have their own appeal, I often gravitate towards creating pieces with additional elements, such as knots or cavities that can be filled with colored epoxy or transformed into striking epoxy rivers.

Think color and finish

For me, the highlight of any project is reaching the finishing stage. After planning, cutting, preparing the wood, and applying epoxy if needed, I complete the final sanding and prepare for the finish. This is where the piece truly comes to life, whether through staining to enhance the color or simply allowing the wood’s natural beauty to shine.

The choice of finish depends on both aesthetic and functional needs. Some pieces may require a more durable protective finish, like epoxy, but I generally prefer working with oils and waxes, and occasionally polyurethanes, to achieve the desired look and feel.