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Top Things to Know About a Dining Room Live Edge Table
A dining room live edge table is a unique and stunning piece of furniture that can add warmth, character, and style to your home. But what exactly is a live edge table, and how do you choose, care for, and decorate one? In this article, we will answer these questions and more, and show you how a live edge dining table can transform your dining room into a cozy and inviting space.
Key Takeaways
- A live edge table is a table that retains the natural edge of the wood slab, creating a rustic and organic look.
- Live edge tables come in different sizes, shapes, wood types, colors, finishes, and features, and you should consider these factors when choosing one for your dining room.
- Live edge tables require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent dirt, stains, scratches, or cracks, and you should use gentle products and methods to preserve and restore their beauty and quality.
- Live edge tables can be styled and decorated with various tableware, linens, centerpieces, lighting, and accessories, to create different moods and themes for different occasions.
- Taitlin Studio is a reputable and experienced custom woodworking company that can create your dream live edge dining table according to your specifications and preferences. Contact them today for a free consultation and quote, and visit their website or showroom for more inspiration and information.
How to Choose a Live Edge Table for Your Dining Room
A raw edge table is not just a piece of furniture, but a work of art. Each table is unique, as no two wood slabs have the same grain, color, or edge. Therefore, choosing a live edge dining table for your dining room is a personal and exciting process, but also a challenging one. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a live edge dining table:
Size and Shape
The size and shape of your dining table should match the size and shape of your dining room. You want to make sure that the dining table fits comfortably in your space, leaving enough room for chairs, movement, and other furniture. A general rule of thumb is to leave at least 36 inches of clearance around the dining table, and more if possible.
The shape of your dining table should also complement the shape of your dining room. For example, a rectangular dining table works well in a rectangular or square room, while a round or oval dining table works well in a round or irregular room. However, you can also mix and match shapes to create contrast and interest. For example, a round ding table can soften the edges of a square room, while a rectangular dining table can add structure to a round room.
To measure your dining room space and find the right dining table dimensions, you can use a tape measure, a piece of string, or a cardboard cutout. You can also use online tools, such as this one, to create a floor plan and visualize how your dining table will look in your room.
Wood Type
The wood type of your live edge dining table is one of the most important factors to consider, as it affects the appearance, durability, and price of your dining table. There are many wood types to choose from, such as walnut, ash, maple, cherry, or white oak, and each one has its own characteristics, such as grain, color, hardness, and stability.
Some wood types are more suitable for live edge dining tables than others, depending on your preference and budget. For example, walnut is a popular choice for live edge dining tables, as it has a rich and dark color, a fine and straight grain, and a high resistance to decay and insects. However, walnut is also one of the most expensive wood types, and it can be difficult to find large and thick slabs. On the other hand, ash is a more affordable and available wood type, as it has a light and neutral color, a coarse and open grain, and a high strength and elasticity. However, ash is also more prone to warping and cracking, and it can be easily stained by water or chemicals.
To compare and contrast different wood types, you can use online resources, such as this one, to learn more about their properties, advantages, and disadvantages. You can also visit a local lumber yard or a custom woodworking company, such as Taitlin Studio, to see and touch different wood slabs and get a feel for their quality and beauty.
Color, Finish, and Features
The color, finish, and features of your live edge dining table are also important factors to consider, as they affect the aesthetics, functionality, and protection of your dining table. There are many options to choose from, such as natural, stained, varnished, oiled, waxed, or epoxy-coated, and each one has its own pros and cons.
The color of your live edge dining table depends largely on the wood type, but you can also alter it by applying different stains or paints. For example, you can darken a light wood, such as ash, by using a dark stain, such as espresso, or you can lighten a dark wood, such as walnut, by using a light stain, such as whitewash. You can also add some color to your dining table by using a tinted stain, such as blue, green, or red, or by painting the wood with a solid color, such as white, black, or gray. However, you should be careful not to cover or hide the natural beauty and character of the wood grain and edge.
The finish of your raw edge dining table is the final layer that you apply to the wood surface and edge, and it serves two main purposes: to enhance the appearance and to protect the wood. There are many types of finishes to choose from, such as varnish, oil, wax, or epoxy, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, varnish is a clear and durable finish that creates a glossy and smooth surface, but it can also make the wood look artificial and plastic-like. Oil is a natural and penetrating finish that brings out the depth and richness of the wood color and grain, but it can also make the wood more susceptible to water and stains. Wax is a soft and easy-to-apply finish that creates a matte and silky surface, but it can also wear off quickly and require frequent reapplication. Epoxy is a thick and hard finish that creates a glass-like and waterproof surface, but it can also be tricky and messy to apply and remove.
The features of your live edge dining table are the additional elements that you can add to the dining table to make it more functional or attractive. For example, you can add some drawers, shelves, or cabinets to the dining table base to increase the storage space. You can also add some metal, glass, or stone accents to the dining table top or edge to create some contrast and interest. You can also add some LED lights, resin, or crystals to the dining table edge to create some glow and sparkle. However, you should be careful not to overdo or clutter the dining table with too many features, as they can distract from the natural beauty and simplicity of the wood.
To choose the best color, finish, and features for your live edge dining table, you should consider your personal taste, style, and budget, as well as the existing decor and theme of your dining room. You should also consult with a professional woodworker, such as Taitlin Studio, who can advise you on the best options and techniques for your dining table.
Style and Design
The style and design of your live edge dining table are also crucial factors to consider, as they affect the overall look and feel of your dining room. Live edge dining tables come in different styles and designs, such as rustic, farmhouse, modern, mid-century modern, contemporary, or industrial, and you should choose one that matches or contrasts with your dining room decor.
The style of your live edge dining table refers to the general aesthetic and theme of the table, such as the wood type, color, finish, and features. For example, a rustic style live edge dining table is made of natural or reclaimed wood, has a warm and earthy color, a matte or waxed finish, and features some knots, cracks, or bark. A modern style live edge dining table is made of sleek and smooth wood, has a cool and neutral color, a glossy or varnished finish, and features some metal, glass, or stone accents.
The design of your live edge dining table refers to the specific shape and structure of the dining table, such as the table top, edge, base, and legs. For example, a rectangular live edge dining table has a flat and straight table top, a natural and irregular edge, a solid or hollow base, and four or more legs. A round live edge dining table has a curved and circular table top, a smooth and even edge, a pedestal or trestle base, and one or more legs.
To choose the best style and design for your live edge dining table, you should consider your personal preference, style, and budget, as well as the existing furniture and accessories in your dining room. You should also browse through some online galleries, such as this one, to get some inspiration and ideas.
How to Care for and Maintain a Live Edge Table
A live edge dining table is a beautiful and durable piece of furniture, but it also requires regular care and maintenance to keep it in good condition. Wood is a natural and organic material that can change over time due to various factors, such as temperature, humidity, sunlight, and usage. Therefore, you should follow these best practices to clean and maintain your live edge dining table:
Cleaning
You should clean your live edge dining table at least once a week, or more often if it gets dirty or dusty. To clean your dining table, you should use a soft cloth, mild soap, and warm water, and avoid harsh chemicals, abrasives, or heat sources. Here are some steps to follow:
- Dust the dining table with a dry or slightly damp cloth, and remove any crumbs, spills, or stains.
- Wipe the dining table with a cloth dampened with warm water and a few drops of mild soap, such as dish soap or wood soap. Do not soak the cloth or the table, as excess water can damage the wood.
- Rinse the dining table with a cloth dampened with clean water, and wipe off any soap residue.
- Dry the dining table with a soft and dry cloth, and make sure there is no moisture left on the wood surface or edge.
Maintenance
You should maintain your live edge dining table at least once a year, or more often if it gets worn or damaged. To maintain your dining table, you should use some products or services that can help preserve and restore the beauty and quality of the wood, such as wood conditioners, sealants, or professional refinishing. Here are some steps to follow:
- Apply a wood conditioner to the dining table, such as beeswax, linseed oil, or tung oil, and follow the instructions on the product label. A wood conditioner can nourish and moisturize the wood, and prevent it from drying or cracking.
- Apply a sealant to the dining table, such as varnish, polyurethane, or epoxy, and follow the instructions on the product label. A sealant can protect and enhance the wood, and prevent it from fading, staining, or scratching.
- Contact a professional woodworker, such as Taitlin Studio, to refinish your table, if it has any major damages or issues, such as deep cracks, large gaps, or broken edges. A professional woodworker can repair and restore your dining table, and make it look like new.
How to Style and Decorate a Live Edge Table
A live edge dining table is a versatile and adaptable piece of furniture, that can be styled and decorated in various ways to suit different occasions and moods. Whether you want to create a casual, formal, festive, or romantic atmosphere, you can use different tableware, linens, centerpieces, lighting, and accessories to enhance the natural beauty and character of the wood. Here are some tips and ideas on how to style and decorate your live edge dining table:
Tableware
The tableware you use on your live edge dining table should match or contrast with the color, finish, and features of the wood, as well as the theme and mood of the occasion. For example, you can use white or light-colored plates, bowls, and cups to create a contrast with a dark or natural wood, or you can use black or dark-colored plates, bowls, and cups to create a contrast with a light or stained wood. You can also use colorful or patterned plates, bowls, and cups to add some fun and flair to your dining table, or you can use metallic or glass plates, bowls, and cups to add some elegance and sophistication to your dining table.
The tableware you use on your live edge dining table should also suit the type and amount of food you serve, as well as the number and preference of your guests. For example, you can use large and deep plates, bowls, and cups for serving hearty and generous portions of food, or you can use small and shallow plates, bowls, and cups for serving light and delicate portions of food. You can also use different shapes and sizes of plates, bowls, and cups for serving different courses and dishes, such as appetizers, salads, soups, main courses, desserts, and drinks. You can also use different types and styles of cutlery, such as forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks, or skewers, depending on the cuisine and culture of the food you serve.
Linens
The linens you use on your live edge dining table should complement or contrast with the color, finish, and features of the wood, as well as the theme and mood of the occasion. For example, you can use a tablecloth to cover the entire table top and edge, and create a smooth and uniform surface, or you can use a table runner or placemats to partially cover the dining table top and edge, and highlight the natural and irregular shape of the wood. You can also use napkins to add some color and texture to your dining table, and fold them in different ways, such as a fan, a pocket, a rose, or a swan, to create some interest and charm.
The linens you use on your live edge dining table should also match or contrast with the tableware you use, as well as the type and style of food you serve. For example, you can use a white or light-colored tablecloth, table runner, placemats, and napkins to create a clean and crisp look, or you can use a black or dark-colored tablecloth, table runner, placemats, and napkins to create a dramatic and bold look. You can also use a colorful or patterned tablecloth, table runner, placemats, and napkins to create a lively and cheerful look, or you can use a metallic or lace tablecloth, table runner, placemats, and napkins to create a glamorous and romantic look.
Centerpieces
The centerpieces you use on your live edge dining table should accentuate or contrast with the color, finish, and features of the wood, as well as the theme and mood of the occasion. For example, you can use a vase of fresh or dried flowers to add some natural and organic elements to your dining table, or you can use a bowl of fruits, nuts, or candies to add some edible and colorful elements to your dining table. You can also use a candle holder, a lantern, or a lamp to add some light and warmth to your dining table, or you can use a sculpture, a figurine, or a book to add some artistic and cultural elements to your table.
The centerpieces you use on your live edge dining table should also match or contrast with the tableware and linens you use, as well as the type and style of food you serve. For example, you can use a simple and minimalist centerpiece to create a balance with a complex and elaborate table setting, or you can use a large and extravagant centerpiece to create a focal point with a simple and plain table setting. You can also use a themed and coordinated centerpiece to create a harmony with a matching and consistent table setting, or you can use a random and eclectic centerpiece to create a contrast with a mismatched and varied table setting.
Lighting
The lighting you use on your live edge dining table should illuminate or dim the color, finish, and features of the wood, as well as the theme and mood of the occasion. For example, you can use a bright and white light to highlight the natural and clear color and grain of the wood, or you can use a soft and yellow light to enhance the warm and cozy color and edge of the wood. You can also use a colorful and dynamic light to create some fun and excitement on your dining table, or you can use a dark and subtle light to create some mystery and intimacy on your dining table.
The lighting you use on your live edge dining table should also match or contrast with the tableware, linens, and centerpieces you use, as well as the type and style of food you serve. For example, you can use a direct and overhead light to create a sharp and crisp look on your dining table, or you can use an indirect and side light to create a smooth and soft look on your table. You can also use a focused and spot light to create a dramatic and bold look on your dining table, or you can use a diffuse and ambient light to create a gentle and calm look on your table.
Accessories
The accessories you use on your live edge dining table should complement or contrast with the color, finish, and features of the wood, as well as the theme and mood of the occasion. For example, you can use some coasters, placards, or napkin rings to add some functionality and convenience to your dining table, or you can use some ornaments, trinkets, or souvenirs to add some personality and memory to your table. You can also use some confetti, balloons, or streamers to add some festivity and celebration to your dining table, or you can use some petals, pearls, or crystals to add some romance and elegance to your table.
The accessories you use on your live edge dining table should also match or contrast with the tableware, linens, centerpieces, and lighting you use, as well as the type and style of food you serve. For example, you can use some simple and neutral accessories to create a balance with a colorful and vibrant dining table setting, or you can use some complex and vivid accessories to create a contrast with a monochrome and dull dining table setting. You can also use some matching and consistent accessories to create a harmony with a uniform and orderly table setting, or you can use some different and varied accessories to create a contrast with a random and chaotic dining table setting.
Conclusion
A live edge dining table is a unique and stunning piece of furniture that can add warmth, character, and style to your dining room. In this article, we have learned what a live edge dining table is, how to choose, care for, and decorate one, and how a live edge dining table can transform your dining room into a cozy and inviting space.
If you are looking for a live edge dining table for your dining room, you should consider Taitlin Studio, a reputable and experienced custom woodworking company that can create your dream live edge dining table according to your specifications and preferences. Taitlin Studio is located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and has a team of skilled and passionate woodworkers who can craft high-quality and beautiful live edge dining tables from different wood types, colors, finishes, and features. Taitlin Studio also offers a free consultation and quote, and a wide range of services, such as design, delivery, installation, and maintenance.
To learn more about Taitlin Studio and their live edge dining tables, you can visit their website gallery or showroom, where you can find more information and inspiration. You can also contact them by phone or email, and they will be happy to answer your questions and help you with your project.
A live edge dining table is a perfect addition to your dining room, as it can bring nature, art, and personality to your home. Whether you want a rustic, farmhouse, modern, mid-century modern, contemporary, or industrial style live edge table, you can find it at Taitlin Studio, where you can get a custom live edge table that suits your needs and wants. Don’t wait any longer, and get your live edge table today!