Natural wood Heirloom furniture
In late 2022, Sam and John Halcombh met with Kelly Maxwell to discuss a project. Back in 2018, Kelly suggested having the tree milled into three-inch-thick wood slabs. These slabs were subsequently stacked and left to dry naturally. After following Kelly’s advice, they expressed their interest in building a legacy of handcrafted heirloom natural wood furniture. Recently, Kelly had the opportunity to visit Walnut Grove Farms in Adairville, hKentucky. He personally viewed their collection of air-dried live-edge wood slabs during the visit.
Designing and handcrafting natural wood furniture for clients is an absolute privilege, regardless of the project’s scope. As a self-taught furniture maker, Kelly takes pride in his craft and prioritizes using high-quality, air-dried wood. Crafting natural wood furniture is a time-consuming process akin to the art of producing top-notch whiskey.
Kelly has found that using air-dried wood in his projects produces the best results, even though he has previously used kiln-dried wood slabs. However, he has realized that this method requires much time and patience. It can take up to three to five years for most wood species, milled at three inches thick, to dry and stabilize naturally. Additionally, not all wood species are suitable for making legacy handcrafted heirloom furniture slabs, and some may have unique challenges. Crafting natural wood furniture is like making a cherished family whiskey – it’s a process that demands patience and attention to detail.
The Halcombs are a beautiful species of white oak
The Halcombs are a beautiful species of white oak. Kelly decided to book-match two slabs together, which perfectly fit the tabletop. He also built a custom table base with a for eye appeal and functionality. Discovering the owl’s eyes in the woods was a pleasant surprise. They complement each other perfectly on both the bottom shelf and the tabletop. He added a natural premium hardwax finish to their legacy handcrafted heirloom furniture to protect the wood and keep it looking beautiful.
A live edge table showcases a rustic, natural wood design crafted from a solid wood slab, preserving the tree’s natural edge. The craftsman intentionally leaves the organic curves and character of the outer edge, known as the cambium layer, intact instead of squaring or flattening all sides. Depending on the slab’s cut, the live edge may extend along two or more sides, originating from the main trunk or a root burl, resulting in unique shapes and features.
It’s important to note that “live edge” does not mean “bark edge.” During the drying process, bark often separates from the slab. True live edge artisans remove the bark early and work with the solid outer grain of the wood.
Live tables can serve various purposes, functioning as dining tables, coffee tables, accent tables, end tables, console tables, or any other table styles.
Why Are Live Edge Tables So Popular?
Live edge furniture is more than just a trend; it’s a return to nature. It’s inspired by nature’s inherent beauty and inviting it into your home. This growing popularity is rooted in;
• Biophilic design: We crave connection to nature. Live edge tables bring that connection right to the heart of the home.
• One-of-a-kind character: Every slab tells its own story found in its knots, cracks, curls, and curves. Formed throughout its life. No two pieces are alike.
• Heirloom functional quality: When appropriately crafted from ethically sourced solid wood slabs, these tables are built to last for generations.
• Rustic modern appeal: The live edge look blends seamlessly with cabins, modern farmhouses, luxury lodges, and nature-inspired interiors.