Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Live Edge Table
Everyone appreciates the natural beauty of wooden furniture, especially live edge tables with their organic shapes. But buying these tables from stores costs hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
The truth is, you can create your own stunning live edge table with basic tools and minimal woodworking skills. The process is simpler than most people think, and the results can match or exceed store-bought pieces.
In this guide, we’ll walk through a step-by-step process for making your live-edge table.
You’ll learn which woods work best for beginners, the essential tools needed, easy techniques for shaping edges, and how to apply a perfect finish.
We’ve broken down this process into 10 straightforward steps anyone can follow, even if they’ve never built furniture before.
Tools & Materials Required for DIY Live Edge Table
| Tools | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hammer and chisel | 1 set |
| Sawhorses | 2 pairs |
| Angle grinder with Galahad power carving discs (coarse and fine) | 1 grinder, 2 discs |
| Orbital sander with 100, 150, and 220-grit sandpaper | 1 sander, 3 sandpaper grits |
| Drill | 1 |
| Lint-free rags and tack cloth | As needed |
| Materials | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Softwood slab (cedar or pine) | 1 slab (approx. 2″ thick, 8 ft long, 30″ wide) |
| Steel table legs (from Semi-Exact) | 4 legs |
| Lag screws (included with legs) | As required |
| Simple Finish by Maker Brand (oil finish) | 1 bottle |
Step-by-Step Guidance for Making a Live Edge Table
Step 1: Select Your Wood Slab
Start by examining both sides of your softwood slab. Look for interesting grain patterns, fewer blemishes, or any unique features you want to showcase.
The better-looking side will become your tabletop. Cedar or pine slabs work well for beginners since they’re softer and more budget-friendly than hardwoods.
Step 2: Remove the Bark
Using a hammer and chisel, carefully remove all the rough bark along the outside edges of the slab. When possible, work with the grain direction to prevent splitting.
Though some people keep the bark for looks, it tends to crumble and fall off over time, so removing it creates a more lasting piece.
Step 3: Shape the Edges
Place your slab securely on sawhorses at a comfortable working height. Attach a Galahad power carving disc to your angle grinder. Use this to remove the inner layer of bark and begin shaping the natural edges.
The power carving disc quickly removes stubborn knots and tough end grain. Take your time shaping the cut ends to match the curves of the live edges, creating a cohesive look.
Step 4: Round Over All Edges
The angle grinder is still equipped with the carving disc, round over all the cut edges of the slab. This prevents potential splinters and creates a smooth, comfortable feel.
Start with the coarse Galahad disc for initial shaping, then switch to a finer disc for smoother contours. If you don’t have a fine disc, you can use a flat disc with sandpaper attached.
Step 5: Sand the Surface
Switch to an orbital sander with 100-grit sandpaper. This helps blend out the rough marks left by the angle grinder. Work methodically across the entire surface.
Once you’ve completed the first pass, move up to 150-grit sandpaper for medium sanding, then finish with 220 grit for a smooth surface ready for finishing.
Step 6: Attach the Legs
Select appropriate steel legs for your table (the transcript mentions Semi-Exact legs). Place the slab upside down on a clean surface.
Mark the locations for the leg attachment point pre-drill holes at each marked location to prevent the wood from splitting. Secure the legs using the lag screws that come with the legs.
Step 7: Final Sanding
After attaching the legs, flip the table over and perform one last sanding pass with fine-grit sandpaper. Pay special attention to any areas that might have been missed or need extra attention. This final sanding ensures the entire surface is consistently smooth.
Step 8: Clean the Surface
Thoroughly remove all dust before applying the finish. First, wipe the entire surface with a clean, lint-free rag to remove most of the dust.
Follow this with a tack cloth, which has a sticky surface designed to pick up fine dust particles that regular cloths might miss.
Step 9: Apply the First Coat of Finish
Apply a thick coat of oil finish (the transcript mentions Simple Finish by Maker Brand). Use a brush or cloth to spread it evenly across the entire surface, including the edges.
Let this coat soak into the wood for 10 minutes. Look for any dry spots that might need more finish and add more to those areas.
Step 10: Buff and Complete the Finish
After the finish has soaked in for about 10 more minutes (20 minutes total), use a clean, lint-free rag to buff out all excess oil. Work with the grain of the wood, using firm but gentle pressure.
The oil that has soaked in will protect the wood, while removing the excess prevents a sticky surface. Allow the table to cure according to the finish manufacturer’s instructions before using.
Check out this YouTube video by HomeMadeModern for Step-by-step guidance:
Tips and Tricks
- Use soft wood for beginners – it’s easier to work with and less costly.
- Remove all bark, as it doesn’t last well over time.
- Blend rough-cut ends to match the natural sides.
- Pre-drill holes before adding screws to avoid splitting the wood.
- Completely remove dust before applying the finish for best results.
- Oil finishes are great for beginners as they go on more evenly.
- If you like the table in a rustic look, walnut wood looks good.
Conclusion
Building your live edge table offers a worthwhile reward for just a few hours of work. With simple tools and basic techniques, you’ve learned how to transform a raw wood slab into a one-of-a-kind piece for your home.
When starting out, remember to select softwoods like cedar or pine. For the best results, take time to properly remove bark, shape the edges, and sand thoroughly.
The steel legs provide stability and modern style, while the oil finish enhances the wood’s natural beauty and facilitates future touch-ups.
Your handcrafted table not only saves you money compared to store-bought options but also gives you the satisfaction of creating something unique with your own hands. With the skills you’ve gained, you can now tackle other wood projects with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why Are Live Edge Tables so Expensive?
Live edge tables are costly due to rare hardwood, labor-intensive milling, and handcrafted finishes. Large slabs, customization, high demand, and shipping costs further drive up prices.
2. How to Style a Live Edge Table?
On live-edge tables, keep styling simple. Use minimal decor, like a small centerpiece, natural runner, and complementary chairs. Let the wood’s natural beauty shine through. Good lighting highlights the unique grain patterns.
3. Can a Live Edge Table Be Used Outdoors?
Yes, live-edge tables can be used outdoors if they are made from weather-resistant woods like teak or cedar and sealed with exterior finishes. Regular maintenance is essential, including resealing and covering during bad weather.
