Are you ready to upgrade your home to welcome the coming fall and winter? Why not try a DIY live edge dining table? In this article, we'll walk you through how to make live edge table for beginners, breaking it down into 8 easy steps. Whether you're aiming to create a centerpiece for your dining room or a unique coffee table for your living space, this guide covers it all. So, grab your tools, and let's get started!
Tools and Materials
- Live edge lumber
- Metal table legs
- Planer or router sled
- Sander/Sandpaper
- Epoxy mixing tools
- Wire brush/Attachment
- Straight cut bit
- Chisel
- Level
- Epoxy resin (Optional)
- Epoxy hardener (Optional)
- Bowtie inlay kit (Optional)
- Finish (Optional)
Step 1: Choose Your Wood Slab
Live edge slabs have various types of wood, including walnut, oak, and maple. You can visit a local lumberyard or specialty wood supplier to find a slab you love. A small tip is to look for a piece with interesting grain patterns and a natural edge. Remember, make sure the slab is adequately dried to prevent warping.
Choose the wood slab you love
Credit: Flowyline Design
Step 2: Surface the Slab
Make sure to flatten the entire slab to help your making table process go smoothly. Whether a large slab is twisted even as little as 1 inch, it will be tough to mount to a base.
Surface means flattening the slab to ensure it sits level. You probably don't want a rough dining table or coffee table. This task can be done in so many different ways, but for most particular slabs, you need to use a combination of a sander and a router with a sled.
Flattening ensures the entire slab will help your making table process go smoothly
Credit: @Nikola Novotna on Canva
Step 3: Debark the Slab (Optional)
While some people love the rustic look of bark, it can be annoying to some. If you are on team 2, use a drawknife or chisel to carefully remove the bark. On the contrary, if you choose to leave the bark, make sure it's secure and won't flake off over time.
Removing the bark and crap from a live edge slab protects you from hand splinters
Credit: @warat42 on Canva
Step 4: Fill with Epoxy (Optional)
After debarking the slab, if you prefer a smoother surface, you can fill these imperfections with epoxy. You can learn about mixing styles on YouTube and, according to the manufacturer's instructions, add a unique touch. Remember to cure fully before moving on to the next step.
Fill imperfections with epoxy
Credit: @sandsun on Canva
Step 5: Adding Bowties (Optional)
If your slab had a pretty epic crack in it, you can add a few decorative wood bow ties to prevent the crack from spreading even more. Using a router and a bow tie template for this will make such a huge difference for your DIY live edge dining table. Some people use bow ties to match the slab’s colors while others like the outstanding colors. Feel free to pick any option and make a highlight for your own live-edge table.
If your slab had a pretty epic crack in it, adding a few decorative wood bow ties is an ideal option
Credit: Flowyline Design
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Step 6: Sand and Finish
Sanding is a crucial step in achieving a smooth and polished surface. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper (around 80 grit) and gradually work your way up to a finer grit (220 or higher). Take your time to ensure the surface is silky smooth.
After sanding, apply your chosen finish. Tung oil, polyurethane, and epoxy finishes are popular choices that enhance the wood's natural beauty and provide protection.
Sand and finish the surface
Credit: @valentynsemenov on Canva
Step 7: Installing the Metal Legs
This is the final and essential step on how to make a live edge table with a live edge slab. Choosing a unique leg design not only provides sturdy support for your tabletop but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your living space.
Related post: How to Attach Metal Legs To A Wood Table?
Installing metal legs on a wood tabletop
Credit: Flowyline Design
Step 8: Enjoy Your Result!
After you finish all the previous steps, all you have to do is put on a protective cover such as Odie’s Oil and Rubio Monocoat. They are normally rubbed on and then wiped back off.
Since you finish the oil protection, you’re equal to relax and be proud of your result. It’s time to spend your time on your favorite DIY live edge table legs.
Nothing is better than enjoying and having a cup of coffee on your favorite live-edge table
Credit: Flowyline Design
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Should read:
Now, you know how to make live edge table with steps and available materials. DIY projects not only add a unique touch but also reflect the personal style of their creator. Don't forget to share your beautiful creation with us on Google Review, and sign up for email to receive attractive offers.