Ultimate Guide To Buying And Maintaining A Table
Everything you need to know about purchasing a custom live edge table.
Measure the space
There is nothing worse than buying a piece of furniture only to find it won't fit in your beautiful new space. As the woodworking proverb goes, "measure twice, cut once". However, we are in the "board shortening department". It is a good rule of thumb to leave at least 3 feet all the way around the table. This gives plenty of room for chairs to slide in and out without hitting the walls. For example, If I have a dining room that is 15' long x 10' wide I would be looking at a maximum of 9' long x 4' wide for my table (assuming there is not major walkways/other furniture). While it is nice to always see your table, you don't want to be bumping into or walking around it constantly.
When it comes to shapes, you have options
Depending on the size of your room, a certain shape table may be more suitable to your space. Here are the options:
Family size = (+/-) Table size
In general you want to allow 24"/person at the table. Chairs are typically 18-20" wide (its always good to check your chair size). Think about the way you entertain. If you serve family style think about adding some width to your overall table (remember to use trivets/potholders under hot pans).
Table Base Options
You can really change the look and feel of any table by choosing the right base. It is also important to remember that the base of your table is functional and not just for looks.
- Pedestal base - Recommended for round tables. Turnings are Made from 100% solid wood of your choice
- Trestle Base - A classic design that is visually appealing while providing the necessary strength. This style also allows you to place chairs/benches around the table without hitting your knees.
- Four Legs and Aprons - A traditional farmtable base. Legs and aprons are mortise and tenoned together for strength and longevity.
- Cast Iron - Hands down one of the best solutions for slab tables. I don't think there is a better look in the industry right now (but im biased). This is our most popular base.
Design and Style
We suggest working with an interior designer if you are unsure about which direction to go. It is important to remember you are investing into your home, family and life. A designer can lead you in a direction you never thought could be achieved in your space. Crafting a balanced and truly one of a kind space that fits you and your family's lifestyle. If you would like to work with our list of designers please contact us.
Material options
This is where Hopes Woodshop stands on its own. Because we own and operate our own sawmill we control the flow of materials in our shop. We like to stay true to the natural characteristics of our material. Celebrating the colors, knots, cracks, voids, inclusions, live (natural) edges, etc... The majority of our inventory is slabs that are sawn in sequential order. This gives you the ability to match pieces together for perfect symmetry and grain patterns. We stock dimensional lumber in the same fashion. We specialize in the following Live edge slabs and boards:
Single slab, Book-match, Glue-up etc...
We specialize in live edge slabs. Not every table needs to be live edge though. For example if you wanted a single slab (tree slice) but wanted it to have a square edge that is possible. Here are some of the options we offer:
Details (Butterflies, Voids, Knots)
Some things are going to be a given when dealing with big live edge slabs. They are more susceptible to cracking during drying and they are not graded. Therefore they are going to have some cracks, knots, voids, etc... This is where we sharpen our tools and get busy. It is in these details we are able to make truly one of a kind pieces of furniture. Nothing fake about it, we roll with whatever the tree throws at us. If you want us to simulate a live edge, you might need to go somewhere else. We stay as natural to the process as possible. Hand flattening each board so we can study the life of the tree. Here are a few details we love to showcase in our furniture:
The Finish
Every table we make we finish. Lately we have been using Rubio Monocoat on all of our pieces and we have been very pleased. This is an extremely safe product for us and your family. It is durable and will stand up to the daily wear and tear. If you would like a different finish we can also do a urethane upon request.
Closing Remarks
We hope this post has pointed you in the right direction. If you have any further questions in regards to your custom project please feel free to contact us here:
Also watch this quick video on the story of Hopes Woodshop
Refresh with a Modern Desk
A modern desk for any home or office
The Mel Desk
I created this design for my wife who is a Photographer. She really just needs a jumping station for her notebook, phone, and laptop. The idea was to create a desk that took up minimal space, could be placed in the center of a room, and could be used as a table if needed while still being special.
The Top
Each desk is crafted with a 1-1/2" thick top and measures 48" long x 24" wide or 60” long x 30” wide. The idea is to keep this space as clean as possible and only see what you need or want. Working on melamine, laminate, or other wood veneers are ok but nothing is better than the look and feel of natural hardwood. I don't use softwood or pine, because these are not durable enough to keep up with you. The top is set down on the base to keep papers, pens +pencils, computers, etc... from falling off the edges. Corners are smooth and rounded over to avoid a harsh edge on your arms and wrists.
The Base
Im not sure I could complete this design without the mitered legs. It has a very modern look but the feel and strength of traditional mortise and tenon joinery that will last. The legs measure 1-3/4" thick and 3" wide to provide strength without looking over built.
FAQ
Do I have to use a coaster on wooden surfaces?
No, we use RubioMonocoat finish that provides the protection while still giving you the look and feel of the wood.
Can this item ship?
Yes. This desk can be knocked down into 3 pieces and boxed for curbside shipping. Assembly is a breeze. Also, if and when you move you can take it apart again for easy transportation.
Can I add a drawer or cabinet?
Sure, just contact us to learn more about customizing your desk to fit your needs.
Purchase
Mel’s Desk is a simple desk with style for days. Available in white oak and walnut in two different sizes (48” long x 24” wide and 60” long x 30” wide). Please give us 4 weeks to complete your order.
If you would like a custom wood or stain, please contact us for more information.
Book matched Slabs now for sale + Updates
Black Walnut bookmatched sets and updates
We are now offering Bookmatched Walnut slab table tops on the site. Purchase them as is or we can make a table for you. If you are a large woodworking shop and would like to purchase the lot as well as other sets, please contact us for more information.
Updates
We have some large trees coming through the yard soon. 42" x 10' longs slabs of Butternut are in the works, as well as some large Walnut slabs. There is still time to get in on these but hurry, as the list is filling up fast.
The Nyle Kiln is running now until mid-August. If you would like to throw in some lumber in our next run please let me know. We should have some 2"Walnut and Butternut in there.
We will be showcasing our new line and slabs at the Fine Furnishing show in Pawtucket RI on November 4-6 2016. If you're interested in going let me know, I have some VIP passes I can give you. We will also be having an after party, so stay tuned for more on that (might just end up at Doherty's).
We still have a good amount of Wormy Ambrosia Maple. Please let me know if your interested as it would make beautiful flooring, paneling, or cabinetry. $2-$3 board foot.
Thanks as always for the support and we cant wait to hear from you soon!
Cheers!
Marc