Boost Your Woodworking Projects With Premium Live Edge Slabs

Explore superior live edge slabs for your woodworking projects. Shop quality slabs at Les Bois Milling and elevate your craft!

Live Edge Slabs

According to Future Data Stats, the woodworking industry was worth nearly $5 billion as of last year. So there’s no doubting its popularity!

But have you ever struggled to find the perfect material for your woodworking projects that combines both beauty and durability?

Live edge slabs offer a stunning solution by showcasing the natural shape and grain of the wood, making each piece unique.

Today we’re taking a closer look into how live edge slabs can enhance your woodworking projects!

The Allure of Live Edge Slabs

Live edge slabs maintain the natural edges of the tree, showing off the original contours and grain of the wood. It means no two slabs are alike, offering a piece of wood with its own character. Unlike uniform cuts, live edge wood celebrates the imperfections and organic shape of the tree, which adds a sense of connection to nature.

There are three primary benefits to using premium live edge slabs in your woodworking projects:

• Unique aesthetic appeal
• Durability and longevity
• Eco-friendly sourcing options

Unique Aesthetic Appeal

One of the biggest benefits of using premium live edge slabs is their natural beauty. Each slab has its own unique shape and grain pattern, making every project one-of-a-kind.

The organic edges of the wood give furniture and decor a more personal, handcrafted look. The aesthetic is hard to match with other types of wood, making live edge pieces stand out in any space.

Durability and Longevity

Premium live edge slabs are durable, too. High-quality slabs are often sourced from hardwoods like walnut, oak, and maple, which are known for their strength.

They can withstand regular use, making them ideal for projects like dining tables or countertops. When properly cared for, live edge furniture can last for years, even decades, without losing its appeal.

Eco-Friendly Sourcing Options

Many premium live edge slabs are sourced sustainably, which makes them an eco-friendly choice for woodworkers. Some mills, like ours at Les Bois Milling, focus on harvesting wood from fallen or responsibly managed trees.

By choosing these slabs, you can feel confident that your project isn’t harming the environment. This balance of sustainability and quality makes live edge wood an excellent choice for anyone looking to create lasting, responsible designs.

Types of Live Edge Slabs for Woodworking

The first choice to make is the type of wood. There are three primary types of live edge slabs used in woodworking:

• Walnut
• Oak
• Maple

Walnut

Walnut live edge slabs are known for their rich, dark brown color and striking grain patterns. They’re highly sought-after for creating statement pieces, like dining tables or countertops.

Walnut is a hardwood, meaning it’s durable and can stand up to the wear and tear of daily use. Its natural finish brings warmth to any room, making it a popular choice for both modern and traditional designs.

Oak

Oak is another popular choice for live edge slabs. It’s a lighter wood, often used for projects that require a bright, open feel. Oak is sturdy and reliable, making it a good option for shelving, desks, or benches.

It can be finished in many ways, from natural stains to painted finishes, allowing for versatility in design. Its durability and classic look make it a go-to for woodworkers who want both form and function.

Maple

Maple slabs are known for their light, creamy color, and smooth grain. This type of wood is often chosen for projects where a clean, minimalist aesthetic is desired.

Maple is a durable hardwood that’s easy to work with, making it ideal for beginner and seasoned woodworkers alike. It’s often used for tables, headboards, and other furniture that require a smooth surface and a polished finish.

Woodworking Projects Perfect for Live Edge Slabs

Live edge slabs are a versatile choice for many woodworking projects. Their natural beauty and unique shapes allow them to fit a wide range of designs and purposes. There are three key projects where live edge slabs truly shine:

• Dining tables
• Shelving units
• Wall art

Dining Tables

One of the most popular uses for live edge slabs is creating custom dining tables. The natural edges give each table a distinct look, making it a conversation piece in any home.

Depending on the type of wood chosen, the table can either serve as a bold centerpiece or a subtle, rustic addition to the room. The slabs can be paired with simple or industrial-style legs, allowing the wood to be the main attraction. The unique grain patterns in live edge wood make these tables feel personal and handcrafted, qualities that are hard to replicate with other materials.

Shelving Units

Another ideal project for live edge slabs is shelving. Whether it’s a floating shelf or part of a larger storage system, the natural lines of the slab can add warmth and character to any space.

Live edge shelving works particularly well in living rooms, kitchens, and offices, where functional and decorative pieces are often needed. It’s a great way to display books, plants, or artwork while giving the room a touch of nature. Shelving made from live edge wood combines practicality with artistic flair, making it both useful and visually appealing.

Wall Art

For those looking to add a unique design element to their home, live edge slabs can be used as wall art. The natural contours of the wood make for a striking visual that works well in modern or rustic interiors.

They can be mounted as standalone pieces or combined with other materials like metal or glass to create a custom installation. Wall art made from live edge wood is perfect for adding a natural, organic element to a space without overwhelming the overall design.

Les Bois Milling Products: Premium Wood Slabs

Live edge slabs offer a unique blend of natural beauty, durability, and versatility for woodworking projects.

At Les Bois Milling, we specialize in live edge slabs from locally sourced trees in Boise, the “City of Trees.” Our name, “Les Bois,” comes from early French-Canadian trappers who recognized the valley’s unique beauty. Through our AncesTREE app, you can track the entire history of the wood, adding a personal touch to your projects.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your milling needs!